HIGHLIGHT
2 Corinthians 7:1 (ESV): 7Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God.
EXPLAIN
This is the first verse of this chapter, but these words conclude Paul’s thought from the previous chapter, especially 2 Corinthians 6:14-18.
In these verses Paul strictly forbade them from being unequally yoked with unbelievers. He does not specify a context, and so the general application includes entering into marriage, business partnership, etc., with an unbeliever.
This principle is followed with a quote from the Old Testament in which God promised to make his dwelling with the people and commanded them to be separate from the heathen nations around them. So God would be a father to the people.
APPLY
With these promises, we should be careful to seek cleansing from all sin. God is holy and will not tolerate sin among his people.
Therefore, if God is to be with us, we must be holy. Indeed, seeking the completion of holiness is only the proper response of God’s children.
RESPOND
Heavenly Father, thank you for your grace and holiness. Continue to cleanse me of any sin – anything that displeases you. May I be pure and holy before you. Amen.