The concept of purity in the Bible is multifaceted, encompassing spiritual, moral, and physical dimensions. Purity is often associated with holiness and the pursuit of a life that is pleasing to God. The cost of purity involves the sacrifices and challenges believers face in maintaining a life that aligns with biblical standards.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, purity is closely linked with the laws given to the Israelites. These laws included dietary restrictions, ceremonial cleanliness, and moral conduct. Leviticus 11:44-45 states, "For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, because I am holy." The Israelites were called to be distinct from the surrounding nations, and this distinction often came at a cost, requiring them to abstain from certain practices and to follow rigorous rituals.

The account of Joseph provides a poignant example of the cost of purity. In Genesis 39, Joseph resists the advances of Potiphar's wife, choosing to maintain his integrity and purity before God. His refusal leads to false accusations and imprisonment, illustrating the personal and social costs associated with upholding purity.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, the call to purity is intensified with the coming of Christ. Jesus emphasizes the importance of inner purity, teaching that it is not only external actions but also the intentions of the heart that matter. In Matthew 5:8 , Jesus declares, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." This beatitude highlights the spiritual reward of purity but also implies the challenges of maintaining a pure heart in a fallen world.

The Apostle Paul frequently addresses the theme of purity in his epistles. 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, Paul underscores the necessity of sexual purity, which often requires believers to counter cultural norms and personal desires.

Practical Implications

The cost of purity in a believer's life can manifest in various ways, including social ostracism, personal sacrifice, and spiritual warfare. Maintaining purity may require avoiding certain relationships, media, or environments that could lead to moral compromise. In 2 Timothy 2:22 , Paul advises, "Flee from youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, together with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart."

Moreover, purity is not merely about abstaining from sin but actively pursuing righteousness. This pursuit often involves a daily commitment to prayer, scripture study, and accountability within the Christian community. The cost of purity is also seen in the willingness to confess and repent from sin, as emphasized in 1 John 1:9 : "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Eternal Perspective

While the cost of purity can be significant in this life, the Bible assures believers of eternal rewards. In Revelation 21:27 , it is written, "But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who practices an abomination or a lie, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life." This promise of eternal purity and fellowship with God serves as a powerful motivation for believers to endure the costs associated with living a pure life on earth.