Next-Gen

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

In this teaching, we will be looking at a subject that is rarely (if ever) preached on in modern-day churches: the sexual prohibitions outlined in Leviticus 18 & 20. This is a very important study, especially needed by Christians in the time we live in today. Truly, much of the Body of Christ is being destroyed for lack of knowledge due to not knowing the material covered in this teaching.

Unfortunately, there are many things that modern-day Christians are doing—many times unknowingly—that are affecting them adversely both spiritually and physically. Much of what we will discuss was common knowledge up to 50 years ago but has been slowly repressed since then. We will examine the shocking full definitions of sodomy, fornication, and intercourse, along with the New Testament texts some use to justify any sexual actions regarding the marriage bed.

We will also see how, biblically, these types of sins defile a person in ways that other sins do not.

Sexual Prohibitions: What Satan Doesn't Want YOU to Know!

"If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: But verily God hath heard me; he hath attended to the voice of my prayer. Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me." (Psalm 66:18)

"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." (1 Corinthians 3:16-17)

"What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet." (Romans 7:7)

"Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge." (Hebrews 13:4)

Does Hebrews 13:4 allow oral sex among married couples? NO!

How Do Sexual Sins Defile and Ruin a Christian?

"Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body." (1 Corinthians 6:18)

Scott A. Johnson states that there is a demonic exchange when you join flesh to flesh. For example, homosexuals were defiled with demons in an early stage in their life.

"For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life: To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman. Lust not after her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids. For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life. Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned? Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned? So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent." (Proverbs 6:23-29)

"But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul." (Proverbs 6:32)

"With her much fair speech she caused him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she forced him. He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks." (Proverbs 7:21-22)

"Let not thine heart decline to her ways, go not astray in her paths. For she hath cast down many wounded: yea, many strong men have been slain by her. Her house is the way to hell, going down to the chambers of death." (Proverbs 7:25-27)

Seven Classifications of Sexual Sins

1. Incest

"None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness: I am the LORD." (Leviticus 18:6-18)

"And the man that committeth adultery with another man's wife, even he that committeth adultery with his neighbour's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death. And the man that lieth with his father's wife hath uncovered his father's nakedness: both of them shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them." (Leviticus 20:11)

2. Adultery

"Moreover thou shalt not lie carnally with thy neighbour's wife, to defile thyself with her." (Leviticus 18:20)

"And the man that committeth adultery with another man's wife, even he that committeth adultery with his neighbour's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death." (Leviticus 20:10)

3. Self Gratification

"And Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother's wife, and marry her, and raise up seed to thy brother. And Onan knew that the seed should not be his; and it came to pass, when he went in unto his brother's wife, that he spilled it on the ground, lest that he should give seed to his brother. And the thing which he did displeased the LORD: wherefore he slew him also." (Genesis 38:9-10)

This refers to masturbation. Think about how the angels witness these acts.

"Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul." (1 Peter 2:11)

4. Homosexuality

"If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them." (Leviticus 20:13)

5. Bestiality

"Neither shalt thou lie with any beast to defile thyself therewith: neither shall any woman stand before a beast to lie down thereto: it is confusion." (Leviticus 18:23-25)

6. Abortion

"And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Again, thou shalt say to the children of Israel, Whosoever he be of the children of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn in Israel, that giveth any of his seed unto Molech; he shall surely be put to death." (Leviticus 20:1-5)

This study aims to restore biblical knowledge that has been lost over time, urging Christians to follow the Word of God in every aspect of life, especially in matters of sexual purity.

Homosexuality, Adultery & Other Sexual Sins

What Does the Bible Say About . . . .

HOMOSEXUALITY, ADULTERY & OTHER SEXUAL SINS

INTRODUCTION

When God created the world, He established two institutions that continued after Mankind sinned.

One was the Sabbath, a memorial of creation. &

The other was the marriage relationship between a husband and wife.

