In the previous chapter Paul said, “…we are the temple of the living God. God said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” Therefore, “Come out from them and BE 1SEPARATE, says the Lord.” (2 Corin. 6:16-18) 1aphorizō: set apart for a special purpose. Just what is that special purpose the Lord has for us? “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, LET US 2CLEANSE OURSELVES from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, PERFECTING HOLINESS in the fear of God.” (2 Corin. 7:1) 2katharizō: to purify from wickedness.
OK so, how do we cleanse ourselves? “Let everyone who names the name of Christ DEPART from iniquity.” But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be A VESSEL FOR HONOR, sanctified and useful for the Master, PREPARED for every good work. Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of A PURE HEART.” (2 Tim. 2:19-22)
Where do we get the power to cleanse ourselves? “Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and CLEANSE her (us) with the washing of water by THE WORD, that He might PRESENT her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be HOLY AND WITHOUT BLEMISH.” (Eph. 5:25-27) The writer of Hebrews tells us, “Now may the God of peace (who brought again our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through THE BLOOD of the everlasting covenant) MAKE YOU PERFECT in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is WELL PLEASING in His sight through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” (Heb. 13:20-21)
-Bill Stockham