Commentary on Galatians 5:20

Galatians 5:20 states: "Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies," (KJV). This verse lists aspects of the works of the flesh that stand in contrast to the fruit of the Spirit. In order to understand the significance of this verse, we will draw from insights found in public domain commentaries by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke.

Contextual Understanding

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, is addressing issues regarding the influence of Judaizers who were teaching that faith in Christ was not sufficient for salvation. He emphasizes the importance of Christian liberty and walking in the Spirit, as opposed to fulfilling the desires of the flesh.

Understanding the Works of the Flesh

In Galatians 5:20, Paul provides a list of various vices that are the works of the flesh, contrasting this with the fruit of the Spirit found in verses 22 and 23. These vices represent a life that is not led by the Spirit of God but is instead governed by sinful desires.

Idolatry

Matthew Henry stresses that idolatry not only refers to the worship of physical idols but extends to anything that takes the place of God in a person’s heart. This could include materialism, power, or even relationships that overshadow one’s devotion to God.

Witchcraft

Henry also remarks on 'witchcraft', which in the Greek is derived from the word 'pharmakeia', linked to practices of sorcery and drugs, suggesting that engaging with dark spiritual forces is a clear manifestation of disobedience to God.

Hatred and Variance

Albert Barnes comments that traits such as hatred and variance produce discord among believers. Hatred goes beyond mere dislike—it is a sickening reality that hardens hearts and disrupts community. Similarly, variance refers to strife or contention, indicating a lack of unity.

Emulations and Wrath

Adam Clarke points to 'emulations' as manifestations of jealousy that often lead one to desire what others possess instead of being content. This leads to 'wrath,' synonymous with uncontrolled anger that ultimately harms both oneself and relationships.

Strife and Seditions

Strife denotes ongoing conflict that leads to bitterness, and 'seditions' refers to divisions or factions within the church community. Both terms describe an atmosphere where unity is continuously undermined.

Heresies

Finally, heresies signal the presence of false teachings that threaten the integrity of the Christian faith. Barnes argues that these deviations from the truth create havoc within the Body of Christ, leading believers away from sound doctrine.

Theological Implications

Understanding the depth of these vices is crucial for both personal holiness and communal integrity in the church. Each aspect of the works of the flesh serves to illustrate the danger of living apart from the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

The Call to Examine One’s Life

Paul’s intention in this passage is not merely to point out sin but to call believers to introspection. As Clarke remarks, each believer must earnestly examine their own heart for evidences of these vices. The Christian life is one of continual sanctification, where believers are called to daily surrender to the Spirit’s work.

The Contrast with the Fruit of the Spirit

Paul explicitly contrasts the deeds of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit in the following verses (22-23), which serve as a reminder of what a Spirit-led life produces—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This calls the believer to aspire towards the latter by seeking God's empowerment.

Practical Application for Today’s Believers

• Self-Examination: Believers are encouraged to reflect on their lives and behaviors in light of Galatians 5:20. Identifying any manifestations of fleshly works is crucial for a healthy spiritual life.
• Community Building: The call towards unity is vital. Engaging in practices that foster love rather than strife ensures that the church reflects the nature of Christ.
• Seek the Spirit: Continuous reliance on the Holy Spirit is essential. Constant prayer, reading of Scripture, and community accountability can help in cultivating the fruit of the Spirit.

Conclusion

The insights gained from Galatians 5:20 remind us of the stark realities of living according to the flesh and the importance of adhering to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Through the wisdom of revered commentators, believers are equipped to navigate their spiritual journeys more effectively, seeking to embody the character of Christ in every aspect of their lives.