Brain Surgery 4.8 Part 4 Thinking pure thoughts

- we're working through this list of positive criteria that ought to govern our thinking from Phil. 4:8.

Philippians 4:8 KJV 1900

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

- so far, we've looked at three of them:

1) whatsoever things are true...

- as opposed to that which is false

- whatsoever things are true, as opposed to that which is

disconnected from reality.

2) whatsoever things are honorable...

- as opposed to that which is frivolous.

3) and, whatsoever things are just/right

- as opposed to that which is unrighteousness, or not in conformity to God's will and standard.

- as William Hendriksen said, "In all his planning, let the Christian ask himself, Is this in harmony with God's will and

law?"

- this study, we'd like to look at this fourth characteristic...

- whatsoever things are PURE.

- In his book by John Vandergriff a number of times, entitled "In the Arena of the Mind."

- in this chapter on this word "pure," Vandergriff makes an interesting point from the life of King David when he says...

- the Put Off/Put On principle can also work in reverse.

- in other words, normally we think about using this principle to change by putting off what is wrong, and replacing it with what is right.

- However, in David's case, he failed because he put off a habit of pure thinking, and replacing it with thoughts that were impure.

- of course that thinking led to adultery, and then to murder.

- Kent Hughes, in his book "Liberating Ministry From The Success Syndrome" points out what that impure thinking and subsequent actions

COST David:

"From here on David's reign went downhill, despite his laudable repentance. Here are the terrible facts. His baby died. Then his beautiful daughter, Tamar, was raped by her half-brother Amnon. In turn, Amnon was murdered by Tamar's full-brother Absalom. Absalom came to hate his father David for his moral turpitude that he led a rebellion under the tutelage of Bathsheba's resentful grandfather,

Ahithophel."

- what's the point of this?

- the matter of "thinking thoughts that are pure" is a very important subject.

- now, "purity" is one of those words that we know what it means, but its not all that easy to define...without using the word itself in the

definition.

- what is purity? (to be pure)

- what does it mean to be pure? (to have purity)

- the United Bible Society's dictionary defines the original word as

"holy, chaste, set apart by or to God, consecrated, upright, and innocent."

- the original word is very closely related to the word "holy" (hagnos, hagios)

WHATEVER IS PURE: hosa hagna:

1 Tim 4;12 ;5:2 ; Titus 2:14; James 1:27 ; 3:17 ; 2 Peter 3:1

CONTINUALLY CONTEMPLATE CLEAN WORDS, CLEAN DEEDS

Pure (53) (hagnos) is that which is free from defilement, stainless, that which will not contaminated, that which is "morally and inwardly" pure.

Hagnos is that which is holy, morally clean, and undefiled.  

Jesus is hagnos (1 John 3:3 and beleivers are to purify themselves just as He is pure, especially in view of the truth that we have the hope (certainty) that one day we will be like Him! (1 John 3:2

1 John 3:3 KJV 1900

And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

1 John 3:2 KJV 1900

Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.

Hagnos refers to ceremonial purity, and to moral purity.

It especially means keeping our bodies undefiled by abstaining from sexual sins (see 2 Corinthians 11:2 ; 1 Tim 5:22 Titus 2:.James 3:17

2 Corinthians 11:2 KJV 1900

For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.

1 Timothy 5:22 KJV 1900

Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.

Titus 2 KJV 1900

But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you. Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.

James 3:17 KJV 1900

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

The saints then, as now, were constantly attacked by temptations to sexual impurity ( Eph 4:17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 ). Paul gives a strong warning to every saint…

Ephesians 4:17 KJV 1900

This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,

Ephesians 4:18 KJV 1900

Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:

Ephesians 4:19 KJV 1900

Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

Ephesians 4:20 KJV 1900

But ye have not so learned Christ;

Ephesians 4:21 KJV 1900

If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:

Ephesians 4:22 KJV 1900

That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;

Ephesians 4:23 KJV 1900

And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

Ephesians 4:24 KJV 1900

And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

do not let immorality or any impurity or greed even be named (present imperative commanding this to be their habitual practice = to not to even pronounce the name! Or to stop a practice already in existence.) among you, as is proper among saints; 4 and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this you know with certainty, that no immoral or impure person or covetous man, who is an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be partakers with them; 8 for you were formerly darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth), 10 trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. ( Eph 5:3 , 4; 5:6 ; 7-8 ; 9-10 )

Ephesians 5:3 KJV 1900

But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;

Ephesians 4 KJV 1900

I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.) And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But ye have not so learned Christ; If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil. Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

Ephesians 5:6 KJV 1900

Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.

