Fundamentals: Moral Boundaries-- Questions for Reflection and Discussion

Dig Deeper

In the message Moral Boundaries, a chair illustration was used to demonstrate the necessity of grounding our beliefs on a “fixed point of reference.” This illustration originates from a broadcast featuring Frank Peretti which aired on Focus on the Family August 16, 2012. You can listen to that message at 1twentyeight.blogspot.com.  Mr. Peretti states that a true fixed point of reference must 1). Be separate from us and 2). Be immovable.

How does Jesus describe the Scriptures in the following verses? What confidence does this provide for you in making the Scriptures your “fixed point of reference”?

Matthew 5:17-18--

Matthew 24:35; Mark 13:31; Luke  21:35--

 Read the Apostle Paul’s address to the Areopagus in Acts 17:22-28. What does Paul present as the true “fixed point of reference”? How is this in contrast to the beliefs of the people of Athens? (22-23)

Read 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5. What three things are the will of God for believers in their sanctification?

What insights do the following scriptures provide for believers establishing healthy moral boundaries, especially in the area of sexual purity/intimacy?

Proverbs 7:6-27--

1 Corinthians 6:18--

Ephesians 5:3--

1 Timothy 2:22--

Hebrews 13:4--

Application

Moral boundaries are not limited to sexual purity/intimacy. Proverbs 20:1 warns, “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise” and Ephesians 4:28, “Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” What boundaries is the Holy Spirit leading you to establish or strengthen in your life?

Memorize This

1 Thessalonians 4:3-4— It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable. © NIV