Defilement

In biblical terms, defilement refers to the state of being unclean or impure, often in a ceremonial or moral sense. The concept of defilement is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, particularly in the Old Testament, where it is closely associated with the laws given to the Israelites. These laws were designed to set God's people apart from other nations and to maintain holiness in their relationship with Him.

The Book of Leviticus provides extensive instructions on what constitutes defilement and how it can be remedied. For instance, Leviticus 11 outlines dietary laws, declaring certain animals unclean and thus defiling to those who consume them. Leviticus 15 addresses bodily discharges, which render a person ceremonially unclean. The defilement of the land through idolatry and immorality is also a recurring theme, as seen in Leviticus 18:24-25: "Do not defile yourselves by any of these practices, for by all these things the nations I am driving out before you have defiled themselves. Even the land has become defiled, so I am punishing it for its iniquity, and the land will vomit out its inhabitants."

In the New Testament, Jesus challenges the traditional understanding of defilement, emphasizing the condition of the heart over external rituals. In Mark 7:15, He states, "Nothing that enters a man from the outside can defile him, but the things that come out of a man, these are what defile him." This teaching underscores the shift from ceremonial law to the moral and spiritual purity that Christ calls His followers to pursue.

Purity

Purity, in the biblical context, is the state of being clean, both physically and spiritually. It is a central theme in Scripture, reflecting God's holy nature and His desire for His people to be holy as well. Purity is often associated with righteousness, integrity, and moral uprightness.

The pursuit of purity is a recurring exhortation in the Bible. Psalm 24:3-4 asks, "Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear deceitfully." This passage highlights the importance of both external actions ("clean hands") and internal motives ("a pure heart") in achieving purity.

In the New Testament, purity is further emphasized as a characteristic of the Christian life. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently encourages 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 call to focus on purity in thought and action reflects the transformative power of the Gospel in the believer's life.

Purity is also linked to the work of the Holy Spirit, who sanctifies and purifies the hearts of believers. In 1 John 3:3, it is written, "And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure." This verse underscores the believer's active role in pursuing purity, motivated by the hope of Christ's return and the desire to be like Him.

Throughout Scripture, the themes of defilement and purity serve as reminders of the holiness of God and the call for His people to live set apart, reflecting His character in a fallen world.