by esther phinias | 5 March 2020 08:46 pm03
QUESTION:
What does the Bible say about envy, division, and uncleanness? What do these terms really mean from a theological and spiritual standpoint?
1. What Is Envy (Jealousy)?
Envy is a sinful attitude of the heart that desires what others have, whether it be their possessions, position, talents, or blessings. It goes beyond mere admiration—it resents others for having what one lacks. In Scripture, envy is always portrayed as a destructive and ungodly trait, often leading to further sin such as hatred, strife, and even murder.
Theologically, envy is a violation of the Tenth Commandment:
You shall not covet…
(Exodus 20:17, NKJV)
Envy reveals a lack of contentment in God’s provision and a heart that is not satisfied in Christ. It exposes idolatry, as one places their desire for earthly things above God’s will and glory.
Key Scriptures:
Galatians 5:21 (NKJV)
Envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand… that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
1 Peter 2:1 (NKJV)
Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking…
Proverbs 14:30 (NKJV)
A sound heart is life to the body, but envy is rottenness to the bones.
James 3:14–16 (NKJV)
But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth… For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.
Theological Insight:
Envy is rooted in pride and disbelief. It accuses God of being unfair and fails to acknowledge His sovereignty (Romans 9:20-21). True Christian love, by contrast, “does not envy” (1 Corinthians 13:4), and the fruit of the Spirit replaces envy with peace and joy.
2. What Is Division (Dissension or Strife)?
Division refers to disunity, quarrels, and separation, especially among believers. It often arises from pride, selfish ambition, or doctrinal error. Theologically, division opposes the unity of the Body of Christ, which Jesus prayed for in John 17:21 – “that they all may be one…”
Paul strongly rebuked the Corinthian church for divisions and factions that arose due to pride, spiritual immaturity, and party spirit. The Holy Spirit produces unity, not division (Ephesians 4:3), and Christians are called to walk in humility and peace with one another.
Key Scriptures:
1 Corinthians 1:10 (NKJV)
Now I plead with you, brethren… that you all speak the same thing… that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
1 Corinthians 12:25 (NKJV)
…that there should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another.
Romans 16:17 (NKJV)
Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them.
Galatians 5:20 (NKJV)
…idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies…
Theological Insight:
God is not the author of confusion but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33). Division grieves the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30) and weakens the witness of the Church in the world. Unity among believers reflects the unity within the Trinity and is a sign of spiritual maturity and love (Colossians 3:14).
3. What Is Uncleanness (Impurity)?
Uncleanness in the Bible refers to moral, spiritual, and even physical defilement. It encompasses a wide range of sinful behaviors that are contrary to God’s holiness—especially sexual immorality, impurity in thought, word, or deed, and perverse practices such as homosexuality, fornication, and lust.
Uncleanness is listed among the works of the flesh, and just like envy and division, it disqualifies one from inheriting the kingdom of God unless repented of.
Key Scriptures:
Galatians 5:19–21 (NKJV)
Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness… those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
2 Corinthians 7:1 (NKJV)
Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Ephesians 5:3 (NKJV)
But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints…
Colossians 3:5 (NKJV)
Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.
1 Thessalonians 4:7 (NKJV)
For God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness.
Theological Insight:
Uncleanness reflects a life ruled by the flesh, not the Spirit (Romans 8:8). God calls His people to holiness (1 Peter 1:16) and commands them to be sanctified. Holiness is not optional—it is the very nature of God’s calling for every believer (Hebrews 12:14).
A Final Challenge: Are You Truly Saved?
Have you been born again through faith in Jesus Christ? Do you find yourself struggling with envy, stirring up division, or living in moral impurity? The Bible warns us that:
Those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
(Galatians 5:21)
This is not just about outward behavior—it reflects the condition of the heart. But the good news is this: Jesus came to save sinners (Luke 19:10). Through repentance and faith in Christ, your heart can be transformed, and you can receive the Holy Spirit who empowers you to live in righteousness.
Acts 3:19 (NKJV):
Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.
Surrender your life to Christ today. Let Him cleanse you, fill you, and lead you into eternal life.
Maranatha — The Lord is coming soon!
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