16 These are murmurers and complainers, walking after their lusts (and their mouth speaks proud things), showing respect of persons to gain advantage.
These false converts to Christ who are teaching false doctrine are never satisfied but are always seeking to have more. No wonder, only through Jesus Christ can a person be fulfilled and have true peace.
People without the Holy Spirit live only to feed their sinful cravings from a twisted imagination.
“their mouths utter arrogant words, flattering people for their own advantage.” The core of their thinking is pride, and they pretend to show others some good qualities [a mirage] for the intention of using it for their own advantage, revealing their true intent.
Spiritual Minefield 