Purify Your Mind Series (Part 3) by Joe KirbyNäide

Don’t Be Deceived

"For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience." (Ephesians 5:5–6)

I remember doing a set of classes on purity with some men who were a little younger than I. When we read this Scripture together, one young man who always spoke his mind blurted out, “I had no idea this verse existed.”

It doesn’t get much plainer than this. Those who haven’t repented of sexual sin will not have an inheritance with Christ, but can only expect the wrath of God. The wrath of God is not heaven, so we can conclude that this verse means it isn’t just a case of losing a reward in heaven; those who live a totally impure life will go to hell.

I remember reading this verse for the first time and trying to find a different interpretation that would take the edge off what it says. I was guilty, and like the other young man, I couldn’t believe my eyes. But the preceding line erases any opportunity for misunderstanding: “Let no one deceive you with empty words.” Beware of flatterers. Many today will tell you what you want to hear so that they might exploit you for personal gain. But there is a day when mercy is cut off. I plead with you not to keep kicking sand in the face of God. Everyone around you may use the blood of Christ as a license for sin, but you’re different. Don’t be deceived by others. Ongoing rebellion against the living God is very serious.