2 Corinthians 7:1
Verse
Context
Paul’s Joy in the Corinthians
1Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that defiles body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Sermons
J. Edwin Orr
David Wilkerson
G.W. North
Zac PoonenZac Poonen
Ernest C. ReisingerSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Having therefore these promises - The promises mentioned in the three last verses of the preceding chapter, to which this verse should certainly be joined. Let us cleanse ourselves - Let us apply to him for the requisite grace of purification; and avoid every thing in spirit and practice which is opposite to the doctrine of God, and which has a tendency to pollute the soul. Filthiness of the flesh - The apostle undoubtedly means, drunkenness, fornication, adultery, and all such sins as are done immediately against the body; and by filthiness of the spirit, all impure desires, unholy thoughts, and polluting imaginations. If we avoid and abhor evil inclinations, and turn away our eyes from beholding vanity, incentives to evil being thus lessened, (for the eye affects the heart), there will be the less danger of our falling into outward sin. And if we avoid all outward occasions of sinning, evil propensities will certainly be lessened. All this is our work under the common aids of the grace of God. We may turn away our eyes and ears from evil, or we may indulge both in what will infallibly beget evil desires and tempers in the soul; and under the same influence we may avoid every act of iniquity; for even Satan himself cannot, by any power he has, constrain us to commit uncleanness, robbery, drunkenness, murder, etc. These are things in which both body and soul must consent. But still withholding the eye, the ear, the hand, and the body in general, from sights, reports, and acts of evil, will not purify a fallen spirit; it is the grace and Spirit of Christ alone, powerfully applied for this very purpose, that can purify the conscience and the heart from all dead works. But if we do not withhold the food by which the man of sin is nourished and supported, we cannot expect God to purify our hearts. While we are striving against sin, we may expect the Spirit of God to purify us by his inspiration from all unrighteousness, that we may perfectly love and magnify our Maker. How can those expect God to purify their hearts who are continually indulging their eyes, ears, and hands in what is forbidden, and in what tends to increase and bring into action all the evil propensities of the soul? Perfecting holiness - Getting the whole mind of Christ brought into the soul. This is the grand object of a genuine Christian's pursuit. The means of accomplishing this are, 1. Resisting and avoiding sin, in all its inviting and seducing forms. 2. Setting the fear of God before our eyes, that we may dread his displeasure, and abhor whatever might excite it, and whatever might provoke him to withhold his manna from our mouth. We see, therefore, that there is a strong and orthodox sense in which we may cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and of the spirit, and thus perfect holiness in the fear of God.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Having therefore these promises,.... That God will walk in his temple, and dwell in his churches, be their God, and they his people, that he will receive them, and be their Father, and they his sons and daughters; which promises they had not in hope, as Old Testament saints had the promises of the Messiah and his kingdom, and as New Testament saints have of the resurrection, the new heavens and new earth, and of appearing with Christ in glory; but in hand, in actual possession; for God was really become their God and Father, and they were his people and children; they had had communion with him, and were received, protected, and preserved by him; which promises and blessings of grace, and which are absolute and unconditional, the apostle makes use of to engage them to purity and holiness; and is a clear proof, that the doctrine of an absolute and unconditional covenant of grace has no tendency to licentiousness, but the contrary: and that his following exhortation might be attended to, and cheerfully received, he uses a very affectionate appellation, dearly beloved; so they were of God, being his people, his sons and daughters, adopted, justified, called, and chosen by him; and so they were by the apostle and his fellow ministers, who, as he says in a following verse, were in their hearts to die and live with them; some copies read brethren, and so the Ethiopic version. The exhortation he urges them to, and, that it might be the better received, joins himself with them in it, is, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit: by "the filthiness of the flesh" is meant external pollution, defilement by outward actions, actions committed in the body, whereby the man is defiled; such as all impure words, filthiness, and foolish talking, all rotten and corrupt communication, which defile a man's own body; as the tongue, a little member, when so used does, and corrupts the good manners of others; all filthy actions, as idolatry, adultery, fornication, incest, sodomy, murder, drunkenness, revellings, &c. and everything that makes up a filthy conversation, which is to be hated, abhorred, and abstained from by the saints: by "filthiness of the spirit" is meant internal pollution, defilement by the internal acts of the mind, such as evil thoughts, lusts, pride, malice, envy, covetousness, and the like: such a distinction of , "the filthiness of the body", and , "the filthiness of the soul", is to be met with among the Jews; who say (r), that when a man has taken care to avoid the former, it is fit