Note 11 at 2 Cor. 7:1: On the surface, this verse looks like it is in contradiction to other scriptures that present the born-again spirit as being perfect and complete (see note 3 at Mt. 26:41, p. 507; see note 11 at Rom. 8:23, p. 800; see note 9 at Rom. 12:2, p. 826), with no filthiness to be cleansed of. However, closer examination will reveal that this is not speaking of our born-again (see note 2 at Jn. 3:3, p. 92) spirit having filthiness.

The word "therefore" links this verse to the previous verses. Paul's statements about cleansing ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit are a continuation of what he had said in the previous verses about separating ourselves from unbelievers.

Notice also that Paul did not say, "cleanse yourself OF all filthiness of the flesh and spirit" but "FROM all filthiness of the flesh and spirit." This is speaking of separating ourselves from the filthiness of the flesh and spirit of others. All the previous promises were dependent upon separation from others' ungodliness.

Someone might say, "What does it mean to separate ourselves from the filthiness of others' spirits?" The word "spirit" not only describes the innermost part of our being, but it also is used to describe an attitude (see note 6 at Rom. 12:11, p. 830; see note 5 at 1 Cor. 16:18, p. 971). Strong defines the Greek word "pneuma," which was translated "spirit" here, as meaning, "mental disposition." When people speak of "school spirit," they are not referring to a spiritual personality, but rather an attitude. Likewise, Paul is saying we need to separate ourselves from the defilement of unbelievers, not only physically, but in our attitudes, or way of thinking, also.

Paul now states that since we have these promises of the indwelling of God's presence, the promise to receive us, to live in us, to be our Father, to be our God, and we His people (6:16-18), we should purge ourselves away from any defilement caused by walking after the flesh, or defilement caused by ungodly spiritual unions (6:14-17). We are to walk separated unto God in godly reverence and fear (7:1).