Choosing Wisdom: Embracing God's Design for Relationships

Summary

### Summary

Today, we paused to remember Christ's sacrifice through communion, reflecting on 1 Corinthians 11 where Paul instructs the church on the proper way to partake in this sacred act. Communion is not just a ritual but a profound remembrance of Christ's death, calling us to examine our motives and live in a manner consistent with our faith. We then transitioned to our ongoing series in Proverbs, exploring the wisdom literature that offers ethical and moral axioms for living a disciplined and successful life. Proverbs are not scientific laws but general truths that guide us in living harmoniously with God's design.

We delved into the topic of sex, relationships, and marriage, noting that these themes are extensively covered in Proverbs, indicating their timeless relevance. Wisdom in these areas is crucial, as our behavior related to sexuality is a marker of whether we are wise or foolish. Marriage is presented as a covenant between a man, a woman, and God, emphasizing that true marriage cannot be separated from a commitment to God. Sexuality is a gift from God intended to bind a married couple together, and it should be treated with respect and used within the boundaries God has set.

We discussed the misuse of sexuality, which always leads to anguish and regret, and the importance of treating sexuality with the respect it deserves. For married couples, the route of wisdom is to pursue a passionate, healthy sex life with their spouse. For singles, the route of wisdom is sexual abstinence, ensuring that any future marriage is built on shared values and mutual respect. The greatest gift one brings into a relationship is not their sexuality but their character.

Finally, we acknowledged that many may have made mistakes in this area, but God's mercies are new every morning. It is never too late to choose wisdom and align our lives with God's design. The message concluded with a call to repentance and a reminder of God's unfailing love and compassion.

### Key Takeaways

1. Communion as a Reflection of Faith: Communion is not merely a ritual but a profound act of remembrance of Christ's sacrifice. It calls us to examine our motives and ensure that our lives reflect the faith we profess. Taking communion in an unworthy manner brings judgment upon ourselves, highlighting the importance of aligning our actions with our beliefs. [26:57]

2. Wisdom in Proverbs: Proverbs offers timeless wisdom that guides us in living harmoniously with God's design. These axioms are not scientific laws but general truths that help us navigate life. Understanding and applying these truths lead to a disciplined and successful life, reflecting the pinnacle of ancient Near East society's value on wisdom. [42:03]

3. Marriage as a Covenant: Marriage is a covenant between a man, a woman, and God. It is not a societal invention but a divine institution. True marriage cannot be separated from a commitment to God, and any other form of marriage is not aligned with God's design. This understanding shapes how we approach and value marriage. [50:39]

4. Sexuality as a Gift: Sexuality is a gift from God intended to bind a married couple together. It is powerful and should be treated with respect. Misusing sexuality leads to anguish and regret, while using it within God's boundaries brings joy and fulfillment. This perspective helps us navigate the cultural misuse of sexuality. [54:38]

5. God's Unfailing Love and New Mercies: No matter the mistakes we have made, God's mercies are new every morning. His love and compassion are unfailing, and it is never too late to choose wisdom and align our lives with His design. This truth offers hope and encouragement for those seeking to live wisely. [12:32]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[23:53] - Communion Reflection
[25:40] - Examining Ourselves
[36:55] - Introduction to Proverbs
[38:12] - Understanding Proverbs
[42:03] - The Pinnacle of Wisdom
[44:30] - Moderation and Self-Control
[45:44] - Sex, Relationships, and Marriage
[46:54] - Wisdom and Sexuality
[47:44] - The Immoral Woman
[48:39] - Faithfulness in Marriage
[49:36] - Foundational Ideas on Sexuality
[50:39] - Marriage as a Covenant
[54:03] - Sexuality as a Gift
[56:11] - Respecting Sexuality
[57:09] - The Allure of Sexuality
[58:31] - Consequences of Misusing Sexuality
[01:00:06] - Cultural Impact on Sexuality
[01:03:15] - Relationship with God and Sexuality
[01:04:37] - Healthy Marital Sex Life
[01:06:01] - Wisdom for Singles
[01:08:11] - Character Over Sexuality
[01:11:40] - God's New Mercies
[01:13:57] - Choosing Wisdom
[01:15:31] - Avoiding Foolishness
[01:16:24] - Closing Prayer

Study Guide

### Bible Reading
1. 1 Corinthians 11:23-29 - "For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, 'This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.' In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.' For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord. Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup."

2. Proverbs 2:12-19 - "Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse, who have left the straight paths to walk in dark ways, who delight in doing wrong and rejoice in the perverseness of evil, whose paths are crooked and who are devious in their ways. Wisdom will save you also from the adulterous woman, from the wayward woman with her seductive words, who has left the partner of her youth and ignored the covenant she made before God. Surely her house leads down to death and her paths to the spirits of the dead. None who go to her return or attain the paths of life."

