Leave & Cleave
“Sex and Marriage”
Ephesians 5:15-33

2014 Challenge
Let’s ask God to make our lives stronger!

Why talk about SEX?
	We live in a “me-centered,” pleasure-oriented, body-negative, sex-saturated culture.

Why is SEX such a big deal?
	We all have a desire for intimacy:  closeness, commitment, and contentment
It is a gift from God for use in marriage between a man and woman 
	Our passion and desire for sex has been distorted

Ephesians 5:15-33

Why will SEX outside of marriage not work?
Sex is not a need or just an appetite
Sex is not just a physical act; it’s a “bonding” act
Sex outside of marriage might be satisfying, but never fulfilling
Being naked or vulnerable without commitment causes confusion, shame & pain
Sex is the final act of the commitment to be married 
Sex is given as a “commitment renewal ceremony”
God designed sex for marriage; any other use is sin

God doesn’t command sexual abstinence before marriage because He doesn’t value sex; it’s because God has a high view of sex and its power for a man and a woman!

“Born-Again Virgin” – Sean Lowe, The Bachelor

SEX in Marriage! (1 Corinthians 7:1-5)
Should be frequent and free
The greatest pleasure is seeing your spouse experience pleasure
Brings comfort that can be found nowhere else
Approach sex from your spouse’s perspective
Sex can be a thermostat of your relationship
Sex is a deeply spiritual act to help you and bring glory to God

No wonder we are told to be wise!