When I was in Seminary we were taught to look deeply into the historical, cultural and language details to insure that what may appear to be one thing to us, could have had a completely different meaning at the time. I also discovered there could be more insight in identifying what something is NOT rather than what it is. This concept often became the key differentiator in helping me understand a historical, cultural premise or the true meaning of a Hebrew or Greek word. There will be times in your life when you will need the ability to use this mindset when addressing issues in your life. People and circumstances can be very convincing. Because you are not omnipotent and have little capacity for reading minds, other’s intentions may not always be observable. The scriptures state that discernment is a gift. However, there is one thing you can always observe and use as a measuring stick – person’s heart!
In 1 Corinthians 6:9 – 11 Paul is very specific about mentalities of people who will not inherit the Kingdom of God. In this passage he brings about a clarity that removes any doubt about those excluded. They are: (1) adikos – the unjust, sinful, deceitful or one who deals fraudulently with others. (2) pornos – a prostitute or one who indulges in intercourse outside of marriage. (3) eidōlolatrēs – anyone (even “Christians”) who attend pagan rituals or idolizes money. (4) moichos – a married person having sex with someone other than their spouse and anyone who is faithless toward God. (5) malakos – a younger male in sexual relationship with an older male. (6) arsenokoitēs – a bisexual, one who participates in sodomy or someone who is a homosexual. (7) kleptēs – an embezzler or common thief. (8) pleonektēs – one who is greedy or desires other’s possessions. (9) methysos – one who gets drunk or is regularly intoxicated. (10) loidoros – one who uses abusive language or humiliates others. (11) harpax – one who preys on others or extorts their belongings.
One thing, however, may not be as obvious to us in English. It should be the tempering factor for us in considering this passage so we aren’t judgmental. The Greek tense indicates these individual’s lifestyles are actively occurring (current). This would indicate no repentance. However, in verse 11 Paul stops and restarts the conversation, noting that some of us may have done these things previously, but that is the past. Believers have received the grace of God which cleansed and redirected us onto a new path. This occurred as we repented and followed the Holy Spirit’s direction. So, what is not so obvious is that the “activity” of the lifestyle is gone. A person may still experience the tug or pull for old ways, but there is a new direction and desire to be different. The mindset is what makes the difference.
Kids, if a person can’t leave a lifestyle behind, then they are to be avoided because they will try to suck you into what consumes them. What we all must remember is that the longer one looks at something or considers participation, the more compelling it becomes. Focus on the things outlined in Galatians 5:22 – 25 and Titus 3:8 and you’ll never have to worry about wrong decisions!
Love Dad