he should take care of the latter; they also call the evil imagination, or corruption of nature, "the filth of the body" (s). Now when the apostle says, "let us cleanse ourselves", this does not suppose that men have a power to cleanse themselves from the pollution of their nature, or the defilement of their actions; for this is God's work alone, as appears from his promises to cleanse his people from their sins; from the end of Christ's shedding his blood, and the efficacy of it; from the sanctifying influences of the Spirit; and from the prayers of the saints to God, to create in them clean hearts, to wash them thoroughly from their iniquity, and cleanse them from their sin: besides, the apostle is not here speaking either of the justification of these persons, in which sense they were already cleansed, and that thoroughly, from all their sins and iniquities; nor of the inward work of sanctification, in respect of which they were sprinkled with clean water, and were washed in the layer of regeneration; but what the apostle respects is the exercise of both internal and external religion, which lies in purity of heart and conversation, the one not being acceptable to God without the other; he is speaking of, and exhorting to the same thing, as in the latter part of the preceding chapter; and suggests, that it becomes those who have received such gracious promises to be separate from sin and sinners, to abstain from all appearance of sin, and to have no fellowship with sinners; to lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of haughtiness, and, under a sense of either external or internal pollution, to have recourse to the fountain opened; to deal by faith with the blood of Christ, which cleanses from all sin, of heart, lip, and life; and which is the only effectual method a believer can make use of, to cleanse himself from sin; namely, by washing his garments, and making them white in the blood of the Lamb: perfecting holiness in the fear of God; by "holiness" is not meant the work of sanctification upon the heart, for that is wholly the work of the Spirit of God, and not of man; he begins it, carries it on, and perfects it of himself; but holiness of life and conversation is here designed, which in conversion the people of God are called unto, and which highly becomes them: and this they are to be "perfecting"; not that a believer is able to live a life of holiness, without sin being in him, or committed by him; this is in, possible and impracticable in the present life; but the sense of the word is, that he is to be carrying on a course of righteousness and holiness to the end; to the end of his life, he is to persevere as in faith, so in holiness; as he is to go on believing in Christ, so he is to go on to live soberly, righteously, and godly, to the end of his days; which requires divine power to preserve him from sin, and keep him from falling; and the grace of God, the strength of Christ, and the assistance of the Spirit, to enable him to perform acts of holiness, and the several duties of religion, and to continue in well doing: all which is to be done, "in the fear of God"; not in a servile slavish fear, a fear of hell and damnation, but in a filial fear, a reverential affection for God, an humble trust in him, and dependence on him, for grace and strength; it is that fear which has God for its author, is a blessing of the new covenant, is implanted in regeneration, and is increased by discoveries of pardoning grace; and it has God for its object, not his wrath and vindictive justice, but his goodness, grace, and mercy. This shows from what principle, and upon what views believers act in a course of righteousness and holiness; not from the fear of hell, nor from the fear of men, or with a view to gain their applause, but as in the sight of God, from a reverential affection to him, a child like fear of him, and with a view to his glory. (r) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 111. 2. (s) Zohar in Lev. fol. 43. 2.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
These verses contain a double exhortation: - I. To make a progress in holiness, or to perfect holiness in the fear of God, Co2 7:1. This exhortation is given with most tender affection to those who were dearly beloved, and enforced by strong arguments, even the consideration of those exceedingly great and precious promises which were mentioned in the former chapter, and which the Corinthians had an interest in and a title to. The promises of God are strong inducements to sanctification, in both the branches thereof; namely, 1. The dying unto sin, or mortifying our lusts and corruptions: we must cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit. Sin is filthiness, and there are defilements of body and mind. There are sins of the flesh, that are committed with the body, and sins of the spirit, spiritual wickednesses; and we must cleanse ourselves from the filthiness of both, for God is to be glorified both with body and soul. 2. The living unto righteousness and holiness. If we hope God is our Father, we must endeavour to be partakers of his holiness, to be holy as he is holy, and perfect as our Father in heaven is perfect. We must be still perfecting holiness, and not be contented with sincerity (which is our gospel perfection), without aiming at sinless perfection, though we shall always come short of it while we are in this world; and this we must do in the fear of God, which is the root and principle of all religion, and there is no holiness without it. Note, Faith and hope in the promises of God must not destroy our fear of God, who taketh pleasure in those that fear him and hope in his mercy. II. To show a due regard to the ministers of the gospel: