No. 353 - Understanding the Works of the Flesh: A Call to Purity

The Consequences of Fleshly Desires

Understanding the Works of the Flesh: A Call to Purity

Galatians 5:19-21

"Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practise such things will not inherit the kingdom of God."

Prayer 

Dear Lord, as I reflect on today’s message, please open my heart to understand the seriousness of the works of the flesh and guide me towards living a pure life that pleases You. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Background 

The letter to the Galatians was written by the apostle Paul to address the false teachings that were spreading among the churches in Galatia. In chapter 5, Paul contrasts living by the flesh with living by the Spirit. Verses 19-21 list the works of the flesh—sins that lead people away from God’s kingdom. Today’s text reminds us of the dangers of giving in to fleshly desires and the consequences they bring, setting the tone for this week’s theme on the consequences of fleshly desires.

Be Encouraged 

The works of the flesh listed in Galatians 5:19-21 are temptations that many people face in different forms. They include sinful behaviours like immorality, idolatry, and jealousy. These actions lead us away from God and towards spiritual death. For example, a person who lets jealousy control them may find themselves angry, bitter, and disconnected from God’s peace. However, God calls us to a higher standard—a life of purity, guided by the Holy Spirit. This means we must actively turn away from these sinful desires and seek to live in a way that honours Christ. Purity requires daily commitment, and it starts with surrendering our hearts to God.

Application 

To live a life of purity, we must first recognise the dangers of following our fleshly desires and avoid them. Ephesians 4:22 reminds us to "put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts." Likewise, 1 Peter 2:11 urges us to "abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul." These verses help us understand the need for discipline and focus as we strive to walk in the Spirit and resist the works of the flesh.

Invitation 

If you have not yet committed your life to Christ, today is the perfect opportunity to start. Visit any nearby Church of Christ to learn how to obey the gospel of Christ through faith (Hebrews 11:6), repentance from sin (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), and baptism for the forgiveness of all your past sins and for your salvation (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38). The Lord will add you to His church, where you will continue to grow in faith and learn to obey Christ’s commandments (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:47). Respond to God's call today and share this message with those you care about, so they too can be freed from the works of the flesh and live in purity.

Concluding Prayer 

Thank You, Lord, for the insight into the dangers of the works of the flesh and for showing me the way to purity through Your Word. Help me live a life that pleases You each day. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

May the Lord bless your day.

 

Theodore J. Quist 

Evangelist 

Church of Christ 

Abokobi - Accra 

Ghana


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