Humans were created in the image of God, and they were given a power, that of procreation, that the angels did not have. The union of husband and wife, through sexual intercourse, made them one.

"A man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh. " (Gen. 2:23, 24)

Satan, in his hatred for God, has done his best to distort and destroy both of the institutions that God had instituted. To destroy the holy marriage relationship, Satan encouraged people to engage in any form of sexual immorality that would pervert what God had created to be beautiful.

This included;-

Adultery (sex between a man and woman that are not married,

Incest (sex between close family members, either by blood or marriage),

Homosexual encounters (sex between members of the same sex),

Sex with animals,

Easy divorce,

Rape and

Others, all damaging to the institutions of marriage and the family.

To encourage this debasement, demonic agencies in their attempt to be worshipped through various pagan religions, encouraged sexually immoral acts (including heterosexual and homosexual prostitution) as part of idol worship.

In the worship of Ishtar (originally pronounced Easter). fetuses aborted from pregnancies brought about through these "acts of worship" were offered to the goddess.

Often when a pagan nation conquered another, they ripped open the pregnant women to offer their fetuses to their god.

Baby sons and daughters were offered to the god, Molech, being burned or passing through the fire while loud banging music covered the cries of the babes.

God decried and detested all such practices. They were an abomination to Him.

When the Lord brought the Israelites into Canaan, He repeatedly gave clear warnings to stay away from such detestable practices.

The "perfect" Ten Commandments specifically outlawed worshipping other gods, bowing down to idols, and committing adulterous acts. God knew that His people, whom he had chosen as His "wife" would "prostitute" themselves to other gods. He knew that they would engage in various detestable forms of sexual immorality as a result of worshipping these other gods. He commanded the Israelites to completely destroy the wicked people of Canaan so that the Israelites would not be led into idolatry. This they failed to do, and subsequently, they succumbed to these idolatrous religions and openly practiced immorality even in God's temple and courtyard.

Especially heinous in God's sight is homosexuality, even more so than prostitution. Why? Because man in particular was created in God's express image. By successfully causing men to debase each other, Satan laughs all the more at God. In two compelling stories, one regarding Sodom and Gomorrah, and the second involving Gibeah, a city of the tribe of Benjamin (see Judges 19, 20), men attempted to have sex with out-of-town male visitors. As a consequence, God directed the annihilation of these men, their supporters, towns and region, "that the evil would be done away with."

More and more individuals and churches are struggling with these issues today in the face of an increasingly promiscuous society and politically active gay community. After watching one "gay rights" demonstration on CNN TV, I was reminded of Psalms 11:8,

"The wicked freely strut about when what is vile is honored among men."

To enable churches and Christians to address these issues from a position of Bible knowledge and to help reveal and clarify God's position on sins of a sexual nature, I have compiled all the verses in the Bible pertaining to these subjects in this compilation.

The compiled verses are split into two parts.

Part I addresses sexual sins as they pertain to men, women and beasts.

Part II addresses prostitution as a nation might do in pursuing gods other than the Lord God.

There will be some minor repetition between the two sections. The reader should be aware that the comparisons are quite graphic since God does not mince words. Let the Holy Spirit guide you as you study these important topics.

The Truth about Sexual Sin

The Media’s Distorted Narrative

Modern culture portrays sex as casual, consequence-free, and purely physical. Movies, TV shows, and music glorify promiscuity while ignoring the emotional, spiritual, and relational consequences. The world pushes a "do what feels good" mentality, yet it rarely acknowledges the heartbreak, guilt, and brokenness that follow.

Sex is not just a physical act—it is a God-given gift with profound meaning. Misusing it leads to destruction, but following God's design brings freedom, intimacy, and lasting joy. Here are seven reasons to save sex for marriage:

1. Debt: The Cost of "Free Love"

Sex outside of marriage is never truly free. Over a million teenage girls become pregnant each year, placing emotional, financial, and social burdens on families. Worse, many turn to abortion, adding deep psychological and spiritual wounds.

