Gal. 5:16-21, The Works of the Flesh (1)

Let us now turn our attention to the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit.  Our aim is to provide some definition of terms.  After we finish our journey through Galatians we plan to return and give more detailed studies of the fruit of the Spirit.

The Works of the Flesh

In the context there are things to notice.  For example, these are “works.”  These are things done in and produced by the flesh.  These are the work of those who are trying their hardest to do good, as well as by those who seem to have no inclination at all to do good.  It is simply what you get, as a sinful human being, who is unable to separate yourself from the lusts (deep desires) that control you.

Thus, we should also note that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.  In other words, this is what you see in the lives of those who have no faith in Christ.  It is not that there can be no forgiveness. But if we come to Christ, He provides forgiveness through His blood and we are born again.  Those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires (v24). 

It is clear that this is not an exhaustive list, as the phrase “and the like” indicates (v21).  It is also evident that this list is in groupings.  We will deal with them in that manner.  And one more thing Paul says is evident is the sinfulness of these things.  There is no question.  In the context, these are the result of using liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, rather than serving one another by love (v13).  (We use several sources, including Kenneth Wuest’s Studies in the Greek New Testament.)

·       Sexual/sensual sins.

o   Adultery: This applies to sexual sin by someone already married.  He/she is faithless to his/her spouse.

o   Fornications: On the other hand, this applies to any sexual sin.  It includes adultery but also homosexuality, rape, and so forth.  Any sexual sin.

o   Uncleanness: This is associated with sexual sin.  E.g. uncleanness, fornication and lewdness are joined in 2 Cor. 12:21.  Rom. 1:24 identifies sexual sin of people of the same sex as uncleanness.  In Col. 3:5 it is joined with fornication, passion and evil desire.  It could refer to the sense of guilt one experiences when engaging in sexual sin.  But it can also involve the filling of our minds with pornography. the lust of the heart (Mt. 5:27-30).

o   Lewdness: This refers to the excessiveness that results when sexual sin becomes habitual and sinfully unsatisfying.  It is unbridled lust, the lack of any control.  It is what characterized Sodom and Gomorrah (2 Pet. 2:7) and this sinful world generally (Eph. 4:19).

This might seem a dreary exercise, but it is necessary for us to hear God speak.  Thus, we will continue, Lord willing, in our next post.