What is the biblical definition of a 'saint'?

The concept of sainthood is a profound and intricate topic within Christian theology, and it is important to explore it with both depth and clarity. The term 'saint' carries with it a rich history of interpretation and application within the Christian tradition. Understanding the biblical definition of a saint requires us to delve into the Scriptures and examine how the term is used and what it signifies within the context of God's redemptive plan for humanity.

In the New Testament, the Greek word often translated as "saint" is "hagios," which means "holy" or "set apart." This term is used to refer to individuals who have been sanctified, or set apart, by God for His purposes. It is important to note that the term 'saint' is not used to describe a special class of Christians who have achieved a higher level of holiness or spiritual accomplishment. Rather, it is used to describe all believers who are in Christ, regardless of their spiritual maturity or accomplishments.

One of the clearest examples of this usage is found in Paul's letters to the early Christian communities. For instance, in his letter to the Romans, Paul addresses the believers as "called to be saints" (Romans 1:7, ESV). Similarly, in 1 Corinthians 1:2, Paul writes, "To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours" (ESV). Here, Paul is addressing all members of the church, indicating that sainthood is a status granted to all who are in Christ.

The concept of sainthood is deeply rooted in the idea of being set apart for God. This is seen in the Old Testament as well, where the people of Israel are referred to as a "holy nation" (Exodus 19:6, ESV). The holiness of the people of God is not based on their own merits but on their relationship with God and His calling upon their lives. This theme carries over into the New Testament, where believers in Christ are considered holy because of their union with Him.

Ephesians 1:4-5 provides a theological foundation for understanding this: "For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will" (NIV). The holiness of believers is part of God's eternal plan and is realized through their adoption as His children through Jesus Christ.

Moreover, the concept of sainthood encompasses both the present reality and the future hope of believers. In the present, saints are those who have been justified by faith and are being sanctified by the Holy Spirit. This ongoing process of sanctification involves growing in holiness and becoming more like Christ. Hebrews 10:14 captures this dynamic well: "For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy" (NIV). Here, the author speaks of the completed work of Christ on the cross that has perfected believers, while also acknowledging the ongoing process of being made holy.

The future aspect of sainthood is the glorification of believers when Christ returns. At that time, believers will be fully conformed to the image of Christ and will share in His glory. Philippians 3:20-21 speaks to this hope: "But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body" (NIV). This future transformation is the culmination of the sanctification process and the ultimate realization of what it means to be a saint.

In addition to the individual aspect of sainthood, there is also a communal dimension. The New Testament frequently refers to the collective body of believers as "saints." For instance, in Ephesians 2:19-22, Paul writes, "Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit" (NIV). This passage highlights the corporate identity of believers as the holy temple of God, emphasizing that sainthood is not just an individual status but also a communal reality.

The communal aspect of sainthood is further underscored by the New Testament's emphasis on mutual edification and encouragement among believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 exhorts believers to "consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (NIV). The community of saints is called to support and build up one another as they await the return of Christ.

In summary, the biblical definition of a saint encompasses several key elements. Saints are those who have been set apart by God, sanctified through their union with Christ, and called to live holy lives. This status is not based on individual merit but on God's grace and calling. Sainthood involves both a present reality of being justified and sanctified, as well as a future hope of glorification. Additionally, sainthood has a communal dimension, as believers are collectively called to be the holy people of God, supporting and encouraging one another in their faith journey.

Understanding sainthood in this way helps to dispel misconceptions that it is a status reserved for a select few who have achieved extraordinary holiness. Instead, it is a calling and identity that belongs to all who are in Christ. This understanding also emphasizes the importance of living out this calling in community with other believers, as we together strive to grow in holiness and reflect the character of Christ to the world.

In light of this, it is important for believers to embrace their identity as saints and to live in a manner worthy of their calling. Ephesians 4:1-3 exhorts, "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" (NIV). Living as saints involves embodying the virtues of humility, gentleness, patience, and love, and striving for unity within the body of Christ.

As we reflect on the biblical definition of a saint, let us be encouraged by the profound truth that we are called to be God's holy people, set apart for His purposes, and empowered by His Spirit to live lives that bring glory to His name.