Understanding Galatians 5:19-21

Introduction

Galatians 5:19-21 is a passage from the Bible that talks about the works of the flesh. Many Christians find this passage difficult to understand, especially when it comes to identifying these works of the flesh. In this article, we will explore Galatians 5:19-21 and try to explain it in easy-to-understand language.

What is Galatians 5:19-21?

Galatians 5:19-21 is a passage from the book of Galatians, which is part of the New Testament. It is a list of works of the flesh that people should avoid. These works include sexual immorality, impurity, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and the like.

The Works of the Flesh Explained

The first work of the flesh mentioned in Galatians 5:19 is sexual immorality. This includes any sexual activity that is outside of the boundaries of a marriage between a man and a woman. This can include adultery, fornication, pornography, and homosexuality. The second work of the flesh is impurity. This refers to any immoral or unethical behavior that goes against God’s standards. This can include lying, stealing, cheating, and any other actions that are not in line with God’s commands. The third work of the flesh is idolatry. This involves putting anything or anyone above God in our lives. This can include material possessions, money, power, or people. The fourth work of the flesh is witchcraft. This refers to any attempt to control or manipulate people through supernatural means. This can include sorcery, divination, or any other type of occult practices. The fifth work of the flesh is hatred. This includes any feelings of hostility or animosity towards others. This can include racism, bigotry, prejudice, or any other type of discrimination. The sixth work of the flesh is discord. This refers to any conflict or disagreement between people. This can include arguments, fights, or any other type of dispute. The seventh work of the flesh is jealousy. This involves feelings of envy or covetousness towards others. This can include jealousy of possessions, relationships, or achievements. The eighth work of the flesh is fits of rage. This includes any outburst of anger or violence towards others. This can include physical violence, verbal abuse, or any other type of aggressive behavior. The ninth work of the flesh is selfish ambition. This involves putting our own desires and needs above the needs of others. This can include greed, self-centeredness, or any other type of selfish behavior. The tenth work of the flesh is dissensions. This refers to any disagreement or division within a group of people. This can include arguments, factions, or any other type of conflict. The eleventh work of the flesh is factions. This involves forming groups or cliques that are opposed to one another. This can include political parties, religious groups, or any other type of organization. The twelfth work of the flesh is envy. This involves feeling jealous or resentful towards others because of their possessions, achievements, or relationships. The thirteenth work of the flesh is drunkenness. This refers to any excessive use of alcohol or drugs. This can include binge drinking, drug abuse, or any other type of substance abuse. The fourteenth work of the flesh is orgies. This involves participating in any type of sexual activity that is outside of God’s design for sexuality. This can include promiscuity, group sex, or any other type of sexual immorality.

The Consequences of the Works of the Flesh

Galatians 5:19-21 warns that those who practice the works of the flesh will not inherit the kingdom of God. This means that those who engage in these behaviors will not have eternal life with God.

The Fruit of the Spirit

In contrast to the works of the flesh, Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit. This includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Conclusion

Galatians 5:19-21 is a passage from the Bible that can be difficult to understand. However, by breaking down the works of the flesh and explaining their consequences, we can better understand the importance of avoiding these behaviors. Instead, we should strive to bear the fruit of the Spirit in our lives, which will lead to a closer relationship with God and eternal life in heaven.