How does Jude 1:7 warn against sexual immorality and unnatural desires today? Jude 1:7—The Text “Likewise, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns, as they indulged in sexual immorality and pursued strange flesh, are on display as an example, undergoing the punishment of eternal fire.” Why This Ancient Episode Still Speaks • Jude treats Genesis 19 as literal history, showing that God’s past judgment stands as a living warning for every generation. • The phrase “are on display” means the ruins of those cities continue to testify that unchecked sexual rebellion invites divine judgment. • “Eternal fire” points to final condemnation, reminding readers that temporal pleasures can carry everlasting consequences. Three Specific Warnings Embedded in the Verse • Indulging in sexual immorality—any sexual activity outside the covenant of one man and one woman in marriage. • Pursuing “strange flesh”—seeking experiences that deviate from God-ordained design (unnatural, same-sex, or otherwise perverse acts). • Ignoring the example—treating God’s past judgments as folklore rather than factual proof of His holiness. Scriptures Reinforcing Jude’s Warning • Genesis 19:24-25—God “rained down sulfur and fire” on Sodom and Gomorrah. • Leviticus 18:22—“You must not lie with a man as with a woman; that is an abomination.” • Romans 1:26-27—Exchange of natural relations for unnatural ones brings within itself “the due penalty for their error.” • 1 Corinthians 6:9-10—Those practicing sexual immorality or homosexuality “will not inherit the kingdom of God.” • 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5—“For this is the will of God: your sanctification; that you abstain from sexual immorality.” • Hebrews 13:4—“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers.” Practical Application for Believers Today • Guard your mind: reject entertainment and online content that normalize sexual sin. • Honor marriage: uphold biblical marriage publicly and privately, cultivating faithfulness and purity. • Seek accountability: trusted believers help resist temptation before it gains a foothold. • Extend compassion without compromise: love people trapped in sexual sin while clearly upholding God’s standard. • Rest in grace yet pursue holiness: salvation is a gift, but genuine faith produces a lifestyle that turns from what Jude condemns. Encouragement to Walk in Purity The same Lord who judged Sodom now offers power to live differently (2 Peter 2:9). Holding fast to Christ and His Word keeps hearts clean, testimonies bright, and futures secure. |
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