The Biblical Definition of a "Saint"
The term "saint" often conjures images of stained-glass windows, miraculous deeds, or individuals posthumously elevated by religious institutions. Popular culture and certain traditions have shaped a perception that a saint is a select, elite group of exceptionally pious individuals, often deceased, who serve as intercessors or objects of veneration. However, a careful examination of the King James Version of the Bible reveals a vastly different and far more inclusive definition. In scripture, a "saint" is not an exclusive title reserved for a few, but a common designation for every believer in Jesus Christ, a term that speaks to their identity, calling, and position in God.
The Etymology and Usage of "Saint" in Scripture
The English word "saint" in the KJV primarily translates the Greek word hagios, which means "holy," "set apart," or "consecrated." It is the same root word used to describe God Himself as holy, and it signifies separation from the profane and dedication to God's service. Therefore, to be a "saint" means to be one who is divinely separated from the world and consecrated unto God. This separation is not based on human merit or achievement but on the work of Christ and the calling of God.
Consider how God's holiness is the foundation for His people's holiness:
Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
The calling to be holy, or to be a saint, is a divine imperative for all who follow Christ. It is a positional truth first, and then an experiential pursuit.
Every Believer is a Saint
One of the most striking aspects of the biblical usage of "saint" is its widespread application to ordinary believers. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, consistently addresses entire congregations as "saints," not just a spiritual elite among them. This demonstrates that sainthood is an identity bestowed upon all who have been redeemed by Christ, not a status earned through extraordinary acts or a canonization process.
Consider these examples:
- To the church in Rome: Romans 1:7, "To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints..."
- To the church in Corinth: 1 Corinthians 1:2, "Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints..."
- To the church in Ephesus: Ephesians 1:1, "Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus..."
- To the church in Philippi: Philippians 1:1, "Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons..."
- To the church in Colossae: Colossians 1:2, "To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colossae: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."
These verses make it abundantly clear that anyone who has placed their faith in Jesus Christ, who has been "sanctified in Christ Jesus," is by definition a saint. It is a positional truth, a gift of God's grace, not a reward for human effort. The calling is universal for all who believe.
The Character and Conduct of Saints
While being a saint is a positional truth, it also carries the expectation of a transformed life. Those who are "set apart" for God are called to live lives that reflect their holy identity. This means striving for righteousness, pursuing holiness, and living in a manner worthy of their high calling.
The Bible exhorts saints to:
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.
While the designation "saint" is given by God's grace, the life of a saint is one of continuous transformation and obedience, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
The Privileges and Purpose of Saints
Being a saint carries immense privileges and significant responsibilities. Saints are not merely passive recipients of grace; they are active participants in God's eternal plan.
- Inheritors of the Kingdom: Saints are joint-heirs with Christ, destined to inherit eternal life and God's kingdom.
To give them an inheritance among all them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.
And giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:
- Members of God's Household: Saints are no longer strangers but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.
Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
- Called to Serve and Minister: Saints are equipped for ministry and service within the body of Christ.
For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
- Future Judges: Astonishingly, saints will participate in judging the world and even angels.
Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?
The purpose of saints is to glorify God, live out their calling, and actively participate in His redemptive plan for humanity.
Addressing Common Misconceptions
The biblical definition of a "saint" directly challenges several widely held misconceptions:
For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;
Conclusion
In the KJV Bible, the definition of a "saint" is profoundly simple yet incredibly profound. A saint is anyone who has been set apart by God through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a title that speaks of a new identity, a holy calling, and a divine position in God's family. It is a universal designation for all believers, past, present, and future, who are called to live lives of holiness, love, and service, reflecting the character of the One who called them. Understanding this biblical truth empowers every believer to embrace their true identity and live out their purpose as a consecrated vessel for God's glory.