Holiness in Pentecostal Discourse

Abstract This essay offers a theological reflection on sanctification and holiness within the Pentecostal tradition, while presenting the argument that a Pentecostal understanding of holiness best proceeds by viewing it as the means and goal of participation in God’s life. Holiness is understood as the sum total of divine perfection, being eternally realized through the dynamic triune communion of loving relationality. As the plenitude of divine perfection, holiness expresses an ontology. Glory is the radiance of holiness while righteousness and justice are the enactment of holiness. Rather than confining holiness to the doctrine of sanctification, then, it should be understood as the divine purpose for creation.