I Peter 1:13-16 Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written; be holy, because I am holy. NIV
More preacher than a writer, Peter structured his book like a rambling sermon. He was no simply giving homespun advice; he was well-grounded in the teachings of Jesus and the prophets. He quotes form the Old Testament many times.
In the Old Testament, the book of Leviticus relates how God calls for Israel to live a holy life. A holy life based on His own holy character. He has not asked His people to become something He is not. The difference between His holiness and Israel's holiness is that His is within His inner most part while there is derived from their relationship with Him.
So it is with Christians today. God summons us to live a holy lifestyle. Out holiness is derived from Him, as we live in fellowship with Him and learn to obey His will for us.
The highest calling of mankind to imitate God. God's word for believers in today's world speaks to us about reverence in worship, our need for forgiveness, and purity in our lifestyle.
