Jamieson, Fausset and Brown on 2 Corinthians 7:1

CHAPTER 7

2Co 7:1-16. Self-Purification Their Duty Resulting from the Foregoing. His Love to Them, and Joy at the Good Effects on Them of His Former Epistle, as Reported by Titus.

1. cleanse ourselves--This is the conclusion of the exhortation (2Co 6:1, 14; 1Jo 3:3; Re 22:11).

filthiness--"the unclean thing" (2Co 6:17).

of the flesh--for instance, fornication, prevalent at Corinth (1Co 6:15-18).

and spirit--for instance, idolatry, direct or indirect (1Co 6:9; 8:1, 7; 10:7, 21, 22). The spirit (Psa 32:2) receives pollution through the flesh, the instrument of uncleanness.

perfecting holiness--The cleansing away impurity is a positive step towards holiness (2Co 6:17). It is not enough to begin; the end crowns the work (Ga 3:3; 5:7; Php 1:6).

fear of God--often conjoined with the consideration of the most glorious promises (2Co 5:11; He 4:1). Privilege and promise go hand in hand.