Ephesians 5:7–8 KJV 1900

Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

Ephesians 5:9–10 KJV 1900

(For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.

Hagnos -

8x in NT translated as  chaste(1), free from sin(1), innocent(1), pure(5). - 2 Corinthians 7:11; 11:2; Phil 4:8 ; 1 Tim 5:22 ; Titus 2:5; Jam 3:17; 1 Peter 3;2; 1 John 3:3 .

2 Corinthians 7:11 KJV 1900

For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.

2 Corinthians 11:2 KJV 1900

For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.

Philippians 4:8 KJV 1900

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

1 Timothy 5:22 KJV 1900

Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.

Titus 2:5 KJV 1900

To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

James 3:17 KJV 1900

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

1 Peter 3 KJV 1900

Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered. Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil. And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.

1 Peter 2 KJV 1900

Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king. Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

1 John 3:3 KJV 1900

And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

Barclay adds that when hagnos was "used ceremonially, it describes that which has been so cleansed that it is fit to be brought into the presence of God and used in his service.

This world is full of things which are sordid and shabby and soiled and smutty.

Many a man gets his mind into such a state that it soils everything of which it thinks.

The Christian’s mind is set on the things which are pure; his thoughts are so clean that they can stand even the scrutiny of God." (ibid)

So we need to test what think about through the "grid" of hagnos and ask ourselves these simple questions - Will it defile or is it intrinsically pure?

Will it corrupt our thinking if we give attention to it?

Will it stand the scrutiny of God?

Will it make me more like Jesus Who is perfect hagnos?

hagnos

Total KJV Occurrences: 8

pure, 4

Php 4:8, 1Ti 5:22, Jas 3:17, 1Jn 3:3

Philippians 4:8 KJV 1900

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

1 Timothy 5:22 KJV 1900

Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.

James 3:17 KJV 1900

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

1 John 3:3 KJV 1900

And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

chaste, 3

2 Co 11:2, Tit 2:5, 1 Pe 3:2

2 Corinthians 11:2 KJV 1900

For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.

Titus 2:5 KJV 1900

To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

1 Peter 3:2 KJV 1900

While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.

clear, 1

2Co_7:11

2 Corinthians 7:11 KJV 1900

For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.

- so when we talk about pure thinking, we're talking about pure as opposed to be stained, as opposed to being dirty, as opposed to being immoral, or set apart to ungodliness instead of set apart to God.

- We ought to be constantly evaluating our thinking in light of the issue of purity.

- now, someone might come along and say, "Is this even possible?", "Can a person really being growing in purity?"

- the answer is a triumphant "Yes."

- we say that for three reasons:

1) Because believers have received the "washing of regeneration" - Titus 2:5.

Titus 2:5 KJV 1900

To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

- the Scripture makes it clear that when a man or woman comes to Christ, that person is made new.

- "If any man be in Christ..." - II Cor. 5:17

2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV 1900

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

- the matter of even raising this subject ought to make us appreciate the cross-work of Christ...because its only through Him that we could even hope to make progress in the matter of purity.

- "the washing of regeneration and the renewing of the Holy Spirit" is intended to have a powerful effect on God's children, including the way they think.

- another reason we can have hope as we come to this subject is:

2) In Christ, we have been set free from slavery to sin - Rom. 6:17-18

- READ Rom. 6:17-18

Romans 6:17–18 KJV 1900

But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

- we all brought habits of impure thinking into our Christian lives...

- some more than others and some in different ways than others...

- but regardless of the nature of the problem, or the extent of the problem, the blood of Jesus Christ has set us free from

enslavement to those habits.

- we can change, we can become better stewards of our minds...

- we can be growing in purity.

3) We're commanded to, and God's commands give hope.

- READ I Tim. 1:5

1 Timothy 1:5 KJV 1900

Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:

- READ I John 3:3

1 John 3:3 KJV 1900

And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

- so far we're saying - this is a very serious subject, but its also a study we can enter with a lot of hope.

- now, the word "pure" occurs just over 100 times in the Bible.

