Understanding Galatians 5:16-21

In Galatians 5:16-21 Paul deals with the issue of continuing in sin. I realize that God only saved me but also keeps me; However in Galatians 5:21 he says that “I have for warned you, that those who practice such things (as listed in vs.19-20) shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

Q. In Galatians 5:16-21 Paul deals with the issue of continuing in sin. I realize that God only saved me but also keeps me; However in Galatians 5:21 he says that “I have for warned you, that those who practice such things (as listed in vs.19-20) shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

How do you answer this? Should the question really be, “Am I truly saved if I continue in the state I was in before I was saved?” “Am I really open to God changing my life?” To me repenting means a willingness to be changed by the power of God. Or as I purpose in my heart, I can trust God to bring it about. Do you think this view incorporates works for sanctification? I think of “It is God who gives the power both to will and to do of His good Pleasure. I believe it is the Holy Spirit who gives me the will to do if I ask Him. (A willingness to die to self).

A. The Greek word translated practice in Gal. 5:21 means “to exercise, practice, to be busy with, or carry on”. It can be compared with a lawyer practicing law or a doctor practicing medicine. Both are totally immersed in their profession. It often defines them and is the meaning if their life. Where these sins are concerned that’s a far cry from the occasional slip we’ve all have experienced.

In Romans 8:5-8 Paul described this “practicing” as having one’s mind set on following the ways of the sin nature. Even at our worst, we don’t wake up in the morning with our minds set on sinning against God. See the difference?

We are told to examine ourselves to see if we’re letting the Holy Spirit influence our behavior. (2 Cor. 13:5) And yes, it’s His power that changes us, not ours, but we do have to ask.

Unlike salvation, which is a one time event, sanctification is a process that involves repentance, submission, and making contrary to feelings choices about our behavior. This work will never be finished until we’re divested of our sin nature in the rapture/resurrection. Isn’t it good that the Lord has decided to see us that way already?