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Works of the Flesh: Learn How To Combat Them.

Combat the Works of the Flesh to protect your salvation. Study Galatians 5:19-21. Fight Satan by deeply knowing all the details of the Works of the Flesh.

The Battle for the Heart: Works of the Flesh

Are you aware of the invisible forces sabotaging your organizational culture and personal leadership? Most leaders focus on external metrics, but the true threat lies in the ancient, corrosive patterns known as the Works of the Flesh. Whether it is the subtle “mercenary spirit” of office politics or the blatant disruption of internal rivalries, these behaviors are not just moral failings—they are the silent killers of business growth and market authority.

When you study the Works of the Flesh through the lens of original Greek jurisprudence, you discover that terms like Eritheia (selfish ambition) and Dichostasiai (divisions) describe a specific “stafa” or deceit that drains productivity.

My deep-dive analysis reveals how the 17 manifestations in the NKJV compared to the 15 original Greek concepts provide a comprehensive roadmap of human nature. By identifying these “catch-all” behaviors—the “and such like” mentioned in Galatians—you gain a competitive edge in maintaining institutional integrity.

Study and Combat The Works of The Flesh

Imagine a leadership environment where the root cause of every conflict is identified before it turns into a “cruel net” of discord. By mastering the study how to combat of the Works of the Flesh, you transition from reactive management to proactive stewardship. You will possess the intellectual tools to recognize the destructive jealousy that seeks to destroy rather than compete, allowing you to build a team that operates in the spirit of unity rather than the shadow of pride and envy.

Don’t wait for “death to come like a thief in the night” to your company’s reputation or your personal legacy. It is time to audit your culture and eliminate the Works of the Flesh that hinder your entrance to the kingdom of God and affect your career.

Satan: Master Accuser Par Excellence

He accuses us to God day and night, 24/7.

One of the best ways to resist him is to study the works of the flesh, our sinful nature. By knowing this thoroughly we can combat the urge of the flesh and the deceitfulness of our heart, Jer.17:9.

A divided crowd at a political protest, illustrating the Works of the Flesh through social discord and dissensions. — Modern ideological polarization and public strife are tangible examples of the dissensions and contentions found in the **Works of the Flesh.**

What Are The Works of The Flesh in Galatians 5:19-21

Verse	Table 1: NKJV English (17) plus such things=18	Table 2: Original Greek (15)	Transliteration
v. 19	1. Adultery	— (Included in porneia)	—
	2. Fornication	1. πορνεία	porneia
	3. Uncleanness	2. ἀκαθαρσία	akatharsia
	4. Lewdness	3. ἀσέλγεια	aselgeia
v. 20	5. Idolatry	4. εἰδωλολατρία	eidololatria
	6. Sorcery	5. φαρμακεία	pharmakeia
	7. Hatred	6. ἔχθραι	echthrai
	8. Contentions	7. ἔρις	eris
	9. Jealousies	8. ζῆλος	zelos
	10. Outbursts of wrath	9. θυμοί	thumoi
	11. Selfish ambitions	10. ἐριθεῖαι	eritheiai
	12. Dissensions	11. διχοστασίαι	dichostasiai
	13. Heresies	12. αἱρέσεις	haireseis
v. 21	14. Envy	13. φθόνοι	phthonoi
	15. Murders	— (Omitted in Critical Text)	—
	16. Drunkenness	14. μέθαι	methai
	17. Revelries	15. κῶμοι	kōmoi
	18. Such things	16. τὰ ὁμοία, τούτοις	ho, homoios, houtos,

NKJV Study On The Works of The Flesh

1. Verse 19 > Works of The Flesh

A. Sexual Immorality

The Greek word used here is “porneia,” encompassing all forms of illicit sexual activity, including adultery, fornication, and homosexuality. This term is frequently condemned in both Old and New Testaments (Leviticus 18, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10). Sexual immorality was prevalent in the Greco-Roman world, often associated with pagan worship practices, highlighting the counter-cultural call to holiness for early Christians.

