2024-09-01 S*X AND THE GOSPEL

Embracing Sexual Purity in a Highly Sexualized Culture

You might wonder why we need to talk about sexual purity in today's world. The truth is, our culture is saturated with messages that often contradict God's design for sexuality. If you're like most people, you've probably faced temptations and challenges in this area. But here's the good news: Jesus offers a way out and a path to purity. Let's dive into what the Bible says about sexual purity and how you can live it out in your daily life.

Understanding God's Will for Sexual Purity

The main point of our sermon is clear: God calls us to live in sexual purity. This isn't just a set of rules to follow; it's about aligning our lives with God's will for our sanctification. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, Paul writes, "For this is God's will, your sanctification: that you keep away from sexual immorality, that each of you knows how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not with lustful passions like the Gentiles who don't know God."

Why is this important? Because living a life of sexual purity is a testament to our relationship with God. It shows that we know Him and love Him. It's also a way to protect ourselves and others from the destructive consequences of sexual sin.

The Means to Achieve Sexual Purity

So, how do we achieve sexual purity in a world that constantly tempts us? The key lies in self-control, a fruit of the Spirit that God has already given us. Here are some practical steps to help you develop self-control and live a life of sexual purity:

1. Know God Personally: The first step is to have a real relationship with God through Jesus Christ. If you don't know God, it's impossible to live a life that pleases Him. But when you accept Jesus as your Savior, the Holy Spirit comes into your life and empowers you to overcome temptation.

2. Practice Self-Control Daily: Self-control isn't something that happens overnight. It's a daily practice. Just like the children in the marshmallow experiment who learned to wait for a greater reward, you can learn to control your impulses by relying on God's strength.

3. Flee from Temptation: The Bible tells us to flee from sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18). This means avoiding situations where you know you'll be tempted. Whether it's certain websites, social media, or even specific relationships, take proactive steps to protect yourself.

4. Seek Accountability: Find a trusted friend or mentor who can hold you accountable. Sometimes, just knowing that someone else is aware of your struggles can make a big difference.

Why Should You Care?

You might be wondering, "What's in it for me?" Living a life of sexual purity isn't just about following rules; it's about experiencing the fullness of life that God intends for you. When you align your life with God's will, you experience peace, joy, and freedom from the shame and regret that often accompany sexual sin.

Taking the Next Step

So, what can you do this week to start living a life of sexual purity? Here are some concrete steps:

• Spend Time in Prayer and Bible Study: Make it a priority to spend time with God each day. Ask Him to help you develop self-control and to show you areas where you need to make changes.
• Set Boundaries: Identify areas in your life where you're most tempted and set clear boundaries. This might mean limiting your screen time, avoiding certain places, or ending unhealthy relationships.
• Join a Small Group: Surround yourself with other believers who can support and encourage you. A small group can provide the accountability and community you need to stay strong.

Conclusion

The point is, Jesus wants your whole heart. What will you do this week to give it to Him? Remember, living a life of sexual purity is a marathon, not a sprint. It's about making daily choices that honor God and reflect His love to the world around you.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your love and for calling us to live in holiness. Help us to develop self-control and to flee from sexual immorality. Give us the strength to make choices that honor You and reflect Your love to those around us. In Jesus' name, Amen.

When Your Plans Are Put on Hold: Finding God's Purpose in Delays

Title: When Your Plans Are Put on Hold: Finding God's Purpose in Delays

You’ve probably wondered why your plans sometimes don’t work out. Maybe you’ve felt the frustration of having your dreams put on hold. If you’re like me, you’ve experienced the disappointment of seeing your carefully laid plans fall apart. But what if these delays are part of God’s greater plan for your life?

In a recent sermon, we explored the idea that our plans, especially those we believe are God-centered, can often face opposition and obstacles. But these challenges are not the end of the story. They can be opportunities in disguise, leading us to grow in faith and trust in God’s timing.

Facing Opposition and Obstacles

Every Christian will face opposition. The Apostle Paul experienced this firsthand. In 1 Thessalonians 2:17-18, Paul writes about his deep desire to visit the Thessalonian believers but acknowledges that “Satan hindered us.” Paul’s plans were put on hold, not because he lacked faith, but because he faced real spiritual opposition.

Opposition often produces obstacles. For Paul, these obstacles included distance, time, and a lack of personnel. He was physically separated from the Thessalonians, worried about their faith, and had limited resources to support them. Yet, Paul didn’t let these obstacles stop him. Instead, he saw them as opportunities to focus on what mattered most.

Turning Obstacles into Opportunities

Paul’s response to these obstacles offers us a blueprint for our own lives. Here are three ways Paul turned his obstacles into opportunities:

1. Focus on What Matters Most: Paul used his time apart from the Thessalonians to pray for them and encourage them through letters. He reminded them that their faith and love were his “hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming” (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20). When your plans are put on hold, take the time to refocus on your relationship with God and the people He has placed in your life.

2. Recruit Others to Help: Paul couldn’t be with the Thessalonians, so he sent Timothy to support and encourage them. Timothy was a young believer, but Paul saw his potential and invested in him. Who can you recruit to help you achieve your God-centered goals? Investing in others not only helps you but also builds up the body of Christ.

3. Seek God’s Guidance Through Prayer: Paul prayed earnestly for the Thessalonians, asking God to “direct our way to you” and to “make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all” (1 Thessalonians 3:11-12). When faced with obstacles, turn to prayer. Seek God’s guidance and trust that He is working all things for your good.

Conclusion

The point is, Jesus wants your whole heart, even when your plans are put on hold. What will you do this week to trust Him more? Will you refocus on what matters most, invest in others, and seek God’s guidance through prayer? Remember, opposition and obstacles are inevitable, but letting them take you out of the race is optional.

Prayer

Father, thank You for the reminder that our plans are in Your hands. Help us to trust You when our plans are put on hold. Give us the wisdom to see obstacles as opportunities to grow in faith and to invest in others. Guide us through prayer and strengthen our hearts to follow Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.