Setting Moral Boundaries (1 Corinthians 6:15-20; Genesis 39:1-20)

I. Watch for temptation (1 Corinthians 6:15; Genesis 39:1-6)

  1. When you think no one else sees or knows (Genesis 20:11; Exodus 2:12; Numbers 32:23)
  2. When you think you are successful and attractive (Genesis 39:7)
  3. When you are alone with the opposite sex (Genesis 39:14, 17)
    • Warning about this aspect of proximity and isolation
  4. When you are emotionally vulnerable, seeking validation and attention (Genesis 2:18; 1 Corinthians 7:8-9; 1 Thessalonians 5:22)

II. How temptation works (1 Corinthians 6:16; 1 Corinthians 10:13)

  1. Stage was set by the tempter (Genesis 39:12)
  2. Relentless nature of temptation (Genesis 39:10; Judges 16:16-17; 1 Corinthians 6:18; 1 Peter 5:8-9)
  3. Joseph overcame temptation with integrity and moral purity, prioritising God-consciousness over self-interest (Proverbs 23:26-28; Proverbs 2:16; Proverbs 14:14-15; 1 Corinthians 6:18)

III. Make a commitment to be morally pure (2 Timothy 2:22; 1 Corinthians 6:18)

  1. Uphold integrity and godliness (Genesis 39:4-6)
  2. Making decision in the spirit, not in the flesh (Psalm 119:37; Galatians 5:19; Genesis 39:8-9)
  3. Focus on responsibilities, not on self-centered desires (Genesis 39:8-9)
  4. Prioritise obedience to God over temporary pleasure (1 Peter 3:12; Genesis 39;2, 21, 23)
  5. Recognise sin (Genesis 39:9; Romans.1;32]
  6. Flee temptation (Romans 13:14; 1 Corinthians 6:18; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Genesis 39:10; James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9; 2 Timothy 2:22)
  7. Do right regardless of the consequences (1 Corinthians 6:19-29; Genesis 39:17, 19, 21-23)