(Audio) Abstain From Sexual Immorality
Bob Jennings emphasizes that God's will for believers is sanctification through radical abstinence from sexual immorality, urging them to gain victory over lust by controlling their bodies and living by the Spirit.
This sermon focuses on the importance of increasing in faith, love, and sanctification as highlighted in 1 Thessalonians 4. It emphasizes the need to excel still more, abstain from sexual immorality, and possess self-control over the body. The sermon underscores the significance of knowing God's will for sanctification, radical abstaining from sin, and the consequences of sexual impurity. It also stresses the role of the Spirit of God, the Word of God, fellowship with believers, and engagement in God's work for victory over sin.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Will of God for Sanctification
- God calls believers to sexual purity as part of sanctification
- Sanctification means being set apart from lust and impurity
- Victory over sexual sin is a primary goal for Christians
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II. Radical Abstinence from Sexual Immorality
- The New Testament calls for a decisive 'quit it' attitude toward sin
- Believers must make no provision for fleshly lusts
- Radical measures are necessary to avoid temptation
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III. Possessing Your Body in Sanctification
- Believers must learn to control their bodies, not be controlled by lust
- Knowing personal weaknesses helps in managing temptation
- Being filled with the Spirit is key to bodily control
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IV. Biblical Examples and Warnings
- Scripture provides many examples of fornication and its consequences
- Warnings abound about the dangers of sexual impurity
- The church must discipline and encourage holiness
Key Quotes
“This is the will of God, your sanctification, that you abstain from sexual immorality.” — Bob Jennings
“Some of the New Testament way of victory is just this flat footed, just this straightforward, just this simple, just bare ball, quit it.” — Bob Jennings
“You want to know what the will of God is? Right here it is. This is the will of God to clean you up. Your sanctification, to set you apart from your lusts.” — Bob Jennings
Application Points
- Commit to radical abstinence from all forms of sexual impurity as an act of obedience to God's will.
- Learn to recognize and avoid personal temptations by controlling your body and environment.
- Seek to be continually filled with the Holy Spirit to empower your walk in holiness and victory over lust.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'abstain from sexual immorality' mean?
It means to completely avoid all forms of sexual impurity, including fornication and lustful behavior, as part of living a holy life.
Why is sexual purity important for Christians?
Sexual purity is essential because it aligns with God's will for sanctification and protects believers from the destructive consequences of sin.
How can a believer gain victory over sexual temptation?
Victory comes through radical abstinence, controlling one's body, being filled with the Holy Spirit, and avoiding situations that lead to temptation.
Is it realistic to expect complete victory over sexual sin?
Yes, with God's help and diligent effort, believers can overcome sexual sin and live in holiness as called by Scripture.
What role does the Holy Spirit play in sexual purity?
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to mortify the deeds of the flesh and to live self-controlled lives pleasing to God.