In what ways can we identify and remove "unclean" influences today? Foundational Passage “ ‘Come out from among them and be separate,’ says the Lord. ‘Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.’ … “Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every impurity of body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” 2 Corinthians 6:17; 7:1 The Biblical Meaning of “Unclean” • Old Testament: anything ceremonially defiled or morally tainted (Leviticus 11–15). • New Testament: expanded to every thought, practice, or relationship that grieves the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30) or wars against a pure heart (James 4:8). • Core idea: whatever hinders fellowship with a holy God. Spotting Unclean Influences in Daily Life • Entertainment – Movies, shows, games, websites that glamorize sin (Psalm 101:3; Philippians 4:8). • Relationships – Companions who persistently pull us toward compromise (1 Corinthians 15:33). • Digital & Social Media – Feeds that stir envy, lust, rage, or unbelief (Matthew 6:22–23). • Music & Speech – Lyrics or conversations that normalize impurity, vulgarity, disrespect (Ephesians 4:29; 5:4). • Philosophies & Worldviews – Teaching that contradicts Scripture, promotes self-exaltation, or denies Christ (Colossians 2:8). • Occult & Supernatural Counterfeits – Horoscopes, crystals, spells, spiritism (Deuteronomy 18:10–12). • Habitual Practices – Substances or behaviors enslaving body or mind (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). Practical Steps for Cleansing 1. Examine • Invite the Spirit to shine light (Psalm 139:23–24). 2. Renounce & Repent • Agree with God’s verdict; turn decisively (Proverbs 28:13; 1 John 1:9). 3. Remove • Delete, discard, unfollow, or distance as needed (Acts 19:19; Matthew 5:29–30). 4. Replace • Fill the vacuum with what is true, honorable, and pure (Philippians 4:8). • Choose edifying music, wholesome media, Christ-centered friendships. 5. Guard • Set boundaries, filters, schedules; keep short accounts with God (Proverbs 4:23; 1 Thessalonians 5:22). 6. Walk in Community • Seek accountability from mature believers (Hebrews 10:24–25; Galatians 6:1–2). 7. Persist in Renewal • Daily Scripture, prayer, worship renew mind and affections (Romans 12:2). Filling the Space with Holiness • Scripture Saturation – Memorize, meditate, and speak the Word (Psalm 119:11). • Worship & Gratitude – Praise realigns the heart toward God’s purity (Psalm 96:9). • Service & Generosity – Practicing love displaces selfish patterns (1 John 3:18). • Fellowship with Believers – Iron sharpens iron; purity grows in community (Proverbs 27:17). The Promise that Motivates • Intimate Fellowship: “I will be a Father to you” (2 Corinthians 6:18). • Assurance of Acceptance: “I will receive you” (v. 17). • Ongoing Transformation: “Perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (7:1). The Lord who calls us to separate from every unclean influence also supplies grace and power to live clean, vibrant, and set-apart lives for His glory. |
    |