The Spirit's Purifying Fire

Galatians 5:16-26 (16, 18, 25); Titus 2:13-14

Subject: Power for Purity                                                                             

Theme: Walking in the Spirit results in purity, spiritual power, and growth in righteousness. Remember, “The price of spiritual power is purity of heart.”

Relevance: Beyond any doubt the Holy Spirit promotes spiritual freedom from sin’s enslavement and control. He advances maturity and responsible holy living even though our culture embraces moral corruption and the accompanying dishonorable behavior patterns. If you make corruption easy, normal (appear acceptable) and convenient it will go unchallenged in many hearts. In contrast, the Spirit's purifying influence supports or installs virtue, integrity and decency; He is the secret to victorious and fulfilling Christian experience. Really our culture can use a serious moral and spiritual upgrade! The Holy Spirit's purifying fire will purge the believer’s heart and habits...our minds and hands; He will lead us into sin-destroying triumphs freeing us from the control of our carnal nature. 

Introduction:

1. The Spirit Purifies Us Believer By Freeing Us From the Dominance, Slavery, and Mastery of Our Carnal Fleshly Human Nature. Galatians 5:16, says, “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” (Also See Gal. 5:25)

Through a faithful “walk in the Spirit” we realize the blessings of freedom from sinful practices even when sin seems unmovable and extremely stubborn! Additionally, the Spirit, like fire, will illuminate the darkest sins hiding in the deepest recesses of our souls and purge it so significantly that it no longer tortures us through our motivations and desires. The promise of Galatians 5:16 is the Spirit of the Living God grants the trusting believer power and grace to refuse the gratification of carnal and fleshly desires. 

Even those feelings and yearnings just under the surface of our carnality waiting for the precise occasion to spring into destructive activity cannot escape His Fire. The Spirit of God affords us the power to reject and deny these "lusts" and motives expression or satisfaction. This is a wonderful part of our victorious freedom as we continue walking in the Holy Spirit’s power and grace! This walk is a step by step constant dependence upon God to strengthen and enable liberty from fleshly self-gratifying desires. 

The Spirit’s Power Helps Us Realize the Promise of Victory Over Habitual Sins (Gal. 5:16-18).

“The answer to the abuses described in the previous verse is to live by the Spirit. The phrase literally means to, “keep on walking.” As a believer walks through life he should depend on the indwelling Holy Spirit for guidance and power. But the Spirit does not operate automatically in a believer’s heart. He waits to be depended on. When a Christian does yield to the Spirit’s control, the promise is that he will not in any wise gratify, “complete, fulfill” in outward action) the desires of the sinful nature. Thus, while no believer will ever be entirely free in this life from the evil desires that stem from his fallen human nature, he need not capitulate to them, but may experience victory by the Spirit’s help.”—John Walvoord

With these concepts in clear view, let us look at a purifying ministry of the Holy Spirit.

Lesson:

The Spirit’s Removing Fire—Cleansing (Gal. 5:18-21).

By this I mean the Holy Spirit’s Fire Actually Purifies by Removing Wrong Attitudes from the Heart and Sinful Actions from the Believers Life. Impurities are Filtered out of our Daily Experiences.

The sins identified in this list are sensual, seditious, and superstitious transgressions (Gal. 5:19-21). They are violations of God’s holy law rooted in the fallen fleshly nature of all humanity. They are actions and motivations that taint and soil the soul in the gravest ways. They warp the mind, poison the human spirit, and destroy any chance of healthy relationships. Many of these are obviously sinful practices, but there are some mentioned here that the average person would not even consider as sins. Strife, envy, witchcraft, adultery, drunkenness, and reveling would not appear on some lists of sins. These have been approved, renamed, glamorized, and sanctioned by modern society. These behaviors and desires are so commonly featured in entertainment venues that we scarcely regard them as moral failures. Yes, sin is entertaining to our modern society; other forms of transgression are actually celebrated and advocated by the general populous and special interests groups. 

Speaking of special interests...elected officials and politicians routinely use their offices for personal financial favors. Bribery is alive and well the world around. I wonder how many laws were passed to secure special favors, kickbacks, and implied promises.... It appears to me at least...that if you have the money to significantly support a political campaign then you can leverage this for favorable results/accommodations during that term in office. If a lobbying agency influences congressmen and judges then it can control the direction of the state or the entire country touching certain matters of special interest. How many financial gains, special gifts, and exotic vacations have shaped political policy? I am afraid "quid pro quo" is not dead…why it’s not even sick! When special favors and personal benefits influence official decisions, policy, and even legislation then it is corruption that is at play. Too many elected representatives promise one thing, but really take care of number one while in public office. Beloved, we are experiencing serious erosion of ethical standards all over our political landscape. 

Believe it or not the Spirit of God can help the individual believer live above such moral corruption. This is worldliness and carnality. The “works of the flesh” are identified by a holy God as gross moral failures and stark violations of God's requirements. God designed life for fellowship with us; his plan includes blessing and liberty from all that interferes with that healthy fellowship. Yes, he stands opposed to marital unfaithfulness, shacking up, playing the field, night clubbing, homosexual practices, pornography, wife beating, child abuse, rape, incest, lying, bribery, extortion, embezzlement, cheating, stealing, fraud, pride, and on the list goes! Again our culture views this perspective as outdated and antiquated, but there is a better way involving release and freedom from the control of sinful practices. The good news is that God actively engages us to give us victory over such enslaving habits and entrenched sin. The fire of God’s Spirit has a cleansing and life changing impact on the submissive and cooperative believer in Christ Jesus.

1. The Spirit’s Fire Penetrates into the Realm of Our Attitudes and Desires—the Heart.

The solution to sin's controlling enslavement through our fallen nature is the Holy Spirit who diametrically  opposes the flesh. Again he is portrayed in the Word of God as a purifying and sin purging fire. He convicts us and removes sin from our daily experiences. He not only burns sin from us, but cleanses the heart of the believer so that we no longer desire to practice those same sins (Gal. 5:16, 25, 26). The struggles with wicked thoughts, desires and strong yearnings of the carnal heart is ongoing, but a conscious “walk in the Spirit” by faith enables us to deny the fleshly desires any expression. We do not need to give our carnal nature the upper hand—we can say “no” to the flesh!

Once He has purified us, part of the purification process is a desire in us to remain pure. Wrong desires can largely be displaced by right desires and the believer will actually undertake specific efforts to cleanse himself and stay clean. The marvelous truth is the Spirit of grace is at work in our hearts and minds. We must ensure we look to him in utter dependence and faith in his power to grant victory.  

