CLEAN – podcast 30, Purity & Transformation in Christian Theology

For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ website.IntroductionAfter our introductory lessons on purity and cleansing, we examined 24 case studies of cleansing, freedom, and new beginnings (for lepers, demoniacs, and the deceased).In these final two lessons, let's pull together what we have learned, and take an honest (though brief) look at Christian History. Then (in the final talk) we will take in the biblical vision of purity in the next world -- in eternity.Different branches of Christianity (broadly defined) emphasize different aspects of the salvation brought by Christ. Their views on the death and resurrection of Christ tell us a lot about their intent (or lack of intent) to be pure in heart.Branches of ChristianityCatholicismGrace depends on the sacraments.The blood of Christ somehow activates the sacraments.This view emerged from the apostasy and compromise of the Middle Ages.OrthodoxyParticipation in the divine nature is celebrated (as in 2 Pet 1:3-4), though seldom expected of the average member.This view is in some ways more biblical than the western interpretations, yet as with the western churches (Catholic and Protestant), only the clergy -- priests and monastics -- are expected to live a godly life.ProtestantismGrace is for those with the right theology.We must believe that there is nothing we can do to be saved. (Originally) Protestants embraced "Once Saved, Always Saved." This explains their lack of missionary effort (in the Reformation period, 1500s onward) -- at least until the effects of Calvinism had started to wear off -- for example, among the Wesleyans, American Presbyterians and Baptists.Protestants also taught that attempts to live righteously are dangerous, possibly leading to "works-righteousness."Finally, the blood covers over our sins, or effects a legal transaction, so that God sees us a holy -- even if we aren't!Radical Reformation (Anabaptists)Strong emphasis on personal holiness and obedience to Christ.These believers were mercilessly persecuted by Catholics and Protestants alike. (The Reformation occurred only within Catholic lands, not the Orthodox countries of Eastern Europe.)The NT assures us that the death of Christ brings not only pardon, but also renewal (Tit 3:5).In this podcast I urge us to focus on the cleansing aspect of the blood of Christ – not just the aspect of forgiveness.A scriptural look at the blood of ChristJohn 6:53Eph 2:131 John 1:5Rev 1:52 Cor 4:16ConclusionRemember this: true purity, real holiness, righteousness in the eyes of the Lord isn't a piece of priestcraft or a legal fiction.The blood of Christ purchased us back from the possession and control of the evil one. Yet salvation isn't just a free ticket to heaven. Christ's blood really does cleanse us. This we must preach.We're not appropriating Christ's righteousness so much as truly becoming righteous through him.