What is concupiscence?
Is it a sin? Colossians 3:5 “Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:” King James Version (KJV)
Colossians 3:5
ESV - 5 Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.
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Asked September 26 2021
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Jack Gutknecht
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Tim Maas
The Greek words in question (anglicized as "kaken epithymian") are most commonly translated in English as "evil desire", The phrase refers to unrestrained passion or lust, either toward material objects or desires of a sexual nature (to be distiniguished from covetousness, which would apply to the possessions of others), I would say that, by the characterization of the desire as "evil", the implication would be that it would be possible to have a degree of desire toward a thing (such as wealth) or a person that does not cross over into the realm of sin (greed or lust). It would be when the desire or its fulfillment would become a higher priority for the individual than the person's service or obedience to God that it would be judged as evil.
Shirley H
While we live on earth we are in a constant battle between the natural desires of the flesh and the spiritual yearnings of our souls. Romans 7:14 - 20 explains this perfectly. We are carnal because we are born in a sinful state. Galatians 5:24, "And they that are in Christ have crucified the flesh with the afflictions and lusts, as we have been liberated by Christ and freed from the bondage of our desires." Galatians 5:13 - now our desire is to please God and to honor Christ, by showing love to others and serving others. We care for others and help whenever we can. We walk with the Holy Spirit. We look outside our self indulgence. Our concern is giving to our brothers and sisters.
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