Works of the Flesh - Lasciviousness

Subject: Works of the Flesh - Lasciviousness

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 4: 17 - 32

Memory Verses: Ephesians 4: 18 - 19

Objective: To define the sin of lasciviousness and understand the spiritual danger of a life lived without moral restraint or shame.

Introduction: Among the works of the flesh mentioned in Galatians 5: 19 -21 is lasciviousness (from the Greek word aselgeia). Lasciviousness goes beyond hidden, private sin; it is an attitude of brazen, shameless conduct. It is the complete absence of moral restraint, where individuals no longer care what God or others think of their ungodly behaviours.

1. What does Paul says happens to a person's conscience when he/she continually yields to the flesh? Ephesians 4: 18 - 19, 1 Timothy 4: 2

2. What spiritual disciplines can help a believer keep their conscience tender and sensitive to God's standards? Psalm 119: 9 - 11, Hebrews 3:13

3. How did false teachers in the early church misuse the grace of God? Jude 1: 4

Note: A dangerous heresy in the early church, as well as today, is the belief that because God's grace is infinite, a believer can live completely unrestrained by moral boundaries without consequences. True grace never grants a license for shameless sin; rather, it teaches us to deny ungodliness.

4. In contrast to the darkness of unrestrained living, what behaviour is commanded for those who walk in the light? Romans 13: 12 - 14

5. Which two catastrophic historical events serve as warnings against societies which are given over to lasciviousness? 2 Peter 2: 4 - 6

6. Can a person who is entirely given over to the works of the flesh expect to inherit the Kingdom of God? 1 Corinthians 6: 9 - 10, Galatians 5:21

Conclusion: Lasciviousness is the terrifying state where a person loses his/her capacity to feel ashamed after committing sin. The only remedy for a heart bent towards shameless rebellion is the radical, purifying work of the Holy Spirit, which replaces our unrestrained passions with the fruit of temperance.