Sun, Feb 16: New Message Series: Seven Paths/Choices: Seven Paths/Choices Leading to Darkness, Seven Paths/Choices Leading to Light. This week’s message is: 

Seven Paths/Choices: Lust – Oh Yeah! Oh No!1 Cor 6, Matt 5, Gal 5, Rom 6, 1 Thess 4

We’ve turned the first page in our series of 7 Pathways that Lead to Darkness and Light by looking deeper into the classic 7 Deadly Sins.  One author that I have been reading as a resource for this series calls these things: Glittering Vices.  That’s a good description of these pathways that promise a better life – Pride, Lust, Gluttony, Envy, Sloth, Anger, and Greed.  

The good news is that God points out the path toward a better life, a happy and fulfilling life in His Word.  And Jesus teaches the path toward joy and gratitude, an abundant life –  not only teaches it, demonstrates it, lives it. For example, humility is given as a better path than pride.  In the same way, hastity and faithfulness are better paths than lust.  

Lust in relationships leads us away from relationship connection.  Lust produces casualties and makes our society more crass and less beautiful.  Lust masquerades as promise, yet ends in sorrow.  Lust distorts what is good, exchanging love for a lie.  

When it comes to love, God’s gaze on us is one of love.  God desires what is best for us and teaches us and shows us a better path.  When it comes to lust, we need greater accountability and community.  

Let’s dive into this one Sunday.  Will be referencing various texts 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Matthew 5:27-28, Galatians 5:16-25, Romans 6:11-14, Romans 12:1-2, and 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8.  

See you Sunday!  Ash Wednesday service will be at 6:00pm, Wednesday February 26th.

Pastor Mark