God’s design for sex protects individuals from these burdens. When we follow His ways, we avoid the painful consequences of disobedience.

“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” — Galatians 6:7

2. Disease: The Hidden Danger

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a silent epidemic. There were once only two known STDs; now there are over 29, with a new one discovered every nine months. Each year, 12 million people in the U.S. contract an STD—33,000 every day. Some, like HIV/AIDS, are life-threatening.

The only sure way to protect yourself is through purity: abstinence before marriage and faithfulness within marriage.

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit... You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” — 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

3. Disappointment: The Emotional Fallout

Casual sex leads to deep emotional wounds. Many give in to pressure, thinking it will bring them closer to their partner. Instead, it often leaves regret, shame, and a sense of loss.

God designed sex to be a bond of love and commitment within marriage. Outside of this covenant, it loses its beauty and becomes a source of pain.

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23

4. Distrust: The Broken Bond

Premarital sex can damage trust. More than half of engagements end in breakups, many due to guilt, resentment, or loss of respect. When a couple gives in to temptation before marriage, it sets a precedent—“If we broke God’s rules once, what’s to stop us from doing it again?”

God’s design for purity builds trust and respect, forming a strong foundation for a lifetime of love.

“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure.” — Hebrews 13:4

5. Dilution: The Loss of True Intimacy

Just as watering down a drink weakens its flavor, giving yourself to multiple partners weakens the ability to fully connect with your future spouse. Sex is meant to unite a husband and wife as "one flesh" (Genesis 2:24). Each past sexual experience leaves behind emotional and spiritual ties that can haunt future relationships. Purity protects the ability to form a deep, undistracted, and intimate bond in marriage.

6. Dependency: The Addiction Trap

Sex outside of God’s plan can become an addiction. With readily available pornography and casual hookups, a cycle of momentary pleasure is followed by guilt, shame, and emptiness. Sexual sin is unique because it doesn’t just affect the body—it affects the soul.

Even when trapped by sexual sin, God's love and grace are greater, and He offers freedom and restoration through His grace.

“Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.” — 1 Corinthians 6:18

7. Divorce: The Pattern of Brokenness

Premarital sex can create a pattern of instability in relationships. If someone has spent years forming and breaking bonds, they are more likely to bring that pattern into marriage. This contributes to the high divorce rates in today’s world.

God calls us to faithfulness, commitment, and purity. By saving sex for marriage, we build a foundation that can withstand the trials of life.

“The man who hates and divorces his wife… does violence to the one he should protect,” says the Lord Almighty. “So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful.” — Malachi 2:16

A Word for the Single

Singleness is not a curse—it is a season to grow in faith and prepare for a future spouse. If you are waiting for the right person, remember: you are worth the wait.

How to Find Freedom from Sexual Sin

If you have made mistakes, there is hope. Jesus offers full forgiveness and healing to anyone who turns to Him. Through confession, repentance, and faith, you can be made new.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9

Final Thought

Sex is never just sex. It is a powerful gift from God, meant to be enjoyed within marriage. Choosing purity honors God, protects your heart, and builds a foundation for a lifetime of love and trust.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” — Matthew 5:8

You are worth the wait. Let your first time be with the one you’ll spend the rest of your life loving.

The Bible On Sex And Marriage

sex addiction

Breaking Free: A Biblical and Practical Guide to Overcoming Sex Addiction

Sex addiction is a real struggle for many, but with God’s help and practical steps, freedom is possible. The Bible speaks to the power of renewal and deliverance, offering wisdom for those seeking to break free from bondage. This guide integrates spiritual, psychological, and practical strategies to help you walk in victory.

1. Understanding Sex Addiction

Sex addiction involves compulsive sexual behaviors that negatively impact one’s life, relationships, and spiritual walk. While modern psychology acknowledges addiction as a behavioral disorder, Scripture also speaks to the spiritual and emotional dimensions of sin and bondage.