2. The Expressed Goal of Salvation is Redemptive and Purification! Titus 2:13-14, says, “Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; [14] Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” (Also see Eph. 5:25-28)

Accordingly, Christ’s incredible sacrifice was not to permit us to passively endure an existence dominated by slavery to our fallen fleshly nature. Christ certainly gave himself to pay our sin debt delivering us from blood-guiltiness and eternal punishment for sin in Hell.

He also willingly gave himself without any reservation to redeem, deliver, and set us free from daily enslavement to sinful habits, deeds and practices. His goal was to purify or cleanse us from all iniquities and impurities. “Iniquity” refer to living with complete disregard for the plan, purpose, will, and laws of God. Beloved, one purpose of Christ's cross is freedom from the power of the flesh. God grants the ability to live in righteousness and holiness from the inside out. God’s people have no excuse for living carelessly in sin, lawlessness, and carnally indulgent lives. That’s a contradiction!

3. Often in Scripture fire is used to convey the process of purification and refinement. Fire is also a symbol by which the Holy Spirit’s work in believers’ hearts can be understood. Taken together the result is spiritually purified hearts by the cleansing flame of the Spirit of Burning. Note the following passages:

Acts 2:3, says, “And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.” You will recall that the Holy Spirit’s manifestation is described as divided tongues, “like as of fire.”  In another place God is described in His judgment role as a consuming fire (Deut 4:24; 9:3)!  Hebrews 12:29, says, “For our God is a consuming fire.”

In one other place God commands believers to stir up the flames of revival in the soul, and fan into a brilliant flame the gift of God.  2 Tim. 1:6, says, “Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.”

Then we are told that God labors to purge us like precious metals to remove impurities and refine us for greater usages—these are chastening and judgment acts of God upon His people. Isaiah 1:25, states, “And I will turn my hand upon thee, and purely purge away thy dross, and take away all thy tin:”

Isaiah 4:4, also says, “When the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of Jerusalem from the midst thereof by the spirit of judgment, and by the spirit of burning.”

“This cleansing is done by the blast of the Spirit’s burning. Here is the searching, illuminating, refining, dross-consuming character of the Spirit. He burns up the dross in our lives …” –Evans, W. 1998, c1974. The Great Doctrines of The Bible.

The Spirit of God's cleansing activity in our lives is like fire; he discovers the sin and with our cooperation he empowers us to utterly reject carnal practices. The result is purity of life.

4. Fire and Burning Are Not Necessarily Comfortable Images to Us. Fire sounds painful, and sometimes the fire of the Holy Spirit at work in our lives is painful. His chastisements and admonishments often go against what we desire in the fleshly, human nature. But the results of His purification process are glorious!

As the Lord purifies us, our motives, behavior and goals become acceptable in His sight and are effectively prepared for use in His kingdom. Purification is a necessary part of our being sanctified, which is to be cleansed and set aside as holy in God’s eyes.  Hebrews 12:10-11, states, “For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. [11] Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.  (See also 1 Pet. 4:12-14)

The Lord is highly motivated to to purify his people because he loves and treasures each of us in ways difficult for us to understand. During the corrective measures he takes with us, it is very difficult to appreciate what he is doing or how he is going about it. Our part is to take such passages very seriously--trust him, takes some inventory, confess our personal failures and embrace holy and submissive attitudes towards him. God's goal is that we become fruitful and productive believers. We all must anticipate yielding the "peaceable fruit of righteousness" under his cultivating hand. I know I need this kind of care from the Father in my life. 

5. Purity of Heart Cannot Be Separated from the Fire of the Holy Spirit.

That’s a vital concept for us to understand. We are purified by the Holy Spirit, and we continue to walk in purity because of the Holy Spirit’s presence and power in us. There is no way we can clean up our lives apart from His enabling us to do so. While it is true a person can change their habits and behavior without the Holy Spirit, they never the less cannot alter the state of their hearts. Nor can they truly please the Lord through their independent self-efforts. The Spirit truly gets to the heart of the matter where real transformation transpires.

6. Many People Attempt to Clean up Their Lives by a Mere Change in Their Behavior. They start going to church, attending Bible study, giving some of their money to God, reading their Bibles, and saying their prayers. All of these are good things, but it is best to yield to the Spirit first! None of these actions drive sin from our lives effectively without Him. Only as we yield to the Holy Spirit can we truly be cleansed like God desires. Our attitude toward God’s disciplinary burning to remove sinful actions, activities, ambitions, and attitudes should be acceptance, appreciation and yielded-ness.

The Lord Jesus said in Revelation 3:19, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.” Beloved, this is wise counsel from our Lord. There is no room for objections and debate; we all must submit to our Lord’s directive. Remember, such guidance proceeds from a great heart of love; he is the one who died for us to deliver us from the penalty and power of sin. Jesus would that we be free by the power of the Holy Ghost in our daily experiences. Repenting of sin is well within order. 

The Book of Job reminds us of the blessedness of God’s corrective love in our experiences. Job 5:17, says, “Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty”.  We should count ourselves happy or blessed to have such care from the Almighty Father.  Too many parents simply allow their children to do whatever they want. These young people live very insecure lives in a dangerous and hostile world. No one loves them enough to guide them away from the landmines and pitfalls. Not true of genuine believers! We have the security of the Father's love and the guidance He affords to lead us into freedom, liberty, and purity of habits and heart. Beloved, don’t reject God’s corrective and life changing initiatives; it is wise to submit and embrace his will. The happiest people on planet earth are cared for by Almighty God. They appreciate the Spirit of God's efforts to purge and purify their experiences. 

Conclusion:

Psalm 139:23, Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:

Perhaps we all should pray with the Psalmist, “Search me, O God.” In every believer there should be a desire to be clean and an awareness of strategies to stay clean. Cooperating with the Holy Spirit is God's will for each of us. Find a place to get alone with the Lord and then do some house cleaning. 

Keep this truth uppermost in your thinking: “The price of spiritual power is purity of heart.” Ask God to reveal anything that might hinder His flow of power in your life.

·       Do I treasure deceptive and misleading goals, sinful-worldly pleasures, Christ-dishonoring habits, ugly pride, myself or my friends?

·       Have I fully submitted to the authority of my Lord expressed in the Bible by refusing conformity to this world while choosing the transforming power of a spiritually renewed mind (Romans 12:1, 2)?

 NOTHING BETWEEN

Words and music by Charles A. Tindley, 1851–1933

Nothing between my soul and the Savior, naught of this world’s delusive dream: I have renounced all sinful pleasure—Jesus is mine! There’s nothing between.

