Naked and Unashamed: Sexual Intimacy by Design
Sermon Notes
In this message, David Marvin explores the purpose and design of sex according to God's plan. Sex is meant to be an exclusive and protected gift to be enjoyed between one man and one woman in the context of marriage.
However, our culture has devalued sex, leading to pain and regret. We learn how sex has permanence and bonding power and how serving and sacrificing for our spouse leads to a deeper and more meaningful connection. Despite past mistakes, God's love and forgiveness offer hope and healing.
This series, Sex By Design, will discuss how we have departed from the perfect God-given design for gender and sexuality. Parents of kids in Middle School and younger, we recommend that you use caution in letting your kids stream this series.
Sex by Design Has a Purpose
Sex has multiple purposes, including being marital, spiritual, physical, and not shameful, representing the union of marriage.
God's instructions for sex can be found in His Word, likened to an owner's manual that provides guidance for its proper use and fulfillment of its purpose.
Sex serves the purpose of procreation, as God's command to be fruitful and multiply, and also for pleasure, with passages in Proverbs and Song of Solomon highlighting its beauty and enjoyment within marriage.
Sex by Design Has Permanence
Sex has permanence, creating a deep bond between two individuals through releasing oxytocin during sexual experiences.
Paul emphasizes the significance of sex within marriage, stating that it is not merely physical but also a spiritual mystery where two become one flesh.
Sexual sin involves any sexual activity outside of marriage, and Paul urges people to flee from it, as it can cause emotional scars and damage to one's own body.
Sex by Design Is Sacrificial
Sex by design is sacrificial, intended for marriage, and God's idea for one man and one woman to come together intimately within the security of a covenant.
The genius design of sex involves being sexual servants to your spouse, fulfilling each other's needs, and sacrificially serving one another in the context of marriage.
The differences in wiring between men and women create opportunities for sacrificial love, and sex is designed this way so that love can be expressed through giving and sacrifice.
Discussion Questions
How does the message challenge or reinforce your understanding of sex and its purpose in the context of marriage?
David mentions that sex outside of marriage can lead to shame and regret. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Why?
What are your thoughts on the concept of sacrificial love in sexual relationships? How can this idea be practically applied in a marriage or dating relationship?
The message discusses the idea of sexual healing and how God's love can bring redemption to past sexual experiences. Have you ever experienced or witnessed healing in this area? How can this healing be fostered in individuals and communities?
David emphasizes the value and worth of individuals, regardless of their sexual past. How can we create a culture that promotes healthy perspectives on sex, intimacy, and self-worth within our families and communities?