Galatians 5:19
19 Now [de] the works [ergon] of the flesh [sarx] are [esti] manifest [phaneros], which [hostis] are [esti] these; Adultery [moicheia], fornication [porneia],
uncleanness [akatharsia], lasciviousness [aselgeia], KJV-Interlinear
19 Now the deeds of the flesh are
evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, NASB
Paul begins an example list of works of the flesh,
or of the carnal life that we have been studying. He places these sins in four categories. The first group listed here, are related to
sins of chastity.
The works of the flesh are those things that are
natural productions or tendencies of the carnal life.
The first activity listed here, adultery, represents
the unfaithfulness that one displays toward that to which one has dedicated
ones life. The typical example is in the
violation of the marriage vows, but it is not restricted to marital infidelity. It includes the unfaithfulness of one spouse
in refusing or withholding marital relations with their spouse. It includes the refusal of normal interactions
that are expected between spouses. But
also, since marriage in life is a symbolism of the relations that we have with
God, through Christ and doctrine, then when one refuses doctrine, or seeks out
other forms of philosophy, or seeks out other forms of spirituality, then one
is in effect cheating on God.
Fornication is the act of interaction with
something or somone with whom you should not be
having relations. Typically this
is thought of in terms of sexual relations, but again, the symbolisms of
failure in the spiritual life, portray ones relations with non-spiritual
activity, or any activity conducted outside of the fellowship sphere.
Uncleanness, indicates a much wider range of sinful
activities, indulgencies, or lusts, or non-spiritual priorities.
Lasciviousness, points to reckless activities,
lusts, drives, activities that lack boundaries, morals, or concern for anyone
other than ones own self.