Nothing between, like worldly pleasure! Habits of life, tho harmless they seem, must not my heart from Him ever sever—He is my all! There’s nothing between.

Nothing between, like pride or station: Self or friends shall not intervene; tho it may cost me much tribulation, I am resolved! There’s nothing between.

Nothing between, e’en many hard trials, tho the whole world against me convene; watching with prayer and much self denial—Triumph at last, with nothing between!

Chorus: Nothing between my soul and the Savior, so that His blessed face may be seen. Nothing preventing the least of His favor: Keep the way clear! Let nothing between.

Wisdom from Below

James 3:15-16

Theme: Examine your values, principles and behaviors to determine their source.

Most of us are aware that Believers have three spiritual enemies: the world, the flesh, and the Devil (Eph. 2:1-3). All of which seek to control the way we think in order to control our behavior and our lives. Obviously, we want to understand what is driving our actions, influencing our decisions, and shaping our performance and perspectives. It does not require a rocket scientist to figure out such control can be dangerous to us and our loved ones. Likewise, in our text, James pinpoints the corrupt sources of godless wisdom as “earthly, sensual, and devilish.” This is wisdom from below! So, the question is, how can we recognize when this type of ‘wisdom’ is operating in our lives and those of our loved ones? Let’s take a moment to examine the sources for these godless forms of wisdom.

Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. 14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. (James 3:13–16, KJV).

When we examine James 3:15, closely, we discover a self-centered brand of godless wisdom that is consumed with personal ambitions. Beloved, this is not at all from the Lord God above. Unmistakably, James frankly describes it as “earthly, sensual, devilish.” Now such self-aggrandizing behavior is not of the Lord. No, this wisdom belongs to this earth; it is the product of an un-sanctified human heart, and it originates with Satan and his fallen forces (1 Cor. 2:14; 2 Cor. 11:14, 15). Let us examine each of these closely to prevent their influence in the way we think.

Wisdom from Below is Earthly!

Earthly rightly indicates this wisdom is not from God in heaven! Instead it is from this earth and is limited to earthly rationalization, logic, reason, and philosophies. It is not truth, it is not inspired of God; therefore, it is not reliable in its concepts or premises. It is devoid of the strength of divine wisdom and marred by the flawed thinking of mere earthlings. Earthly wisdom is riddled with the assumptions of ill-informed people living without God’s illuminating perspective.

What would such wisdom lead a person to do? Well since it is worldly it will set a person on a trajectory of being covetous for more material things, yearning for selfish pleasures, accumulating excessive wealth, lurching out on senseless quests for prideful distinctions or recognitions, and pursuing more luxurious comforts in this life. John, the beloved Apostle, says such behaviors are typical evidences of worldliness (1Jn. 2:15-17). The focus is on the temporary and this life and not eternity and life with the Eternal One. Note the words of MacArthur,

It spawns a society whose watchwords are “Do your own thing,” “Have it your way,” and “Look out for number one.” It pervades philosophy, education, politics, economics, sociology, psychology, and every other dimension and aspect of contemporary human life (MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1998). James (pp. 172–173).

Such wisdom is not helpful in the long run; it erodes relationships, breeds distrust, fuels conflicts, and inspires inhuman behavior. As human beings we can rationalize just about anything. For example, nearly everyone would be up in arms if a pregnant woman drinks hard liquor daily, smokes two packs of cigarettes a day, and habitually uses hard drugs. Most of us would regard these behaviors as extremely harmful to the child she is carrying as well as to the mother. However, if she decides to abort the child in the third trimester for next to no reason, too many people will claims she has the right to do this!?! Really...think about the flawed logic that leads to such decisions or positions on these type issues. This is where earthly godless wisdom leads. Many such examples could be mentioned here, but I'll spare you. In addition, the observations of Dr. Wiersbe are also helpful,      

The world by its wisdom knew not God, and in its wisdom rejects the very Gospel of God. “For the preaching of the Cross is to them that perish foolishness” (1 Cor 1:18). Any person enamored with the wisdom of this world ought to read the first two chapters of 1 Corinthians and notice how much Paul has to say about God's wisdom and man's wisdom. Man's wisdom is foolishness to God (1Cor 1:20), and God's wisdom is foolishness to man (1Cor 2:14). Man's wisdom comes from reason, while God's wisdom comes from revelation. Man's worldly wisdom will come to nothing (1 Cor 1:19), while God's wisdom will endure forever. Because the world has turned from God, it has lost its wisdom. Every increase in man's knowledge only magnifies the problems. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; and the knowledge of the holy is understanding" (Prov 9:10). "There is no fear of God before their eyes" (Rom 3:18). (Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 2, p. 363)).

Yes, earthly-worldly wisdom cannot appreciate the things of heaven and our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, it is entirely unfit for genuine Christian living. Unfortunately, it is difficult to find a news article, TV show, book, radio program, or internet product that is not greatly influenced by this type of earthly wisdom.

Wisdom from Below is Sensual! 

The word “Sensual” reminds us of the fact that it is not the fruit of the Holy Spirit, but from man’s fallen nature. Such a person teaches only the wisdom of this natural life. It is the difference between knowing how to make a living and how to make a meaningful life. It can be seen in the emphasis on gathering more information as opposed to using information in the best ways. Read carefully the words of James in 3:14 once more, “But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.” The verse is jam-packed with sensual motives and values. Jealousy, bitterness, resentment, conflict, pride, lies, deceptions, and bragging are common in the life of the sensual individual. They tend to cling to these devices to make themselves feel worthwhile, likable, marketable, or attractive. Such behaviors have no place in the Spirit of grace; they are rooted in human depravity and self-centeredness.  

Such motives, feelings and behaviors are light-years away from the genuine marks of godly wisdom. These individuals are not living displays of the meek spirited person who is entirely submissive to the Lord’s power and grace! No, such wisdom is sensual and is based on human feelings and human reasoning alone--especially when the decisions are made with the emotional parts of the brain. Such desires are devoid of God’s life-changing insight or aid. Some sensually motivated actions can be detected quite easily, but others are far more camouflaged and cleverly concealed. All can be correctly discerned by the Word and the Spirit of God though.