3. Proverbs 5:15-19 - "Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well. Should your springs overflow in the streets, your streams of water in the public squares? Let them be yours alone, never to be shared with strangers. May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth."

### Observation Questions
1. What instructions does Paul give to the church in 1 Corinthians 11 regarding the proper way to take communion? ([23:53])
2. According to Proverbs 2:12-19, what are the consequences of following the wayward woman?
3. In Proverbs 5:15-19, what metaphor is used to describe faithfulness in marriage, and what does it signify?

### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Paul emphasize the need for self-examination before taking communion? How does this relate to living a life consistent with one's faith? ([25:40])
2. How does the wisdom literature in Proverbs describe the relationship between wisdom and sexuality? What does this imply about the importance of sexual integrity? ([49:36])
3. What does it mean to treat sexuality with respect according to the sermon, and why is this important for both married and single individuals? ([56:11])

### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own practice of communion. How can you ensure that it remains a profound act of remembrance rather than a mere ritual? ([26:57])
2. In what ways can you apply the wisdom from Proverbs to your own relationships, particularly in the areas of sex, relationships, and marriage? ([45:44])
3. For those who are married, what steps can you take to pursue a passionate and healthy sex life with your spouse? How can this strengthen your marriage? ([54:38])
4. For singles, what practical steps can you take to practice sexual abstinence and prepare for a future marriage built on shared values and mutual respect? ([06:01])
5. How can you cultivate and demonstrate character in your relationships, rather than focusing on societal standards of sexual attractiveness? ([08:11])
6. Reflect on any past mistakes you may have made in the area of sexuality. How can you embrace God's new mercies and choose wisdom moving forward? ([12:32])
7. How can the church community support each other in living out these principles of wisdom and sexual integrity? What role can you play in fostering this environment? ([16:51])

Devotional

Day 1: Communion as a Reflection of Faith
Communion is a profound act of remembrance of Christ's sacrifice. It is not merely a ritual but a call to examine our motives and ensure that our lives reflect the faith we profess. Taking communion in an unworthy manner brings judgment upon ourselves, highlighting the importance of aligning our actions with our beliefs. This sacred act reminds us of the gravity of Christ's sacrifice and the need for introspection and genuine faith.

Communion serves as a mirror, reflecting our spiritual state and prompting us to live in a manner consistent with our faith. It is a time to pause and consider whether our actions, thoughts, and motives align with the teachings of Christ. By doing so, we honor His sacrifice and reaffirm our commitment to living a life that glorifies God. [26:57]

1 Corinthians 11:28-29 (ESV): "Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself."

Reflection: As you prepare for communion, take a moment to examine your heart. Are there areas in your life where your actions do not align with your faith? How can you bring these areas into alignment with God's will today?

Day 2: Wisdom in Proverbs
Proverbs offers timeless wisdom that guides us in living harmoniously with God's design. These axioms are not scientific laws but general truths that help us navigate life. Understanding and applying these truths lead to a disciplined and successful life, reflecting the pinnacle of ancient Near East society's value on wisdom.

The wisdom found in Proverbs is practical and applicable to everyday life. It provides guidance on various aspects of life, including relationships, work, and personal conduct. By embracing the wisdom of Proverbs, we can cultivate a life of discipline, integrity, and success, living in harmony with God's design. [42:03]

Proverbs 3:13-14 (ESV): "Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold."

Reflection: Reflect on a specific proverb that resonates with you. How can you apply its wisdom to a current situation in your life? What steps can you take to live more harmoniously with God's design?

Day 3: Marriage as a Covenant
Marriage is a covenant between a man, a woman, and God. It is not a societal invention but a divine institution. True marriage cannot be separated from a commitment to God, and any other form of marriage is not aligned with God's design. This understanding shapes how we approach and value marriage.

Marriage, as designed by God, is a sacred covenant that reflects His love and commitment to us. It is a partnership that requires mutual respect, love, and a shared commitment to God. By viewing marriage through this lens, we can build strong, healthy relationships that honor God and reflect His divine plan. [50:39]

Malachi 2:14-15 (ESV): "But you say, 'Why does he not?' Because the Lord was witness between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless, though she is your companion and your wife by covenant. Did he not make them one, with a portion of the Spirit in their union?"

Reflection: Consider your view of marriage. How does understanding it as a divine covenant change your perspective? If you are married, how can you strengthen your commitment to your spouse and to God today?

Day 4: Sexuality as a Gift
Sexuality is a gift from God intended to bind a married couple together. It is powerful and should be treated with respect. Misusing sexuality leads to anguish and regret, while using it within God's boundaries brings joy and fulfillment. This perspective helps us navigate the cultural misuse of sexuality.