Romans 7:15 (NIV) – "I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do."

Recognizing that addiction is both a spiritual battle and a behavioral pattern is key to overcoming it.

2. Breaking the Chains of Shame

Shame often keeps people trapped in their addiction, making them believe they are beyond redemption. However, the Bible assures us that God’s grace is greater than any sin.

1 John 1:9 (NIV) – "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

Practical Steps:

Confess your struggle to God and a trusted accountability partner (James 5:16).
Remember your identity in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Replace self-condemnation with God’s truth about you (Romans 8:1).

3. Overcoming Triggers and Temptations

Triggers often lead to temptation, and fleeing from temptation is biblical wisdom.

1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV) – "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear."

Practical Steps:

Identify your triggers (stress, loneliness, boredom, past trauma, emotional wounds, or exposure to explicit content).
Create barriers (use accountability software, remove explicit content, limit social media use, and set internet filters).
Replace bad habits with godly activities (prayer, fasting, serving others, exercise, and creative outlets).
Renew your mind daily (Romans 12:2) by meditating on Scripture and focusing on what is pure and honorable (Philippians 4:8).

4. Developing a Relapse Prevention Plan

Even after gaining victory, staying free requires a plan.

Matthew 26:41 (NIV) – "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."

Key Strategies:

Accountability: Have someone check in with you regularly (Proverbs 27:17).
Recognize warning signs (stress, isolation, returning to old thought patterns, rationalizing sin).
Have a response plan: When tempted, immediately turn to Scripture, prayer, and a trusted friend.
Develop healthy routines: Engage in daily devotionals, community worship, and self-discipline practices.

5. Replacing Lust with Healthy Sexuality

Sex itself is not evil—God created it for marriage and intimacy.

Hebrews 13:4 (NIV) – "Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure."

Practical Steps:

Learn about biblical sexuality (God’s design for love, intimacy, and marriage).
Cultivate self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
Pursue purity in relationships (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5).
Set clear boundaries in dating or friendships to avoid compromising situations.

6. Spiritual Warfare and Deliverance

Sexual sin can be deeply spiritual, requiring prayer, fasting, and the power of God.

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV) – "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world."

Steps to Spiritual Freedom:

Renounce sexual sin in prayer (James 4:7) and seek deliverance from any spiritual strongholds.
Put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) to resist attacks from the enemy.
Surround yourself with strong believers who can pray for and support you (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).
Use Scripture as a weapon against temptation (Psalm 119:9, Matthew 4:4).

7. The Power of Community and Accountability

Healing happens in community. God calls us to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2).

Practical Steps:

Join a support group such as Celebrate Recovery or Pure Desire Ministries.
Have an accountability partner who understands your struggles and prays with you.
Engage in church and discipleship programs for encouragement and spiritual growth.
Be honest and transparent about struggles so you can receive true support.

8. Forgiveness and Healing

Forgiving yourself and others is crucial for lasting healing.

Colossians 3:13 (NIV) – "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

Practical Steps:

Accept God’s forgiveness (Psalm 103:12) and stop dwelling on past mistakes.
Forgive those who have hurt you, recognizing that bitterness can hinder your healing (Ephesians 4:31-32).
Replace guilt with grace, understanding that you are a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

9. Resources for Support

In addition to biblical wisdom, practical resources help reinforce your journey:

Christian Counseling: Seek a counselor specializing in addiction and faith-based healing.
Support Groups: Join a group like Celebrate Recovery or Pure Desire Ministries.
Books:
- Every Man’s Battle by Stephen Arterburn
- Sexual Detox by Tim Challies
- Wired for Intimacy: How Pornography Hijacks the Male Brain by William Struthers

Final Encouragement

Freedom is possible! God’s grace is sufficient, and He is willing to walk with you through healing and renewal.

2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV) – "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."

