CLEAN – podcast 4 (Purity in James-Peter-John)

For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ website.IntroductionReminder: purity is a broad concept. Narrowing the definition to a single sin lets us off the hook!How are you doing this year (so far) with purity of thought, speech, and lifestyle? How's your focus?Just as in OT so in NT...Scriptural studyJames 1:27The pollution of the world makes us apathetic and self-absorbedSodom (Ezek 16:48) is a lamentable example of a people polluted by the worldTheir hallmark sin of sodomy is not even mentioned in this passage (though it is alluded to)Not to care about those in emotional or psychological agony renders our religion impure -- even worthless (Jas 1:26).James 3:17This verse appears in the conclusion of a chapter on the tongue.In speech, attitude, fellowship, outreach, interactions at home, response to criticism, etc., we are to stay pure.1 Pet 1:22It's hard to love and give to others with a troubled conscience.Notice also that our hearts are purified by obedience.This is probably also an allusion to rebirth (water, spirit) -- obeying their gospel (Acts 5:32; 2 Thess 1:8; etc).1 Pet 3:2Context: winning over a spouse -- but it has wide application.Winning over anyone who isn't ready for reason and studying the scripture...Rev 19:8The imagery of clean garments is opposite that of Isa 64:4-7.In fact, this verse refutes the common Protestant (esp. Calvinist) interpretation. Purity entails obedience and is within reach.Rev 19:14 -- from the beginning of the Bible to the end, purity is a crucial concept and essential for our lives as followers of God.Case study:Simon the SorcererWhat happens when we are careless, heedless as to the condition of our hearts?Failure to keep our hearts pure (Prov 4:23) can lead us to a bad, bad place.Simon Magus is a colorful and clear example of where we can end up if we neglect to fail to keep a pure heart.Acts 8:5-6, 9-10, 12-13, 18-24.Did Simon turn the corner and become pure in his devotion? No – later went to Rome and caused a lot of trouble for Peter…..Let's keep our hearts pure today!!!