CLEAN – podcast 31, The Eternal Vision of Purity

For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ website.IntroductionLast time we considered purity and transformation in Christian theology. In Christian history, especially among Catholics and Protestants, the power of the Cross has been celebrated far more than the power of the resurrection (Phil 3:10-11).Most self-proclaimed Christian groups simply do not grasp this important truth.Historically, western Christian groups (Catholic and Protestant) severely persecuted those who held to a more biblical view -- by burnings, drownings, and other forms of execution, torture, and imprisonment.The past of Christian history ("Christian" broadly and generously defined) is discouraging. What may we expect for the future, especially after the Lord returns?Purity in EternityOnly the holy—the pure in heart—will dwell in the New Jerusalem.Rev 19:8,14; 22:14-15; 21:22-27. Only the pure will enter that holy city!Only the pure in heart will see God (Matt 5:9).There will be only one eternal kingdom.1 Cor 15:24-28 envisions the time when "God will be all in all." In such a universe, there is no place for Satan, or sin (or sinners).The evil one and all who follow him will be destroyed (Matt 10:28). Hell will run its course; punishment will end (Luke 12:47-48).When we have purity of heart, then we have purity of will.John 8:29; 4:34; 10:30. Jesus was so pure that his will coincided with the will of the Father.Skim through John and notice all the passages where this point is made.Practical suggestions:Listen to the series again, straight through. My personal practice is, when I have been especially struck by a lesson, or realize that there is new content (new for me), to listen to the audio a second (and maybe even a third) time. That may help you, too.Go without what you crave or may overuse: food, alcohol, aspirin, TV, etc. Set a goal and remove this from your life for a month (or whatever period makes sense in your situation), and expect that God will show you something about yourself. Consider fasting.Talk with a friend who has also gone through this series. “Compare notes”—which can strengthen conviction and provide companionship in the struggle to develop a holy life.SummaryPurity / Cleansing / Leprosy / Exorcism / Reanimation -- New beginnings!This is not possible not by sheer willpower alone, but by the blood of Christ, which purifies us and makes us into new creations.The ultimate vision of the universe:Only the pure in heart will dwell in the New Jerusalem.Ultimately, there will be only one eternal kingdom -- a kingdom of holiness in the presence of the Lord.When we have purity of heart, then we will also have purity of will.Every day can be a new day (2 Cor 4:16-18)!