What is the meaning of Galatians 5:20? Idolatry and sorcery “Idolatry and sorcery” open Paul’s list of “works of the flesh” (Galatians 5:20). God’s Word warns that these practices replace trust in the living God with allegiance to false powers. • Exodus 20:3-5 forbids bowing to “any other gods,” underscoring that worship belongs to the Creator alone. • In 1 Corinthians 10:14 Paul commands, “Flee from idolatry,” showing the ongoing danger even for believers. • Acts 19:18-20 recounts new converts burning their magic scrolls—clear evidence that sorcery must be renounced, not rebranded. Practical takeaways: • Anything we trust to give life meaning—career, possessions, relationships—can become an idol. • Sorcery covers occult rituals, fortune-telling, and any attempt to manipulate spiritual forces apart from Christ. These acts are not harmless hobbies; they are direct rebellion against God. Hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage The next cluster targets inner attitudes that fracture relationships. • Jesus links hatred to murder in the heart (1 John 3:15). • Proverbs 6:16-19 lists “a heart that devises wicked schemes” and “one who stirs up discord” among the seven things God hates. • Ephesians 4:31 urges believers to “put away all bitterness, rage, and anger.” Key points: • Hatred is sustained ill will. Discord is the ongoing state created when hatred takes root. • Jealousy resents another’s blessings; rage is jealousy and pride boiled over. • These sins often hide behind polite smiles; Paul drags them into the light so we will crucify them (Galatians 5:24). Rivalries, divisions, factions Paul now addresses sins that splinter communities. • 1 Corinthians 1:10-13 rebukes the “I follow Paul… I follow Apollos” mindset—early evidence of Christian factionalism. • Romans 16:17 warns, “Watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles contrary to the teaching you have learned.” • Philippians 2:3-4 calls us to “do nothing out of selfish ambition,” urging humility as the antidote. Essentials: • Rivalries (self-seeking competition) put personal advancement above unity. • Divisions are the inevitable fallout when rivalries spread. • Factions are hardened camps that resist reconciliation, grieve the Spirit (Ephesians 4:30), and tarnish the gospel’s witness. summary Galatians 5:20 exposes three broad categories of fleshly works: false worship, destructive emotions, and community-splitting ambitions. Each stands in direct conflict with life in the Spirit. Scripture presents them not as cultural relics but as present dangers that believers must continually reject, choosing instead the freedom and fruit found in Christ (Galatians 5:22-25). |
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