B. Impurity

This refers to moral uncleanness in thought, word, and deed. It extends beyond sexual sins to include any form of moral corruption. In the Jewish context, impurity was often associated with ceremonial uncleanliness, but Paul emphasizes a broader moral and ethical purity (Ephesians 5:3). This reflects the call to be holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:16).

C. Debauchery:

It denotes a lack of self-restraint, often manifesting in excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures. It implies a shamelessness and disregard for decency. This behavior was rampant in the Roman Empire, where indulgence was often celebrated. The call to avoid debauchery is a call to live a life of discipline and self-control, fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

II. Verse 20 > Works of The Flesh

A. Idolatry

It refers to the worship of false gods or the elevation of anything above God in one’s life. This was a common issue in the Greco-Roman world, where numerous deities were worshipped. The Old Testament frequently warns against idolatry (Exodus 20:3-5), and it is seen as a direct violation of the first commandment.

B. Sorcery involves the use of magic or witchcraft, often associated with pagan religious practices. In the ancient world, sorcery was linked to attempts to manipulate spiritual forces, which is condemned in passages like Deuteronomy 18:10-12.

Both idolatry and sorcery represent a turning away from reliance on God and are seen as works of the flesh that oppose the Spirit.

C. Hatred, Discord, Jealousy, and Rage

Hatred is a deep-seated animosity that can lead to further sin.
Discord refers to strife or conflict, often resulting from selfish ambition or pride.
Jealousy is the desire for what others have, which can lead to resentment and bitterness.
Rage is uncontrolled anger that can result in harm to others.

Table 1: Definitions > Works of The Flesh

Term	Explanations
Hatred (Echthrai)	A deep-seated animosity or “enmity.” In the Greek, it is plural, suggesting various ways that hostile hearts manifest. It is the opposite of agape (love). In the original Greek, eritheia referred to a “mercenary spirit”—doing work only for personal gain or political maneuvering.
Discord (Eris)	Refers to strife, contention, or “wrangling.” It is the outward expression of a heart that refuses to be at peace, often fueled by a competitive spirit. Literally “standing apart.” The WCG breakup is the perfect modern example of a dichostasia—a moment where a single body split into two or more.
Jealousy (Zelos)	A “burning” desire for what belongs to another. While it can be positive (zeal for God), in this context, it is a narrow-minded resentment of another’s success. This does not compete to do better but only to destroy.
Rage (Thumoi)	Uncontrolled outbursts of anger. The Greek term implies a sudden “boiling up” or “passionate heat” that quickly flares out of control.

A culture of jealousy doesn’t just stall growth—it actively sabotages your bottom line. True leadership identifies the ‘mercenary spirit’ before it turns into organizational destruction.”

Table 2: Explanation on Jealousy > Works of The Flesh

Term	Explanation
Jealousy (Zelos)	Unlike “emulation” (which seeks to equal a rival), this form of jealousy is a resentful “boil.” It is not motivated by self-improvement but by the bitterness felt toward another’s advantages or success.
Envy (Phthonoi)	Often paired with jealousy, this is the even darker stage. It is the pain felt at another’s good fortune—the desire not just to have what they have, but for them to lose it.

Table 3: Ancient and Contemporary Examples > Works of the Flesh

Concept	Ancient Historical Example	Contemporary Example
Destructive Jealousy	The Sanhedrin vs. The Apostles: Acts 5:17 notes the religious leaders were “filled with indignation (zelos).” They didn’t want to preach better; they wanted to silence and destroy the Apostles’ influence.	Corporate Sabotage: An employee who, instead of working harder to get a promotion, spreads rumors or withholds information to ensure a high-performing colleague fails.

History proves that Discord and Rage are never the root problems—they are the symptoms of unchecked Hatred and Jealousy in the foundation of a culture or company.”

