The Purifying Power of God's Word

"You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you." (John 15:3 NKJ)

When taken seriously as the Word of God, there is an inherent power in Christ's teaching that has a cleansing effect. His words clean out immorality and input grace.

The cleansing power of Christ's word is like the fire that purifies gold or silver in a furnace. His words have a two-fold effect. There is surgery for disease and decay, but also medicine to heal wounds. And the cleansing work of his word is on-going.

There are so many Scriptures that run through my mind. Then I realize the Scripture rehearsing in my mind is the Father's pruning tool. The Apostle Paul instructed me to renew my mind and be transformed (Romans 12:2). He also taught that Christ would sanctify me and cleanse me "with the washing of water by the word" and "present me unto himself . . . holy and without blemish" (Ephesians 5:26-27).

Our Lord's cleansing efforts begin with God's love and our faith in his sacrifice at Calvary (John 3:16). Then, in obedience to him, his word becomes the directive for living and serving him (John 8:31-32). And by faith I hear, believe, practice and grow (Romans 10:17).

As a pastor, I am often asked this question: How do I know I am growing? And in John 15, Jesus gives me the answer to this important question. The Father's pruning or cleaning activity is so that I may produce more fruit for his kingdom.

And as my spiritual cleansing occurs, I produce more fruit as one "thoroughly equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:17). Therefore, I desire to be made complete so that I may achieve God's will and please him (Hebrews 13:20-21).

Dear Father, thank you for the purifying work of your word. Cleanse my attitude and way of thinking. Cleanse my spirit. Cleanse me from fleshly impurity. Help me produce more fruit for your glory.  I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN

Let the Word cleanse you from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9),