I Know What That Means . . . I think (Part 1)

Note: I've read this and read this. I apologize in advance if it sounds condescending. I absolutely did NOT mean it that way. But if it helps even one person, who didn't know what a word meant, then I'm happy I wrote this.


The English language is an amazing thing. Words have meanings and we use those words to express thoughts, emotions, ideas.

It can get kind of confusing, though, if you don't know what words mean. And some of the words in the Bible, especially in some of the older versions, are not words we use today. Its easy to read a verse and say, ok, I'm good there, never done that. But if we really don't know what the listed sins are, we may be sinning and not realize it.

I want to share some definitions with you. Some things you know, from scripture, are wrong. But maybe you don't know what these things actually are.

So, here goes.

Let's start with some of the sins listed in Galatians 5.

Adultery - this one may not be as misunderstood as some others. Adultery is voluntary sexual activity between a married person and someone other than his or her lawful spouse. And the Bible calls it a sin.

Fornication is voluntary sexual activity between a married person and someone other than his or her lawful spouse. In other words, fornication is any sexual activity outside of marriage. And that includes sexual activity between two people who are not married or who may be engaged. Engaged is not married. And the Bible calls it a sin.

Uncleanness means morally impure, evil or vile.

Lasciviousness. Now that's a word we use in everyday language, right? Not! But it is sinful so. . . lasciviousness means arousing sexual desire, or indicating sexual interest or expressive of lust or lewdness. Examples? Pornography, suggestive jokes, stories or movies. Attire can be lascivious, as well. Clothing that is too tight, or that draws attention to certain body parts is lascivious. And the Bible calls it a sin.

That's enough for today. I'll be following up with more definitions in a later blog.

Now, I have a question for you all. If you don't mind, shoot me a quick email and let me know - was this helpful? Were these words you have heard a lot before but maybe didn't really understand? Or am I "preaching to the choir," so to speak?