As we continue our series titled “Hope in Holy Living,” last week’s message focused on how holy living gives us a platform to share the gospel. This week we explore one of the greatest stumbling blocks to holy living.
Because of the nature of this topic, it is suggested that Growth Groups divide into gender specific groups for this discussion.
In what ways has popular culture helped re-define truth within your lifetime?
How have some people’s attitudes about changing sexual norms affected their views of theology and the authority of Scripture?
Read 1 Thessalonians 4:1–8. Verse 1 encourages the Thessalonians “to live in order to please God.” Why does Paul list sanctification (holy living) as the key to pleasing God? (v. 3)
What did “sexual immorality” mean to the Thessalonians? (v. 3)
Discuss what Paul means “that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable”? (vv. 4–5)
How can sexual impurity “wrong or take advantage of a brother or sister”? (v. 6)
Read 1 Corinthians 6:17-19. Why is sex such a “big deal” to God and us? (vv. 7–9)
How can we avoid the sin of sexual immorality? Jesse suggested some practical steps from God’s Word. Discuss and explain how each will help us to maintain the sexual purity that God wants for us. -Develop a passionate commitment to Christ. -Renew our minds. (Romans 12) -Flee temptation. -Recognize who we are in Christ.
Explain what Jesse means by saying that First Cov has “a high standard of holiness and a huge hand of grace.”