Take action today: Seek help, surround yourself with a godly community, and walk daily in the truth of God’s Word. You are not alone, and with God’s help, you can break free and live in victory.

Christians and Spiritual Oppression

Give No Place to the Devil: Understanding Spiritual Strongholds

The Biblical Admonition (Ephesians 4:27)

The Apostle Paul warns in Ephesians 4:27, "Give no place to the devil." The term "place" signifies a location, opportunity, or foothold. This warning implies that Christians can inadvertently allow demonic influences into their lives, necessitating vigilance in spiritual warfare.

How Demonic Strongholds Form

Many Christians recognize that sinful activities open the door to demonic oppression. However, fewer realize that the sins of others against us can also create strongholds in our lives. Trauma, abuse, and exposure to chaotic environments can provide opportunities for the enemy to gain influence.

Examples of Open Doors:

Suffering abuse from a parent, guardian, or spouse.
Living in an environment shaped by addiction.
Experiencing controlling or oppressive relationships.
Growing up in disorder and instability.

The Matrix of Spiritual Oppression

The enemy does not operate in isolation—demonic spirits work together to entrench their influence. A common pattern emerges in those who have lived under oppression or chaos:

Rebellion & Control – Those who have endured control often develop a rebellious spirit, vowing never to be controlled again. Scripture equates rebellion with witchcraft (1 Samuel 15:23), indicating a deeper spiritual entanglement.
Fear – A fear of being oppressed or taken advantage of leads to resistance against authority, commitment, and accountability.
Lying Spirits – When commitment and accountability are resisted, deception often follows. Small lies may be used to avoid conflict or responsibility.
Compulsive Behaviors – To maintain a sense of control in an otherwise uncontrollable life, compulsive behaviors may develop.

The Consequences of Spiritual Strongholds

Unchecked strongholds lead to:

Rebellion against legitimate authority.
A resistance to commitment and accountability.
Struggles with loyalty in relationships.
The habit of deception to avoid conflict.
The development of compulsive behaviors as coping mechanisms.

Breaking Free: Steps to Deliverance

Even the newest believer in Christ has authority over darkness. Deliverance involves:

Recognizing the Strongholds – Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any areas of bondage.
Repentance – Renounce any sinful behavior that has strengthened these strongholds.
Binding and Renouncing – Declare, in Jesus’ name, the rejection of spirits of rebellion, control, fear, and lying.
Seeking Strength from the Holy Spirit – Pray for divine assistance to resist the enemy’s return.
Accountability – Partner with a trusted believer who can support and pray with you.
Commitment to Growth – Stay vigilant, as the enemy will seek re-entry.

Commitment and Accountability: Essential for Spiritual Growth

Scripture calls Christians to be accountable and loyal to one another. A person who cannot be committed to others will struggle with commitment to Christ. Growth in faith requires a willingness to be challenged and refined within the body of Christ.

Addressing Fear and Compulsion

Stepping into freedom from strongholds may feel uncomfortable. However, we must resist the urge to return to familiar but harmful coping mechanisms. Surrendering control to God brings lasting peace.

Important Considerations

Interpretation of Scripture – Different theological perspectives exist regarding spiritual warfare. Always seek balanced biblical teaching.
Psychological Factors – Trauma has psychological effects. Spiritual warfare should not replace professional mental health support.
Abuse and Trauma – If you are experiencing abuse, seek help from qualified professionals. Spiritual healing is valuable but does not replace professional intervention.
Mental Health Awareness – Some symptoms attributed to spiritual strongholds may also be linked to mental health conditions. Seeking medical and therapeutic assistance is crucial when needed.

Final Encouragement

Spiritual freedom requires perseverance. When setbacks occur, do not allow guilt to weigh you down—repent and press forward. Walking in unfamiliar spiritual freedom may be turbulent at first, but remain steadfast. Refuse to return to the enemy’s grasp. Surround yourself with strong believers who will walk with you in accountability.

"Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might" (Ephesians 6:10).