
Discernment for Sex | Titus O'Bryant
• Titus O'Bryant • Series: The Art of Discernment
Do you think of sexuality as more of a problem or a privilege? Consider how a biblical view of sexuality reveals it is a good-news, gospel-kind of privilege to be a woman, to be a man, and to enjoy the sexual part of our human experience. Our sexuality requires both form and freedom to maximize our pleasure and avoid pain. Your sexuality is a mysterious, wonderful, and powerful gift from God for his glory and your blessing. How can we wisely enjoy these blessings? That’s why we want to apply biblical wisdom from Proverbs to our sexuality. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. Read through and carefully consider the message and instruction of Proverbs chapter 5. How would you summarize… a. The message from Solomon to his son (how would this change if speaking to his daughter)? b. Warnings and possible results of promiscuity and infidelity? c. Promises about marriage and fidelity? 2. What did you hear this weekend that inspired you, challenged you, or sparked disagreement or further consideration? 3. Is sex only a physical action or can sex include connections deeper than physical action alone? Why or why not? Why does God care about our sexuality? 4. What might some of the practical results of moral failure be in your life? What are some of the benefits of sexual fidelity—chastity in singleness or faithfulness in marriage? 5. Evaluate this reflection on sexual mores from Ray Ortlund. What is your response—do you agree or disagree: “Conservative people love form and restraint and control, especially in sex. Progressive people love freedom and openness and choices, especially in sex. Both see part of the truth, but the gospel tells us the whole truth. And the truth is, God gave us our sexuality both to focus our romantic joy and to unleash our romantic joy.” 6. How can we protect ourselves and help one another avoid or overcome sexual temptation? Consider how you could make these tests (adapted from Kadi Cole) for action or thought part of your life. When I am with someone of the opposite sex… a. Sibling test: Is my behavior the same as it would be with or around a sibling…my brother or sister? b. Screen test: Am I doing things or saying things I would be ashamed of if they were put on a screen for others to watch? c. Secret test: Am I keeping secrets with this person of the opposite sex that my spouse does not know about? 7. Pray for wisdom in the sexual part of living for yourself, your family members and close friends, and leaders in our church and society.