The works of the flesh (Gospel, preach, believe, sinners)

[Towhee]

Gal. 5.19-21
19 " now the works of the flesh are evident, which are : adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness,
20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissentions, heresies,
21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I told you beforehand, just as I also told you in the past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingtom of God."

One of the key words in this is "practice"..." those who practice such things".

Also an important thought is the " and such like". Although an ungodly activity is not mentioned in this list, if it comes under the "and such like", it applies.

The main one that concerns me is the "contentions". I do not think this is speaking of "contending for the faith". We are to " Earnestly contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints." Jude 3
Jude was writing this to " Those who are called, sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ." Jude 1

( I like that "preserved in Jesus Christ" )

Jude goes on to say:
15 " Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of His saints, to execute judement on all who are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have commited in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him."
16 These are grumblers, complainers, walking according to their own lusts; and they mouth great swelling words, flattering people to gain advantage.
17 But you , beloved, remember the words which were spoken before by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ:
18 how they told you that there would be mockers in the last time who would walk according to their own ungodly lusts.
19 These are sensual persons, not having the Spirit.

Back to the word "contentions".

Phillippians1.15
" some indeed preach Christ even from envy and strife, and some also from goodwill:
16 The former preach Christ from selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing to add afffliction to my chains;
17 but the latter out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel;
18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached; and in this I rejoice, yes, and will rejoice.

I believe I have been judged as being contenscious. Thank God, He knows why I am striving to get His word across...

I am happy that Christ is being preached. I am not happy that false teachings are abounding. Preaching Christ, includes teaching all of that which was given once for all to the saints....the " all things that pertain to life and godliness'.

I am posting this for edification...not only for all readers, but for myself also!

[quesodano]

For edification only? Or is it for comment etc.?

[Towhee]

Originally Posted by quesodano

For edification only? Or is it for comment etc.?

Edification is good, but comments are okay also.