Table 4: Satan’s Sins > Original Source of Works of the Flesh

Sin	Theological Depth in Ezekiel 28 & Isaiah 14
Pride (Ga’on)	The root cause. Ezekiel 28:17 says, “Your heart was lifted up because of your beauty.” He became so impressed with his own reflection that he forgot he was a created being, leading to the “I will” statements of Isaiah 14.
Envy (Qin’ah)	The resentment of God’s status. Envy is the “pain at another’s good.” Satan saw God’s position and felt that God’s “good fortune” (being the Most High) was something he deserved instead. It is a zero-sum game: for him to be up, God had to be down.
Jealousy (Zelos)	The protective and destructive desire for worship. While God has a “righteous jealousy” for His people, Satan’s jealousy was a destructive desire to seize the honor, glory, and throne that belonged exclusively to the Creator.

Table 5: Comparative Application of the Satan’s Fall

Scriptural Concept	Isaiah 14 (The “I Wills”)	Ezekiel 28 (The Defilement)
Self-Exaltation	“I will exalt my throne above the stars of God.”	“You have said, ‘I am a god, I sit in the seat of gods.'”
Envious Ambition	“I will be like the Most High.”	“By your wisdom and understanding you have gained riches… your heart is lifted up.”
Destructive Result	“You shall be brought down to Sheol, to the lowest depths of the Pit.”	“I cast you to the ground… I turned you to ashes upon the earth.”

In biblical teachings, pride is the “root,” while the works of the flesh are the “fruit.” Without pride, things like contentions, selfish ambitions, and factions could not exist.

The major sins of Satan are his pride and envy.

In the list of the “works of the flesh” in Galatians 5:19-21, the word “Pride” is not explicitly mentioned by name, but it is the unseen engine driving almost every item on the list. In biblical teachings, pride is the “root,” while the works of the flesh are the “fruit.”

Without pride, things like contentions, selfish ambitions, and factions could not exist.

Table 6: Ancient and Contemporary Examples

Concept	Ancient Historical Example	Contemporary Example
Hatred	The Samaritans and Jews: A multi-century animosity based on religious and ethnic differences, where they avoided even walking through each other’s territory.	Modern Ideological Polarization: Deep-seated animosity between political or social groups that leads to “dehumanizing” the opposition.
Discord	The Corinthian Church: Strife caused by members arguing over which leader they followed (Paul vs. Apollos), leading to constant bickering.	Workplace “Silo” Mentality: In a corporate setting, departments refusing to cooperate due to pride or internal competition.
Jealousy	Saul and David: King Saul’s resentment of David’s popularity and military success (“Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands”).	Social Media Envy: Resentment and bitterness triggered by seeing a peer’s “highlight reel”—success, lifestyle, or professional accolades.
Rage	Herod the Great: His uncontrolled “boiling” anger led to the massacre of the innocents in Bethlehem when he felt his power was threatened. He even killed his wife and children.	Road Rage or “Cancel Culture” Outbursts: Immediate, high-heat reactions intended to harm or “destroy” someone for a perceived slight.

These behaviors are contrary to the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, peace, and patience (Galatians 5:22-23). The New Testament frequently addresses these issues, urging believers to live in harmony and love one another (Romans 12:18, 1 John 4:20). These terms describe interpersonal sins that disrupt community and fellowship.

Rivalries, Divisions, Factions

Rivalries involve competition and contention, often driven by selfish ambition.
Divisions refer to splits or schisms within a community, which can weaken the body of Christ.
Factions are groups formed around differing opinions or beliefs, leading to disunity.
Such Things refer to similar things like 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Ephesians 5:5, Romans 13:13, Colossians 3:5-6.

Table 7: Definition of Terms

Term	Theological Depth
Rivalries (Eritheia)	“Selfish ambition.” In the original Greek, eritheia referred to a “mercenary spirit”—doing work only for personal gain or political maneuvering.
Divisions (Dichostasiai)	Literally “standing apart.” WCG breakup is the perfect modern example of a dichostasia—a moment where a single body split into two or more.
Factions (Haireseis)	This is the root of “heresy,” but in this context, it means a “sect” or a “chosen opinion.” The Samaritans, Pharisees, Sadducees and Qumran provides great historical examples

The early church faced challenges with divisions, as seen in 1 Corinthians 1:10-13, where Paul addresses the issue of believers aligning themselves with different leaders.

