2 Corinthians 6:16-7:1
Introduction:
1. Moving to bodily conduct, the distinctiveness of Christian ethics is increasingly clear.
2. Frequently, the ethical principles of bodily purity are contrasted with worldly ways.
Discussion:
I. The Imperative
A. Bodily purity saturates the New Testament.
B. The gravity of these calls must fuel persistent, energetic pursuit of purity.
1. Our bodies are His possession used for His glory (Romans 12:1; 1 Corinthians6:18-20; 10:31).
2. To be His, we must purge every impurity of body and spirit (2 Corinthians 6:16-7:1).
3. Practicing the works of the flesh forfeits the kingdom (Galatians 5:19-21; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10).
Leaving us alienated from the life of God (Ephesians 4:17-24; Hebrews 12:14; James 4:3-4).
4. Inviting His wrath and vengeance (Ephesians 5:3-7; Colossians 3:5-7; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8).
5. As it flows from human lusts rather than the will of God (1 Thessalonians 4:1 Pt. 4:1-5).
II. The Scope
A. We need to know the areas of application.
B. This touches on every area of life, but there are some that are frequently set forth (2 Corinthians 7:1).
1. It starts with pure thoughts demanding pure inputs: media, music, movies, tv shows, books, magazines, etc. (Romans 12:1-2; Philippians 4:8).
2. We already saw this outworking in speech.
3. Sexual purity is perhaps the most frequently addressed, including the intake of the eyes and output of the mind (Matthew 5:32; 19:9; Acts 15:20; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, 15-20; 7:1-5; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8; Job 31:1-2; Matthew 5:27-30).
4. Self-control to include overcoming (Acts 24:25; Galatians 5:23; 2 Peter 1:6).
a. Addictions: drugs, alcohol, food, media, praise, good times, entertainment, sports, etc. (1 Corinthians 6:12).
b. Anger, wrath, violence (Matthew 5:21-26; Ephesians 4:26, 31; Colossians 3:8, 19; 1 Thessalonians 5:15; 1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7; 1 Peter 2:1).
c. Covetousness, greed, avarice (Luke 12:15; Romans 1:29; Ephesians 4:19; 5:3; Colossians 3:5; 11 Thessalonians 2:5; 1 John 2:15-17).
d. Selfish deeds (Matthew 25:31-46; Romans 12:13; 15:2; Philippians 2:1-4).
C. There is so much more, but this is a good start.
III. The Pursuit and Power
A. None of the above is merely suggestive.
B. We are to live in constant pursuit of purity in the whole of our lives (Romans 14:19; Colossians 3:1-3; 2 Timothy 2:22; Titus 2:14; Hebrews 12:14; 1 Peter 1:13-16).
C. Thankfully, He has given us all we need to succeed (Romans 8:12-15; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Ephesians 6:10-18; Philippians 4:13; Titus 2:11-14; 2 Peter 1:3-11).
Conclusion:
1. The world thinks little of these things, as seen in the texts themselves.
2. Sadly, many in the religious world downplay the necessity of this pursuit.
3. Sadder yet, many in the Lord’s church are turning the same way.
4. We must not succumb to such worldly thinking and living.
Further Food for Thought
1. Did anything in this discussion make you rethink some area of your life?
2. If not, will you dig deeper to see what areas you need to shore up?
3. If so, how dedicated are you to making the necessary changes?
4. How can we help in that pursuit?