Ignoring Your Sin Nature

Nobody plans for it to happen. Feeling far from God, harmful habits, trouble in our relationships….we look back and wonder, “How did I end up here?” Starting down that path is easier than you may think, unless you know what to look for. In this message we will be discussing how we can ignore our sin nature and some of the common fleshly desires that can effect our marriage.

Discussion Questions:

1. Has there ever been a time when you have tried to step into your spouse’s role? How did it affect your relationship with one another?

2. Read 1 Corinthians 6:12 “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be mastered by anything.” Has there ever been a time when anything has ever mastered you? Is this still a struggle, or what things helped you overcome it?

3. Read Galatians 5:1 “It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.” What kind of freedom do you believe Christ has given you? Does this come easy to you?

4. Hebrews 4:16 says, “For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” According to this verse, where should be go when we are tempted?

5. Read Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” What are some ways you and your spouse have been intentional about living your lives by faith in Jesus Christ? Are there any changes you’d like to make in light of this verse?

Verses used in this week’s teaching:

Colossians 3:18-19 “Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.”

Genesis 3:6 “So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate.”

Genesis 3:16 “To the woman he said, “I will surely multiply your pain in childbearing; in pain you shall bring forth children. Your desire shall be contrary to your husband, but he shall rule over you.”

1 Peter 5:8 “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

1 Peter 2:11 “Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.”