“Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.” 1 Timothy 5:22
“How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit.” Jude 1:18-19
I. Three enemies of purity: World (I John 2:15-17), Flesh (Jeremiah 17:9), Devil (I Peter 5:8). Satan seeks to wreck our lives by impurity.
II. Why Purity?
1. One must be pure to enter heaven. Matthew 5:8, Psalm 24:3,4; I Corinthians 6:9,10.
2. Purity enables us to avoid judgment. 2 Peter 2:6; Ecclesiastes 11:9.
3. Purity enables us to avoid defilement. I Corinthians 6:18.
4. Purity is the best way to enjoy life. Hebrews 13:4.
III. How to be pure?
Yield yourselves to God. Watch your:
a) Thoughts: Genesis 6:5; Proverbs 23:7
b) Eyes: Matthew 5:28;
c) Ears: Mark 4:24 “Take heed what you hear.”
d) Tongue: Matthew 12:36,37; Psalm 34:13.
IV. Rewards of Purity. Philippians 4:8.
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8
1. God’s best blessings.
2. Trustworthy and dependable. Proverbs 31:10-11.
3. Clear conscience. Romans 14:22; Psalm 51.
4. Good understanding of people’s character. Sin blinds and distorts values because people justify their sin. II Corinthians 4:4.
5. Provides more opportunity for leadership and service. ‘A bishop must be blameless’ I Timothy 3:2,3 .
6. Physical, mental and spiritual strength. Galatians 6:7-8.
Conclusion:
Will you choose purity of mind, rather than corruption in the world through lust?
“Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” 2 Peter 1:4