2 Corinthians 7:1 “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”
Having received Jesus Christ by faith, our salvation has us experiencing a number of one-time actions such as regeneration, redemption, justification, and adoption. Along with all these actions from our great salvation, we then have the instructions to live a sanctified life known as sanctification. With the penalty of sin taken care of, we need to realize that the power of sin is broken, and we no longer have to obey any temptation.
In understanding sanctification, it means to be set apart from sin to live holy, righteous lives.
A believer’s new pursuit is a life of holiness.
Our verse calls for us to cleanse ourselves. This can be somewhat confusing, so pay attention. We don’t clean up to get saved, we clean up because we are saved.
Diving a little deeper into our verse, our new relationship brings about a new reverence for God. He has set standards for us. From Colossians 3, we are to put to death certain actions as well as put off certain behaviors. But it is more than putting off things; we are to put on a whole new set of behaviors. (see Col. 3:12-14) And by walking in the Spirit we – WE – make changes.
We must not miss the “Let us” of this verse. We have a RESPONSIBILITY to cooperate with the Spirit of God to clean up our lives.
A tip for spiritual cleaning: Start with Psalm 139:23-24, asking God to EXAMINE you and see if there are any wicked ways (filthiness) in you. As He points out the sins you confess them (I John 1:9). Confessing brings CLEANSING!
Continue Strong in pursuit of Holiness,
And remember to DATE the Word