Unity is a central theme in the New Testament, with Jesus praying for the unity of His followers in John 17:21.

These works of the flesh are contrasted with the unity and peace that should characterize the church, as emphasized in Ephesians 4:3-4.

III. Verse 21

Table 8: Final Categories

Term	Explanations
Envy (Phthonoi)	Distinct from jealousy, envy is the “evil eye” that feels pain at another’s success. It doesn’t just want what you have; Envy wants you to lose it. It is a soul-withering resentment.
Drunkenness (Methai)	Refers to excessive intake of intoxicants. In the Greek world, this wasn’t just about the act, but the loss of self-control and the “befuddling” of the mind that God gave us to use for His glory.
Revelries (Kōmoi)	Originally referred to a “procession of drunkards” through the streets. It represents a lifestyle of “party spirit” or carousing where social pressure and hedonism override moral boundaries.
Such Things (Ta Homoia Toutois)	The “Expansion Clause.” It means “and things like these.” It turns the list from a limited set of rules into a broad principle, ensuring that any behavior with the same “spirit” is included.

Table 9: Comparative Application and “Stafa” Logic

NKJV, Greek	Practical / Historical Application	The “Stafa” (Catch-All) Connection
Envy, Phthonoi	The Jewish leaders’ reaction to Jesus’ miracles.	Deceitful resentment that hides under the guise of “fairness” or “piety.”
Drunkenness, Methai	Ancient Dionysian festivals and pagan worship.	Any form of addiction or “escapism” that causes a person to abandon their responsibilities. Noah cursed Canaan (Ham’s son) after getting drunk and being dishonored by Ham, declaring Canaan would be a “servant of servants.
Revelries, Kōmoi	Post-sacrifice street brawls and wild banqueting.	Modern “party-till-you-drop” culture and mob-mentality behaviors. John the Baptist was beheaded during revelries hosted by Herod Antipas.
Such Things / Homoia	The Universal Link: Connects Galatians to Col. 3:5 and Eph. 5:5.	The ultimate legal protection against “scams” or loopholes; if it looks like the flesh, it is the flesh. This is similar to stafa- a catch all term for all things done in deceit not recorded explicitly in law

Table 10: “Such Things”

Term / Phrase	Theology
“And such like” (Kai ta homoia toutois)	This phrase functions as a “catch-all” category. It indicates that the list in Galatians 5 is illustrative, not exhaustive. It closes the loophole for anyone claiming, “My specific sin isn’t on the list.”
Legal Logic	Paul uses this to show that God judges by the nature of the act, not just the label. If an action shares the same “DNA” as the works of the flesh (pride, deceit, or harm), it is included in the judgment.

Table 11: Application of “Catch-All” Scriptures > Works of the Flesh

Scripture Reference	The “Stafa” / Deceit Context	Practical Application
1 Corinthians 6:9-10	Lists “thieves, covetous, drunkards.”	Extends to any form of dishonest gain or “scamming” others for profit.
Ephesians 5:5	Links covetousness to idolatry.	Shows that “deceitful desire” for more is a spiritual replacement for God.
Romans 13:13	“Not in revelry and drunkenness… strife and envy.”	Focuses on the “social stafa”—living a double life of public virtue and private vice.
Colossians 3:5-6	“Evil desire and covetousness.”	Identifies the internal “stafa”—the hidden motives that lead to the “wrath of God.”

Modern examples of kómos include:

Night Clubs: Wild scenes involving alcohol, drugs, and casual sexual encounters.
Music Concerts: Festivals and raves characterized by drug use and lewd behavior.

The Nova Music Festival attack, which occurred on October 7, 2023, took place on the morning of the Jewish holiday Shemini Atzeret, also known as the “eighth day of assembly” (Leviticus 23:36) and is a distinct holiday that immediately follows the seven days of the Sukkot festival (Feast of Tabernacles).

