Galatians 5:21

KJV

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 (with Strong's)

Envyings {G5355}, murders {G5408}, drunkenness {G3178}, revellings {G2970}, and {G2532} such {G5125} like {G3664}: of the which {G3739} I tell {G4302} you {G5213} before {G4302}, as {G2531} I have {G4277} also {G2532} told you in time past {G4277}, that {G3754} they which do {G4238} such things {G5108} shall {G2816} not {G3756} inherit {G2816} the kingdom {G932} of God {G2316}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and envy; in drunkenness, orgies and things like these. I warn you now as I have warned you before: those who do such things will have no share in the Kingdom of God!

Berean Standard Bible

and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

American Standard Version

envyings, drunkenness, revellings, and such like; of which I forewarn you, even as I did forewarn you, that they who practise such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Galatians 5:21 concludes Paul's sobering enumeration of the "works of the flesh," explicitly warning the Galatian believers and all subsequent generations that a life persistently characterized by such sinful practices, including envy, murder, drunkenness, and revelry, stands in stark opposition to God's will and disqualifies one from inheriting the kingdom of God. This verse underscores the critical truth that genuine faith in Christ necessitates a transformed life, moving away from unrepentant indulgence in sin towards Spirit-led righteousness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the culmination of Paul's comprehensive list of "works of the flesh" initiated in [Galatians 5:19](/galatians/5-19 "Galatians 5:19 - Works of the Flesh"). It immediately follows a detailed catalog of vices, including sexual immorality, idolatry, hostility, and division, serving as the final, emphatic warning before Paul transitions to describing the "fruit of the Spirit" in [Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit"). The entire chapter, [Galatians 5](/galatians/5 "Galatians 5 - Freedom in Christ and the Spirit-Led Life"), is a pivotal section in Paul's letter, contrasting the legalistic attempts to achieve righteousness with the true freedom found in Christ, which manifests as a life guided by the Holy Spirit. Paul's argument is that true Christian liberty is not a license for sin but an empowerment for righteousness, and the works of the flesh are diametrically opposed to this Spirit-led walk.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Galatian churches were composed of both Jewish and Gentile converts, grappling with the pervasive influence of "Judaizers" who insisted on adherence to Mosaic Law, including circumcision, for salvation. Paul's letter vigorously defends salvation by grace through faith alone, apart from works of the Law. In this context, Paul addresses the potential misunderstanding that freedom from the Law means freedom to sin. The "works of the flesh" listed, such as "drunkenness" and "revellings," were common practices in the Greco-Roman world, often associated with pagan festivals and a general lack of moral restraint. Paul's warning directly challenges the prevailing cultural norms that might have tempted new converts, emphasizing that a commitment to Christ demands a radical departure from such lifestyles, which are incompatible with the kingdom of God.
* **Key Themes:** [Galatians 5](/galatians/5 "Galatians 5 - Living by the Spirit") is central to Paul's exposition on Christian liberty and the Spirit-filled life. A key theme is the **contrast between flesh and Spirit**, highlighting that believers are called to "walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh" ([Galatians 5:16](/galatians/5-16 "Galatians 5:16 - Walk by the Spirit")). This verse contributes to the theme of **discipleship and transformation**, underscoring that genuine faith produces a changed life, marked by a rejection of the sinful behaviors characteristic of the old self. Furthermore, it reinforces the theme of **divine judgment and inheritance**, clearly stating the eternal consequences for those who persist in unrepentant sin, thereby emphasizing the seriousness of one's moral conduct in light of God's kingdom, which is ultimately a spiritual reality entered through faith in Christ.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Envyings (Greek, _phthónos_):** This term denotes ill-will or spite arising from a grudging attitude towards another's possessions, success, or advantages. It is an internal, destructive sin that often fuels external actions and is rooted in a self-centered desire for what others have, directly opposing the love and joy of the Spirit.
