But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed. (Eph. 5:3)
We sometimes think that Hollywood invented sexual inuendo, but of course, that’s not true. Long before visionary entrepreneurs built sets amidst the scrub brush in the California desert, and cowboys and villains and 1920s glamour girls practiced their art in front of primitive movie cameras, there was impropriety and sexual sin. Our Creator poured his divine image into two human reflections, and our maleness and femaleness are earthly reminders of him. The sexual force in our world is powerful because he intended it to point us to him. The Enemy has distorted and perverted the plan and attempts to divert the power toward self-gratification and corruption.
The wording of the Greek in verse 3 refers to improper, profligate living both in actions and in motives. Christ followers are to flee every mere inkling of the improper use of sexuality. Those who are deceived into thinking it isn’t a big deal will not inherit or enter God’s kingdom. Rather, they will be under the wrath of God for their disobedience and obstinate opposition to his laws.
Verse 7 tells us not to be “partners” with them. We are called to crystal-clear purity through the power of the cross and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Remember that our sexuality reflects his image.
Valorie Quesenberry is a pastor’s wife and mom who lives in Indiana and likes to recharge with coffee and time with friends.
© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