The term “Last Great Day” is often used in a Christian biblical context to refer to this specific eighth day, based on the description in the Book of John (John 7:37).

Christ, our Lord and Saviour, observed Shemini Atzeret. Following the example of Christ, I have been observing Shemini Atzeret since I was about 18, and all the other holy days of Lev. 23, Matt. 5:17-19 and 28:20.

Remember The Nova Music Festival > Works of the Flesh

The attack resulted in the deaths of approximately 364 civilians and security personnel at the festival site, with dozens more taken hostage, making it the deadliest single incident during the broader October 7 Hamas-led attacks on Israel.
The “battle” or effort to reclaim the hostages taken from the Nova Festival on October 7, 2023, lasted for over two years for some individuals. The last living hostages kidnapped from the festival were released on October 13, 2025, as part of a ceasefire agreement, meaning they were held in captivity for approximately 738 days (just over two years). The body of the last Nova festival hostage was returned two days later, on October 15, 2025.

For those who lost their lives at the Nova Music Festival, death came like a thief in the night. It was a High Day—an annual Holy Day—a time set apart for the faithful to be in the synagogue or in quiet meditation at home before services. Instead, they were out in an open field. I doubt if these people knew the reasons for their troubles. I doubt it.

The Days of Noah- Dont take it For Granted

The scene was a modern reflection of the days of Noah (Matthew 24:37-39). We must meditate on the wisdom found in Ecclesiastes 9:12: “For man also does not know his time: Like fish taken in a cruel net, like birds caught in a snare, so the sons of men are snared in an evil time, when it falls suddenly upon them.”

Tragically, as the Prophet Hosea noted, people are destroyed for a lack of knowledge. When we cast off the protection of God’s Law and His Holy Days, we leave ourselves vulnerable to the snare.

Semestral Break: “Spring Break” parties known for binge drinking and promiscuity.
Uncontrolled House Parties: Where the goal is hard partying without moral restraint.
Mardi Gras/Carnival: Festivals that mix public drunkenness and debauchery.
Hookup Culture: Modern equivalents of sexual revelry.

“Envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” (Galatians 5:21)

The Nature of the Carnal Mind and the Path to Restoration

The Deception of the Natural Heart

The foundation of our struggle against the Works of the Flesh begins with an honest assessment of our internal state. The Prophet Jeremiah reveals the true condition of the human ego:

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9).

This “track record” of the human heart—its ideas, reasonings, and hidden motives, its inclination and mindset—is inherently dishonest. This internal corruption is what the Apostle Paul identifies as the “carnal mind,” noting its active hostility toward the Creator:

“Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be.” (Romans 8:7).

The word for “enmity” here is the Greek echthra, which is the singular form of echthrai (translated as “hatred” in the Galatians 5 list). It signifies a state of being an adversary or an enemy. Because the carnal mind inherently opposes God’s Law, it refuses to submit. This deep-seated rebellion explains why, at the return of Jesus Christ, the nations will be gathered in a final, futile attempt to fight Him to the death. And more than 200M and even billions will die fighting Christ, their Creator, (Revelation 9:16; 20:8).

The natural mind of man, his mindset, thought, purpose, inclination are opposed to God.

The Necessity of Proper Repentance > Works of The Flesh

The natural man, remaining in this state of enmity, cannot receive the Holy Spirit of God without the intervention of God’s kindness, which leads to proper repentance and baptism. Proper repentance is not merely a feeling of regret; it is a profound change of heart followed by a definitive change in action.

1. A Heartfelt Turning (Not Outward Show)

True repentance begins internally. We are commanded to move beyond ceremonial or superficial displays of sorrow.

“Now, therefore,” says the Lord, “Turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.” So rend your heart, and not your garments; return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness; and He relents from doing harm.” (Joel 2:12-13).

2. Godly Sorrow vs. Worldly Regret

The motivation for repentance deter5mines its outcome. Repentance driven by the Holy Spirit leads to life.

