Topical Bible: Character of the Unrenewed Heart: Elated by Sensual Indulgence

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◄ Character of the Unrenewed Heart: Elated by Sensual Indulgence ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The unrenewed heart, as depicted in Scripture, is often characterized by a pursuit of sensual indulgence, seeking fulfillment and elation in the pleasures of the flesh. This condition is marked by a focus on temporal satisfaction rather than eternal values, leading to a life that is contrary to the will and purpose of God.

Biblical Descriptions and Warnings

The Bible provides numerous insights into the nature of the unrenewed heart, particularly its inclination towards sensual indulgence. In Ephesians 4:18-19 , Paul describes those with hardened hearts as "darkened in their understanding and alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardness of their hearts. Having lost all sense of shame, they have given themselves over to sensuality for the practice of every kind of impurity, with a craving for more." This passage highlights the spiritual blindness and moral insensitivity that accompany a life driven by sensual desires.

In Galatians 5:19-21 , the "acts of the flesh" are enumerated, including "sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery," which are manifestations of a heart unyielded to the Spirit of God. These acts are contrasted with the fruit of the Spirit, underscoring the transformation that occurs when one turns away from fleshly desires.

Consequences of Sensual Indulgence

The pursuit of sensual pleasure often leads to destructive outcomes, both spiritually and physically. Proverbs 5:3-5 warns of the seductive nature of such indulgence: "Though the lips of the forbidden woman drip honey and her speech is smoother than oil, in the end she is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a double-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to Sheol." This vivid imagery serves as a caution against the deceptive allure of sensuality, which ultimately leads to ruin.

Romans 1:24-25 further illustrates the consequences of exchanging the truth of God for lies, as God "gave them over to the desires of their hearts to impurity for the dishonoring of their bodies with one another." This passage reveals the divine judgment that befalls those who persist in sensual indulgence, highlighting the gravity of such a lifestyle.

Call to Transformation

While the unrenewed heart is naturally inclined towards sensual indulgence, Scripture offers hope for transformation through the renewing work of the Holy Spirit. In Romans 12:2 , believers are exhorted, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." This transformation involves a shift from seeking fulfillment in earthly pleasures to finding true joy and satisfaction in a relationship with God.

The call to live by the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:16 , provides a pathway away from the desires of the flesh: "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." This walking by the Spirit is a daily commitment to align one's heart and actions with God's will, resulting in a life that reflects His holiness and love.

Conclusion

The character of the unrenewed heart, elated by sensual indulgence, stands in stark contrast to the life God desires for His people. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers are called to reject the fleeting pleasures of the flesh and embrace the eternal joy found in Christ.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Hosea 13:3
Therefore they shall be as the morning cloud and as the early dew that passes away, as the chaff that is driven with the whirlwind out of the floor, and as the smoke out of the chimney.
Torrey's Topical Textbook