As you study Paul’s epistles in the New Testament, you will find that he frequently made lists. The contrast between the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:19-23 is an example of such a list. Romans 1:20-32 contains a list of progressive sins committed by those who depart from God. Paul reminded the Corinthians that some of them had been fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, homosexuals, sodomites, thieves, covetous, drunkards, revilers, and extortioners, but they had been washed, sanctified, and justified (1 Cor. 6:9-11).

The armor of God is listed in Ephesians 6:14-17. Things to meditate on are listed in Philippians 4:8. The vices of the “old man” to “put off” are listed in Colossians 3:5-9, while the virtues of the “new man” to “put on” are listed in verses 12-14. Activities that are contrary to sound doctrine are listed in 1 Timothy 1:9-11. 

The list of Paul’s lists could go on.

Why did the Holy Spirit lead Paul to make these lists in his writings? Some would prefer to live in a world of vague generalities and grey areas. They will acknowledge there is a difference between right and wrong, but they don’t want to be specific about such things.

God’s word does set forth principles of righteousness and ungodliness, and we are to understand these and conduct ourselves accordingly. However, God goes even further and draws clear lines identifying exactly what behaviors constitute righteousness and ungodliness. These lists are in the Bible for a reason. They are for our benefit, removing all doubt, so we can know what God expects of us. Let’s pay attention to them.