Gr. epithumiai, “desires” (see on Mark 4:19; James 1:14). Impatient self-assertion and other traits so often revealed by young people are here referred to.
Flee.
Compare 1 Tim. 6:11. Here, Paul applies the broad principles stated in 2 Tim. 2:21. He explains the nature of a “vessel unto honour.”
Pure heart.
That is, of those who have departed “from iniquity” (v. 19), those who “purge” themselves (v. 21). This foursided picture describes the “sanctified” life (v. 21), to which God will enable every sincere Christian to attain (see on Rom. 6:19).