So, this false ‘wisdom’ truly has another source: remember it is “sensual,” or we could say “natural.” This fact relates to its “life,” or “soul,” it is rooted in the natural man.  In 1Cor. 2:14; 15:44, 46, we learn that the “natural,” is the opposite of the “spiritual” (Gal. 5:16-18). Such carnal wisdom is completely incompatible with Christ-filled expression! While it is natural to have a slightly inflated view of ourselves because we have comparatively more intellectual acumen, such estimations are not anchored in a Spirit-informed perspective.  You see... real wisdom, the kind God gives, consists of righteous skills for daily living--it is intensely practical and not primarily intellectual. Certainly, our lives are the product of our thinking, but merely being mentally sharp does not make a wholesome God-honoring life. It is the difference between wanting to be our children’s best friends, and choosing to be the parents they really need. Godly wisdom is also expressed by the person who intensely yearns to “fit in with the crowd” refusing immediate gratification choosing instead the course of discipline and delayed satisfaction. Someone may say, ‘If it feels right, then it is right’; the wisdom from God says right and wrong are already defined by God in the Scriptures. We must choose objective absolute truth over the world’s unfounded sensual relativism.   

In Jude 19, sensual people stylize themselves as free or emancipated, but they are the slaves of their fallen nature. Yes, they do their own thing…they make their own decisions…they are free-thinkers…independent and autonomous is how they describe themselves. God says, “they walk after their own ungodly lusts” (Jude 18). Their lives do not transcend the immediate, this life, or the mundane…. They are stuck with nothing but their feelings, thoughts, ideas, and Christ-less philosophy to guide them. Yes, they jump from one bed to another, they drink this that and the other, they smoke, shoot up, free base, and party until the clubs or bars close. They sleep it off in another strange place...as soon as they can reengage they do it all over again. They have near zero restraints or precious few limits. Their rule is simple, "If it feels good...do it." It may seem like ‘fun’ now, but payday is coming. Jude describes them as “sensual” signifying the absence of the Holy Spirit's influence.  The focus is on the dominant fallen nature as opposed to the new nature, which is given by God, influencing their lives. Beware, there is a ‘wisdom’ that has its origin in man’s depraved nature totally apart from the Spirit of God.

Recall helpful passages like Galatians 5:19-21, which describes for us the “works of the flesh.”  Accordingly, flesh refers to the sinful facet of our depraved human nature which is diametrically opposed to the “Spirit” of God (Rom 6:19; Matt 16:17).  Therefore, being “in the flesh” refers to being unsaved (Rom 7:5; 8:8, 9), and to live “after the flesh” is to live and act sinfully (Rom 8:4, 5, 7, 12). Sensual wisdom is not a viable option for God’s people! God expects all His children to walk in and live in the Spirit (Gal. 5:24-26).

Wisdom from Below is Devilish! 

Devilish means that it stoops to actions that resemble the behavior of demons rather than men. It denotes that which is evil, malicious, sinister, mischievous, and befitting of devils. The Spirit of God greatly assists us by unmasking the “wisdom of Satan” at work, fighting against the wisdom of God. Satan characteristically seeks to inspire doubting God and stimulating the elevation of humanity through prideful lusts (Gen. 3). Satan was behind Eve’s desires to become wise like God and become as God. Since then, people have continued to believe Satan’s lies and have tried to become their own gods (Rom 1:18-25). Rugged individualism and hyper-independence are just two manifestations of this. To say that Satan is cunning is to verbalize the obvious; he is the slick old serpent! He has wisdom that will confound and confuse us if we do not know the wisdom of God.

Again, the real source of these thoughts and desires is the devil. How disturbing to realize he can control our thoughts if we allow him! It is ridiculously reckless for believers to assume that Satan does not have access to most of the knowledge available to us. Furthermore, Satan even used Scripture during the temptations of Jesus making his suggestions to him seem reasonable. He failed because he was up against real wisdom!

The devil still makes use of the same resources that God has provided for us. But his purposes are destructive; they can produce a climate in the church, at home, and at work that damages relationships. Think of how quickly our words, language, and tone of voice can create a destructive climate. –The Life Application Commentary Series

Beloved, do you now understand how our beliefs, values, governing principles, and behaviors can be tampered with by the Devil? If the Lord did not expose our enemies’ strategies here and in other Scriptures, we would be entirely vulnerable to these kinds of spiritual attacks. The Lord truly is good to free us from such seductions with the truth! Beloved, it is the truth that makes us free!

These three words . . . describe the so-called wisdom, which is not of divine origin, in an advancing series—as pertaining to the earth, not to the world above; to mere nature, not to the spirit; and to the hostile spirits of evil instead of to God” (Ropes). –Pfeiffer, Charles: The Wycliffe Bible Commentary

With these insights we are prepared to examine our thoughts, motives, and desires with real intelligence. When we say or do something that is not becoming of a Christian, pause to discover the possible origin of that thought or expression. Ask yourself, is this wisdom from below? Is it earthly, sensual, or devilish? Is it based on reason or revelation? Does it promote immediate gratification or delayed satisfaction? Is it appealing to my pride and my desire to behave independently of God?

Realizing the source and kind of wisdom influencing us places us in a powerful position. You can say no to these temptations. You can reject godless wisdom while selecting godly wisdom. You can distinguish important matters from trivial concerns. Life is less confusing and frustrating when God’s wisdom is in operation. You can not only preserve the relationships you treasure, but increase their value to all concerned parties. Remember, wisdom from above is desirable, but the wisdom from below can wreck your life and the lives of those you love. Why not choose the wisdom that is from above?  

Crucify The Sensual Sins

Gal 5:14-21,

For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 15 But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. 16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. (KJV)

Paul reminds the Galatians that, though he is now talking of the need to live a godly life, he is not thereby reverting to legalism.  Life in the Spirit is neither legalism nor license—nor a middle way between them. It is a life of faith and love that is above all of these false ways. Being led by the Spirit does not imply that we have no responsibility but rather the need to allow oneself to be led. Responding to the Spirit is described by three mutually interpreting words in vv. 16, 18, and 25--"walk", "led," and "live."(Also see Col. 1:10–14; 3:1-10, “set your affections,” “Mortify,” “put off,” “put on new man”)

“The problem of the Christian life is based on the fact that so long as the Christian lives in this world he is, so to speak, two trees---- the old tree of the flesh and the new tree of the divine nature implanted at the new birth; and the problem itself is, how to keep barren the old tree and make the new tree fruitful.  The problem is solved by walking in the Spirit.”  -- C. I. Scofield

REALIZE FREEDOM THROUGH CRUCIFIXION (w. 19-21, 24).

That Spirit and flesh in conflict is now illustrated by contrasting lists of the works of the flesh and of the fruit of the Spirit. Paul has both in mind as he begins to write this section. At the same time, the lists are more than a mere proof of what he has written earlier. For by raising these particulars of conduct, he also provides a checklist for measuring the conduct of those who consider themselves spiritual.  If one's conduct is characterized by the traits in the first list, then he is either not a believer or else a believer who is not being led by God's Spirit. The same standards of evaluation hold true for churches.  We must understand that the flesh is already crucified and we are now challenged to live out this positional reality (5:24). Christ died for me to remove the penalty of my sin, but I died with Christ to break sin's power (6:14).

