Galatians 5:20 (KJV)

What does Galatians 5:20 mean?

Galatians 5:20 lists several behaviors and attitudes—such as idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, and divisions—that Paul describes as “works of the flesh,” meaning actions that go against the way God wants people to live. Paul is warning the Galatian Christians that these things are not compatible with a life led by the Spirit.

Paul, writing to believers in the region of Galatia, is in the middle of contrasting two ways of living: following selfish desires versus following God’s Spirit. This verse is part of a longer list where Paul names specific actions and attitudes that were common in the ancient world and still cause harm in relationships and communities. Paul’s goal is to help his readers recognize these destructive patterns so they can avoid them.

The Greek behind Galatians 5:20

• ἰδολολατρία (eidololatria, “idolatry”): This word refers to the worship of idols or anything put in the place of God. Paul includes it to show that loyalty to anything above God leads people away from true faith.
• φαρμακεία (pharmakeia, “witchcraft”): This word originally referred to the use of drugs or potions, but by Paul’s time, it often meant sorcery or occult practices. The focus is on seeking supernatural power apart from God.
• ἔχθρα (echthra, “hatred”): This word means deep-seated hostility or enmity. Paul highlights it as a root of broken relationships.
• ἔρις (eris, “strife”): This word points to ongoing conflict, arguing, or rivalry. Paul warns that such attitudes tear communities apart.
• διχοστασία (dichostasia, “seditions”): This word means divisions or dissensions, especially those that split groups or churches. Paul is concerned about anything that destroys unity.
• αἱρέσεις (haireseis, “heresies”): In this context, it means factions or divisions, not just false teachings. Paul is addressing the danger of people splitting into hostile groups.

Why Galatians 5:20 matters

• Galatians 5:20 helps clear up that Paul is not just talking about obvious “sins,” but also about attitudes and behaviors—like jealousy, anger, and division—that can quietly damage relationships and communities.
• The verse shows that Paul is concerned with both personal actions and the health of the whole community, emphasizing that following the Spirit changes how people treat each other.
• By listing these specific “works of the flesh,” Paul sets up a sharp contrast with the “fruit of the Spirit” that he describes in the next verses, making it clear what kind of life he believes God calls people to live.