Reference

1 Corinthians 1:20 - 25, Genesis 2: 8-9, Proverbs 29:11, Proverbs 27:7, Psalms 4:7 & Proverbs 24:13 - 14
  • Pleasures are those things that God has made that we naturally enjoy, that satisfy our minds and bodies
  • When pleasure becomes an idol, we become enslaved to it, and that enslavement has terrible consequences:
    • Our enslavement to pleasure makes us unable to carry out the work God gives us to do
    • Our enslavement to pleasure lowers our guard against sin
  • We will not be satisfied by any pleasure unless our greatest pleasure and satisfaction are found in God alone
  • The greatest delight in God and His creation is only possible through Jesus, who Himself becomes the greatest pleasure to us

 

Sermon Discussion Questions

  1. What is the purpose of the pleasurable things that God has made?
  2. How does our love of pleasure affect our self-control?
  3. Why does our love of pleasure make us poor?
  4. What sins are we most vulnerable to when we become obsessed with our pleasure?
  5. What is the greatest possible pleasure that any person can know?
  6. Why do we naturally not take pleasure in God's love?
  7. What way did God give us to have the pleasure of being loved by Him?
  8. Why do we delight in Jesus?
  9. What pleasures in your own life could potentially enslave you?
  10. Have you ever allowed your pleasure to take away from your responsibilities and enjoyment of being a disciple of Jesus?
  11. Are there any sins in your life that your pleasures have left you vulnerable to?
  12. Is the loving presence of God and the saving work of Jesus the most pleasing thing for you?