In what ways can we apply the concept of purification in our lives today? Scripture Focus “Moses slaughtered the bull, took the blood, and with his finger put it on the horns of the altar on all sides, purifying the altar. Then he poured out the blood at the base of the altar and consecrated it, so that atonement might be made on it.” (Leviticus 8:15) The Setting of Leviticus 8:15 • Israel is at the foot of Sinai. • Aaron and his sons are being ordained to the priesthood. • Blood on the altar signals two realities—purification and consecration—so the altar can fulfill its purpose of atonement. Why Purification Still Matters • God’s character has not changed: “Be holy, because I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:16) • Christ’s sacrifice fulfills the pattern: “For if the blood of goats and bulls… sanctify for the cleansing of the flesh, how much more will the blood of Christ… cleanse our consciences?” (Hebrews 9:13-14) • Purification is the doorway to fellowship: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” (Matthew 5:8) Practical Ways to Pursue Purification Today • Embrace the once-for-all cleansing of Christ. – Hebrews 10:10,14—His offering makes us positionally holy. • Practice ongoing confession and repentance. – 1 John 1:9—He is faithful to forgive and cleanse. • Wash daily in the Word. – John 17:17; Ephesians 5:26—Truth scrubs away deception and defilement. • Guard heart and mind. – Proverbs 4:23; Philippians 4:8—Filter media, conversations, and thought patterns. • Restore strained relationships promptly. – Matthew 5:23-24—Relational purity reflects heart purity. • Examine yourself before worship. – 1 Corinthians 11:28—Self-examination keeps communion sincere. • Offer your body as a living sacrifice. – Romans 12:1—Lifestyle choices become altar offerings. • Separate from unholy alliances. – 2 Corinthians 6:17-18—“Touch no unclean thing.” • Serve with a clean conscience. – Hebrews 10:22; James 1:27—Pure and undefiled religion cares for others without hypocrisy. Common Obstacles to a Pure Life • Small compromises that snowball. • Secret sin kept in isolation. • Busyness that crowds out reflective time with God. • Constant exposure to coarse entertainment or conversation. The Joy and Fruit of Purification • Deeper intimacy with the Lord—Psalm 24:3-4. • Clear spiritual discernment—Psalm 51:10-13. • Bold, credible witness—2 Timothy 2:21. • Enduring peace and freedom—Isaiah 26:3; John 8:36. Living It Out Purification is not a one-time ritual but a continual posture: resting in Christ’s finished work, yet actively cooperating with the Spirit to keep the “altar” of our lives clean. Just as Moses applied the blood to every corner of the bronze altar, invite the Lord to apply His cleansing to every corner of your heart, habits, and relationships—so that your life can serve its full purpose in worship and witness. |
    |