Question

ScottHere · Oct 16, 2006

I've been seeking for the correct denomination and even trying to figure out things about Christianity. So, that's why my icon has changed from Christian to Seeker. I don't think I've really been a Christian by the Bible's standards. Anyway, here's the question.

Sexual Purity

How can you resist something physical by a spiritual means? It seems like multiplying apples and oranges.

KarateCowboy · Oct 16, 2006

ScottHere said:
I've been seeking for the correct denomination and even trying to figure out things about Christianity. So, that's why my icon has changed from Christian to Seeker. I don't think I've really been a Christian by the Bible's standards. Anyway, here's the question.

Sexual Purity

How can you resist something physical by a spiritual means? It seems like multiplying apples and oranges.

I'll answer the easy question first.

The way we resist physical things by spiritual means is like this: You see that new issue of FHM sitting on the magazine rack at the gas station. Man, that Famke Jansen sure looks good --and WHAT?! A CENTERFOLD?!? There IS a God in Heaven! Oh but wait --Jesus said that if I even look at a woman with lust its bad and can lead to worse things. Gee, I haven't been paying much attention to my wife lately. Haven't been romantic or anything. Maybe I should take the time and energy and creative juices I would use fantasizng about Famke Jansen in the bathroom with the door closed and the fan on and put that energy towards romancing my wife. Hey, maybe if I did that a little more she'd even feel motivated to exercise and lose those fifteen pounds from last Thanksgiving! Yeah. Now that I think about it, Famke is just a picture on paper, and my wife is so much cooler. After all that's why I married her, right? And she cares about me too. See ya later, Famke.

That was easy.

Now, the hard part: which is the correct denomination? Well, they have to abide by the Nicene creed, and believe in salvation by faith, if you ask me, and that faith is perfected by works, but salvation is not attained through works at all. That is my belief. There's so much to it. I don't even know where to begin. But here is the Gospel:

Are you a good person? By human standards, probably. We Christians believe in a perfect, just, and holy God. So does God think you and I are good people? Well, He gave us a standard to know. You can take this little quiz and know. You don't have to share your score:

1) Have you ever lied? If so what does that make you? Well, someone who lies is a liar. Some people say "Well that was a long time ago". Christians believe that time does not erase the guilt of sin(as it says in the Bible), so it remains.

2) Have you ever stolen anything(mp3s, anyone)? (value is irrelevant)? If you have, what does that make you? (Hint: a thief)

3) Have you ever taken the Lord's name in vain? The Bible calls that blasphemy.

4) Have you ever looked at a woman with lust? Jesus said that if you even look at a woman with lust you have committed adultery with her in your heart.

So let's stop there. If you have committed all these sins (as I have) that makes you a lying, thieving, blasphemous adulterer at heart, and we've only looked at four of the Ten Commandments. This is how God sees me, and maybe you.

So in God's eyes none of us are good people. That is why the Bible says "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God".

The Bible says that the punishment for sin is death and eternal suffering in Hell (second death). So that's why you don't have to be a 'bad person' by our standards. If you break the Law you only need to break one law to have the cops after you. You don't have to break every law.

But here's the good news (that's why we call it the Good News). You don't have to suffer eternally. You do not have to face judgement. Jesus, who lived a clean and sinless life, died on the Cross at Calvary. Like a father who pays his son's speeding ticket, Jesus died the first death on the Cross so you don't have to suffer the second one (eternity in Hell). All you have to do is accept Him as your Lord and Savior. It's kind of like a party: The invitation has already been sent and received, you just need to show up.

So as one sinner to another I want to plead with you. Submit to Christ. Accept His sacrifice. It's Eternity we have to deal with.

ScottHere · Oct 16, 2006

First Question - And what if you're single? You won't have a wife to go home to, rather than look at magazines.

Second Question - How is it possible to justify an eternity in Hell?

~InHisHands~ · Oct 16, 2006

I'm single. I've been resisting for years. I don't watch anything sexual, I don't read anything sexual, I don't listen to anything sexual or look at anything sexual. You know the old saying, "out of sight, out of mind"? That helps a lot.

As for denomination, I can't help you much with that at the moment. I've grown disgusted with denoms in general. I would like to suggest that you seek out a good bible study group and study on your own as much as you can. Perhaps that will help you to find a church you can be satisfied with.

ScottHere · Oct 16, 2006

Well, I guess you're right. Out of sight, out of mind would help. Well, except for my regualar maleness, then I guess I'll just have to bite the bullet.

