Purity

In the biblical context, purity often refers to both moral and ceremonial cleanliness. It is a state of being free from sin, guilt, or any form of defilement. The concept of purity is deeply rooted in the character of God, who is described as holy and without blemish. In Leviticus 11:44 , God commands, "For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, because I am holy." This call to holiness underscores the importance of purity in the life of a believer.

Purity is not only an external condition but also an internal one. Jesus emphasized the importance of inner purity in Matthew 5:8 , "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." This beatitude highlights that true purity begins in the heart and is reflected in one's actions and thoughts. The Apostle Paul also speaks to this in Philippians 4:8 , urging believers to focus on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable.

The Old Testament law provided numerous regulations for maintaining ceremonial purity, which often involved rituals and sacrifices. These laws served as a foreshadowing of the ultimate purification through Jesus Christ. Hebrews 9:13-14 explains, "For if the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them so that their bodies are clean, how much more will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from dead works to serve the living God?"

Purity is also associated with sexual morality. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 , Paul instructs, "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." This call to sexual purity is a reflection of the believer's commitment to living a life that honors God.

Preparation

Preparation in the biblical sense often involves readiness for spiritual growth, service, and the return of Christ. It is a theme that runs throughout Scripture, emphasizing the need for believers to be vigilant and prepared for what God has in store.

In the Old Testament, preparation is seen in the meticulous instructions given for the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, as well as the preparation of the priests for service. Exodus 19:10-11 records God's command to Moses, "Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow. Have them wash their clothes and be ready by the third day, because on that day the LORD will come down on Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people." This preparation was necessary for the people to encounter the holiness of God.

In the New Testament, John the Baptist's ministry is characterized by preparation. He is described as "a voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him'" (Matthew 3:3). John's call to repentance was a preparation for the coming of Jesus Christ.

Jesus Himself spoke of the importance of being prepared for His return. In the parable of the ten virgins, found in Matthew 25:1-13 , Jesus illustrates the necessity of being ready for the bridegroom's arrival. The wise virgins, who had prepared by bringing extra oil, were able to enter the wedding banquet, while the foolish ones were left out.

Preparation also involves equipping oneself for spiritual battles. Ephesians 6:13 advises, "Therefore take up the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you will be able to stand your ground, and having done everything, to stand." This passage highlights the need for spiritual readiness and the importance of being equipped with God's truth, righteousness, and faith.

In summary, purity and preparation are integral aspects of the Christian life, calling believers to live in holiness and readiness for God's purposes.