Pastor Chris talked about how sexual purity was more than an action, but, at much deeper levels, an issue of the heart.
You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell. (Matthew 5:27-30)
MY STORY
At what point (in a person's mind) does looking at an attractive person move from admiration to lust?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO HEAR?
What did Jesus mean by "lustful intent"?
Why does he put cultivating thoughts about inappropriate sexual behavior on the same level with with actually participating in inappropriate sexual behavior?
Is there a deeper spiritual danger here than just the old adage, "thoughts lead to actions"? Explain.
What does God want us to hear? Based on the passage and the questions above, what "takeaways" do you think God has revealed to you?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO DO?
Pastor Chris often says that behind every expression of an unhealthy desire is a God-instilled longing that can expressed in ways that the Lord intended, and is helpful and building up for others. Specifically, he listed the Seven Core Thirsts defined by Michael John Cusick: attention, affection, affirmation, acceptance, satisfaction, significance and security.
For which healthy, God-honoring longing is the cultivating of lustful thoughts a harmful expression?
What decisions can we make ahead of time when it comes to encountering images or messages that are intended to seduce us, either in thought or actions?
What does God want us to do? Flowing out of our reading and interpretation, what action does this passage or the Spirit's leading, call us to?
WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?
Determine ahead of time what you will do when you encounter a dark opportunity that is sexually alluring or tempting. (For example, remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible).
What are some practical things you can do to prevent setting yourself up for encounters like these?
If you have succumbed to these temptations, tell a trusted friend about what happened, and talk about the best way to move forward.
You might also consider taking a brave step and attend a Celebrate Recovery session (on Monday nights at the Crossroads Community Center)
What does God want ME to do? What is the personal application and action step God is calling you, personally, toward?
Message Notes
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