“For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.” (2 Corinthians 7:10).

3. Demonstrative Action

Repentance is only validated when it results in a visible shift in behavior—a direct contrast to the Works of the Flesh.

“…that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance.” (Acts 26:20).

4. Confession and Cleansing

Acknowledging the specific “stafa” or deceit of our own hearts is the prerequisite for divine restoration.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9).

5. Godly Renewal

Ultimately, we cannot fix our own carnal nature. We must petition God for a new spirit.

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10).

Key Aspects of Proper Repentance > Works of The Flesh

Aspect	Scriptural Evidence
Heartfelt Sorrow	Not just outward show (Joel 2:13, Psalm 51:17).
Change of Direction	Turning away from sin and toward God (Acts 26:20).
Confession	Acknowledging sin to seek God’s forgiveness (1 John 1:9).
Action	Demonstrating change through new behaviors (Acts 26:20).
Focus on God	Repenting because God is merciful and gracious (Joel 2:13).

Part 1: FAQ > Works of the Flesh

What is the main difference between the 17 NKJV and 15 Greek “Works of the Flesh”? The difference is primarily manuscript-based. The NKJV (based on the Textus Receptus) includes “Adultery” and “Murders” as distinct items. Modern Greek texts often omit these or group them under “Fornication” (Porneia), as the earliest manuscripts suggest the list was intended as a representative category rather than an exhaustive legal code.
Why is Pride considered the “Mother of all Sins” if it isn’t in the Galatians list? Pride is the internal engine. Scripture shows it was the original sin of Satan (Ezekiel 28:17). In Galatians 5, Pride manifests as “Selfish Ambitions” and “Dissensions.” Without the “I” of Pride, the outward Works of the Flesh have no root to grow from.
What does “Such Things” mean at the end of Galatians 5:21? In Greek (Ta Homoia Toutois), this is a “catch-all” or “savings clause.” It ensures that any behavior sharing the same corrupt “DNA” as the listed sins—even if not explicitly named—carries the same spiritual consequences.

Part 2 FAQ >Works of The Flesh

How does “Jealousy” differ from “Envy” in a professional context? Jealousy (Zelos) is the resentful “boil” of seeing someone else’s success and wanting to destroy it. Envy (Phthonoi) is even darker—it is the pain felt at another’s good fortune. In business, this leads to corporate sabotage rather than healthy competition.
What is the link between “Sorcery” and modern business ethics? The Greek word for sorcery is Pharmakeia, which involves manipulation and the use of “spells” or drugs to bypass reality. In a modern sense, it relates to any deceitful manipulation of truth or people to achieve a selfish end.
Can a person stop these behaviors through willpower alone? No. Romans 8:7 states the carnal mind is “enmity against God” and cannot be subject to His Law. Transformation requires proper repentance—a total change of mind—and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit to replace the Works of the Flesh with the Fruit of the Spirit.
Why is the Nova Music Festival cited as a modern example of “Revelries”? The festival is a tragic example of Kōmoi (revelry)—a scene of uncontrolled indulgence that left participants vulnerable on Shemini Atzeret, The Last Great, Lev. 23:36, John 7:37, a High Day for the Jews. It serves as a somber reminder of Ecclesiastes 9:12, illustrating how casting off the protection of God’s Law can leave one ensnared in an “evil time.”

The Decision Is Yours: Will You Build on Sand or Rock?

If your leadership culture is currently defined by Rivalries, Discord, or Selfish Ambition, you are operating on a foundation of “Estafa” and deceit that will eventually collapse. Don’t let your Church be destroyed by a “lack of knowledge.” You need a message that establishes Authority, Credibility, and Clear Specific Benefits—one that triggers action through truth.

Stop managing the symptoms and start addressing the root. Where ever you are in the world but you are looking for Bible clarity, you just contact me. I will answer you.

[Contact Me Today for a Strategy Consultation] Let’s transform your message from a work of the flesh into a fruit of excellence.