I don't like denominations either. Sunday I went to a non-denominational church with my sister and cousin. We loved it, and that's sayin' somethin', especially for them. As for the Bible study, I'm not sure about how to search for that.

~InHisHands~ · Oct 16, 2006

Maybe ask around. I think many of them are done in people's personal homes. Perhaps if you go to that non-denom church again you could ask someone there.

I assume you're still pure? If you think it's bad like this, you're lucky you haven't already dipped your cracker in the fondue.

Alcamo · Oct 16, 2006

Hi ScottHere,

KarateCowboy had a lot of good things to say. Let me add something to his response to the sexual purity question. After we have accepted Christ (as KarateCowboy talked about), Gods Spirit begins to manifest himself inside our hearts and minds. As we seek God and learn to yield to him, he himself takes control of those hormonal urges. This doesnt mean we are never tempted and never feel any urges, but it does mean that with Gods power there is victory, and as we seek him, the urges get weaker. On a personal note, I can assure you of the truth of this because, as a single guy, God has given me complete victory for over twelve and a half years (since shortly after I became a Christian). Have I spent all these years in a cold sweat biting my nails, bemoaning my deprivation? Hardly. I learned early on that the more I conform to Gods laws the more freedom I experience and the happier I am (The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. Psalm 19:8).

Of course, if God is just a distant and abstract concept to us, we wont experience his power and there will not be victory. God wants to reveal himself to us and show himself to be powerful and loving in every area of our lives, but he will only do so as we seek him (talking to him from our hearts, reading his word, choosing friends who also seek him, etc.). If we dont do this, we will remain out of touch with his power and we will not experience victory.

Im not trying to over spiritualize this, but in addition to what Ive said alredy, it is also true that satan wants us to believe that victory is impossible and that we have to just give in. As usual, he tries to drag us down with lies, but a lie has no power unless it is believed.

May you seek God and find in him the freedom that I and many others have found.

ScottHere · Oct 16, 2006

LunaticRed -

That's a good idea. Maybe I'll ask around in that church.

You said "I assume you're still pure? If you think it's bad like this, you're lucky you haven't already dipped your cracker in the fondue."

I'm not pure. But I haven't had sex, if that's what you mean. And after that question, you lost me. If I think what is bad?

~InHisHands~ · Oct 16, 2006

I was referring to the temptation. It's far worse after you've actually had sex.

And what Alcamo said about the urges weakening, I can testify to that as well.

ScottHere · Oct 16, 2006

LunaticRed said:
I was referring to the temptation. It's far worse after you've actually had sex.

And what Alcamo said about the urges weakening, I can testify to that as well.

Oh, ok. Thanks.

ScottHere · Oct 16, 2006

Alcamo said:
Hi ScottHere,

KarateCowboy had a lot of good things to say. Let me add something to his response to the sexual purity question. After we have accepted Christ (as KarateCowboy talked about), Gods Spirit begins to manifest himself inside our hearts and minds. As we seek God and learn to yield to him, he himself takes control of those hormonal urges. This doesnt mean we are never tempted and never feel any urges, but it does mean that with Gods power there is victory, and as we seek him, the urges get weaker. On a personal note, I can assure you of the truth of this because, as a single guy, God has given me complete victory for over twelve and a half years (since shortly after I became a Christian). Have I spent all these years in a cold sweat biting my nails, bemoaning my deprivation? Hardly. I learned early on that the more I conform to Gods laws the more freedom I experience and the happier I am (The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. Psalm 19:8).

Of course, if God is just a distant and abstract concept to us, we wont experience his power and there will not be victory. God wants to reveal himself to us and show himself to be powerful and loving in every area of our lives, but he will only do so as we seek him (talking to him from our hearts, reading his word, choosing friends who also seek him, etc.). If we dont do this, we will remain out of touch with his power and we will not experience victory.

Im not trying to over spiritualize this, but in addition to what Ive said alredy, it is also true that satan wants us to believe that victory is impossible and that we have to just give in. As usual, he tries to drag us down with lies, but a lie has no power unless it is believed.

May you seek God and find in him the freedom that I and many others have found.

Well, God does seem rather distant and I'm not quite sure how to get to Him.

LilLamb219 · Oct 17, 2006

I've been seeking for the correct denomination and even trying to figure out things about Christianity. So, that's why my icon has changed from Christian to Seeker. I don't think I've really been a Christian by the Bible's standards. Anyway, here's the question.
Sexual Purity
How can you resist something physical by a spiritual means? It seems like multiplying apples and oranges.

