1 Peter 1:16

16 since the Tanakh says, "You are to be holy because I am holy."

1 Peter 1:16 Meaning and Commentary

1 Peter 1:16

Because it is written
In ( Leviticus 11:44 ) ( 19:2 ) ( 20:7 )

be ye holy, for I am holy:
an argument the apostle knew must have weight with these persons, who were chiefly Jews, scattered abroad among the Gentiles, and had a value for the Scriptures of truth; and therefore, as the argument for holiness of life, from the nature and perfections of God, is strong, it must receive additional strength from this being the declared will of God, even their sanctification on this account; and though holiness, equal to God, is never to be attained to by a creature, yet so far as it is capable of it, it is desirable, because agreeable both to the nature and will of God, by all such who are truly his children, who love his name, adore his perfections, give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness, fear his goodness, and obey his will.

1 Peter 1:16 In-Context

14 As people who obey God, do not let yourselves be shaped by the evil desires you used to have when you were still ignorant.

15 On the contrary, following the Holy One who called you, become holy yourselves in your entire way of life;

16 since the Tanakh says, "You are to be holy because I am holy."

17 Also, if you are addressing as Father the one who judges impartially according to each person's actions, you should live out your temporary stay on earth in fear.

18 You should be aware that the ransom paid to free you from the worthless way of life which your fathers passed on to you did not consist of anything perishable like silver or gold;