Sexuality, when respected and used within the boundaries set by God, can bring immense joy and strengthen the marital bond. However, when misused, it can lead to pain and regret. By understanding and honoring God's design for sexuality, we can experience its true beauty and purpose. [54:38]

1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 (ESV): "For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God."

Reflection: Reflect on your view of sexuality. Are there areas where you need to align your understanding and actions with God's design? How can you honor God with your sexuality today?

Day 5: God's Unfailing Love and New Mercies
No matter the mistakes we have made, God's mercies are new every morning. His love and compassion are unfailing, and it is never too late to choose wisdom and align our lives with His design. This truth offers hope and encouragement for those seeking to live wisely.

God's love and mercy are constant, offering us a fresh start each day. No matter our past mistakes, we can choose to embrace His wisdom and align our lives with His design. This assurance of God's unfailing love provides hope and encouragement, empowering us to live in a way that honors Him. [12:32]

Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV): "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

Reflection: Think about a mistake or regret you have been holding onto. How can you embrace God's new mercies today and choose to live wisely? What steps can you take to align your life with His design?

Quotes

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "I think probably the biggest issue that we might have with communion in our culture is that it has become a ritual, not a remembrance. That it's so easy to simply come and take the bread and take the juice, and many of us have been going to church for how many years? How many times have you come to a service just like this to take communion? And it's so easy to just take communion, but not remember. Remember Christ." [26:57] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Wisdom is therefore, as it's presented here in Proverbs, is living life in harmony with the way God made the world. It's kind of the idea of a swimming with the current, not fighting the tide, that God has shaped the world in a particular way. And so when you're wise, you, you live in harmony with what God has created." [43:00] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Your perspective and your behavior related to sexuality is evidence of wisdom or foolishness. I mean, if there's one idea that's interwoven through all of this, all of the book of Proverbs, it's this. How you use and manage your sexuality is a marker of whether or not you're wise or a marker of whether or not you're foolish." [49:36] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Sexuality is a gift intended to bind a man and a woman together in marriage. Now the church, at least as I was growing up, the church has done a lousy job talking about sex. We just don't talk about it. We just don't deal with it. And so I want those children who grow up in our church, and I want our teenagers, and I don't care if you're 80, I want you to know that sexuality, you know, God gets the bad rap, right? It's like, he's this old man upstairs, he's kind of grouchy, he sees people, you know, having sex, and he's kind of like, ugh, I hate it when they're having fun." [54:03] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "The truth of the gospel is that you are a worse sinner than you could have ever imagined, but you are also more loved than you could ever imagine. And the point of today's message is not for you to go home with a whole new load of guilt and shame and all this stuff, regret from the past. The point is to remind you of what wisdom looks like. And to be a wise person is to manage and use your sexuality in harmony with the way God made the world." [01:13:02] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

### Quotes for Members

1. "Paul's solution for them, since they were, what they were doing was, he says, I want you to examine yourself. Before you take communion, you need to slow down, you need to think, you need to examine your life. Not examine yourself to see if you're good enough to take communion. Don't worry, you're not. But instead, to slow down and examine yourself as to what your motive is." [25:40] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "And so, in the ancient Near East, in the Hebrew and Jewish cultures and in the book of Proverbs, to be considered wise is to be the pinnacle of society. Wisdom is therefore, as it's presented here in Proverbs, is living life in harmony with the way God made the world. It's kind of the idea of a swimming with the current, not fighting the tide, that God has shaped the world in a particular way. And so when you're wise, you, you live in harmony with what God has created." [43:00] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "If you are married, the route of wisdom, you want to be wise in your marriage, the route of wisdom is to pursue a passionate, healthy sex life with your spouse. Sexuality is a gift. The Bible talks about it's a blessing to a married couple. It's powerful. It's passionate. It's joyful. There's like rejoicing around the topic of sex in the Bible. It's satisfying. It's the only kind of sex that has no regrets and no shame that goes with it. And it's holy. It's God-honoring." [01:04:37] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "If you are single, the route of wisdom is sexual abstinence. Now, if you're married, there are positives and negatives to being married. There are blessings, and I don't know if I should use the word curses, but there are blessings and curses to being married. There's a weight that you carry. There's an interconnectedness with your spouse and children, a burden of responsibility. You are not your own anymore. You have certain things that you've got to take care of." [01:06:01] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "The greatest gift that you bring into a relationship is not your sexuality. It's your character. It's who you are. You are far more than what society has decided you are on the scale of sexual attractiveness. And this is so funny. Culturally, what we find sexually, quote on, attractive in our society 100 years ago was entirely different. And in other cultures is entirely different." [01:08:11] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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