I am confused by part of what you posted and it makes it sound as if you're saying you're not a Christian anymore because you have sexual thoughts or urges that you're having difficulties controlling and you don't feel good enough to be a Christian. I hope that isn't what you're saying because that's not why we're Christians. Christians know that they need a Savior and have faith that one was provided for us (Christ Jesus) and that all our sins are forgiven so we may have eternal life.

Anyway, back to your question... how can you resist something sexual by a spiritual means? Well, first off, turning to God in prayer won't hurt. Take baby steps and don't feel you're completely doomed if you fall back into old ways. Keep the hope for a change within you and do your best to eliminate the things that cause you to fall within your life. You can't do it on your own and little failures doesn't mean that it's over...

Even if you continue struggling with it your entire life, know that your sins have been forgiven at the cross. Keep your eyes on the cross.

Alcamo · Oct 17, 2006

It's all about heart. Even if all we are able to say is "Lord, I need your help." he will respond if our hearts are sincere, but the way he responds may not be what you expect. It may be subtle things that start happening in coming days and weeks, or it could be him clearly speaking to us, which we need to be careful not to push away.

Don't go it alone... share your struggles to relate to God with another guy you may know who has a close walk with him and can come along side you. I and others can pray for you, but you need someone in your immediate world too.

Let us know how it's going!

PaulAckermann · Oct 17, 2006

ScottHere said:
Sexual Purity

How can you resist something physical by a spiritual means? It seems like multiplying apples and oranges.

It seems that your view of the world betrays a gnostic view of the world. Gnosticsm was a first-century heresy that taught that there was the spiritual and the physical, and one cannot influence the other. This is not Christianity. The main tenet of Christianity is the Incarnation, God coming in the flesh. The Spiritual becomes the Physical. Also, the doctrine of creation has God (spiritual) creating the world (physical). So Christianity teaches that the spiritual influences the physical. If not, creation and the incarnation would not be possible.

KarateCowboy · Oct 18, 2006

Alcamo said:
Hi ScottHere,

KarateCowboy had a lot of good things to say. Let me add something to his response to the sexual purity question. After we have accepted Christ (as KarateCowboy talked about), Gods Spirit begins to manifest himself inside our hearts and minds. As we seek God and learn to yield to him, he himself takes control of those hormonal urges. This doesnt mean we are never tempted and never feel any urges, but it does mean that with Gods power there is victory, and as we seek him, the urges get weaker. On a personal note, I can assure you of the truth of this because, as a single guy, God has given me complete victory for over twelve and a half years (since shortly after I became a Christian). Have I spent all these years in a cold sweat biting my nails, bemoaning my deprivation? Hardly. I learned early on that the more I conform to Gods laws the more freedom I experience and the happier I am (The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. Psalm 19:8).

Of course, if God is just a distant and abstract concept to us, we wont experience his power and there will not be victory. God wants to reveal himself to us and show himself to be powerful and loving in every area of our lives, but he will only do so as we seek him (talking to him from our hearts, reading his word, choosing friends who also seek him, etc.). If we dont do this, we will remain out of touch with his power and we will not experience victory.

Im not trying to over spiritualize this, but in addition to what Ive said alredy, it is also true that satan wants us to believe that victory is impossible and that we have to just give in. As usual, he tries to drag us down with lies, but a lie has no power unless it is believed.

May you seek God and find in him the freedom that I and many others have found.

You know, I actually learned a lot from this post.

RonnyRulz · Oct 22, 2006

Friend, if you're looking for the correct denomination, you won't find it.

If you just look at denominations, all they do is segregate christians amongst one another. Earlier I was looking at a thread...this person asked for help, and the christians that responded debated each other over their beliefs, and no one ever answered her question....

I personally hate denominations with a passion because they split the body of christ and divide his people, not to mention that there are great christians in all denominations and horrible anti-christs in all denominations. Although I despise denominations, God placed me in assembly of god churches for some reason. They pretty down to earth when it comes to not having stupid rules (like how some denominations won't allow you to wear shorts....) but I've had my share of bad from them, although more good than bad. I also like Lifechurch.tv because it doesn't even claim to be a denomination. I believe they are one, but they don't tell you and don't seem to want you to really know. Denominations suck. Why can't we all just get along?

Regardless of your choice, don't get trapped into denominations. Stay open-minded, not necessarily about your hardcore beliefs, but about accepting others from other denominations, being respectful of other's beliefs, and not finding yourself divided over a belief so much that the lost sheep get ignored.

