What does 2 Corinthians 7:1 mean?

Explanation

2 Corinthians 7:1 is a call to personal holiness and purification in light of God’s promises. The "promises" refer to the blessings and relationship with God that the believers can expect as His people.

The verse exhorts believers, referred to as "dearly beloved," which highlights the affectionate and close relationship between the Apostle Paul and the recipients of his letter.

They are encouraged to cleanse themselves not only of outward physical impurities ("filthiness of the flesh") but also internal spiritual shortcomings ("filthiness of the spirit").

This dichotomy emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the pursuit of holiness, both in conduct and in thought.

“Perfecting holiness in the fear of God” suggests a process of growth and progression towards a state of purity and reverence for God.

Historical Context

This verse is situated in 2 Corinthians, a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth around A.D. 55-57. Corinth was known for its cultural diversity and moral laxity, influenced by a mix of Greek, Roman, and local traditions.

Christians in Corinth faced various challenges, including pagan influences, misunderstandings about Christian doctrines, and internal conflicts.

In this context, Paul's letter aimed to address issues within the church, encourage reconciliation after a period of tension, and guide the believers to upright living in a complex environment.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse reflects key themes such as sanctification, repentance, and the lived expression of faith:

• Sanctification: The verse can be seen as an outline for the process of sanctification, where believers are continually being made holy through the work of the Holy Spirit.
• Repentance: The call to cleanse oneself suggests ongoing repentance, acknowledging and turning away from sin.
• Fear of God: The "fear of God" does not refer to being afraid but rather to a reverential awe and respect for God's holiness and authority.

Different denominations may emphasize different aspects of this verse:

• Evangelical: A strong focus on personal conviction and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
• Mainline Protestant: An interpretation that may include a balance of divine grace and human response.
• Catholic: In addition to personal sanctification, there might be a connection to the role of the Church and the sacraments in the process of purification.

Practical Applications

This verse encourages several practical applications in everyday life:

• Self-examination: Believers are encouraged to regularly reflect on their actions and thoughts, seeking to align them with God’s standards.
• Holistic approach to purity: The dual aspect of cleansing both flesh and spirit implies that believers should consider their physical actions and spiritual attitudes.
• Commitment to growth: The idea of “perfecting holiness” suggests a long-term commitment to spiritual maturity.

Cross-References

• 1 Thessalonians 4:7: "For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness."
• 1 John 3:3: "And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure."
• Psalm 24:3-4: "Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart..."
• James 4:8: "Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.

Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded."

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek language of this verse include:

• katharízō (καθαρίζω): This Greek verb is translated as "cleanse" and has a connotation of purifying or making clean.
• molysmós (μολυσμός): Translated as "filthiness," it refers to pollution or defilement and can be understood both in a physical and moral sense.
• hagiótēs (ἁγιότης): Translated as "holiness," it implies sanctification, consecration, or the state of being set apart for God.
• phóbos (φόβος): While often translated as "fear," within this context, it encompasses reverence and awe towards God rather than terror.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient cultures and religions, concepts of purity and holiness were also significant, though they might have different expressions:

• Judaism: The Torah contains numerous laws concerning ritual purity, echoing some of the themes of moral and ceremonial cleanliness found in Paul’s writings.
• Hellenistic Religions: Greek and Roman religions had rituals for purification, often related to physical actions rather than moral or spiritual purity.
• Hinduism: Notions of physical and spiritual purity are important, with practices varying widely depending on different traditions within the religion.

Scientific Perspectives

The pursuit of moral or spiritual purity in 2 Corinthians 7:1 is largely a metaphysical concept and does not directly intersect with empirical scientific study.

However, the idea of cleansing oneself might metaphorically relate to the psychological benefits of alignment between one's values and actions, potentially contributing to greater mental health and well-being.

Commentaries

Several experts and scholars have commented on 2 Corinthians 7:1:

• John Gill: He notes the universality of the exhortation, applying to all individuals and all types of uncleanness, suggesting that sanctification is both a grace and a duty.
• Matthew Henry: Emphasizes the necessity of holiness and suggests that the promises of God should be strong motives and encouragements to live in holiness.
• Charles Hodge: Hodge discusses the two aspects of pollution mentioned, with the spirit referring to our invisible acts, thoughts, desires, and the flesh to our outward conduct.

He sees the “fear of God” as the regulating principle of our conduct.