Receive us, Co2 7:2. Those who labour in the word and doctrine should be had in reputation, and be highly esteemed for their work's sake: and this would be a help to making progress in holiness. If the ministers of the gospel are thought contemptible because of their office, there is danger lest the gospel itself be contemned also. The apostle did not think it any disparagement to court the favour of the Corinthians; and, though we must flatter none, yet we must be gentle towards all. He tells them, 1. He had done nothing to forfeit their esteem and good-will, but was cautious not to do any thing to deserve their ill-will (Co2 7:2): "We have wronged no man: we have done you no harm, but always designed your good." I have coveted no man's silver, nor gold, nor apparel, said he to the elders of Ephesus, Act 20:33. "We have corrupted no man, by false doctrines or flattering speeches. We have defrauded no man; we have not sought ourselves, nor to promote our own secular interests by crafty and greedy measures, to the damage of any persons." This is an appeal like that of Samuel, 1 Sa. 12. Note, Then may ministers the more confidently expect esteem and favour from the people when they can safely appeal to them that they are guilty of nothing that deserves disesteem or displeasure. 2. He did not herein reflect upon them for want of affection to him, Co2 7:3, Co2 7:4. So tenderly and cautiously did the apostle deal with the Corinthians, among whom there were some who would be glad of any occasion to reproach him, and prejudice the minds of others against him. To prevent any insinuations against him on account of what he had said, as if he intended to charge them with wronging him, or unjust accusations of him for having wronged them, he assures them again of his great affection to them, insomuch that he could spend his last breath at Corinth, and live and die with them, if his business with other churches, and his work as an apostle (which was not to be confined to one place only), would permit him to do so. An he adds it was his great affection to them that made him use such boldness or freedom of speech towards them, and caused him to glory, or make his boast of them, in all places, and upon all occasions, being filled with comfort, and exceedingly joyful in all their tribulations.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:1 Paul wanted the church to be a holy people, filled with God’s presence. • because we fear God: We should be reverent in the presence of a holy God (see study note on 5:11).
2 Corinthians 7:1
Paul’s Joy in the Corinthians
1Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that defiles body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Role of Prayer in Spiritual Awakening
By J. Edwin Orr6.5K25:54Spiritual Awakening2CH 7:14PRO 28:13MAT 10:32ACT 3:192CO 7:1JAS 4:71JN 1:9In this sermon, the pastor emphasizes four important steps for spiritual growth. First, he urges the audience to put away any doubtful habits from their lives. Second, he emphasizes the importance of obeying the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Third, he encourages the audience to publicly confess their faith in Christ. Finally, he highlights the need for explicit agreement and visible union among God's people in extraordinary prayer for revival and the extension of Christ's kingdom. The sermon also shares the story of Evan Roberts, a young man who sparked a revival in Lochor, Wales, through his preaching and emphasis on confession of sin and making things right with others.
(Fury of Fire) 04 - Shrinking Back to Destruction
By Milton Green3.3K39:36LUK 6:36LUK 6:382CO 7:1EPH 4:262TI 2:191PE 2:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of receiving revelation in the Word of God and being willing to challenge old traditions and wrong teachings. The speaker encourages listeners to follow the messages in the Bible in order to choose the Word of God over the traditions of men. The sermon also highlights the concept of walking in covenant with Jesus and the power of the Word of God. The speaker discusses the consequences of breaking God's law and the principle of sowing and reaping, emphasizing the importance of giving and speaking blessings. The sermon concludes with a reference to 2 Corinthians 4, discussing the removal of the veil through Christ and the role of obedience in experiencing the grace of God.
The Door Is Open and Nobody Can Shut It
By David Wilkerson2.7K1:00:41MAT 6:332CO 7:1JAS 4:8REV 3:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the open door that God provides. He highlights the need for a remnant of believers who are willing to walk the narrow path of discipleship, rather than seeking an easy and comfortable route to heaven. The preacher warns against the dangers of a watered-down gospel that neglects the cost of following Christ and fails to address sin. He encourages believers to strive to enter through the narrow gate and promises that God will open doors that no man can shut, granting access to the hearts of unbelievers and even to heaven itself.
Apostle's Doctrine - Part 2
By G.W. North2.7K1:23:54Apostles DoctrineMAT 6:331CO 4:201CO 5:12CO 4:172CO 7:1EPH 4:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the redemption of the body and the anticipation of the trumpet blowing while believers are still on earth. The speaker emphasizes the joy and transformation that will occur when believers are changed and freed from the power of gravity. The sermon also highlights the importance of having the spirit of Christ within oneself as evidence of being part of the body of Christ. The speaker encourages the congregation to examine their own spirits and ensure they have the spirit of Christ dwelling within them.