Crucify the Works of the Flesh.  Vs. 19, 24

Paul now lists some of the ugly "works of the flesh." (You will find similar lists in Mark 7:20-23; Rom. 1:29-32; I Tim. 1:9-10; 2 Tim. 3:2-5.) The flesh is able to manufacture sin but it can never produce the righteousness of God.  "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked" (Jer. 17:9).

The word manifest means “open, evident” so that anyone may see, hence, “well-known.” Paul appeals to their common knowledge. It is as if Paul said to the Galatians, “You have a clearly defined standard by which to decide whether you are being led by the Holy Spirit or by the flesh. Each is known by its peculiar work or fruits.”  This list in Galatians can be divided into three major categories: Sensual, Superstition, and Social.  The key to triumphing over the works of the flesh is crucifixion (5:24). 

         

                   

Crucify the Sensual Sins (vv. 19, 21b).

The particulars he specifies are of various sorts; some are sins against the seventh commandment, such as adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, by which are meant not only the gross acts of these sins, but all such thoughts, and words, and actions, as have a tendency towards these great transgressions.

              1.  Adultery.  Adultery is illicit sex between married people.

                   A.  Physical Adultery.  It is having physical marital type relationships with someone other than one's wife or husband (Le. 20:10; Pr. 6:26-32; Eze. 16:32; Ro. 7:3; He. 13:4).

                   B.  Spiritual Adultery.  The Bible also speaks of spiritual adultery--worshiping or serving false gods or worldly pleasures (Je. 13:27; Eze. 23:43; Jam. 4:4).

                   C.  Mental Adultery.  The Lord Jesus Christ taught that adultery first occurs in the heart. Immoral lust is adultery (Mt. 5:27-28).

              2.  Fornication.  Fornication generally refers to sexual sin among unmarried people. "Fornication" or sexual immorality is a very broad term, denoting any immoral sexual intercourse or relationships.

                  A.  Physical Fornication.  Fornication could also be defined as "the gratification of sexual appetites without respect to marriage or the necessity of God's approval" (Bunnell). The Bible uses this term as a general description for immorality (Mt. 5:32; 15:19; 19:9; Ac. 15:20,29; Ro. 1:29; 1 Co. 5:1; 6:18; 7:2; 2 Co. 12:21; Ga. 5:19; Ep. 5:3; Co. 3:5; 1 Th. 4:3; Re. 9:21).

NOTE:  Fornication is a union but it is not marriage.  Malachi explains that marriage is more than the sexual union; it is a covenant before God and man (Mal. 2:14), and it is this covenant that God blesses by making the two one (Mal. 2:15).  Also take note of  the women at the well who had five husbands but Jesus confirmed the fact that the man she was currently living with was not her husband (Jn. 4:16-18).

                  B.  Spiritual Fornication.  Like adultery, fornication is also used in a spiritual sense to describe turning from God to serve false gods (Eze. 16:29-34; Re. 2:21; 14:8; 17:2,4; 18:3; 19:2).

                  C.  Mental Fornication.  The Greek word translated fornication is porneia, from which the English word "pornographic" is derived.  Again the Lord Jesus made it extremely clear that immoral lust is adultery (Mt. 5:27-28; 15:17-20).  Certainly this includes the sin and pursuit of looking at lewd women in wicked magazines and on the internet.

              3.  Uncleanness.  Uncleanness means just that: a filthiness of heart and mind that makes the person corrupt.  To be defiled, foul, unfit. To be unclean refers to lifestyles that are unfit, to defilement of a moral   character, and to spiritual impurity.  The thought is often connected with sensuality (2Cor. 12:212).

                 A.  Moral Impurity.  Paul uses tern “uncleanness” almost exclusively to refer to moral impurity and perhaps of unnatural vice.  The unclean person sees dirt in everything (see Titus 1:15).  This results is a dirty mind, heart, mouth, and actions.

                 B.  Divine Purity.  The teaching about “uncleanness” springs from the concept of God's holiness (Lev 11:44-45, 47).  Uncleanness is not a matter of personal perception or preference, it is a matter which God has defined in absolute standards and terms.  It is not based on a culture’s or society’s perceptions of purity; it does not change merely because “times have changed and people or different now.”  This is an absolute and concrete issue with God.  This is why having a dirty mind and heart is a moral issue. 

NOTE:  Freedom from uncleanness and guilt is possible through God's gracious work (Ps 51:7). Holiness within and purity of heart, is possible through the exercise of faith in Christ's redemption (Titus 2:14; 1 Peter 1:2) and obedience to His word of truth (John 15:3; 17:17; 1 Peter 1:22). Freedom is also realized as we are led by the Spirit (Gal. 5:16).

                 C.  Spiritual Impurity.  In the gospels, the word unclean describes those who are possessed by undesirable or even demonic spirits. Jesus exercised command over these unclean spirits (Luke 4:36) and effectively rebuked them (Luke 9:42). The disciples were also given power over unclean spirits (Mark 6:7; Acts 5:16). Jesus often cast out unclean spirits (Mark 1:23,26-27; 5:2).  A lifestyle given over to Uncleanness is a lifestyle heavily influenced or possessed by demons.

                 D.  Not Ceremonial Uncleanness.  Paul is not referring to O.T. restrictions regarding unclean foods (Lev 11:1-19), contact with a dead body (Lev 11:25-31). Besides foods,  people were designated unclean under certain conditions like: 1) a discharge or menstruation (Lev 15:2-13,19-24). 2) Puss-type body emissions from open sores or 3) a leprous person was unclean (Lev 13:11).  These are not the things that Paul is referring to in Galatians.  In fact it is this type of thing he is trying to discourage (Gal. 4:9, 10; 5:3-6).

The first three words, then, cover sexual sins.  They are obviously intended to be somewhat comprehensive and inclusive.

              4.  Lasciviousness.  (Vs. 19) Lasciviousness is close to the word debauchery.  It evidently means conduct and character that is unbecoming, indecent, unrestrainedly shameless. The special sense of sexual excess is probable in Gal. 5:19 and certain in Rom. 13:13; 2 C. 12:21; 2 Pt. 2:2, 18. (Bill Clinton)

                                                                                                                                  

                A.  Shameless Conduct and Desires.

It speaks of a lewd and sensual appetite that knows no shame—excessively lewd and vulgar.  In the New Testament it generally appears to point more specifically to unembarrassed open indulgence in impurity.  It point to reckless shamelessness in unclean and sensual indulgences.  It could be defined as "the stirring up of lustful desires which cannot be satisfied within God's boundaries" (Bunnell). The Greek word (aselgeia) is also translated "filthy" (2 Pe. 2:7) and "wantonness" (Ro. 13:13; 2 Pe. 2:18).

