Verse 16
Peter reinforced this imperative with an Old Testament quotation (cf. Leviticus 11:44-45; Leviticus 19:2; Leviticus 20:7).
"When it comes to the use of the OT, 1 Peter stands out among the NT letters, especially when one compares the number of citations and allusions to the length of the letter. 1 Peter contains about the same number of OT references per unit of text as does Hebrews. Only Revelation contains more." [Note: Davids, p. 24.]
The writer just quoted listed nine citations of Old Testament passages in 1 Peter and 20 allusions to Old Testament passages.
In the context, Israel was to be holy so she could have intimate fellowship with God. We cannot expect to enjoy intimate fellowship with God who is holy unless we are holy too. Intimate fellowship with God is the greatest good human beings can experience (cf. Philippians 3:8), but without holiness it is impossible.
"The Word reveals God’s mind, so we should learn it; God’s heart, so we should love it; God’s will, so we should live it. Our whole being-mind, will, and heart-should be controlled by the Word of God. . . .
"We do not study the Bible just to get to know the Bible. We study the Bible that we might get to know God better. Too many earnest Bible students are content with outlines and explanations, and do not really get to know God. It is good to know the Word of God, but this should help us better know the God of the Word." [Note: Wiersbe, 2:397.]
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