Consecration

Consecration in the biblical context refers to the act of setting apart a person, object, or place for the service and worship of God. It is a dedication to the divine, often accompanied by rituals and ceremonies that signify the sanctification of the consecrated entity. The concept of consecration is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, where it is frequently associated with the priesthood, the tabernacle, and the temple.

In the Old Testament, the consecration of priests is a significant event. Exodus 29 details the consecration of Aaron and his sons as priests. The process involved sacrifices, anointing with oil, and the wearing of sacred garments. "Then you shall take the anointing oil and anoint him by pouring it on his head" (Exodus 29:7). This act symbolized the setting apart of the priests for holy service.

The consecration of objects and places is also evident in the Old Testament. The tabernacle and its furnishings were consecrated to the Lord. "You are to anoint the Tent of Meeting, the ark of the Testimony, the table and all its utensils, the lampstand and its utensils, the altar of incense, the altar of burnt offering and all its utensils, and the basin with its stand" (Exodus 30:26-28). This consecration signified that these items were holy and dedicated to God’s service.

In the New Testament, consecration takes on a more personal and spiritual dimension. Believers are called to consecrate themselves to God, living lives that reflect their dedication to Him. Romans 12:1 urges believers, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship" . This call to personal consecration emphasizes a life of holiness and devotion.

Purity

Purity in the Bible is closely linked to the concept of holiness and is often associated with moral and spiritual cleanliness. It involves the absence of sin and defilement, both in the physical and spiritual realms. The pursuit of purity is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, reflecting God’s desire for His people to be holy as He is holy.

In the Old Testament, purity laws were given to the Israelites to distinguish them from other nations and to maintain their covenant relationship with God. Leviticus 11-15 outlines various laws concerning clean and unclean animals, bodily discharges, and other aspects of daily life. These laws served as a constant reminder of the need for purity in approaching a holy God.

The Psalms frequently express the desire for purity of heart. Psalm 51:10 pleads, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me" . This verse highlights the understanding that true purity begins within, in the heart and spirit of a person.

In the New Testament, Jesus emphasizes the importance of inner purity over external rituals. In the Sermon on the Mount, He teaches, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God" (Matthew 5:8). This beatitude underscores the value of inner purity as a prerequisite for experiencing God’s presence.

The apostle Paul also addresses purity, urging believers to live pure and blameless lives. In Philippians 4:8, he writes, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things" . This exhortation encourages believers to focus on purity in thought and action.

Purity is not only a personal pursuit but also a communal responsibility within the body of Christ. The church is called to maintain purity in doctrine and practice, as seen in Paul’s letters to the early churches. In 1 Timothy 5:22, he advises, "Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure" . This instruction reflects the importance of purity in leadership and fellowship within the Christian community.