Self-Control

Self-control is a fundamental virtue in the Christian life, often associated with the fruit of the Spirit. It is the ability to govern one's desires, emotions, and actions in accordance with God's will. The Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of self-control in several of his epistles. In Galatians 5:22-23 , he lists it as one of the fruits of the Spirit: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law."

The call to self-control is a call to live a disciplined life, resisting the temptations of the flesh. In 1 Corinthians 9:25 , Paul uses the metaphor of an athlete to illustrate this virtue: "Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable." Here, self-control is likened to the rigorous training and discipline required to achieve a goal, underscoring its necessity in the pursuit of spiritual maturity.

Self-control is also crucial in maintaining moral integrity. In Titus 2:11-12 , Paul writes, "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men. It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age." This passage highlights the transformative power of God's grace, which enables believers to exercise self-control and live in a manner that honors God.

Purity

Purity, in the biblical context, refers to the state of being free from sin and moral corruption. It encompasses both inner purity of heart and outward purity of conduct. Jesus emphasizes the importance of purity in the Beatitudes, stating in Matthew 5:8 , "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." This beatitude underscores the connection between purity and the ability to experience God's presence.

The call to purity is a call to holiness, as seen in 1 Peter 1:15-16 : "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'" Purity is not merely an external adherence to rules but a reflection of God's holiness in the believer's life. It involves a transformation of the heart and mind, aligning one's desires and actions with God's standards.

Purity is also closely linked to sexual morality. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 , 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, not in lustful passion like the Gentiles who do not know God." This passage highlights the importance of sexual purity as an expression of one's commitment to God's will and a testimony to the world.

In the pursuit of purity, believers are encouraged to guard their hearts and minds. Philippians 4:8 provides guidance on maintaining purity of thought: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things." By focusing on what is pure and virtuous, Christians can cultivate a life that reflects God's holiness.

In summary, self-control and purity are intertwined virtues that are essential for living a life that honors God. They require a commitment to spiritual discipline, a reliance on the Holy Spirit, and a desire to reflect God's holiness in every aspect of life.