a.
Put off. Let us
first consider some things that will help renew
our minds so that our perspective about sexual sin is in agreement with God’s
Word.
o
Rom. 1:28-32: Sexual sin characterizes the world
system. We also see how, apart from
Christ, the tendency is to move from uncleanness
(v24-25) to homosexual relationships (v26-27, fornication) to generally being
filled with all unrighteousness (v28-32, lewdness).
o
Gal. 5:20: Sexual sin is a work of the flesh. This is
the reason Amnon confused lust (his feelings for his sister) with love.
o
1 Cor. 6:12-20: This points out the world’s
approach to sex: it’s a drive, like
hunger. If we feel sexually hungry it’s
okay to satisfy the urge.
o
Prov. 5:1-14,21-23 contains several insights. Sexual sin trades immediate sweetness with
long term bitterness (v3-5). A partner
who will engage in sexual sin in unstable; they will do it with others (v6). You will be shamed, losing all honor,
self-respect and the respect of others (v9-14).
You will be ruined (v14). You may
think it is a secret but it is not (v21).
It will bring you into bondage, requiring more and more to be satisfied
(v22). It brings death (even if you
live, v23).
b.
Put on. We have
talked about the need to flee lustful situations. Here are more principles from Scripture to
help us put on Christ.
o
Gal. 5:22-23: Again, we must be filled with the
Spirit so He produces His fruit. True
love, joy, self-control are essential in this area.
o
Matt. 5:27-30: We need to understand that lust is sexual immorality. Jesus
taught this.
o
1 Thess. 4:3-8: This is a powerful passage. Sanctification IS God’s will. An important help is found in the phrase possess your vessel in sanctification and
honor. This has two possible
meanings: that the vessel refers to your body or to your wife (1 Pet.
3:7). Either we are told to look after
our own feelings and to discipline ourselves.
Or we are told to work to maintain a satisfying marriage.
o
1 Cor. 7:1-9: This great marriage chapter reminds us that the physical relationship in
marriage is both a duty and a pleasure. A
satisfying marriage helps prevent fornication.
Paul encourages being single but he understands as well that many cannot
live with the pressure of sexual temptation that can accompany being single.
o
Prov. 5:15-20: Again, the encouragement is to be
satisfied with one’s wife. Satisfaction is not selfishness. It is what God
intends for those who fear Him. We
should understand that God, in condemning sex outside marriage, has not
hindered a satisfying life but has provided for it!
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