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Throughout the Old and New Testaments, we can find references that seem to indicate that the ancients used the term “heart” to refer to the mind (Ps. 4:4; 14:1; Matt. 5:28; 15:19). But other passages seem to suggest that “heart” referred to our emotions (Ps. 4:7; 13:2, 5; 17:10; Matt. 5:28; 19:8) or even our will (Ps. 33:11; Acts 5:4; 8:22). Rather than assume that there is an inconsistency as some are motivated to conclude, it is better to realize that translations from one language and culture to another leave out something. If we put all of these pieces together, we discover that the Hebrews and Greeks used the term “heart” to refer to the mind, emotions, and will of the person - our inner person (Ps. 9:1).
Pure In Heart - Not Sinless. Therefore, Jesus’ phrase “pure in heart” refers to a heart or the inner person that has no undesirable elements. But what does that mean? We know that it does not refer to a sinless person. We know that by experience and because of 1 John 1:8, 10.
If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us . . . If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us. (NASB) 1 John 1:8-10 We are sinners and our hearts have been sinful from the day we were born (Ps. 51:5) until the day we die (2 Cor. 3:18). So “pure in heart” cannot mean that the “pure in heart” are sinless.
Repentant Heart. Psalm 51 is a prayer from King David to God. The prayer occurred after he had sinned by committing adultery with Bathsheba. Yes, he enjoyed sex with Bathsheba; but as Hebrews 11:25 says, it was only passing pleasure. When David wrote this Psalm, he was in anguish because of his sin. His opening words in Psalm 51 are as follows:
Be gracious to me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness; according to the greatness of Your compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against You, You only, I have sinned and done what is evil in Your sight, So that You are justified when You speak and blameless when You judge. (NASB) Ps. 51:1-4 Then later in verse 10, David asks God or help.
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. (NASB) Ps. 51:10 |
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| Life & Heart of Jesus | |||||