There's one thing all Christians can agree on: Love. God is Love. Love one another. Love Love Love. Love regardless. That and the trinity, and Jesus's resurrection. But almost all denominations believe that. So whatever you choose, just remember: denominations SUCK. lol, jk. but don't be segregated and divided, but unified with all others who believe in Jesus.

RonnyRulz · Oct 22, 2006

One more thing... sometimes God does feel really far away, but remember, regardless of emotions God is right besides you 24/7. Even if it doesn't feel like that, he is. (Never rely completely on your emotions, I know you know God isn't an emotion, he is a person, so continue to rock on bro!)

And sometimes it feels like God "withdraws" and you don't feel him close by, but those are the times when you get to build on your foundation of faith and really show God that you want Him, not for how he makes you feel, but for who He is. For his personality. And you're willing to struggle to have Him because you want him that much! Great times to develop your foundations.

salida · Oct 22, 2006

ScottHere said:
I've been seeking for the correct denomination and even trying to figure out things about Christianity. So, that's why my icon has changed from Christian to Seeker. I don't think I've really been a Christian by the Bible's standards. Anyway, here's the question.

Sexual Purity

How can you resist something physical by a spiritual means? It seems like multiplying apples and oranges.

Scott---

I would pray and ask the Holy Spirit into your heart to help you grow in Christ. The Bible is a spiritual book that helps us renew our minds spiritually and grow and become more like Christ. Without this we don't have the power to live a christian life and with our human minds it can't be figured out. We must walk by faith daily and its a life long process and lifestyle to become more like Christ. It ends the day we die, and leave this earth.

Personally, I would pray and ask God where He would want me to go. I go to a very christ loving nondenominational church. It is so filled with the love of Christ it brings tears to my eyes. We just have the Holy Spirit and the Bible which is all we need.

And your sexual question. One must surround themselves with spiritually healthy things. Like don't watch junk t.v. of the world and hollywood. Ignore magazines that have ladies with a lot of skin showing. Fill your mind with good images.

TimRout · Mar 1, 2008

ScottHere said:
I've been seeking for the correct denomination and even trying to figure out things about Christianity. So, that's why my icon has changed from Christian to Seeker. I don't think I've really been a Christian by the Bible's standards. Anyway, here's the question.

Sexual Purity

How can you resist something physical by a spiritual means? It seems like multiplying apples and oranges.

Assuming that you have already come to saving faith in Jesus Christ, you have the Holy Spirit living inside you [1 Corinthians 6:19-20]. He gives you the ability to resist any temptation that comes along [1 Corinthians 10:13]. When resisting the devil's temptations, it is important to begin by submitting yourself afresh to the authority of God; this will place God's power at your disposal and cause the enemy to run for the hills when you resist him [James 4:7]. Ultimately, everyone sins, but that doesn't mean we can't learn to be sin resistant. Those who make it their habit to daily consume the Word of God in concerted study, find that their resistance to temptation grows significantly [Psalm 119:11]. And remember, our fortitude is dependant on God's strength, not our own -- so seek Him in prayer continuously [Ephesians 6:18].

Nadiine · Mar 4, 2008

ScottHere said:
Well, I guess you're right. Out of sight, out of mind would help. Well, except for my regualar maleness, then I guess I'll just have to bite the bullet.

That is the key - it goes into the spiritual side of "what you feed" the most.
If you keep looking at things that tempt you and work you up to lusting and wanting sex, you're feeding your 'flesh'. It's only a matter of time before it gets acted out regularly or other addictions form.

If you stay in the word of God and away from what makes you lust, you're feeding your spirit with God's truth and it's working inside you to empower God's Spirit.
(a nonstop power struggle btwn the 2)
Galatians 5:16
[ Walking in the Spirit ] I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
Galatians 5:17
For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish.

I don't like denominations either. Sunday I went to a non-denominational church with my sister and cousin. We loved it, and that's sayin' somethin', especially for them. As for the Bible study, I'm not sure about how to search for that.

In a way, it's unfortunate that people are "demonizing" denominations as if they're evil and ungodly.

I'd also note that those who refuse to assemble at a church becuz of it being a certain denomination, are also forming their own "group" to meet with those who they agree with more.
If you form a little home group, you're equally in a little "denom" type of your own; and ANTI others... it's still division with the Body of Christ.

Most people think they're the only ones who think outside the box and aren't doing anything wrong by being a specific denom. (ie. anti - divisional)... yet they actually are by attacking denoms. in general.

oh well.

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