                                                                                                                                  

                B.  Unharnessed Conduct and Yearnings.

Lascivious. A term referring to immorality (Mk. 7:22; 2 Co. 12:21; Ga. 5:19; Ep. 4:19; 1 Pe. 4:3; Jude 4). It especially refers to excess and lack of restraint, shameless conduct (Vine). In 2 Pe. 2:7 this word refers to the moral perversion which characterized Sodom and Gomorrah (2 Pt. 2:7).  It goes without saying that all of these sins were rampant in the Roman Empire and the pagan world generally (Eph. 4:19).

                C.   Lawless Conduct and Motivations. 

Undisciplined and unrestrained behavior, especially a flagrant disregard of sexual restraints (Mark 7:22; 2 Cor 12:21). This further means "outrageous conduct," showing that licentious behavior goes beyond sin to include a disregard for what is right.  It speaks of one who acknowledge no restraints, who dares to do whatever his whim and impulsive perverted heart may suggest.  It refers to one who has a cocky meddlesome hatred for decent and conservative public opinion, and shamelessly outrages public decency.

                 D.  Enticing Conduct and Motivations. 

Lasciviousness also means to entice in the lusts of the flesh.  The word originally referred to any excessive behavior or lack of restraint, but eventually became associated with sexual excess and indulgence.

Nakedness is a common act of public indecency in our days and certainly fit within the description of shameless and lewd behavior. Man was naked before the Fall (Ge. 2:25), but after man sinned their conscience was defiled and God made coats and clothed them (Ge. 3:7,10,11,21). Ever since, God has instructed man to cloth himself because of the sinfulness of his thoughts (Mt. 5:28; 15:19). Nakedness is connected with immorality (Ge. 9:22-23 (Noah); Ex. 32:5,6,25 (Calf Idolatry); Le. 18:6-19 (Incest); Le. 20:11-21 (Fornication and Sexual Perversion); Hab. 2:15 (Drunkenness and Shamelessness). Nakedness is shameful (Is. 47:3; Eze. 23:18; Re. 3:18).  Shamefacedness, however, which means to have a sense of shame; a sense of modesty; bashfulness (1 Ti. 2:9) is what should characterize the Christian’s life and appearance. Modesty is a restrained sense of propriety, not bold or forward, not loose, not lewd; it is synonymous with chastity, or purity of manners (1 Ti. 2:9; Tit. 2:5).

              5.  Drunkenness. vs. 21 Drunkenness is the condition of being intoxicated with alcoholic beverages (Ep. 5:18).   Verses which deal with drunkenness and strong drink: Pr. 20:1; 23:29-35; 31:3-5; Is. 5:22; 28:7; Ho. 4:11; Hab. 2:15; Ro. 13:13; Ep. 5:18; Ga. 5:19-21; 1 Th. 5:6-8.

                A.  The Nature of Drunkenness: Modern-day psychology would have us believe this condition is a disease or a psychological problem, but the Bible says it is a sin (Pr. 23:29-35). Drunkenness is an act of the will (vv. 30-31). Drunkenness is a moral wickedness (v. 33). The victory over drunkenness is redemption and sanctification (1 Co. 6:10-11) through the Word (Jn. 17:17) and the Spirit (Gal. 5:16).

                B.  The Deception of Drunkenness: (Pr. 23:32; 20:1). Intoxicating drink has the power to take away the senses. Thus God calls it a mocker. This is why it is foolish to say it is O.K. for a man to drink in moderation. When a man takes the first drink to his lips, he does not know what the end will be. He is no longer in control; the liquor is.

                C.  The Results of Drunkenness: Immorality (Pr. 23:33), cursing (Pr. 23:33), recklessness (Pr. 23:34), dizziness (Pr. 23:34), fighting and injury (Pr. 23:35), bondage (Pr. 23:35; 5:22-23; Jn. 8:34; Ro. 6:16), sorrow (Pr. 23:29), contention (Pr. 23:29), babbling (Pr. 23:29), redness of eyes (Pr. 23:29), poverty (Pr.23:21), loss of wisdom (Is. 28:7), takes away the heart (Ho. 4:11).  The end of drunkenness is eternal death: (1 Co. 6:9-10). Deliverance from drunkenness is salvation and sanctification: (1 Co. 6:11).

               6.  Revellings. (orgies) vs. 21   Revelling is Carousing; drunkenness; evil living (Ro. 13:13; Ga. 5:21; 1 Pe. 4:3). The night life of a riotous group of half drunken people who parade through the streets with torches and music in honor of Bacchus or some other deity, and sing and play before the houses of their male and female friends; therefore it refers generally of feasts and drinking parties that last till late at night and indulge in revelry.

                   A.  The Night Club Scene.  Revellings, an old word also for drinking parties, riotous gatherings for entertainment, lascivious feastings,  with obscene songs and music (Rom 13:13).  It is your typical bar room scene, discos, and night clubs,  or house or frat party in a college campus area. (1 Peter 4:3)

                   B.  The Idolatrous Prostitution.  Revellings probably had special reference to the orgies that so often characterized the pagan worship ceremonies that many of the Gentile converts of Galatia had once participated in. In a more general and universal sense, however, they refer to becoming drunk under any circumstance and to all rowdy, boisterous, and crude behavior.

Living the Christian life in freedom involves realizing Christ’s righteousness in practical ways by faith and not by mechanical obedience to mere rules and rituals.  The Christian is set free from the curse of the law and the control of the law. Christian liberty is not a liberty that leads to license, but rather to maturity, responsibility, and holiness through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit.  To live by grace, through faith, brings us a holy freedom and a fulfilling Christian experience.  The Holy Spirit is the secret! One danger of misunderstanding freedom in Christ is a tendency toward self-indulgence, which can express itself in destructive words and actions toward other believers.

Influenced by Worldly Wisdom?

Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. 14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. (James 3:14-16, KJV)

How would you describe “worldly wisdom”? (Js. 3:14)

Well...the worldly-wise person is characterized by bitter envying and strife—selfish ambition in the heart (3:14). Their singular passion in life is to advance their personal interests--"number one" matters above all others. He or she is jealous of any competitors and ruthless in dealing with them. Such people are proud of their knowledge and intellectual acumen, and they point to these as the primary keys to their success. However, when we take a look at James chapter three we find this is simply NOT the case at all.  What they refer to as a desirable 'wisdom' really is not wisdom at all. Worldly wisdom is NOT the wisdom that comes from God! Such bragging, personal promotion and self-marketing are deceptively empty. In fact, such behaviors are a fundamental denial of the truth that the truly wise person is markedly humble deep within. Personal humility is always a distinguishing characteristic of godly wisdom. So how can we know if we are operating from the position of godly wisdom or worldly wisdom? One answer is to become aware of what worldly wisdom is, how it functions, and what its outcomes are. Consider the following....

Worldly Wisdom is Selfish in Its Strategy (Js. 3:14).

So what are the four distinct characteristics of worldly wisdom? How can I identify or recognize it in myself and others? How can I detect its influence in my soul, relationships, and aspirations? Note the following four features of godless wisdom. 

It is Jealous. “Bitter envying” is endeavoring to exceed the achievements of others motivated by a zealous form of jealousy. Bitterness is driving the internal motives; jealousy and a yearning to have preeminence pervades the mind and soul. These words transmit the meaning of zealous selfish ambition. Such people are "eaten up" with envy and jealousy. Envy is a harsh, resentful attitude toward others and is rooted in unhealthy comparisons of one with another. If you recall James 3:1, where James warned them not to be ambitious for spiritual offices in the church. Some folks are motivated primarily by what others enjoy as they execute a certain office, and they crave the same privileges and honors for themselves. Instead of putting in the time to prepare, educate, train, and be mentored properly for greater responsibility, they are looking for a fast track or short cut to a prominent office or position.

The wisdom of the world says, “Promote yourself. You're as good as the other candidates, maybe better! An even if you aren’t better, you still deserve this opportunity. The wheel that squeaks the loudest gets the grease.” Sad to say, there is a great deal of selfish, carnal promotion among God’s people. Even the Apostles argued over who was the greatest in the kingdom. –Wiersbe, Warren

So many feel they are entitled to advancement and prestige.... They feel cheated when they cannot have the promotions or an office of greater responsibility. They are ready to cry injustice and parade themselves as some kind of martyr.... In fact there is no injustice...there is no unfairness in denying an opportunity to someone who is unqualified to fulfill the objective requirements.
It is easy to go on an ego trip under the guise of spiritual zeal. We must always bear in mind that zeal without knowledge is dangerous! Too many are addicted to the praise and accolades of people, the publicity derived from great achievements, and the lust for fame is startling.  I am convinced that the hunger for prominence and fame drives the reality television industry. I am certain such misplaced ambition drive YouTube video submissions. Why else would so many people make utter fools of themselves? This inordinate craving and pinning for the spotlight by outdistancing others is not godly wisdom in action. This is depraved human jealousy! Remember the Pharisees used their religious activities to garner the praise of men also (Matt 6:1-18). We ought to be zealous in the things of the Lord, but we must be sure that our motives are right. This is the difference between authenticity and hypocrisy. Note again that jealousy can look like spiritual zeal on the surface!

It is Selfish.  James uses the word “Strife,” which is selfish ambition, competing and fighting for individual superiority. It refers to egotistical aspirations that provoke conflict with others and causes divisions. Such individuals cultivate a “party spirit.” It is much like a politician out giving stump speeches to secure more votes. They over criticize the competition and overstate their achievements and intentions. All in the name of some perceived selfish advantage or even survival.

The world’s wisdom says, “Get all the support you can! Ask the people in the church if they are for you or against you!” Of course, this spirit of self-seeking only creates rivalry and division in the church. —Wiersbe 

In order to build themselves up they must resort to tarring others down. They do not have a record of successes, legitimate achievement, consistent track record of selfless service, or authentic godly character to sustain an interest in their merits or candidacy. Therefore, they resort to slinging mud at competitors, exaggerating their achievements, and re-scoping the issues to secure a calculated advantage.  You see everyone else is expendable when "number one" is all important to you!
How clarifying are the words of Paul to the Philippian Church saying, "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than [more important than] themselves" (Phil 2:3)? God counsels His people to put others before ourselves and He goes on to instruct us to be willing to serve others sacrificially while seeking no place of prominence for ourselves (Phil. 2:5). It is astounding how much energy is spent attempting to exalt ourselves while so little is invested in honoring, serving, and uplifting others. We get it all wrong when we believe we have been privileged for our benefit primarily. Beloved, this is not the model the Lord Jesus gave us! Christ consciously used His position, privileges, and honor to serve the welfare of the most undeserving in multiple sacrificial ways (Phil 2:5-10). Shame on the Christian who seeks to qualify his involvement or contributions on the basis of, "What's in it for me!"

It is Prideful. Another term revealing the nature of worldly wisdom is the word "glory." “Glory” is, well... just as you might have thought, bragging and boasting about exercising 'wisdom'. A form of self-aggrandizement couched in intellectual acumen, savvy, or shrewdness. Pride may also be rooted in perceived advantages, pedigree, achievements, or a certain lifestyle.

Prideful people love to boast, and nothing is prouder than the wisdom of men (1Cor. 8:1). Sometimes this form of pride marks those who have more education than the average person, or they may have graduated from a more prestigious university. Such arrogant folks fail to see there is a way to report blessings so that God gets the glory, but there is also an approach that gives men the praise. I personally believe it is healthy to remember the Bible says nothing good about pride (Prov. 16:18, 19; 11:2; 18:12; 29:23; Isa. 2:11, 12; Dan. 4:30-37; Rom. 11:20; 1Tim. 3:6).

 Knowledge is proud that she has learned so much; Wisdom is humble that she knows no more.—Author unknown

“Glory” (3:14) reminds us how pride loves to sing its own praises, but, when God’s wisdom is in operation, there is a sense of humility and submission, and you want God to get all the glory. (Wiersbe)You have no desire to compare yourself with any other Christian, because you see only Christ, and compared with Him, all of us still have a long ways to go!  Even in Christian service, it is possible to be bitterly jealous of other workers, and to seek a prominent place for oneself (3:15). Even at pastor's fellowships and preacher's conferences many are discouraged by 'successful pastors' who glory in their large budgets, attendance, and facilities. I am not suggesting that some of these men are malicious in their intentions, but they cause harm when they seek to be distinguished among their colleagues merely for their personal satisfaction. 

