Hope in His Purity (v3)

1. The Foundation (Introduction)

The message of the song "Hope in His Purity" is deeply rooted in the transformative hope produced by abiding in Christ. Let us begin with the Word of God itself, as found in 1 John 2:28-3:3:

>"And now, dear children, continue in Him, so that when He appears we may be confident and unashamed before Him at His coming. Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies themselves, just as He is pure."

Here we see that the central theme is the purity and confidence that come from abiding in Christ. These verses urge us to live in a continual state of readiness, marked by righteousness and purity, as we anticipate the return of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2. The Historical & Biblical Context

The Apostle John penned these words towards the end of the first century, a time when the early church was encountering diverse theological challenges and spiritual threats, particularly the rise of Gnosticism. In this atmosphere of confusion, John writes with pastoral concern, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith. His words were intended to remind the believers of the foundational truths of righteousness, purity, and the hope of Christ's return.

John's deep familiarity with Jesus provides a unique perspective, emphasizing a life of abiding in Christ. To 'abide' is not simply to have knowledge of Jesus but to remain in close intimate fellowship with Him, as a branch is connected to the vine (John 15:4). John's exhortation to live purified lives wasn't abstract; it was a call to reflect the nature of Christ in the midst of adversity and false teachings.

3. Word Study (Hebrew/Greek)

The Greek word for “purifies” in this passage is "ἁγνίζει" (hagnizō), which denotes not just a one-time cleansing but an ongoing process of purification. This is far deeper than mere ritualistic purity; it implies a moral and spiritual purification, aligning the believer's whole life with the character of Christ.

The term "appears" in Greek is "φανερόω" (phaneroō), which means to make visible or clear. It signifies the revelation of Christ not just at His future coming but also in His nature being manifest within us as we abide in Him now. Therefore, every moment of abiding is a preparation for His ultimate unveiling.

Understanding these words clarifies our call to a dynamic, ongoing transformation that reflects His nature.

4. Theological Exposition

### "And now, dear children, continue in Him..."

John addresses the reader affectionately as "dear children," emphasizing the intimate relationship between God and His followers. Continuing in Him is not a passive act but an active, deliberate choice to live according to His commands and His presence in every area of life. As Paul writes in Colossians 2:6, "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in Him."

### "Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies themselves..."

The hope in Christ’s return instills a sense of purity in believers. Our eternal hope isn't wishful thinking but a confident expectation based on Christ's promises (Romans 8:24-25). This hope compels us to reflect His purity, as seen again in 2 Corinthians 7:1, which urges us to purify ourselves "from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God."

### "If you know that He is righteous..."

Our understanding of His righteousness affirms our identity in Him. Those born of God will naturally reflect His righteousness because they share in His divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). This is an ongoing fruit of abiding in the Vine, yielding the peaceable fruit of righteousness (Hebrews 12:11).

### "Abide in Him, remain in Him..."

To abide signifies continuous action—a lifestyle of intimacy and communion with the Lord. Jesus teaches in John 15:5, "Apart from me you can do nothing." Thus, abiding is not merely a spiritual exercise but the essence of Christian living, producing confidence and a life unashamed at His coming.

5. Practical Application: How to Walk This Out

1. First, we must immerse ourselves in the Word. The Scripture is both a mirror and a guide, showing us areas that need purification and the path of righteousness. Regularly reading and meditating on the Word equips and empowers us for purity (Psalm 119:9).

2. Second, we must actively stay in fellowship with the Holy Spirit. It is He who sanctifies and transforms us from within. Daily communion with the Spirit ensures continual abiding in Christ's presence, leading to spiritual maturity and fruitfulness (Galatians 5:16-25).

3. Third, we must practice confession and repentance. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us" (1 John 1:9). Ongoing repentance aligns us with God's righteousness and maintains the purity of our hearts.

4. Finally, we must cultivate hope in Christ's return. This hope purifies us and keeps our focus heavenward. Regularly remind yourself of His promises and the reality of His second coming, which encourages steadfastness and perseverance (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18).

6. A Proclamation & Prayer

Proclamation:

"We proclaim that we are purified through our hope in Christ. We choose to abide in Him, living in the righteousness of God and ready for His glorious coming. We declare that His purity is manifest in our lives as we walk in the Spirit and in truth."

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the transformative power of hope in Christ. Let our hearts be continually purified as we abide in You. Strengthen us to remain steadfast, confident, and unashamed at Your coming. We yield to Your Spirit, trusting Your Word to guide us into all righteousness. In Jesus' name, Amen.

May you walk ever closer with the Lord, allowing His purity to shine through your life as you anticipate His glorious return.