What behaviors in 1 Corinthians 6:9 should Christians actively avoid today?

Setting the Scene

“Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God?”

“Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers,”

“nor men who submit to or perform homosexual acts,”

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The Behaviors to Avoid

• Sexual immorality (Greek porneia)

– Any sexual activity outside the covenant of marriage between one man and one woman

– Includes pre-marital sex, prostitution, pornography, and other lust-driven acts

– Cross-checks: Ephesians 5:3; 1 Thessalonians 4:3–5

• Idolatry (eidōlolatria)

– Giving ultimate allegiance, trust, or worship to anything other than the Lord

– Can be statues, money, career, entertainment, or self

– Cross-checks: Exodus 20:3–5; Colossians 3:5

• Adultery (moichos)

– Violation of the marriage bond through sexual or emotional unfaithfulness

– Undermines the picture of Christ and His church (Ephesians 5:31-33)

– Cross-checks: Hebrews 13:4; Matthew 5:27-28

• Men who submit to homosexual acts (malakoi)

– Literally “soft” or “effeminate”; those who take the passive role in same-sex relations

– Scripture calls believers to flee such conduct (Romans 1:24-27)

• Men who perform homosexual acts (arsenokoitai)

– Active participation in same-sex intercourse

– The term combines “male” and “bed,” echoing Leviticus 18:22; 20:13

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Why These Sins Still Matter

• God’s moral character does not change (Malachi 3:6).

• The body is meant for the Lord, not for sin (1 Corinthians 6:13).

• Persisting in these practices without repentance bars entrance to God’s kingdom (Galatians 5:19-21).

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Living the Contrast

• Remember: “Such were some of you” (1 Corinthians 6:11). Transformation is possible.

• Pursue purity by renewing the mind with Scripture (Psalm 119:9, 11).

• Guard your heart from idols through regular worship, fellowship, and grateful stewardship.

• Honor marriage—yours and others’—with faithfulness, transparency, and accountability.

• Choose friendships, media, and environments that strengthen obedience, not temptation.