It has well been observed that there is always a danger that worldly-wise men will be given places of leadership in the churches. Some receive desirable ministry opportunities primarily because they are more talented, and not because they are obviously fit for the office. Others occupy highly coveted positions because they have large bank accounts and leverage this fact for promotion options. Yet, others receive more serious consideration for certain ministries because they are physically attractive, and not because they are the most qualified. I am also amazed at the incredible number of individuals who have a "ministry" and a "title," but they have little or no preparation for serving the Lord Jesus and others. They secured a "license" or ministry "certificate" online or from some 'church' that will ordain anybody and they feel legitimized by such procedures. These misguided souls actually intend to use the 'ministry' to become well off or wealthy! They see the big name Televangelists, religious TV show hosts, and prominent "Christian" figures and regards such "success" as something they should have one day. Beloved, this is worldly wisdom on steroids! Those who serve the Lord must first be servants at heart and seek His honor and glory in all things. We must love our neighbor as ourselves and seek to serve them in meaningful ways that actually help them. It is our responsibility to live as real disciples of Christ embodying the Gospel in daily life and ministry. Christian servants must prepare themselves well through rigorous study of the Scriptures, Bible education, and thoughtful mentoring by seasoned servants of the Lord. It is our task to execute the ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ...we serve people with what and who we are. Often this requires sacrifice after sacrifice without seeking to establish a reputation for ourselves. While every Christian is to be a servant of God to others, not every Christian should be in leadership positions as they do so. We hurt people by allowing them to think they are ready for leadership in Christian ministry without adequately preparing them. Somehow I cannot help but believe that someone is counting, putting notches in their belt, and building their resume at the expense of the unwary! We must constantly guard against allowing worldly principles and motives to guide us in the spiritual work of our Lord. We must seek the approval of God upon our service; there is no room for senselessly comparing ourselves with other servants of God. We all must come to grips with the truth, that without the Lord Jesus, we can do nothing.

Furthermore, the wisdom of this world exalts man and robs God of glory. In 1Cor 1:17, Paul discussed the wisdom of God and the wisdom of this world, and he explained why God works as He does: “That no flesh should glory in His presence” (1Cor. 1:29). He concluded the section with the admonition, “He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord” (1Cor 1:31). (Wiersbe)

It is healthy to ask ourselves, is our zeal for the Lord spiritual or carnal? Do we rejoice when others succeed, or do we have secret envy and criticism? Do we feel burdened when others fail, or are we secretly delighted? When the wisdom of the world gets into the churches, there is a great deal of fleshly promotion and human glorification.  Beware!

It is Deceptive. James gives this admonition, “Lie not against the truth” (3:14). The previously mention boasting is empty. We all can understand how a little bragging can become mild exaggerations and then finally complete distortion of reality. So again James' counsel is "lie not against the truth." What truth? The lie in this instance is essentially a denial of the truth that the person who is truly wise is indeed humble. Wisdom does not lead to arrogant conclusions about ourselves, but honest evaluations and assessments that breed humility of heart. Once again note carefully the progression as stated by Dr. Wiersbe,

The sequence is not difficult to understand. First, there is selfish ambition that leads to party spirit and rivalry. In order to "win the election" we must resort to boasting, and boasting usually involves lies! A man's life is not read in his press releases; it is read by the Lord in his heart.  

Again one incredible consequence is people begin to actually believe their own hype! Outrageous! Is not the instructions of the Apostle Paul fitting when he says, "Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God" (1Cor 4:5)?

God will personally see to it that the truth is revealed! Consider further the words of MacDonald, "He is proud of his wisdom that has brought success. But James says that this isn’t wisdom at all. Such boasting is empty. It is a practical denial of the truth that the man who is truly wise is truly humble." –MacDonald: Believer's Bible Commentary

Yes, the persons with God's perspective of themselves are deeply humble; the soul marked by godly wisdom does not tolerate inflated ideas of its importance. Clarifying truth is cherished over blinding lies. Actually truth frees us from the bondage of lies, half truths, and calculated misrepresentations. One of the saddest things to witness is a person so given to lying that they have zero inclinations to ever speak a trustworthy statement. Their minds are twisted and warped by deception! Such individuals habitually misrepresent even the simplest things by default.

I think a final word from Dr. McGee will suffice here, 

In fact, an uncontrolled tongue raises the question in the minds of others whether a man is a child of God or not. You cannot make me believe that a genuine believer can curse six days a week and then sing in a choir on Sunday. He cannot tell dirty jokes and then teach a Sunday school class, telling about the love of Jesus. That tongue which you have can do either one, but if it does both, it is that which stirs up strife. We are told here, “Lie not against the truth.” A lying tongue is one that denies the Lord during the week by its conversation. (McGee, J. Vernon: Thru the Bible Commentary)

I believe Dr. McGee makes a valid point. A life marked by lies is uncharacteristic of genuine Christianity. There is nothing about falsehoods that is compatible with the Gospel of Truth. It is as un-Christian as the prideful attitudes that spawn it. To be clear, a Believer who has God's wisdom operating in their soul will truly be a humble person. Recognizing this believers under the influence of godly wisdom have an  authentic heart of humility; they refuse to resort to jealousy, self-centeredness, arrogance, and deceptions.

Because godly Christians are humble, they are not controlled by green-eyed jealous, ruthlessly self-seeking motives, an obnoxiously overconfident demeanor, and purposefully disingenuous designs. Humility of heart combats feelings of entitlement and actions rooted in resentment. Christians do not lie to appear to be keeping up with the Jones. A humble Believer does not make a big fuss over themselves because they keep Christ in clear view. What is stated in their resumes is true of them. They do not overestimate their value, nor do they underestimate their potential or capability. They have God’s perspective of their strengths and are deeply thankful for his gifts in their lives. Humble people are able to navigate away from deceptive behaviors and statements because they heartily identify with the truth and fidelity. They have no PR person and fervently reject the ‘spin machine.’ By default integrity is their modus operandi. While envy, selfishness, pride, and lying are primary features of worldly wisdom, it has no place in godly wisdom at all. When we are tempted to employ these motives or designs we are operating under the influence of worldly wisdom.     

So there you have it! According to the Word of God worldly wisdom is jealous, selfish, prideful, and deceptive! We must ask the Lord to examine our hearts to reveal when our actions are motivated by self-aggrandizement and arrogance. Trusting the Spirit of God to show us ourselves as we look into the Scriptures is a healthy habit. A failure to do this will lead to lives marked by worldly wisdom, and we will be oblivious of it because these motives are the typical ways our world function. Everybody thinks in these terms...except believers enlighten by God's Spirit and the Word of God. Unless we are willing to face ourselves in the mirror of God's truth we will live under the deception of worldly wisdom. The consequences of such ‘wisdom’ spell death to our service, relationships, and professional aspirations. We may become prominent in the estimations of men, but never will such motives win the approval of God. So I ask once more...are you influenced by worldly wisdom?