A Reverential Fear of God
By Zac Poonen2.3K1:08:101CO 2:32CO 7:1EPH 5:21PHP 2:12HEB 4:11PE 1:171PE 2:11PE 2:171PE 2:211PE 3:11PE 3:7
This sermon emphasizes the importance of reverent fear of God in our lives, highlighting the need to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, to live in obedience and holiness, and to be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. It addresses the danger of moving from legalism to a state of no covenant, where secret sins and worldliness can creep in, leading to a decline in godliness. The speaker urges a return to a healthy balance, seeking God earnestly, fasting, praying, and evaluating our lives regularly to ensure we are walking in the true grace of God.
Sanctification: 1. a Pure Spirit
By Zac Poonen2.1K51:35Worship in SpiritSanctificationPRO 3:5MAT 5:8MAT 15:13JHN 4:24ROM 8:21CO 3:132CO 7:11TH 4:31TH 5:231JN 2:27Zac Poonen emphasizes the significance of sanctification, particularly the need for a pure spirit in our relationship with God. He highlights that true worship must come from the spirit, not merely from outward actions, and that maintaining a pure spirit is essential for experiencing God's presence and guidance. Poonen warns against the dangers of prioritizing work over worship and stresses that sanctification is God's work in us, requiring our submission. He encourages believers to cultivate a deep, intimate relationship with God, which will lead to discernment and a life that reflects His holiness.
A Concern for Holiness and Its Cost
By Ernest C. Reisinger1.9K1:18:25ISA 41:7MAT 6:33ROM 8:122CO 7:1HEB 12:141PE 1:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of holiness in the life of a Christian. He states that without holiness, no one can see the Lord. The speaker highlights that biblical holiness is a result of a saving union with Christ and is an outcome of regeneration. He also emphasizes that living a holy life is essential for doing good to others and that our actions can either do good or harm to those around us. The speaker shares personal experiences and struggles with striving for holiness, including a time when he focused solely on reading Romans 7 until he could quote three chapters.
Issue of Life - What Is Life?
By Stephen Kaung1.7K1:07:09LifeJHN 1:4ROM 8:22CO 3:172CO 7:1GAL 6:171JN 2:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the unchanging nature of laws, using the example of gravity. He explains that the law of sin and death operates because humans live in the flesh, not recognizing that even the good in the flesh is still under this law. The speaker highlights the need for deliverance from this bondage, which can only be found through Jesus Christ. The sermon also discusses the working of the law of the spirit of life, which brings separation from worldly things and brings light and revelation to expose and judge everything.
(Divine Attributes) 14 the Humility of God
By Denny Kenaston1.7K1:01:21Character Of GodPSA 24:3ISA 57:15JHN 20:172CO 6:162CO 7:11JN 3:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the humility of God, highlighting how the king of the kingdom is the greatest slave among them. The preacher emphasizes that God is constantly giving, caring, and watching over all, never sleeping. He uses the example of God's care for even the little sparrows, showing that God stoops in kindness and pity to meet the needs of others. The preacher encourages the audience to study the life of Jesus to understand what God is like, as Jesus is the visible image of the invisible God. The sermon concludes by discussing the importance of applying these teachings to everyday life and how the humility of God should impact our interactions with others.
K-478 Heart Circumcision
By Art Katz1.7K25:40CircumcisionROM 6:2ROM 8:82CO 6:172CO 7:1GAL 6:14PHP 3:3In this sermon, the speaker shares a report about a revival that took place at Ashbury College. The revival started with individuals coming to the microphone and confessing their sins. The speaker emphasizes the need for believers to separate themselves from sin and cleanse themselves from every defilement of body, soul, and spirit. They highlight that every sin is an expression of the root of self and that God calls us to lay the axe to this root. The sermon references Romans 6, emphasizing the importance of being dead to sin and walking in newness of life through the power of the cross. The speaker also emphasizes the need for genuine transformation and being a new creation in Christ.
Someday
By Gisela Yohannan1.5K36:34Growth In ChristROM 5:12CO 7:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Jacob and how God had to come after him with a "chainsaw" to cut down the "oak tree" of his sinful ways. The preacher emphasizes that the things we hold onto will grow into a tree and God will have to intervene to remove them, causing pain. The sermon then transitions to the topic of grace, defining it as God giving us what we don't deserve. The preacher encourages the audience to not delay in receiving God's grace and to avoid the detours and struggles that Jacob faced by not dealing with his sin.
(Saved Through the Fire) 07 - Who Is Your Father
By Milton Green1.5K1:29:19ROM 1:162CO 6:142CO 7:12TI 3:52TI 4:2HEB 12:6In this sermon, the preacher tells the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego being thrown into the furnace of fire for refusing to bow down to the image of the beast. He emphasizes that when believers face persecution and affliction for their faith, they should not compromise but remain steadfast. The preacher warns against seeking teachers who only teach partial truths and cater to selfish desires, instead of enduring sound doctrine. He emphasizes the importance of enduring trials and challenges, as it leads to maturity and completeness in one's faith. The sermon references the story of the rich young ruler who loved greed more than the Lord, highlighting the need to let go of worldly possessions to follow Christ.