* **Drunkenness (Greek, _méthē_):** Apparently a primary word, this refers to intoxication, the state of being drunk. It signifies a loss of self-control due to alcohol consumption, leading to impaired judgment and often facilitating other sinful behaviors, standing in stark contrast to the Spirit's call to sobriety and self-control.
* **Revellings (Greek, _kōmos_):** Derived from a word meaning "to lie down," this term describes a carousal, riotous feasting, or boisterous parties, often associated with pagan festivals and unrestrained indulgence in food, drink, and sensual pleasure. It signifies a lack of self-control and a pursuit of worldly gratification that disregards moral boundaries and the reverence due to God.
* **Inherit (Greek, _klēronoméō_):** From _klēronómos_ (heir), this verb means to be an heir to, or to obtain by inheritance. In this context, it refers to receiving the spiritual blessings and eternal life associated with God's kingdom, underscoring that a lifestyle of "works of the flesh" disqualifies one from this divine inheritance, which is reserved for those who are truly children of God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like:"** This clause completes the comprehensive list of "works of the flesh" begun in [Galatians 5:19](/galatians/5-19 "Galatians 5:19 - Works of the Flesh"). It adds specific vices that highlight both internal attitudes (envy) and external behaviors (murder, drunkenness, revelry), demonstrating the pervasive nature of sin. The phrase "and such like" indicates that the list is not exhaustive but representative of a broader category of behaviors contrary to God's Spirit.
* **"of the which I tell you before, as I have also told [you] in time past,"** Paul emphasizes his consistent teaching on this matter. This is not new information but a foundational truth he has repeatedly communicated to them, underscoring the importance and seriousness of the warning. It serves to reinforce his apostolic authority and the unchanging nature of divine truth regarding holy living.
* **"that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God."** This is the stark consequence for those who habitually "practice" (Greek: _prássō_, implying continuous action) these works of the flesh. "Inherit the kingdom of God" refers to participation in God's redemptive reign, both presently and eternally. The negative declaration signifies that a lifestyle characterized by unrepentant indulgence in these sins reveals a spiritual state incompatible with God's kingdom, indicating a lack of genuine transformation by the Holy Spirit.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs **Enumeration** by listing a series of specific sins, creating a comprehensive and vivid picture of the "works of the flesh." This technique serves to clarify what behaviors are antithetical to a Spirit-led life and to underscore the gravity of these actions. The phrase "and such like" functions as a **Synecdoche** or **Merism**, where a representative part (the listed sins) stands for the whole (all ungodly behaviors), indicating that the list is illustrative rather than exhaustive. The strong declarative statement, "shall not inherit the kingdom of God," uses **Apostolic Authority** and **Warning** to convey the absolute and serious consequences of living according to the flesh, serving as a powerful deterrent and a call to repentance and spiritual transformation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Galatians 5:21 powerfully articulates the biblical principle that while salvation is by grace through faith, true faith inevitably leads to a transformed life, a life that progressively departs from the "works of the flesh." This verse underscores the **holiness of God** and the **necessity of sanctification** for those who claim to be His children. It is not about earning salvation through good works, but about demonstrating the reality of salvation by the fruit it produces. The warning about not inheriting the kingdom of God highlights the **eschatological implications of present conduct**, emphasizing that persistent, unrepentant sin reveals a heart that has not truly submitted to Christ's Lordship and the Spirit's transforming power. This aligns with the broader New Testament teaching that a life characterized by ungodliness is incompatible with the nature of God's kingdom and the new creation in Christ.

