7:1

let us cleanse ourselves of every defilement: The Greek verb rendered “to cleanse” and related terms (rendered “purifying; cleansing”; “clean”; “pure”) are broad in meaning. These terms can refer to being physically clean (Mt 23:25), ceremonially clean (Lu 2:22; 5:14; Joh 11:55), cleansed from sin (2Pe 1:9), and clean in mind, heart, and conscience (1Ti 1:5; Tit 1:15; Heb 9:14). The verb can also refer to curing disease. (Mt 8:2; 11:5; Mr 1:40-42; Lu 17:14; see study note on Lu 4:27.) Paul uses it here in its broadest sense with regard to being physically, morally, and spiritually clean.

of flesh and spirit: Practices that pollute or damage the physical body may result in defilement of the flesh. Going contrary to the moral values and doctrines taught in the Scriptures defiles the spirit, that is, one’s mental inclination. Together, “flesh and spirit” encompass everything that affects the life of a Christian, physically and morally.

perfecting holiness in the fear of God: In the Christian Greek Scriptures, the words rendered “holy” and “holiness” denote a state of being set aside for Jehovah’s service. The meaning here and in other Bible verses also includes purity in one’s personal conduct. (Mr 6:20; 1Pe 1:15, 16) The form of the Greek word here rendered “perfecting” can convey the idea of progressively bringing something to completion. This indicates that a person does not attain holiness suddenly. Instead, Christians are constantly refined as they strive to come closer to God’s perfect standards. They are motivated by wholesome “fear of God,” one that stems from deep love and profound reverence, or respect, for him.​—Ps 89:7.