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| “…let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.” |
| —2 Corinthians 7:1b |
When the Apostle Paul wrote to the believers gathered in the church in Corinth, he was writing to people he had developed a very close relationship with over the time he had lived among them. He knew them by name. He had been in their homes. He knew what he had taught them. He knew what he expected of them.
When he wrote his first letter to them, he was writing out of both heartbreak and more than a little anger. They had seemed to forget what he had taught them and broken down into various cliques. They had allowed sin to creep into their fellowship—gross sexual sin. So, Paul chastised them, gave them some specific instructions regarding how to deal with a wide variety of issues that were dividing their church, and offered wise counsel bathed in much prayer.
As a result of repenting of their sin, acting in accordance with Paul’s instruction, and renewing their commitment to follow Jesus only, the church in Corinth experienced revival—a coming to life again. So, by the time Paul writes his second letter to them, he is able to commend them for what they have done.
But, Paul also urges them to move forward in their spiritual formation. After all, they—like all Christians—want to grow in their faith and become more and more like Jesus. In this quest for holiness, Paul offered some very encouraging words recorded in 2 Corinthians 7:1:
Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.
These are words that apply to us today. As we begin another day in our walk with God, let us take Paul’s advice and apply it to our own lives. Let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit. Then, let us perfect our holiness out of reverence for the very God who loves us.
The Holy Spirit will nudge us always in the right direction. We need to tune our spiritual ears to receive that nudging and them obediently follow the Spirit’s direction. Then, and only then, will we experience the fullness of joy that is ours in Christ. Holiness is not something to be feared or avoided. Rather, holiness is a key to the greatest possible joy—joy that lasts for all eternity.
