Purity, in the biblical context, refers to the state of being free from sin, moral corruption, and defilement. It is a central theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing the importance of holiness and righteousness in the life of a believer. The concept of purity is both physical and spiritual, encompassing actions, thoughts, and intentions.

In the Old Testament, purity is often associated with ceremonial cleanliness, as seen in the laws given to the Israelites. Leviticus 11-15 outlines various laws regarding clean and unclean animals, bodily discharges, and other aspects of daily life, emphasizing the need for the Israelites to be set apart as God's holy people. "For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, because I am holy" (Leviticus 11:44).

The New Testament shifts the focus from ceremonial purity to moral and spiritual purity. Jesus Christ emphasized the importance of inner purity over external rituals. In the Sermon on the Mount, He taught, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God" (Matthew 5:8). This beatitude highlights the significance of having a heart free from deceit and sin, aligning one's inner life with God's will.

The Apostle Paul also addressed purity in his epistles, urging believers to live lives that reflect their new identity in Christ. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-7, Paul writes, "For it is God’s will that you should be holy: You must abstain from sexual immorality; each of you must know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in lustful passion like the Gentiles who do not know God." Here, purity is linked to sexual morality and self-control, underscoring the call to live in a manner that honors God.

Purity is not only about abstaining from sin but also about pursuing righteousness and holiness. James 1:27 defines pure religion as "to look after orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world." This verse encapsulates the dual aspect of purity: active compassion and personal holiness.

Humility

Humility is a fundamental virtue in the Christian faith, characterized by a modest view of one's own importance and a recognition of one's dependence on God. It is the opposite of pride and arrogance, which are often condemned in Scripture.

The Bible presents humility as essential for a right relationship with God and others. In the Old Testament, humility is often associated with wisdom and the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 22:4 states, "The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life" . This verse links humility with reverence for God, suggesting that true wisdom begins with acknowledging one's limitations and God's sovereignty.

The life and teachings of Jesus Christ provide the ultimate example of humility. Philippians 2:5-8 describes how Jesus, though being in the form of God, "emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross" . This passage highlights the self-sacrificial nature of Christ's humility, serving as a model for believers to emulate.

Jesus taught His disciples about the importance of humility in their interactions with others. In Matthew 23:12, He declared, "For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted" . This principle underscores the kingdom value that true greatness is found in serving others and placing their needs above one's own.

The Apostle Peter also emphasized humility in the life of a believer. In 1 Peter 5:5-6, he exhorts, "Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you" . This passage highlights the promise of God's grace and exaltation for those who choose the path of humility.

In summary, both purity and humility are integral to the Christian life, calling believers to live in a manner that reflects the character of Christ and honors God. These virtues are not merely external behaviors but are deeply rooted in the heart, shaping one's relationship with God and others.