BIBLE TEXT: 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5.

[3]For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:

[4]That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;

[5]Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God:

MEMORY VERSE: Psalms 139:13-14 “For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well”.

INTRODUCTION: According to Cambridge dictionary, sexuality refers to someone’s ability to experience or show sexual feelings. We were created with a specific gender and specific sexuality when we were knitted in our mother’s womb (Gen 1: 27; Psalm 139: 13-15). We were made to worship God and if we do not, we will worship something else. Our bodies are made in the image of God and should be dedicated to God at all times.

OUTLINES

A. CULTURAL AND SOCIAL INFLUENCES ON SEXUALITY

B. PURSUING PURITY

A. CULTURAL AND SOCIAL INFLUENCES ON SEXUALITY

Teenagers’ understanding of sexuality is influenced by a variety of cultural and social factors. These influences shape their attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors related to sexuality. Let’s discuss some of them.

1. Media and Entertainment: Television shows, movies, music, social media, and online content play a significant role in shaping your perceptions of sexuality. Media often portrays idealized or unrealistic images of relationships, romance, and sexual behavior, which can impact your expectations and behaviors. Jesus said it’s as much a sin to engage in premarital sex as lusting over it. Pornography will bring long-term consequences that will steal your sexual enjoyment in the marriage bed.

Guard your heart diligently Proverbs 4:23, Matthew 5:28

2. Peer Pressure: Peers and social networks have a powerful influence on a fellow’s attitudes and behaviors related to sexuality. Peer pressure, the desire to fit in, and the influence of friends can impact your decisions regarding dating, relationships, and sexual activity. Be careful and flee from corrupt associations- 1 Corinthians 15:33

3. Family and Home Environment: The family and home environment provide a foundation for one’s understanding of sexuality. Cultural norms, values, and beliefs passed down within families shape your attitudes toward sex, relationships, and gender roles. Open communication, parental guidance, and positive role modeling within the family can have a significant impact on a teen’s sexual health and decision-making. The Bible should be our guide. Genesis 18:19.

B. PURSUING PURITY

1. ———————————————– – James 1:12-15.

2. ———————————————– 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Matthew 5:27-30.

3. ———————————————– 2 Samuel 13: 1-19, Hebrews 13:4

4. ———————————————– – Ephesians 4:17-19.

4. ———————————————– Exodus 22:19, Ephesians 5:3.

5. ———————————————— Proverbs 28:13.

SUMMARY: Although culture says everyone is having sex, God’s remnant is remaining pure until marriage, and He is blessing a whole new generation for their obedience. I’d you have been sexually active, cry out to Jesus in repentance and He will help you. God promises, “Though your sins are like scarlet, they’ll be white as snow” (Isaiah 1:18).

CONCLUSION: It is Satan’s scheme to seduce and tempt you into sexual sin so as to quench the spirit and fire of God in your live. The enemy is crafty and we must not be swayed by his deceptions. – 1 Thess. 5:19, 2 Cor. 2:11. It is possible to stay pure and abstain from sexual sins, ask the Holy Spirit for the enabling grace and keep striving!

QUESTIONS:

1. What are the cultural and social influences on sexuality?

2. Is it possible for one to live in purity? How can that be achieved?

DAILY DEVOTIONAL

Sunday: Luke 8:1-15

Monday: Luke 8:16-30

Tuesday: Luke 8:31-45

Wednesday: Luke 8:46-56

Thursday: Luke 9:1-15

Friday: Luke 9:16-30

Saturday: Luke 9:31-45