What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 6:17? Therefore Paul has just argued that “we are the temple of the living God” (2 Corinthians 6:16), so a response is mandatory. • “Therefore” links the command to the truth that God now indwells His people, just as Romans 12:1 urges believers to act “in view of God’s mercy.” • The same pattern appears in 1 Peter 2:9–11—identity first, then conduct. The verse opens by reminding us that obedience flows from what God has already done. come out from among them The Holy Spirit echoes Isaiah 52:11: “Depart, depart, go out from there….” • “Them” refers to the unbelieving world (2 Corinthians 6:14), those tied to idolatry and darkness. • Revelation 18:4 repeats the call: “Come out of her, My people, lest you share in her sins.” • Abraham’s obedience in Genesis 12:1 models this separation—leaving the familiar to follow God. Leaving is more than relocation; it is a decisive break with systems and relationships that oppose Christ. and be separate Separation is not isolation but distinction. • Leviticus 20:24, 26: God set Israel apart to display His holiness. • 1 Peter 1:15–16 echoes the same command for believers: “Be holy, for I am holy.” Practical outworking: – Different values (Philippians 4:8) – Different speech (Ephesians 4:29) – Different priorities (Matthew 6:33) says the Lord The authority behind the command is God Himself. • “The word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8). • Jesus affirmed, “Scripture cannot be broken” (John 10:35). Because the speaker is the sovereign Lord, obedience is not optional or negotiable. Touch no unclean thing “Touch” pictures personal involvement and approval. • Under the Law, contact with the unclean brought defilement (Leviticus 5:2). • Isaiah 52:11 couples separation with purity: “Touch no unclean thing.” • Ephesians 5:11 tells believers to “have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds of darkness.” Modern parallels include entertainment, business practices, and relationships that entice us to sin. and I will receive you God’s promise crowns the command. • “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8). • Jesus said, “If anyone loves Me…My Father will love him, and We will come to him” (John 14:23). • Hebrews 4:16 invites believers to “approach the throne of grace with confidence.” The Father’s open arms motivate holiness; separation deepens fellowship rather than earning it. summary 2 Corinthians 6:17 calls believers to decisive, practical holiness grounded in their identity as God’s dwelling place. Because the Lord Himself commands it, we leave compromising alliances, live distinctly, refuse contaminating influences, and enjoy the welcome of our Heavenly Father. |
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