In his sermon, Pastor Matt talked about how genuine intimacy (or its absence) impacts the experience of sex.
Sex without intimacy is shallow; however sex that is energized by relational closeness (in the context of marriage) demonstrates the depth and satisfaction that God intended.
MY STORY | Starting Place
Describe the most intimate relationship you’ve ever experienced (that never had any sexual component).
DIGGING DEEPER | Practical Biblical Application
Now Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain, saying, “I have gotten a man with the help of the Lord.” (Genesis 4:1)
Why does no one question the morality of physical intimacy between a man and a woman in the context of a monogamous marriage?
In what sense is this the only type of “safe sex”? What can of worms gets opened when you step out of this “safety zone”?
Why is the act of “cheating” (adultery) considered to be universally immoral across cultures, and during any period of human history?
Why is this particular type of broken promise so devastating to the one who is betrayed? Why is this true if, as the world tells us, “sex is no big deal”?
GROWING TOGETHER | Spiritual Friendship
There can be no intimacy without vulnerability. However, past experiences of getting burned in this area of life can impact how open we become—even with trustworthy people.
Aware that his disciples were grumbling about this, Jesus said to them, Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts. (Psalm 139:23)
What is the relationship between vulnerability and intimacy?
React to the following statement: “Every relationship has its healthiest level of vulnerability.”
Jesus, on his part, did not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people and needed no one to bear witness about man, for he himself knew what was in man. (John 2:24-25)
Why did Jesus refuse to make himself too vulnerable to some people? What factors go into how vulnerable you will be with someone?
What affects levels of vulnerability in a marriage?
How do you earn, increase, or rebuild, trust in marriage?
MOVING OUTWARD | Faith in Action
If you’re married, take a hard look at how the levels of sexual satisfaction in your marriage are affected by the depth of intimacy between you. If there’s room for improvement, start moving in that direction.
If you’re single, what would it look like to have a close, intimate, even covenantal relationship with someone that had no sexual component?
Message Notes
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