Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves of all filthiness of the flesh and the spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 7: 1, K.J.V.
Cleanse is from the Greek katharizo, “purge,” “purify.” Cleanliness is next to godliness. With order, “heaven’s first law,” both operate in the Bible’s heaven for multitudes cling to non-Biblical ideas, popular fables in fact, of heaven,—who are there right now and will be going there, in what state, and when. But “God is not the author of confusion.” 1 Cor. 14: 33.
God strictly required cleanliness of all priests and people throughout the camp wherever they were, including the tents of the armies. He “who changeth not” and “is the same yesterday, today and forever” (Mal. 3: 6; Heb. 13:8), requires no less of His people today than of ancient Israel—physically, more so, intrinsically, spiritually, for God “looketh upon the heart” while men “looketh on the outward appearance.” 1 Sam. 16: 7.