Who is a Saint?

Most think of a saint as a man or woman that is exceptionlly holy or who have been canonized. Traditionally those who are dead and had displayed extraordinary religious faith and exraordinay accomplishments.

The Bible has a different perspective on sainthood. Paul called the Roman, Ephesian, and Colossian believers saints but in 1 Corinthians Paul went on for many chapters pointing out and correcting these saints's sinful behavior.  These saints weren't perfect or exceptionlly holy.

So what qualifies someone as a saint? In Philippians 1:1: "To the saints in Christ Jesus" we find the answer. Sainthood is not reserved for those that are of the spiritually elite. It belongs to every believer, believers in Jesus.  Although It is true that those who know you best might not think of you as a saint doesn't mean it is not true!  If you love Christ you are a saint.
  
Believers in Christ are holy, the key to being a saint.  The word "saints" in Philippians 1:1 is transilated from the Greek word hagios which literally means "holy ones". This word is used through out the New Testament to refere to anyone or anything that represents God's holiness. Examples being but not limited to, Christ as the Holy One of God, the Holy Spirit, the Holy Father, holy Scriptures, holy angels, holy brethren and holy believers.

God sees you as holy and beloved in Christ (Colossians 3:12). You have been called on as a saint (1 Corinthians 1:2) and received a saintly inheritance (Colossians 1:12). You have redemption, the forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:14), and every other spiritual blessing (Ephesians 1:3).

Being a saint comes with the responsibility of living a holy life. Scripture admonishes you to present your body as a living and holy sacrifice (Romans 12:1) and to live in a manner worthy of your saintly status (Ephesians 5:3-4).  The characteristics of a true saint become increasingly evident as the Holy Spirit, who indwells you guides you in your holy living.