Assignment
Practice: Sexual Immorality
Completion requirements
The question of Paul’s teachings in relation to the Old Testament Law is complicated. You could fill a small library with all the books and articles that have been written on the subject. Did he expect Christians to observe the Jewish Sabbath? What about the Old Testament food laws?
However, it seems quite clear that Paul considered the sexual guidelines of passages like Leviticus 18 to be fully in force under the new covenant. These are timeless, universal precepts, not part of God’s specific instruction to ancient Israel. Create a “cheat sheet” of notes on Paul in relation to sexual immorality and the sanctification of our bodies. Here are some topics and Scriptural passages to explore:
- Adultery: 1 Corinthians 6:9-10
- Visiting prostitutes (implications for pornography): 1 Corinthians 6:15-20
- Homosexual practice: Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; 1 Timothy 1:10
- Sex outside of marriage: 1 Corinthians 7:8-9; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5
- Incest: 1 Corinthians 5:1-5
As you explore these passages, also write down a paragraph or two on what you would say to a young person who asked you what the Bible teaches on these subjects. Submit your notes below.