What does “perfecting holiness in the fear of God” mean (2 Corinthians 7:1)?

Answer  
  

Second Corinthians 7:1 says, “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (NKJV). To be cleansed from spiritual and moral uncleanliness, believers must “perfect holiness” in reverent obedience to God. This does not mean that we will reach a state of [sinless perfection](entire-sanctification.html) in this life; rather, it means that, as we obey God, we will be transformed more and more into the image of Christ. The NLT says, “Let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God.”  
  

In the preceding chapter, Paul discusses God’s desire to dwell among His people and be their God (2 Corinthians 6:16\). More than that, God promised, “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters” (verse 18\). These are the promises Paul mentions in 2 Corinthians 7:1 that motivate us to separate ourselves from the world and “perfect holiness in the fear of God.” Since God has established a relationship between us and Himself, we should be holy in all aspects of life.  
  

Holiness is the attribute of being set apart for God’s service, reflecting His perfect moral character. In Leviticus 11:44, God says, “I am the Lord your God. Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, for I am holy” (ESV). Perfecting holiness in the fear of God means striving to reflect God’s character in one’s life. This is not an instantaneous process but involves continuous [sanctification](sanctification.html) through the work of the Holy Spirit.  
  

Holiness affects both our inward thoughts and external actions. For this reason, Paul says that we must “cleanse ourselves from filthiness of the flesh and spirit” (NKJV). This corresponds to what he says in Romans 12:1: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship” (ESV). Perfecting holiness in the fear of God requires us to align our thoughts, desires, and actions with God’s will (Romans 12:2\).  
  

The [fear of God](fear-Lord-beginning-wisdom.html) is reverent obedience to Him, recognizing His holiness, majesty, and sovereignty. Proverbs 9:10 states, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight” (ESV). Perfecting holiness in the fear of God is rooted in a deep respect for who God is. It is not about being terrified of God but about honoring Him with our body and spirit.  
  

Reverential fear of God should motivate us to avoid sin and pursue His righteousness. Philippians 2:12–13 urges believers to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (ESV). Perfecting holiness in the fear of God means to humbly submit to God’s sanctifying work in our lives, striving to live in a way that pleases Him. Another motivation is the knowledge that Jesus is coming again: “All who have this hope in him \[of Jesus’ return] purify themselves, just as he is pure” (1 John 3:3\).  
  

There are several ways to perfect holiness in the fear of God. One is to humbly ask for God’s assistance: “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” (Psalm 139:23–24\). The Lord will help us to identify areas that need to be cleansed.  
  

Another way to perfect holiness in the fear of God is to actively pursue a life of integrity and moral behavior. Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (ESV). Perfecting holiness in the fear of God means that we are committed to God’s holiness, demonstrating justice, mercy, and humility.  
  

Second Corinthians 7:1 calls believers to perfect or complete holiness in the fear of God. This lifetime pursuit is a response to the promises of God. By understanding the nature of holiness, submitting to God in reverential obedience, and growing in the grace and knowledge of Christ, we can better reflect God’s holiness in our lives.  
  

