Why is it important to identify and reject "sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery"? Setting the Stage “The works of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery;” (Galatians 5:19) Defining the Three Terms • Sexual immorality (porneia): any sexual activity outside God-ordained marriage • Impurity (akatharsia): thoughts, fantasies, or habits that stain the heart and mind • Debauchery (aselgeia): shameless, unchecked sensuality that celebrates sin Why Identification Matters • God names these sins so we can spot them quickly—before they harden into habits. • What we tolerate inwardly soon shows up outwardly (Mark 7:21-23). • Clear diagnosis leads to clear repentance; vagueness breeds compromise. The Call to Reject Them • 1 Corinthians 6:18-20—“Flee from sexual immorality… you are not your own; you were bought at a price.” • Ephesians 5:3—“There must not be even a hint of sexual immorality or any kind of impurity…” • Colossians 3:5-6—“Put to death… sexual immorality, impurity… Because of these, the wrath of God is coming.” Consequences of Tolerating These Sins • Personal ruin: they war against the soul (1 Peter 2:11). • Relational damage: trust erodes, families fracture. • Spiritual dullness: they grieve the Holy Spirit and choke fruitfulness. • Eternal danger: “God will judge the sexually immoral” (Hebrews 13:4); “their place will be in the lake that burns” (Revelation 21:8). God’s Better Way: Walking by the Spirit • Galatians 5:16—“Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” • Fruit replaces filth: love, joy, peace, purity. • Freedom replaces bondage: sin’s chains break when the Spirit fills. Practical Steps to Identify and Reject 1. Daily Scripture intake—light exposes darkness (Psalm 119:11). 2. Vigilant thought life—take every thought captive (2 Corinthians 10:5). 3. Healthy boundaries—guard eyes, ears, clicks, conversations. 4. Transparent fellowship—confess and pray with trustworthy believers (James 5:16). 5. Purposeful pursuit of holiness—“Be holy, because I am holy” (1 Peter 1:15-16). 6. Quick repentance—when conviction comes, turn immediately. Encouragement from the Gospel • Grace is greater than past failure: “Such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified…” (1 Corinthians 6:11). • Christ’s purchase secures new identity—no longer slaves but sons and daughters. • The Spirit empowers ongoing victory—what God commands, He supplies strength to perform. |
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