Ep 11 Dwelling with God, Rom 1:18-32

People often run away from God because we want to be free, but instead of freedom we find ourselves captured by our own passions. Appetites, fears, temper, envy, ambition, greed, lust, etc. rise up and take control. Every area of our personality is affected, but one of the deepest and most obvious areas is our sexuality. Over time our lusts cause us to do things with our bodies that have nothing to do with God's original purpose for giving us sexuality, which is reproduction (Ge 1 :28: "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth...") and bonding by mutual desire and pleasure (Ge 24:67; 2Sa 12:24; Song of Solomon). The main subject of this passage is not sex. Paul is showing us the internal process which takes place when we walk away from God, in order to lead us toward a conclusion which he will state in chapter three (Ro 3:10-20). Humans aren't innocent victims. We're victims all right, but not innocent ones. Our sin comes from the rebellion which took place deep in our hearts. We make deliberate choices to be free from God's control. Paul doesn't tell us this to condemn us but to show us the path we must take when we're ready to come back. We must submit to the One who created us. Returning begins with submission because our problem began with rebellion. And though the main topic of this passage is not sex, no one could read it honestly and miss the point that God would certainly expect our submission to include bringing our sexuality back into His created purpose. To receive a free copy of Dr. Steve Schell's book Understanding Romans, email us at [email protected] and ask for your copy at no charge. The book has all the notes from each sermon in this series.  Also check out our website at lifelessonspublishing.com for additional resources for pastors and leaders. We have recorded classes and other materials offered at no charge.  And if you would like to receive a copy of Pastor Steve's newest book Study Verse by Verse: Revelation at no charge, we are still giving this book out as well!