* [1 Corinthians 6:9-10](/1_corinthians/6-9-10 "1 Corinthians 6:9-10 - Warning Against Unrighteousness")
* [Ephesians 5:5](/ephesians/5-5 "Ephesians 5:5 - No Inheritance for the Impure")
* [Revelation 21:8](/revelation/21-8 "Revelation 21:8 - The Fate of the Unrighteous")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Galatians 5:21 serves as a profound call to introspection and a serious examination of our lives. It compels us to honestly assess whether our daily choices and character genuinely reflect the indwelling Holy Spirit or if we are still entangled in the destructive patterns of the flesh. This verse is not intended to foster legalism or despair for those who stumble, but rather to provide a sober warning against a lifestyle of unrepentant, habitual sin. For believers, it is a powerful reminder that our salvation, freely given by grace, is accompanied by a divine call to holiness and a new way of living, empowered by the Spirit. It challenges us to actively mortify the deeds of the flesh and to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit, recognizing that our transformed lives are a testament to God's saving power and our ultimate destiny in His kingdom. This passage encourages us to seek God's grace for repentance and transformation whenever we recognize these "works of the flesh" in ourselves, striving for a life that honors God and reflects His character.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I still see the "works of the flesh" manifesting, particularly those listed in this verse, and how can I address them?**
* **How does my daily walk demonstrate that I am truly "walking in the Spirit" and not gratifying the desires of the flesh?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit and resist the temptations to indulge in sinful patterns, relying on God's grace?**

### FAQ
**Does this verse mean that if a Christian commits one of these sins, they are automatically condemned and lose their salvation?**

Answer: No, this verse does not imply that a single instance of sin leads to automatic condemnation or loss of salvation for a true believer. The Greek word _prássō_ (G4238), translated "do" or "practice," implies habitual, continuous action rather than an isolated stumble. Paul is warning against a lifestyle characterized by unrepentant indulgence in these "works of the flesh," which demonstrates a lack of genuine spiritual transformation and a heart that has not truly submitted to Christ's Lordship. True believers, though they may stumble, will be grieved by their sin and seek repentance, empowered by the Holy Spirit to pursue righteousness ([1 John 1:9](/1_john/1-9 "1 John 1:9 - Confession and Forgiveness")). The warning is for those whose lives are defined by these sins, showing no evidence of the Spirit's work or a desire for change. As [Romans 8:13](/romans/8-13 "Romans 8:13 - Living by the Spirit") states, "For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live."

**What is the "kingdom of God" that one might not inherit?**

Answer: The "kingdom of God" (Greek: _basileía tou theou_) refers to God's sovereign rule and reign, both present and future. In the New Testament, it signifies God's redemptive activity in the world through Christ, establishing His spiritual dominion in the hearts of believers now, and culminating in the full manifestation of His glorious reign in the new heavens and new earth ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth")). To "inherit" it means to participate fully in its blessings, its life, and its eternal realities. Those who live according to the flesh demonstrate that they are not subjects of this kingdom, as their lives are contrary to its King and His righteous standards. This inheritance is not earned by works but is a gift received by grace through faith, which then manifests in a transformed life ([Ephesians 2:8-10](/ephesians/2-8-10 "Ephesians 2:8-10 - Grace Through Faith")), indicating a genuine spiritual birth and allegiance to God's reign.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Galatians 5:21 issues a stern warning about the consequences of living by the flesh, its ultimate fulfillment and resolution are found in Christ. The inability to "inherit the kingdom of God" through the works of the flesh highlights humanity's fallen state and desperate need for a Savior. Jesus Christ, through His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, has provided the only means by which we can be delivered from the power of sin and granted access to God's kingdom. He is the one who perfectly fulfilled the Law and bore the penalty for our sins, including "envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like" ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Our Righteousness")). Through faith in Him, believers are not only forgiven but also receive the Holy Spirit, who empowers them to "walk by the Spirit" ([Galatians 5:16](/galatians/5-16 "Galatians 5:16 - Walk by the Spirit")) and produce the "fruit of the Spirit," which stands in direct opposition to the works of the flesh ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")). Thus, Christ is not only our escape from the condemnation of the flesh but also our empowerment to live a new life that truly reflects the values and character of God's kingdom, ensuring our inheritance through Him ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13-14 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered into His Kingdom")) and enabling us to live as true citizens of His eternal reign.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Corinthians 6:9

¶ Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,

1 Corinthians 6:10

Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.

Romans 13:13

Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.

Romans 8:13

For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.

Ephesians 5:5

For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.

Ephesians 5:6

Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.

Ephesians 5:18

And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;