- when you take away occurrences like "pure gold" or "pure silver' (which are interesting but not really part of what we're studying today, the points we're going to use for our outline are the ones that are really used in the rest of the Biblical texts.

- by far, one of the biggest emphases is:

I. God Wants You To Be Purifying Your Heart

A Pure Heart

TEXT: 1 John 3:1-3; Matt. 5:8

Matthew 5:8 KJV 1900

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

A. PURITY IS IMPORTANT IN PREPARING TO MEET JESUS.

1. Matt. 5:8. The beatitude – The pure in heart shall see God.

Matthew 5:8 KJV 1900

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

2. Involves fellowship – not just eye-balling.

B. DEVOTION TO GOD MUST BE PURE (2 Cor. 11:2-3,4 ).

2 Corinthians 11:2–3 KJV 1900

For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

2 Corinthians 11:4 KJV 1900

For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.

As God directs (vs. 4).

C. PURITY OF LIFE IS ESSENTIAL (1 Tim. 5:22; 2 Cor. 7:1).

1 Timothy 5:22 KJV 1900

Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.

2 Corinthians 7:1 KJV 1900

Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

D. AN IMPORTANT SUBJECT THAT NEEDS STUDY.

I. DEFINITIONS:

A. 1 John 3:3 – PURE - hagnos,

1 John 3:3 KJV 1900

And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

a. pure from carnality, chaste, modest;

b. pure from every fault, immaculate: (Thayer).

B. Matt. 5:8 – PURE –katharos,

Matthew 5:8 KJV 1900

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

1. to make clean, to cleanse; … b. in a moral sense; to free from the defilement of sin and from faults; to purify from wickedness: 2 Cor 7:1; to free from the guilt of sin, to purify: 1 John 1:7 (Thayer).

2 Corinthians 7:1 KJV 1900

Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

1 John 1:7 KJV 1900

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

II. PURITY OF LIFE DERIVES FROM PURITY OF MIND

A. DEEDS REFLECT OUR HEART’S CONDITION (Prov. 23:7; Matt. 12:35).

Proverbs 23:7 KJV 1900

For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; But his heart is not with thee.

Matthew 12:35 KJV 1900

A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.

1. We are to love God with all our heart, soul, strength and mind (Luke 10:27).

Luke 10:27 KJV 1900

And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.

2. Our love should be genuine (Rom. 12:9).

Romans 12:9 KJV 1900

Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

B. WE ARE CALLED TO A CHANGED MIND (Rom. 12:2)

Romans 12:2 KJV 1900

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

C. AND A NEW PERSPECTIVE (Col. 3:1-2).

Colossians 3:1–2 KJV 1900

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

D. IMPURITY COMES FROM AN EVIL HEART (Gen. 6:5; Heb. 3:12; Matt. 12:34-35).

Genesis 6:5 KJV 1900

And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.

Hebrews 3:12 KJV 1900

Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.

Matthew 12:34–35 KJV 1900

O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.

III. 3 ELEMENTS ARE INVOLVED IN A PURE HEART.

A. CLEAN THINKING.

1. Man forgets God when he exalts himself (Rom. 1:22-24, 28-32; Eph. 4:17-19).

Romans 1:22–24 KJV 1900

Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:

Romans 1:28–32 KJV 1900

And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

Ephesians 4:17–19 KJV 1900

This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

2. Leads to degrading bestial behavior (2 Pet. 2:12; Jude 10).

2 Peter 2:12 KJV 1900

But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption;

Jude 10 KJV 1900

But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves.

3. Sheep scattered and distressed – without a shepherd (Matt. 9:36).

Matthew 9:36 KJV 1900

But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.

4. We don’t have to grope in the darkness (John 8:12; 6:63).

John 8:12 KJV 1900

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

John 6:63 KJV 1900

It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

5. What we feed on effects us (Phil. 4:8; Psa. 1:1-3).

Philippians 4:8 KJV 1900

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Psalm 1:1–3 KJV 1900

Blessed is the man That walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor standeth in the way of sinners, Nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; And in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, That bringeth forth his fruit in his season; His leaf also shall not wither; And whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

B. SINCERE MOTIVES.

1. The problems of the Pharisees.

a. They sought the favor of men (Matt. 6:1 ff.; Gal. 1:10).

