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Biblical Guidance on Overcoming Masturbation and Sexual Sin: Reading and Applying God's Word for Victory in Erie, PA.

This Bible study provides scriptural insights and practical steps for believers seeking deliverance and victory over masturbation and other sexual sins, emphasizing God's power to transform and empower a life of purity.

1. Understanding God's Nature and the Seriousness of Sexual Sin

1.1 God is One and Holy

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 44:6; 1 Peter 1:15-16
  • God's singular nature demands our complete devotion and worship.
  • His absolute holiness calls us to live a life separated unto Him.
  • Sexual sin defiles the temple of the Holy Spirit within us.

1.2 The Deceptive Nature of Sexual Sin

Verses: Proverbs 6:27-29; Hebrews 3:13; James 1:14-15
  • Sin promises temporary pleasure but ultimately leads to destruction and regret.
  • It hardens the heart and creates a barrier in our relationship with God.
  • Sexual sin often begins in the mind through lustful thoughts and imaginations.

1.3 The Body as a Temple of the Holy Spirit

Verses: 1 Corinthians 6:18-20; Romans 12:1-2
  • Our bodies are not our own; they have been bought with a price and belong to God.
  • Sexual sin is a unique sin against our own body and against the Lord.
  • We are called to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God.

2. God's Plan for Forgiveness and New Life

2.1 Repentance and Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5
  • True repentance involves a sincere turning away from sin and toward God.
  • Water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ is for the remission of sins.
  • It symbolizes our death to the old sinful self and resurrection to a new life in Christ.

2.2 The Infilling of the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:45-46; Romans 8:13
  • The Holy Spirit empowers us to overcome the desires of the flesh and live righteously.
  • Speaking in tongues is the initial evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit.
  • The Spirit helps us to put to death the deeds of the body, leading to life.

2.3 The Cleansing Power of Jesus' Blood

Verses: 1 John 1:7; Hebrews 9:22; Revelation 1:5
  • Jesus' sacrifice on the cross provides complete forgiveness for all our sins.
  • Continual cleansing is available as we walk in the light and confess our sins.
  • We are redeemed and made clean by His precious and powerful blood.

3. Practical Strategies for Overcoming Sexual Sin

3.1 Guarding Your Mind and Eyes

Verses: Philippians 4:8; Matthew 5:28; Psalm 101:3
  • Control what you allow into your thoughts and imagination.
  • Flee from visual temptations that can lead to lust and sin.
  • Renew your mind daily with God's Word, focusing on pure and holy things.

3.2 Fleeing Temptation and Establishing Boundaries

Verses: 1 Corinthians 6:18; 2 Timothy 2:22; Proverbs 4:23
  • Actively remove yourself from tempting situations and environments.
  • Avoid places, people, and media that can trigger sinful desires.
  • Guard your heart above all else, for everything you do flows from it.

3.3 Accountability and Support

Verses: James 5:16; Ecclesiastes 4:9-10; Galatians 6:1-2
  • Confess your struggles to a trusted spiritual mentor or godly friend.
  • Seek support from brethren who can encourage and pray for you.
  • Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

3.4 The Power of Prayer and Fasting

Verses: Matthew 26:41; Mark 9:29; Ephesians 6:18
  • Prayer strengthens us against temptation and helps us resist the enemy.
  • Fasting helps to crucify the flesh and sharpen our spiritual sensitivity.
  • Maintain constant communication with God, seeking His strength and guidance.

4. Living a Life of Continual Consecration and Purity

4.1 Daily Devotion to God's Word

Verses: Psalm 119:9-11; Joshua 1:8; 2 Timothy 3:16-17
  • Hide God's Word in your heart to keep yourself pure and resist sin.
  • Meditate on scripture day and night, allowing it to transform your mind.
  • The Word of God is our ultimate guide for righteous and holy living.

4.2 Cultivating a Spirit of Worship and Praise

Verses: Psalm 34:1; Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 13:15
  • Worship shifts our focus from self and temptation to the greatness of God.
  • Praise drives away evil thoughts and influences, filling us with God's presence.
  • Offer the sacrifice of praise continually, giving thanks to His name.

4.3 Walking in the Spirit

Verses: Galatians 5:16; Galatians 5:22-23; Romans 8:1-2
  • Live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.
  • The fruit of the Spirit empowers us to live a holy and victorious life.
  • There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit.

4.4 The Hope of Christ's Return

Verses: 1 John 3:2-3; Titus 2:11-13; Revelation 22:11-12
  • The blessed hope of Christ's return motivates us to purify ourselves.
  • God's grace teaches us to live righteously, soberly, and godly in this present world.
  • We strive for holiness and purity in anticipation of His glorious coming.