Small Group Guide: Understanding God's Design for Sex and Sexuality
Opening Prayer
Key Takeaways:
Encourage group members to continue reflecting on the sermon's message throughout the week and to support one another in pursuing sexual purity and wholeness in Christ.
Opening Prayer
Key Takeaways:
- God created sex as something beautiful and purposeful within marriage.
- Sexual purity is about having a clean heart, not just abstaining from physical acts.
- Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and should be used to honor God.
- Freedom in Christ means the ability to say no to wrong things and yes to right things.
- Sexual strongholds can come from various sources, including poor biblical understanding, cultural influences, and past experiences.
- How has your upbringing or past experiences shaped your view of sex and sexuality? How does this compare to God's design as presented in the sermon?
- The pastor mentioned that "purity is not about being a virgin, but about having a clean and pure heart." How does this perspective challenge or affirm your understanding of sexual purity?
- Discuss the concept of "sexual strongholds." Can you identify any areas in your life where you might have developed unhealthy mindsets or value systems regarding sex?
- How does the idea that "our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit" impact your view on sexual choices and behavior?
- The sermon emphasized that "marriage is not the cure for sexual brokenness." How does this statement challenge common misconceptions about relationships and sexuality?
- Reflect on the pastor's statement: "The motivation to seek sexual purity is to have God." How does this differ from motivations based on fear of consequences or desire for a clean conscience?
- Take time this week to pray and ask God to reveal any areas of sexual brokenness or misconceptions in your life. Journal about what He shows you.
- If you're struggling with sexual sin, consider finding an accountability partner or seeking counseling to help you work through these issues.
- For those in relationships, discuss with your partner how you can honor God and each other in your physical interactions.
- Commit to studying Scripture passages related to God's design for sexuality (e.g., Song of Solomon, 1 Corinthians 6-7, Ephesians 5) to deepen your understanding.
- If you've experienced sexual trauma or assault, consider reaching out to a trusted friend, pastor, or professional counselor for support and healing.
Encourage group members to continue reflecting on the sermon's message throughout the week and to support one another in pursuing sexual purity and wholeness in Christ.