Maintaining Purity In A Sinful World

Title: MAINTAINING PURITY IN A SINFUL WORLD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Peter 1:15-16

"But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy."

Supporting Texts: Romans 12:2; Matthew 5:8; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4; 2 Corinthians 6:17; Philippians 4:8

INTRODUCTION:

Living in a world filled with temptation, immorality, and sin, maintaining purity as believers can feel like a constant challenge. The pressures of society, media, and peer influence often pull us away from God’s standards of holiness. However, as Christians, we are called to live pure lives, reflecting the holiness of God in every area of our lives. In this sermon, we will explore the importance of maintaining purity, how we can do so in a world that constantly pushes against our values, and the rewards of living a pure life in accordance with God’s Word.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE CALL TO PURITY

Purity is not just an outward act, but an inner state of being that aligns with God's holiness.

a) Purity Is a Reflection of God’s Nature

God is holy, and He calls His people to reflect His holiness in every area of their lives (1 Peter 1:16). Purity is not an option; it is a command for all believers.

b) Purity Is a Witness to the World

In a world full of sin, maintaining purity is a powerful testimony of God’s transformative power in our lives. It is a way we testify to the goodness of God’s standards (Matthew 5:16).

c) Purity Is a Choice

Maintaining purity requires making intentional decisions to follow God’s Word and to avoid the temptations that would lead us astray (Romans 12:2).

d) Purity Is a Lifelong Process

Purity is not a one-time decision but a lifelong journey of continually aligning ourselves with God’s will and His Word (Philippians 4:8).

e) Biblical Example:

Joseph’s purity in the face of temptation, when he fled from Potiphar’s wife, is a powerful example of maintaining holiness in a sinful world (Genesis 39:7-12).

2. THE CHALLENGES OF MAINTAINING PURITY IN A SINFUL WORLD

There are many pressures and temptations that can lead believers away from purity.

a) Cultural and Societal Pressure

Society often promotes immorality and ungodliness, making it difficult for believers to stand firm in their commitment to purity (Romans 12:2).

b) Media and Entertainment

The media often glorifies sinful behavior, making it challenging for believers to maintain purity when constantly exposed to such influences (Philippians 4:8).

c) Peer Influence and Relationships

Relationships, especially with those who do not share our faith, can be a source of temptation. The pressure to conform to worldly standards can weaken our resolve to live pure lives (2 Corinthians 6:17).

d) Fleshly Desires

The sinful nature that remains in believers often seeks to lead us into impurity through lust, greed, and other desires (Galatians 5:16-17).

e) Biblical Example:

The Israelites, despite experiencing God’s miracles, repeatedly fell into sin by adopting the practices of surrounding nations (Exodus 32:1-6).

3. THE IMPORTANCE OF PURITY FOR BELIEVERS

Purity is not only an act of obedience, but it also brings numerous benefits to the life of the believer.

a) Purity Enables Fellowship with God

Sin separates us from God, but living in purity allows us to maintain intimate fellowship with Him (Psalm 24:3-4).

b) Purity Guards Our Hearts and Minds

When we live pure lives, we protect our hearts from the corrupting influence of sin and the distractions that can hinder our spiritual growth (Proverbs 4:23).

c) Purity Leads to Blessing and Favor

God promises to bless those who keep their lives pure and who follow His commandments (Matthew 5:8; Psalm 119:1-2).

d) Purity Strengthens Our Testimony

A life of purity strengthens our witness to the world and proves that the Gospel can change lives (Titus 2:7-8).

e) Biblical Example:

Daniel, in the midst of Babylonian captivity, maintained his purity by refusing to defile himself with the king’s food and wine. His commitment to purity led to God’s favor and promotion (Daniel 1:8-20).

4. HOW TO MAINTAIN PURITY IN A SINFUL WORLD

While living in a sinful world presents challenges, there are practical steps believers can take to maintain purity.

a) Renew Your Mind with God’s Word

The Word of God is our primary tool for resisting temptation and maintaining purity. Meditating on Scripture daily helps transform our minds and strengthen our resolve (Romans 12:2).

b) Avoid Situations That Tempt You

The Bible teaches us to flee from temptations. Being wise about the situations we place ourselves in can help us avoid falling into sin (1 Corinthians 6:18).

c) Accountability and Fellowship

Surrounding ourselves with like-minded believers who can encourage, pray for, and hold us accountable is essential for maintaining purity (Hebrews 10:24-25).

d) Pray for Strength and Guidance