When the Apostle Paul addresses the churches in his letters, he often refers to them as “saints.” This might seem puzzling, especially since many of these letters are written to correct issues within the congregations. If the members were engaging in behavior deemed unacceptable, why would Paul still call them saints?
The Meaning of “Saints”
Paul's designation of the believers as saints is rooted in their acceptance of Jesus Christ. This acceptance isn’t just a momentary decision; it signifies a transformative journey into a new way of life. Jesus himself affirmed this in John 5:24, where he stated, “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.” This transformation is not merely about behavior modification; it’s a deep, spiritual rebirth that reflects the righteousness of Christ.
In the Old Testament, the term “saints” was used for those set apart for God's purposes, such as the nation of Israel. However, in the New Testament, Paul expands this meaning to include all believers in Christ, regardless of their background, because they are now part of God’s people. The book of 1 Corinthians provides a great example of this, where Paul addresses a church riddled with division, immorality, and legal disputes, yet he begins his letter by saying, “To the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be his holy people, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ—their Lord and ours” (1 Corinthians 1:2). This verse beautifully captures the tension between their calling and their conduct.
Imparted Righteousness
The concept of righteousness is central to understanding why Paul calls the churches saints. When believers accept Christ, they receive his holiness, a righteousness that is imputed onto them. This theological idea suggests that, despite their shortcomings and failures, they are seen as holy in the eyes of God because of Christ's sacrifice on the cross. Paul explains this in 2 Corinthians 5:21: “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” This is what gives Paul the confidence to address them as saints, even when corrections are necessary.
The imputation of Christ’s righteousness is a gift of grace, not a reward for good behavior. This is further supported in Romans 4:5, where Paul writes, “However, to the one who does not work but trusts God who justifies the ungodly, their faith is credited as righteousness.” This profound grace is a powerful reminder that our standing before God is not based on our own merit, but on Christ’s completed work.
The Cost of Saintliness
The title of “saint” comes at a cost, the price that Christ paid on the cross. His sacrificial love and atonement allow believers to be reconciled with God. Paul captures this idea in Ephesians 1:7, where he states, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” This profound act of grace means that their identity is not defined by their past mistakes but by their present relationship with Christ.
The sacrificial nature of Christ's work is the very foundation of this new identity. He became the ultimate sacrifice for sin, as illustrated in the Old Testament with the sacrificial lamb, which was an atonement for sin (Leviticus 4:35). Christ, the “Lamb of God” (John 1:29), fulfills this role perfectly, allowing all who believe in him to be seen as holy and blameless.
Conclusion
In summary, Paul calls the churches saints because they have crossed over into a new life through their faith in Jesus. This designation serves as a reminder of their identity in Christ, rooted in His righteousness and the transformative power of His grace.
Even amidst correction, Paul affirms their status as saints, encouraging them to live out the holiness that has been graciously imparted to them. The ultimate hope for every believer is to live up to this identity, not through their own strength, but through the power of the Holy Spirit who dwells within them, guiding them into a life that reflects their new reality in Christ.
This is the same spirit Paul speaks of in Galatians 5:22-23, where he lists the fruits of the Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, as the markers of a life transformed by God.
Exploring life, one thought at a time.
Yours dearly, Rumishael
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