The Biblical Teaching on Modest Dress
By Dean Taylor1.4K1:43:50Modest DressEXO 28:42DAN 3:21MAT 6:33ROM 3:282CO 7:11TI 2:81PE 3:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of faith in salvation, stating that a person is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. He identifies himself as a grace preacher and highlights the significance of Jesus' blood in redeeming and saving us from sin. The preacher also shares a practical illustration from his own life, illustrating the freedom that comes from following God's teachings. He concludes by emphasizing the need to share the entirety of the Gospel and not to overlook any aspect of God's teachings.
Intoxicated With Babylon-Chapter Five
By Steve Gallagher1.3K09:42BabylonLEV 11:44MAT 5:482CO 7:1EPH 4:221TH 4:7HEB 12:141PE 1:15In this video, Steve Gallagher discusses the importance of holiness in the Christian life. He emphasizes that holiness is not a popular concept in today's society, but it is still a central requirement for believers. Gallagher explains that God calls us to strive towards holiness and to repent of sin. He also highlights the idea that our time on earth is a testing ground and a preparation for eternity, where we will be used by God in ways we cannot fully comprehend.
Knowing the Fear of the Lord
By Al Whittinghill1.3K56:32Fear Of The LordDEU 4:10PRO 16:6ISA 66:12CO 7:1PHP 2:121PE 1:15In this sermon, the preacher discusses the awe and fear that comes when we realize who we are dealing with in God. He highlights a passage from Revelation 14 where an angel is seen preaching the everlasting gospel to all people on earth. The preacher emphasizes that this is a unique occurrence as angels typically do not preach the gospel. The sermon then delves into the importance of fearing God and the significance of remembering the day we stood before Him. The preacher also emphasizes that the motive for fearing God is His forgiveness, as highlighted in Psalm 130:4. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to fear and serve God wholeheartedly, considering the great things He has done for them.
Encounter With God - Session 4
By Greg Frizzell1.2K1:18:28Experiencing GodMAT 6:33ACT 1:42CO 7:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of making a commitment to prayer and spending quality time with God. He encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God over other distractions, such as excessive television watching. The preacher also highlights the need for believers to allow God to be the Lord of their hearts and eyes, and to give Him the time and attention He deserves. The sermon references Acts 1:4 and John 15:4 as key passages to support the message.
Hot or Cold—take Your Pick
By Stanley Fox1.2K1:16:40LukewarmnessEXO 20:12EXO 20:15MAT 19:16MRK 10:172CO 7:1REV 3:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the danger of being lukewarm in one's faith. He references a verse in the book of Revelation where God says He will "spew out" those who are lukewarm. The preacher then goes on to explain the significance of lukewarmness and why it is important to avoid it. He highlights the importance of being passionate, thankful, and devoted in one's relationship with God. The sermon also touches on the issue of hypocrisy and the need to be genuine in our faith.
Wholly Sanctified
By Stephen Kaung1.1K1:08:50SanctificationMAT 5:482CO 7:1EPH 1:4PHP 3:141TH 5:23HEB 12:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of striving for holiness and not settling for mediocrity in our relationship with God. He highlights that God has called us to be separated from the common and to be uniquely His. The speaker also explains the concept of the tripartite nature of man, with the spirit being the master, the soul being the steward, and the body being the servant. He emphasizes that true transformation requires a thorough change in our soul and that our body is also affected by our belief in Jesus.
A Marriage Blessed by God - 2.principles to Build a Godly Home-1
By Zac Poonen1.1K1:07:07MAT 6:12LUK 9:232CO 7:1HEB 3:131JN 1:7
This sermon emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, daily seeking deliverance from evil, dying to self, and encouraging one another in marriage. It highlights the need to forgive daily, seek victory over sin, die to self, and encourage each other daily to build a godly home.
Learning to Fear God (Kannada)
By Zac Poonen1.0K56:23GEN 22:12PSA 34:7PSA 111:10PRO 9:10ISA 8:12MAT 10:28LUK 4:12CO 7:1HEB 12:28
This sermon emphasizes the importance of holiness among Christians, comparing it to a parent's concern for their sick or failing children. It highlights the need for believers to seek holiness, which is more significant to God than physical health or financial prosperity. The message stresses the necessity of fearing God, passing His tests in secret obedience, and seeking His blessings through a life of holiness.
