How does 1 Corinthians 6:10 warn against behaviors that exclude from God's kingdom? The Direct Warning 1 Corinthians 6:10: “nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor verbal abusers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” Persistent, unrepented practice of these sins bars a person from God’s kingdom. Behaviors Listed as Exclusionary • Thieves – taking what is not ours (Exodus 20:15; Ephesians 4:28) • The greedy – coveting, idolatrous desire for more (Colossians 3:5) • Drunkards – habitual intoxication (Proverbs 23:29-35) • Verbal abusers – revilers who wound with words (Ephesians 4:29; James 3:9-10) • Swindlers – fraud, exploiting others for gain (Micah 2:2; Luke 3:13-14) Why These Behaviors Matter • Expose an unregenerate heart (Matthew 7:17-19) • Violate love of God and neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40) • Contradict kingdom character (Ephesians 5:1-5) Scripture’s Consistent Voice • Galatians 5:19-21 repeats the same warning. • Revelation 21:8 puts unrepentant sinners outside the heavenly city. • Hebrews 12:14: “Without holiness no one will see the Lord.” Hope and Transformation Offered 1 Corinthians 6:11: “And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified…” Through repentance and faith, Christ cleanses (Titus 3:5-7; Acts 3:19). Living as Heirs of the Kingdom • Confess sin quickly (1 John 1:9) • Rely on the Spirit to put sin to death (Romans 8:13) • Cultivate opposite virtues: – Generosity over theft and greed (Luke 12:33) – Sobriety over drunkenness (1 Thessalonians 5:6-8) – Edifying speech over abuse (Colossians 4:6) – Integrity over swindling (Proverbs 11:1) • Pursue accountable fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25) |
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