Matthew 6:1ff KJV 1900

Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face; That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly. Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

Galatians 1:10 KJV 1900

For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.

b. There treasures were laid up on the earth (Matt. 6:19-24, 33; 2 Cor. 4:16-18).

Matthew 6:19–24 KJV 1900

Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

Matthew 6:33 KJV 1900

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

2 Corinthians 4:16–18 KJV 1900

For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

2. Others (Jas. 4:3; 3 John 9 - 2 Pet. 2:18-19; 1 Tim. 4:6).

James 4:3 KJV 1900

Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.

3 John 9 KJV 1900

I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.

2 Peter 2:18–19 KJV 1900

For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error. While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.

1 Timothy 4:6 KJV 1900

If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

3. God desires a true heart (Heb. 10:22; Josh. 24:14; 2 Cor. 1:12)

Hebrews 10:22 KJV 1900

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.

Joshua 24:14 KJV 1900

Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord.

2 Corinthians 1:12 KJV 1900

For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.

4. A true heart proves itself (Phil. 2:22; 1 Pet. 1:6-7).

Philippians 2:22 KJV 1900

But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel.

1 Peter 1:6–7 KJV 1900

Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

C. SINGLE-MINDED COMMITMENT.

1. The teaching of Jesus (Matt. 6:24). Serving a master.

Matthew 6:24 KJV 1900

No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

2. Paul’s attitude.

a. Gave up everything (Phil. 3:7-8).

Philippians 3:7–8 KJV 1900

But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

b. Eye on the goal (Col. 3:1-2).

Colossians 3:1–2 KJV 1900

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

c. Crucified with Christ (Gal. 2:20; Acts 20:24; 2 Cor. 4:7-12, 13-14).

Galatians 2:20 KJV 1900

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

Acts 20:24 KJV 1900

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

2 Corinthians 4:7–12 KJV 1900

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. So then death worketh in us, but life in you.

2 Corinthians 4:13–14 KJV 1900

We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.

d. A commitment borne of faith (2 Cor. 5:1, 7; 2 Tim. 1:12).

2 Corinthians 5:1 KJV 1900

For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.

2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV 1900

(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)

2 Timothy 1:12 KJV 1900

For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

e. Total – all things – commitment (1 Cor. 9:23).

1 Corinthians 9:23 KJV 1900

And this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you.

3. Where is your heart? Is it where Jesus can guard it?

A. PURITY OF LIFE IS DEPENDENT ON A PURE HEART.

B. OCCASIONALLY THE HEART MUST BE RENEWED.

C. RENEWAL OCCURS THROUGH BIBLE STUDY AND APPLICATION.

D. HAVE YOU DONE WHAT GOD WANTS YOU TO DO?

- the word "pure" often is used in conjunction with the word "heart" in the Scripture.

- a good example of that is Psalm 24:3-4

Psalm 24:3–4 KJV 1900

Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? Or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; Who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, Nor sworn deceitfully.

A. A key to fellowship with God

- READ Psalm 24:3-4

Psalm 24:3–4 KJV 1900

Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? Or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; Who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, Nor sworn deceitfully.

- (could also add I John 1)

1 John 1 KJV 1900

That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

- many people today are looking for fellowship with God.

- baby boomers talk about "wanting to connect with God"

- but many of those same individuals are not willing to do what is required to have fellowship with God.

- fellowship with God requires purity...

1) purity in the sense that we've repented and rusted Christ as Lord and Savior

2) and purity in the sense of attempting to live a more pure life in the inner man.

- no one else knows whether your thoughts are pure or impure, but God does, and fellowship with Him is dependant in part on our

attention to this area.

- a person who values fellowship with God is going to give this

area of life attention.

B. Can even be accomplished after one sins

- Psalm 51:10 - READ

Psalm 51:10 KJV 1900

Create in me a clean heart, O God; And renew a right spirit within me.

- the wonderful thing is that even after we blow it, we can askfor God's forgiveness, and know that that stain can be cleansed.

- our mind doesn't have to get dirtier and dirtier year after year after year.

- this is also important because it was a:

C. Central theme of Christ's message and ministry.

- Matthew 5:8 - READ

Matthew 5:8 KJV 1900

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

- that's why the Pharisees hated Christ so much.