Job #3: The Spirit's Interpretation
By Stephen Kaung1.0K57:51JOB 19:25JOB 26:14JOB 33:29JOB 36:26JOB 37:232CO 7:1HEB 12:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the journey of Job in the book of Job, specifically focusing on chapters 29 to 31. The speaker highlights how Job's life was initially filled with fellowship with God and righteous acts. However, in chapter 30, Job experiences a reversal where he becomes despised and his soul is poured out like water. Despite this, the speaker emphasizes that even in the midst of Job's suffering, there are flashes of divine light that enter his soul, such as Job's declaration that he knows his Redeemer lives. The speaker also mentions Elihu's attempt to interpret God's ways and encourage Job to appreciate God's discipline. However, the speaker concludes that neither mysticism, traditionalism, nor dogmaticism can truly help in a spiritual crisis, as it ultimately requires soul searching. Despite this, the speaker notes that soul searching alone cannot solve spiritual problems, and one ends up where they began.
If We Had Revival
By Vance Havner85437:34RevivalMAT 3:11ACT 2:42CO 7:12TI 2:26JAS 4:17REV 2:5REV 3:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the Holy Spirit's presence and power in the lives of believers. He encourages the congregation to be willing vessels for God's work, comparing them to kindling wood that can start a fire. The preacher urges the church to repent and remove any obstacles in their hearts, homes, and churches. He criticizes the tendency to rely on human efforts and religious extravaganzas instead of seeking genuine spiritual transformation. The sermon concludes with a cautionary story about a pageant gone wrong, highlighting the need for a true outpouring of the Holy Spirit rather than mere religious spectacle.
Studies in Song of Solomon 03 His Mouth Most Sweet
By Svend Christensen74846:29MRK 9:43LUK 13:22CO 7:1REV 1:16REV 19:15REV 19:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and authority of God's voice. He refers to Psalm 148:5, which states that God's voice commanded the creation of all things. The preacher also highlights Jesus' teachings on the importance of being ready for the Lord's return, using the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25. He further discusses Jesus' warnings about the days of Noah and Lot, emphasizing the need to live for God and not be consumed by worldly pleasures. The sermon concludes with a reference to the parable of the Good Samaritan, highlighting the importance of showing compassion and helping others.
Living With the Consuming Fire
By Zac Poonen73759:25PRO 4:18MAT 25:12CO 6:162CO 7:1HEB 12:25
This sermon emphasizes the importance of living in reverence for God and the need to maintain a healthy fear of God to gain wisdom. It highlights the significance of not refusing God's warnings and the importance of gratitude, sincerity, and righteousness in our actions. The message stresses the need to cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit to dwell with God as a consuming fire and perfect holiness in the fear of God.
Holiness to Completion in the Fear of God
By Tim Conway6501:02:24MAT 5:28MAT 10:282CO 7:1HEB 4:1HEB 10:26HEB 12:14HEB 12:27
This sermon emphasizes the importance of self-cleansing for Christians based on 2 Corinthians 7:1. It highlights the need to cleanse ourselves from all defilement, pursue holiness, and fear God in the process. The speaker stresses the seriousness of sin, the necessity of amputation of sinful habits, and the fear of facing judgment if holiness is not pursued. The message urges believers to work out their salvation with fear and trembling, emphasizing the need for genuine repentance, obedience, and a life reflecting Christ's image.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Having therefore these promises - The promises mentioned in the three last verses of the preceding chapter, to which this verse should certainly be joined. Let us cleanse ourselves - Let us apply to him for the requisite grace of purification; and avoid every thing in spirit and practice which is opposite to the doctrine of God, and which has a tendency to pollute the soul. Filthiness of the flesh - The apostle undoubtedly means, drunkenness, fornication, adultery, and all such sins as are done immediately against the body; and by filthiness of the spirit, all impure desires, unholy thoughts, and polluting imaginations. If we avoid and abhor evil inclinations, and turn away our eyes from beholding vanity, incentives to evil being thus lessened, (for the eye affects the heart), there will be the less danger of our falling into outward sin. And if we avoid all outward occasions of sinning, evil propensities will certainly be lessened. All this is our work under the common aids of the grace of God. We may turn away our eyes and ears from evil, or we may indulge both in what will infallibly beget evil desires and tempers in the soul; and under the same influence we may avoid every act of iniquity; for even Satan himself cannot, by any power he has, constrain us to commit uncleanness, robbery, drunkenness, murder, etc. These are things in which both body and soul must consent. But still withholding the eye, the ear, the hand, and the body in general, from sights, reports, and acts of evil, will not purify a fallen spirit; it is the grace and Spirit of Christ alone, powerfully applied for this very purpose, that can purify the conscience and the heart from all dead works. But if we do not withhold the food by which the man of sin is nourished and supported, we cannot expect God to purify our hearts. While we are striving against sin, we may expect the Spirit of God to purify us by his inspiration from all unrighteousness, that we may perfectly love and magnify our Maker. How can those expect God to purify their hearts who are continually indulging their eyes, ears, and hands in what is forbidden, and in what tends to increase and bring into action all the evil propensities of the soul? Perfecting holiness - Getting the whole mind of Christ brought into the soul. This is the grand object of a genuine Christian's pursuit. The means of accomplishing this are, 1. Resisting and avoiding sin, in all its inviting and seducing forms. 