Obviously No Excuse

Text: Galatians 5:19-21
Theme: Sinful acts are obvious and rebellious.
Key verses: “The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred…” (v. 19). “…I warn you…that those who live like that will not inherit the kingdom of God” (v. 21).
What God said to me: Dwayne, there are a couple of key words and phrases in these verses that you need to note. First, Paul said that certain acts are obviously sinful. Ask yourself why that is. Why are they obvious and to whom are they obvious? Paul is writing to Christians, to the Church. So at the very least sinful acts are obvious to those who follow me. But are they also obvious to those who don’t know me? And if so, why? Does someone have to tell a non-believer when these things Paul listed are wrong to do? The answer is no. Everyone has a conscience which I put in them. And unless their conscious is seared, everyone knows right from wrong. The other key phrase to understanding this passage is “those who live like this.” You see, it’s not the sinful acts that condemn those who commit them, it’s the rebellious heart inside them that ignores their sense of right and wrong. People who continue to choose what is obviously wrong demonstrate how much they love what is sinful and against me. They are without excuse. Such people will not inherit my power and righteousness and life. Repentance is the only cure.
What I said to God: Thank You for helping to clarify this passage for me. It’s easy to read this and quickly assume that certain acts will send us to hell. But now I see that’s not what Paul was saying. It’s the state of our hearts–hearts that haven’t surrendered to Christ, hearts that are void of Your life and thus rebellious to Your will. Those who “live like that” don’t know You at all. Please help me share Your love and hope with those I meet who are lost and need to repent of their sinful acts and turn to You.