Godly DatingTonight’s Message…

Dating is from Hell

1 Thessalonians 4:3-8(page 820)

Logical, Loving Limits

Motive = total security for maximum freedom

God’s laws exist for our PROTECTION!!

Why is Dating (the world’s way) from Hell?

1. Unscriptural2. Rehearsal for divorce3. Selfishly motivated4. Emotional destruction5. Irresponsible6. Promotes lasciviousness7. Breeds deception8. Breeds isolation9. Produces insecurity

Hebrews 13:4  4Marriage should be honored by all,

and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all

the sexually immoral.

Consequences of Sex Before Marriage

1. Lasciviousness = sin2. Produces guilt3. Sows deception4. You become skeptical/critical of other

Christians + gifts5. Lose self-respect6. Breeds mistrust7. Produces insecurity8. Vanity increases9. Creates bondage10.Destroys personality (soul) & creates

confusion in spirit

Consequences of Sex Before Marriage

11. Increases fear b/c you have guilt (1 John 4:18-19)

12. Can’t walk in faith b/c of fear!13. Diminishes communication14. Lose power to concentrate15. Produces rebellion towards authority16. Marriage oneness defiled17. Fellowship with God diminished18. Idolatry19. Defraud/defile = sin

Maturity in Christ Reasoning > Emotions

Truth in your spirit > natural drives (soul/body)

If dating is from Hell, then what??

1. Thank God for normal desires!2. Physical attraction doesn’t mean it’s

God’s will!3. Give it to God4. Get in light with spiritual authority5. Consider alternative to dating

(courtship)

1 Corinthians 13:4-7Love is patient Love is kindIt does not envyIt does not boastIt is not proudIt is not rudeIt is not self-seekingIt is not easily angeredIt keeps no record of wrongsLove does not delight in evil but rejoices with

the truthIt always protects, always trusts, always hopes,

always perseveres

God’s Love = highest good for another