Biblical Purity
Biblical purity is a high standard that requires us to purify ourselves for Christ and prepare for the heavenly wedding.
Erlo Stegen emphasizes the importance of biblical purity, arguing that true purity extends beyond mere physical boundaries to encompass emotional and relational integrity before marriage. He highlights the need for Christians to uphold God's high standards of purity, warning against the dangers of lowering these standards to avoid losing children or to fit in with societal norms. Stegen draws parallels between the purity expected of believers and the relationship between Christ and His church, urging Christians to prepare themselves as a pure bride for Christ. He cautions against the influences of media and culture that can defile one's purity and stresses the necessity of fleeing from lust and temptation. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to holiness and faithfulness to God, reminding believers that they cannot serve both God and worldly desires.
Text
Mat.1:18; 2 Cor 11:1-3
The words " did not come together" in the Greek mean they did not spend time together or have a relationship before they were married. 18 times it is used in this way in the Bible and only once does it mean that " come together" relates to sexual intimacy. So many believe this phrase refers only to a sexual relationship but that is not so.
Many think the concept of no visiting, no touching or discovering each other before marriage is wrong. In Paul's day some thought that too. So Paul asked them to bear with his "foolishness". Paul was on fire for God and his life influenced the whole world. He fought for purity in the church. Some Christians believe it is old-fashioned and an unnecessary struggle to keep yourself pure and control yourself in this way. They are wrong and unbiblical.
This is not our doctrine, rather, it is the high standard of biblical truth. In the end God will judge us by His truth.
If young people are together touching each other they do have a response within them. If not, there is something wrong with their bodies and emotions. Parents close their eyes to this but they need to be aware that they carry responsibility.
We who are Christians are the bride of Christ and engaged to Him. We must purify ourselves so He can come to claim us as His virgin bride. Rev. 19:7 He gave His blood in order to purify us. Are you preparing for your heavenly wedding?
2Cor.11v3 Paul was concerned that believers were being deceived in the same way Eve was. Preachers lower God's standard regarding purity. The gospel Paul preached was pure. You parents may think you lower your standard so that you won't lose your children, but if children are "loved" more than God's standard the Bible says you are not worthy to be called a Christian.
Isaiah 35 describes the "highway of holiness". In Timothy we are told to flee youthful lusts. It's not just meaning flee bad thoughts, no, flee lust. Flee! Joseph was told to flee to Egypt with Mary, what if he hadn't? You don't play with a mamba (deadly African snake) you flee from it. Statistics show people play around with lust. There is the Zulu saying: watch your brain so you'll think straight!
Job made a covenant with his eyes. Newspapers, TV, internet, cellphones- all are able to defile the eyes. There is also a lot of music which has demonic roots and influence.
You can do what you like but you won't go to heaven like that.
Don't allow idols in your heart. A man cannot serve two masters. Be faithful to God. Be pure.
Sermon Outline
- I. The Importance of Biblical Purity
- A. The meaning of 'did not come together' in Matthew 1:18
- B. The biblical standard for purity
- C. The consequences of compromising purity
- II. The High Standard of Biblical Truth
- A. God's judgment based on truth
- B. The responsibility of parents
- C. The importance of purity in the church
- III. Preparing for the Heavenly Wedding
- A. The bride of Christ
- B. Purifying ourselves for Christ
- C. The gospel of purity
Key Quotes
“We who are Christians are the bride of Christ and engaged to Him. We must purify ourselves so He can come to claim us as His virgin bride.” — Erlo Stegen
“You can do what you like but you won't go to heaven like that.” — Erlo Stegen
“A man cannot serve two masters. Be faithful to God. Be pure.” — Erlo Stegen
Application Points
- We must purify ourselves to prepare for the heavenly wedding and to be faithful to God.
- We must be aware of the responsibility of parents in teaching their children about purity.
- We must flee from lust and youthful desires to maintain our purity.