- they were exactly the opposite of what Matthew 5:8 is speaking of, and they had little interest in giving attention to what Paul is talking about in Philippians 4:8.

Matthew 5:8 KJV 1900

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

Philippians 4:8 KJV 1900

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

- see, whatsoever things are pure...think on these things.

- I'd like to ask you this morning, how do your thinking habits stack up to this particular criteria?

- because I was traveling this week, I worked on Sunday school pretty early in the week...and I found myself asking, "Steve, was that a pure thought?"

- that's a very helpful process.

- I think many times we'll be amazed at how many thoughts don't meet that criteria and need to be put off.

- God wants you and me to be purifying our hearts.

- we ought to be people who place a

I."PRIORITY ON PURITY".

- now, building on this:

II. God's Primary Purifying Agent Is His Word

A. Constant Description of God's Word

- The Scripture is pure!

- Psalm 12:6

Psalm 12:6 KJV 1900

The words of the Lord are pure words: As silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.

- Psalm 19:8

Psalm 19:8 KJV 1900

The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.

- Psalm 119:140

Psalm 119:140 KJV 1900

Thy word is very pure: Therefore thy servant loveth it.

- over and over God's Word is described as that which is pure.

- we discern what is impure by comparing it to the Scripture.

- we think thoughts that are pure by going to the Scripture.

- the commandments of the Lord are pure.

B. Beware of being drawn away from this purifying agent.

- II Cor. 11:2-3

2 Corinthians 11:2–3 KJV 1900

For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

- the argument of this passage is very important.

- Paul wants this church to be growing in purity so that they might give the best account at the Judgement Seat of Christ.

- but his concern is that they THEIR MINDS WOULD BE DRAWN AWAY from their simple devotion to Jesus Christ.

- How often do God's children try to handle the problems of life through some means other than the Scripture...and as a result their thinking is not purified...

- because they've turned from the very purifying agent that

God ordained for that work to be done.

C. This kind of thinking produces pure deeds.

- Proverbs 20:11

Proverbs 20:11 KJV 1900

Even a child is known by his doings, Whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.

- Proverbs 21:8

Proverbs 21:8 KJV 1900

The way of man is froward and strange: But as for the pure, his work is right.

D. This kind of thinking produces convictions

- Hab. 1:13 - Thine eyes are too pure to approve evil.

Habakkuk 1:13 KJV 1900

Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil, And canst not look on iniquity: Wherefore lookest thou upon them that deal treacherously, And holdest thy tongue when the wicked devoureth the man that is more righteous than he?

- There's been some talk recently about young people involved in homosexuality --- and the way they are mistreated by others

around them.

- and I hope we would be quick to say that its wrong to call people derogatory names, even if we think the way they are living is displeasing to God.

- part of the challenge of living for Jesus Christ is loving those the Lord has placed around us, regardless of their lifestyle.

- so name-calling and other forms of hatred are wrong.

- but its also wrong to give others the impression that their behavior is acceptable, when in fact its offensive to God.

- this is God's world.

- sexuality is God's gift that is to be enjoyed within the bonds of monogamous marriage.

- but sexual relations outside of marriage is sinful and wicked, period.

- Hebrews 13:4 - "Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for fornicators and

Hebrews 13:4 KJV 1900

Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.

adulterers will God judge."

- the point is -- people who are growing in purity haveconvictions. And while we don't go around imposing those convictions on people with whom we have no relationship, we're surely going to come down on God's side of that issue whenever its appropriate to do so.

- by the way, for those who do want to go around saying that homosexuality is OK, and teaching children that, or trying to impose that "RELIGION" on our community, James 3:1 is appropriate: "Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we shall incur a stricter judgement."

James 3:1 KJV 1900

My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.

- Habakkuk was right that God's eyes are too pure to approve evil.

- and men and women who are growing in purity are going to be people of conviction.

- now let's all of this one step further:

III. People Who Are Growing In Purity Work At It

- let me remind you of a couple of verses we looked at earlier:

- I Tim. 1:5

1 Timothy 1:5 KJV 1900

Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:

- I John 3:3

1 John 3:3 KJV 1900

And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

A. By putting off...

- INPUT?

B. By putting on...

- INPUT?

IV. Godly Spouses Don't Add to the Problem

A. By advocating impure entertainment

B. By withholding right sexual relationships