2. Setting the fear of God before our eyes, that we may dread his displeasure, and abhor whatever might excite it, and whatever might provoke him to withhold his manna from our mouth. We see, therefore, that there is a strong and orthodox sense in which we may cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and of the spirit, and thus perfect holiness in the fear of God.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Having therefore these promises,.... That God will walk in his temple, and dwell in his churches, be their God, and they his people, that he will receive them, and be their Father, and they his sons and daughters; which promises they had not in hope, as Old Testament saints had the promises of the Messiah and his kingdom, and as New Testament saints have of the resurrection, the new heavens and new earth, and of appearing with Christ in glory; but in hand, in actual possession; for God was really become their God and Father, and they were his people and children; they had had communion with him, and were received, protected, and preserved by him; which promises and blessings of grace, and which are absolute and unconditional, the apostle makes use of to engage them to purity and holiness; and is a clear proof, that the doctrine of an absolute and unconditional covenant of grace has no tendency to licentiousness, but the contrary: and that his following exhortation might be attended to, and cheerfully received, he uses a very affectionate appellation, dearly beloved; so they were of God, being his people, his sons and daughters, adopted, justified, called, and chosen by him; and so they were by the apostle and his fellow ministers, who, as he says in a following verse, were in their hearts to die and live with them; some copies read brethren, and so the Ethiopic version. The exhortation he urges them to, and, that it might be the better received, joins himself with them in it, is, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit: by "the filthiness of the flesh" is meant external pollution, defilement by outward actions, actions committed in the body, whereby the man is defiled; such as all impure words, filthiness, and foolish talking, all rotten and corrupt communication, which defile a man's own body; as the tongue, a little member, when so used does, and corrupts the good manners of others; all filthy actions, as idolatry, adultery, fornication, incest, sodomy, murder, drunkenness, revellings, &c. and everything that makes up a filthy conversation, which is to be hated, abhorred, and abstained from by the saints: by "filthiness of the spirit" is meant internal pollution, defilement by the internal acts of the mind, such as evil thoughts, lusts, pride, malice, envy, covetousness, and the like: such a distinction of , "the filthiness of the body", and , "the filthiness of the soul", is to be met with among the Jews; who say (r), that when a man has taken care to avoid the former, it is fit he should take care of the latter; they also call the evil imagination, or corruption of nature, "the filth of the body" (s). Now when the apostle says, "let us cleanse ourselves", this does not suppose that men have a power to cleanse themselves from the pollution of their nature, or the defilement of their actions; for this is God's work alone, as appears from his promises to cleanse his people from their sins; from the end of Christ's shedding his blood, and the efficacy of it; from the sanctifying influences of the Spirit; and from the prayers of the saints to God, to create in them clean hearts, to wash them thoroughly from their iniquity, and cleanse them from their sin: besides, the apostle is not here speaking either of the justification of these persons, in which sense they were already cleansed, and that thoroughly, from all their sins and iniquities; nor of the inward work of sanctification, in respect of which they were sprinkled with clean water, and were washed in the layer of regeneration; but what the apostle respects is the exercise of both internal and external religion, which lies in purity of heart and conversation, the one not being acceptable to God without the other; he is speaking of, and exhorting to the same thing, as in the latter part of the preceding chapter; and suggests, that it becomes those who have received such gracious promises to be separate from sin and sinners, to abstain from all appearance of sin, and to have no fellowship with sinners; to lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of haughtiness, and, under a sense of either external or internal pollution, to have recourse to the fountain opened; to deal by faith with the blood of Christ, which cleanses from all sin, of heart, lip, and life; and which is the only effectual method a believer can make use of, to cleanse himself from sin; namely, by washing his garments, and making them white in the blood of the Lamb: perfecting holiness in the fear of God; by "holiness" is not meant the work of sanctification upon the heart, for that is wholly the work of the Spirit of God, and not of man; he begins it, carries it on, and perfects it of himself; but holiness of life and conversation is here designed, which in conversion the people of God are called unto, and which highly becomes them: and this they are to be "perfecting"; not that a believer is able to live a life of holiness, without sin being in him, or