Paul’s letter to the church at Corinth was a call to morality. Let’s examine I Corinthians 6:9-11.

First, consider the pollution of sin. Fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, effeminate, abusers of themselves with mankind – the homosexuals, thieves, covetous, drunkards, revilers, extortioners. When a place is heavily polluted, it cannot support life. Likewise, those who dwell in the pollution of sin cannot expect to have eternal life.

Second, consider the punishment that awaits those who persist in their sin. The unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God (regardless of family background, family ties to the church, membership in local congregation, etc.). These persons will spend eternity in a place of everlasting punishment (Matthew 25:31-46); a lake of fire (Revelation 20:14-15); where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 8:12); without hope (Luke 16:26); where the fire is not quenched (Mark 9:47-48); a place prepared for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41). Third, consider the purifying made possible by Jesus’ blood. Notice Paul’s use of the past tense – such were some of you. Ye are washed. Ye are sanctified. Ye are justified. Friends, the gospel has the power to change people