Holiness as the Basis of God's Attributes

Holiness as the basis of God's attributes is a fundamental concept in Reformed theology, highlighting the centrality of God's holiness in understanding His character. This truth addresses the nature of God's being, emphasizing that His holiness is the foundation upon which all His attributes are built. Paul writes in Romans 8:28 that "all things work together for good to them that love God," demonstrating how God's holiness informs His sovereignty and providence.

The doctrine of God's holiness as the basis of His attributes underscores the idea that God's character is rooted in His separateness from sin and His absolute moral purity. This has significant theological implications, as it means that God's attributes, such as His love, justice, and mercy, are all expressions of His holiness. A common misconception is that God's love and mercy somehow compromise His holiness, but Scripture teaches that these attributes are actually expressions of God's holy character.

The gospel connection to this truth is that God's holiness is what makes salvation necessary, as humanity's sinfulness separates us from a holy God. However, through the atoning work of Christ, believers are able to approach a holy God, having been made holy in Christ. This truth should fill the heart with reverence and awe for God's holy character, while also comforting believers with the knowledge that they have been made holy in Christ, enabling them to worship and serve a holy God.