Ephesians 5:5
“For this you know with certainty, that no sexually immoral or impure or greedy person, which amounts to an idolater, has an inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.”
Our last entry in Ephesians was about not having filthy speech among us. We addressed how our new nature is a godly one. Filthy speech grieves us. However, the ungodly naturally are fluent in that language. Today's verse speaks of the destiny of the ungodly. It's not with God or the saints.
So as not to be confusing, christians still sin. All of the ungodly traits are those believers can still struggle with. The difference is that the believer feels horrible about the sin and repentance and reconciliation is done.
The difference with the unbeliever is that this is their lifestyle. They are living in sexual immorality, impurity, greed and idolatry. There may be some guilt, but usually it's their mo.
Sexual immorality is that which is outside of the biblical context. There is much of that today, as there was in most civilizations all throughout history. Impurity is that which is unholy. Holiness is of God. Pride, meanness, unkindness, selfishness and others can be seen as impure. Greed is the accumulation of money and things to one's self. It's ok to want things, but when it involves the neglect of God and others, it's out of balance. Put that want on the altar, being willing to sacrifice it to God. This might mean not getting it or putting off when to get it. Lastly, idolatry is mentioned. This is the putting of anything in front of God. One can have a full life and still serve God. Those things must always be able to be cut out or moderated. This is submitting it to Christ's lordship.
The christian has freedom. While we are working or playing we are serving God. Just as Adam and Eve worked most days and enjoyed each other, they communed with God; so do we.
Some may say, "You have no freedom." They don't know that, "Whoever commits sin is the slave of sin", (John 8:34). By saying, "no", to some things gives us freedom over them.
We are to pray for those mentioned. God is reaching out to them. Some will come, others will not. Lord, use us to reach them. Give us courage and the words.