Family Values - Week 7 Series

Today’s message contains content that may not be appropriate for younger children.

So, if you prefer they not be in the sanctuary, now would be a good time to take them to Next Gen.

If you were approaching a ramp to the Interstate, but you were unsure if it was an on-ramp or an off-ramp, would you appreciate the fact that somebody posted a sign that said "DO NOT ENTER, or would you resent them for putting up a sign like that?

We have been focusing on the Ten Commandments these past few weeks.

That may sound odd in a series called Family Values, but these commands have serious implications for every family.

We need to be reminded that there is always a positive purpose behind every one of God’s commands.

There is always a reason when He says no.

His desire is never to cause us pain.

His goal is our protection.

He wants what is best for us.

It is wise to remember, that He knows more than we do.

He sees things from a much broader perspective.

And He can be trusted.

So, let’s get started and talk about Commandment #7.

Exodus 20:14 (NIV)

14 "You shall not commit adultery.

As I began working on this message a few weeks ago,

I knew that even the mention of this topic would cause pain to some.

I have had the unfortunate opportunity to witness the firsthand pain that is brought on to individuals and families whenever someone decides to commit adultery.

Adultery – voluntary sexual intercourse between a married person and anyone other than their spouse

My heart goes out to those who have suffered the heartache and devastation that is brought on by a violation of this command that comes from God.

I know that for some, this message has the potential to resurrect some painful memories.

Many have experienced the anger, the guilt, the shame, and absolute heartbreak that accompanies this topic.

I am sincerely sorry about that.

And that’s exactly the reason why we cannot afford to sidestep it.

My hope is that we can help people avoid making a decision that will have such a catastrophically negative impact of their marriage, their family, and their own soul.

I also want you to know that the purpose of today's message is not to beat anyone up or resurrect a past that is already forgiven.

Our focus this morning is on the future, not the past.

As we have said, these past few weeks…

God has given us certain boundaries for our lives.

But human beings are amazingly creative when it comes to finding ways to try to live outside those boundaries.

People work so hard to master the art of justifying sin

and making certain decisions and behaviors acceptable.

We would all do well to read and heed the Word of God.

Rather than trying to adjust God’s Word to accommodate our lifestyle,

we should be careful to conform our lives to His written Word.

It is wise to allow His Word to shape and mold our lives.

His commands are for our good.

I want to begin by saying that God invented sexuality.

It is a gift from God.

It is a good thing - when it is enjoyed within the proper boundaries.

In some ways, sexuality is like fire.

CAMP FIRE – Split Screen LEFT

Who doesn’t love a camp fire?

Fire is wonderful, within certain boundaries.

But take a look at this house that is on fire.

HOUSE FIRE – Split Screen RIGHT

Suddenly, that which was good within the proper boundaries,

is absolutely devastating and catastrophic outside those boundaries.

Just as fire can either warm you or burn you.

Our sexuality can wreak havoc, if it is not controlled.

Water is a wonderful thing.

You can't live without water.

But too much water can kill you. You'll drown.

We have to be careful about how we handle the gift of sexuality.

Properly controlled and expressed within the context of marriage, it's a beautiful thing. It is fantastic.

But outside of marriage, it is destructive and detrimental to your health.

And the devastation can be felt on every level - physical, mental, social, spiritual, and emotional.

What God intends for good,

Satan wants to use to destroy.

God uses the gift of sexuality and intimacy to build a marriage.

But satan takes that same gift and he wants to pervert it.

He’ll try to twist God’s gift and use it to destroy a marriage.

Hebrews 13:4 (NIV)

4 Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.

Culture seems to view sexual morality as a thing of the past.

But God’s views on sexuality and morality are quite clear