Jesus was radical. There is a belief in the world that Jesus died to set us free. That is Truth. Jesus said the Truth will set you free! (John 8:32). Therefore, this Truth sets us free from the bondages of sin. However, Satan has put a twist on this in the world. Moreover, people believe they can freely sin because Jesus has set us free to do what we want. They believe that freedom gives them the choice to sin, if they choose. That is a deception of Satan
Jesus’ radical message to the world was the path to the kingdom is narrow (Mathew 7:13 -14, Luke 13:23 – 24). For this blows up Satan’s deception to have the freedom to willfully and knowingly sin. Then ask for God’s forgiveness to make it right. Further, Jesus radical thinking was if you love your mother, father, children more than me you have no place in the Kingdom(Mathew 10:37).
Works of the Flesh contradict the Fruit of the Spirit. Works of the Flesh is of Satan. Works of the Spirit is of God. Yes, we do have a choice. God does not force us to serve Him. We can easily ignore his direction and promptings to us. Both have consequences. Works of the Flesh leads to eternal damnation. Fruit of the Spirit leads to eternal life. We choose.
Galatians 5: 19 – 23 expounds on the Works of the Flesh. They are human, sinful actions such as hatred, immorality, discord, rage, etc., that invite wretchedness. Oftentimes, it is full of worldly pleasures, selfishness, pride, and lives far from God.
The Holy Spirit is our helper with the Fruit of the Spirit. It leads and guides us in the ways of God. The Works of the Flesh arise out of our pride. We think we know better than God. We become little gods unto ourselves. Contrary, it leads to our destruction and demise which is what Satan is all about (John 10:10).
None of us is perfect. We all sin. The difference with Works of the Flesh is practicing these sins in your life. Is it your lifestyle? It is how you operate and live your life. Undoubtedly, these things are not of God. Jesus said there is no place in the Kingdom for such living. Unfortunately, what is sad is Satan has deceived so many thinking the Works of the Flesh is a fine way to live as long as I ask for forgiveness. Asking for forgiveness and not practicing these behaviors are different. Radical Jesus says, if you LOVE me you will obey me (John 14:15). Practicing sin is not loving God. Amen. Love & Blessings!