2 Corinthians 7:1

Authorized King James Version

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.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ταύτας

G3778

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

οὖν

G3767

therefore

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

ἔχοντες

G2192

Having

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

τὰς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐπαγγελίας

G1860

promises

an announcement (for information, assent or pledge; especially a divine assurance of good)

ἀγαπητοί

G27

dearly beloved

beloved

καθαρίσωμεν

G2511

let us cleanse

to cleanse (literally or figuratively)

ἑαυτοὺς

G1438

ourselves

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

ἀπὸ

G575

from

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

#10

παντὸς

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

#11

μολυσμοῦ

G3436

filthiness

a stain; i.e., (figuratively) immorality

#12

σαρκὸς

G4561

of the flesh

flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or

#13

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#14

πνεύματος

G4151

spirit

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin

#15

ἐπιτελοῦντες

G2005

perfecting

to fulfill further (or completely), i.e., execute; by implication, to terminate, undergo

#16

ἁγιωσύνην

G42

holiness

sacredness (i.e., properly, the quality)

#17

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#18

φόβῳ

G5401

the fear

alarm or fright

#19

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights covenant through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout 2 Corinthians.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on covenant particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show patron-client relationships and family loyalty concepts, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding covenant as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
How might the original audience's understanding of love differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within 2 Corinthians chapter 7 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?