committed by him; this is in, possible and impracticable in the present life; but the sense of the word is, that he is to be carrying on a course of righteousness and holiness to the end; to the end of his life, he is to persevere as in faith, so in holiness; as he is to go on believing in Christ, so he is to go on to live soberly, righteously, and godly, to the end of his days; which requires divine power to preserve him from sin, and keep him from falling; and the grace of God, the strength of Christ, and the assistance of the Spirit, to enable him to perform acts of holiness, and the several duties of religion, and to continue in well doing: all which is to be done, "in the fear of God"; not in a servile slavish fear, a fear of hell and damnation, but in a filial fear, a reverential affection for God, an humble trust in him, and dependence on him, for grace and strength; it is that fear which has God for its author, is a blessing of the new covenant, is implanted in regeneration, and is increased by discoveries of pardoning grace; and it has God for its object, not his wrath and vindictive justice, but his goodness, grace, and mercy. This shows from what principle, and upon what views believers act in a course of righteousness and holiness; not from the fear of hell, nor from the fear of men, or with a view to gain their applause, but as in the sight of God, from a reverential affection to him, a child like fear of him, and with a view to his glory. (r) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 111. 2. (s) Zohar in Lev. fol. 43. 2.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
These verses contain a double exhortation: - I. To make a progress in holiness, or to perfect holiness in the fear of God, Co2 7:1. This exhortation is given with most tender affection to those who were dearly beloved, and enforced by strong arguments, even the consideration of those exceedingly great and precious promises which were mentioned in the former chapter, and which the Corinthians had an interest in and a title to. The promises of God are strong inducements to sanctification, in both the branches thereof; namely, 1. The dying unto sin, or mortifying our lusts and corruptions: we must cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit. Sin is filthiness, and there are defilements of body and mind. There are sins of the flesh, that are committed with the body, and sins of the spirit, spiritual wickednesses; and we must cleanse ourselves from the filthiness of both, for God is to be glorified both with body and soul. 2. The living unto righteousness and holiness. If we hope God is our Father, we must endeavour to be partakers of his holiness, to be holy as he is holy, and perfect as our Father in heaven is perfect. We must be still perfecting holiness, and not be contented with sincerity (which is our gospel perfection), without aiming at sinless perfection, though we shall always come short of it while we are in this world; and this we must do in the fear of God, which is the root and principle of all religion, and there is no holiness without it. Note, Faith and hope in the promises of God must not destroy our fear of God, who taketh pleasure in those that fear him and hope in his mercy. II. To show a due regard to the ministers of the gospel: Receive us, Co2 7:2. Those who labour in the word and doctrine should be had in reputation, and be highly esteemed for their work's sake: and this would be a help to making progress in holiness. If the ministers of the gospel are thought contemptible because of their office, there is danger lest the gospel itself be contemned also. The apostle did not think it any disparagement to court the favour of the Corinthians; and, though we must flatter none, yet we must be gentle towards all. He tells them, 1. He had done nothing to forfeit their esteem and good-will, but was cautious not to do any thing to deserve their ill-will (Co2 7:2): "We have wronged no man: we have done you no harm, but always designed your good." I have coveted no man's silver, nor gold, nor apparel, said he to the elders of Ephesus, Act 20:33. "We have corrupted no man, by false doctrines or flattering speeches. We have defrauded no man; we have not sought ourselves, nor to promote our own secular interests by crafty and greedy measures, to the damage of any persons." This is an appeal like that of Samuel, 1 Sa. 12. Note, Then may ministers the more confidently expect esteem and favour from the people when they can safely appeal to them that they are guilty of nothing that deserves disesteem or displeasure. 2. He did not herein reflect upon them for want of affection to him, Co2 7:3, Co2 7:4. So tenderly and cautiously did the apostle deal with the Corinthians, among whom there were some who would be glad of any occasion to reproach him, and prejudice the minds of others against him. To prevent any insinuations against him on account of what he had said, as if he intended to charge them with wronging him, or unjust accusations of him for having wronged them, he assures them again of his great affection to them, insomuch that he could spend his last breath at Corinth, and live and die with them, if his business with other churches, and his work as an apostle (which was not to be confined to one place only), would permit him to do so. An he adds it was his great affection to them that made him use such boldness or freedom of speech towards them, and caused him to glory, or make his boast of them, in all places, and upon all occasions, being filled with comfort, and exceedingly joyful in all their tribulations.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:1 Paul wanted the church to be a holy people, filled with God’s presence. • because we fear God: We should be reverent in the presence of a holy God (see study note on 5:11).