I would say it is clear that those who do such things have not truly been set free from sin, but I also believe a lot of people who claim to be Christian are only so in title, not truly being born again of the Holy Spirit.
I believe similar about people who do not show the fruits of the Spirit.
I agree a lot of people haven't walked in the reality of being set free of sin. But also a lot of people haven't been set free to love. And through love we exhibit all the fruits of the Spirit of God. And live out 1 Co 13.
Especially since Jesus said by their fruit you will know them.
The problem with only a focus on sin, is it completely misses the mark of why sin is wrong. And what sin should now be replaced by, and it's not attacking people and self-righteousness. It's actually to be replaced by love, kindness, gentleness, patience, just to name a few of the fruit we are to bear for our Lord.
John 13:35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
James 1:26If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.
27Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself
unstained from the world.
Yes we keep ourselves unstained from the world, but we do this by loving people. Especially those who are afflicted according to James. He even goes so far to say that if you think you're religious, but your tongue betrays you, you are deceiving your heart and your religion is worthless.
When I read this Scripture, I think to myself, avoiding sin is good, preaching against sin is good, but it's worthless if it doesn't lead to me loving people and speaking lovingly to people. I believe this is the fruit Jesus was referring to when He said by their fruit you shall know them.
What does James consider wickedness?
1 James 1:
19Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; 20for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. 21Therefore put away
all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with
meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
