What Does the Bible Say About Saints?

In today’s religious conversations, the term “saint” often conjures up images of exceptional individuals who lived holy lives, performed miracles, and were later canonized by the Church. But what does the Bible actually say about saints? Are saints only special people, or are they ordinary believers like you and me?

This article dives deep into Scripture to uncover the true biblical meaning of “saint,” how the term was used in the early church, and how it applies to Christians today.

What Is a Saint in the Bible?

The word “saint” in the Bible comes from the Greek word hagios, which means “holy,” “consecrated,” or “set apart for God.” Unlike the modern perception that saints are limited to a few revered individuals, the Bible consistently uses the word “saint” to describe all believers in Christ.

Romans 1:7 says:

“To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people [saints]: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Here, Paul refers to all Christians in Rome as saints—not just an elite spiritual class. This idea continues throughout the New Testament.

Who Were Called Saints in the Bible?

Saints in Scripture are not limited to apostles, martyrs, or miracle workers. Rather, they are ordinary men and women who have placed their faith in God.

• In the Old Testament, we see the term used in Daniel 7:27:

  “Then the sovereignty, power and greatness of all the kingdoms under heaven will be handed over to the holy people [saints] of the Most High.”

• In the New Testament, Paul addresses believers as saints in multiple letters:

  • 1 Corinthians 1:2 – “…called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ…”

  • Ephesians 1:1 – “To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus…”

  • Philippians 1:1 – “To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi…”

This shows that sainthood is not earned—it is bestowed upon all who belong to Christ.

Saints as the Body of Christ

Saints are not isolated individuals; they form the collective body of Christ, also known as the Church.

Ephesians 2:19 says:

“So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.”

The Bible teaches that all saints are:

• Part of one spiritual family

• United by faith in Christ

• Equal in standing before God

This unity emphasizes that the Church is made up of imperfect people made holy by Jesus, not perfect people who earned sainthood.

Characteristics of Saints According to Scripture

The Bible outlines specific attributes of saints that distinguish them as followers of Christ. These are not qualities they achieve through merit but are developed as a result of their faith:

1. Faith in Christ

   • Saints are believers in Jesus.
     Acts 9:13 – “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem.”

2. Holiness and Sanctification

   • Saints are set apart for God’s purpose.
     1 Thessalonians 4:3 – “For this is the will of God, your sanctification…”

3. Perseverance in Suffering

   • Saints often endure hardship for their faith.
     Revelation 13:10 – “Here is a call for the endurance and faith of the saints.”

4. Love and Service

   • Saints actively serve and love others.
     Romans 15:25–26 – Paul went to serve the saints in Jerusalem.

These characteristics reflect a life transformed by God, not one earned through deeds alone.

Do Saints Intercede for Others in the Bible?

This is a common question, especially when comparing Catholic and Protestant beliefs.

• The Catholic Church teaches that saints in heaven can intercede for people on earth.

• The Bible, however, does not support the idea of praying to saints or the deceased.

Instead, Scripture clearly teaches that:

• Jesus is our ultimate intercessor:
  Hebrews 7:25 – “He always lives to make intercession for them.”

• The Holy Spirit also intercedes:
  Romans 8:26 – “…the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.”

Nowhere in the Bible are believers instructed to pray to saints or rely on them for spiritual intervention.

Are Christians Today Considered Saints?

Yes! One of the most empowering truths in Scripture is that every believer is a saint. Sainthood is not a status earned by works; it is a gift given by grace.

• 2 Corinthians 5:17 – “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.”

• 1 Peter 2:9 – “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession…”

This means that regardless of background or status, anyone who has surrendered to Jesus is a saint in God’s eyes.

Catholic vs. Protestant View on Saints

There are significant doctrinal differences in how Catholics and Protestants understand sainthood:

Both traditions affirm the importance of living a holy life, but the biblical view aligns more with the Protestant understanding—that all believers are saints.

The Role of Saints in Heaven

The Bible gives glimpses of saints in heaven, focusing on their worship of God and anticipation of Christ’s return:

• Revelation 7:9–10 – Saints worship God from every tribe and nation.

• Revelation 6:9–10 – Martyrs cry out for justice under the altar of God.

These verses reveal that saints are not objects of prayer, but are worshippers of the living God in heaven.

Common Misconceptions About Saints

1. Saints are perfect people – False. Saints are redeemed sinners.

2. Saints are only clergy or martyrs – False. All believers are saints.

3. Saints should be prayed to – Not biblically supported.

4. Saints earn their status – False. It is given by God’s grace.

How Should Christians View Sainthood Today?

Instead of idolizing saints, Christians are called to live as saints:

• Set apart for God

• Devoted to good works

• Faithful through trials

• Humble and loving

Romans 12:1–2 calls believers to be living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God.

Practical Application: Living Like a Biblical Saint

To live like a saint means:

• Pursuing holiness in your daily life

• Serving others selflessly

• Enduring trials with faith

• Walking in love and humility

Saints are not superheroes of faith—they are simply people who trust and obey God.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does the Bible call a saint?

A saint is a believer in Christ, someone made holy by God’s grace.

2. Are saints in heaven aware of us?

The Bible does not clearly say. However, saints in heaven are focused on worshiping God.

3. Can Christians pray to saints?

The Bible encourages us to pray to God through Jesus, not to saints.

4. Why do some churches venerate saints?

Veneration is a church tradition, particularly in Catholicism, but it is not prescribed in the Bible.

5. Are saints and angels the same?

No. Saints are redeemed humans, while angels are spiritual beings created by God.

Conclusion

The Bible paints a beautiful picture of saints—not as distant, exalted figures, but as everyday people who belong to Christ. If you have placed your faith in Jesus, you are a saint—set apart, loved, and called to live a holy life.

Philippians 1:1

“To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons…”

Let us embrace our identity as saints, not by boasting in our own works, but by humbly walking in the grace of God, serving one another, and living lives that reflect the holiness of our Savior.