By: Pastor Adam Durso

Sex sells! That’s what society has promoted on T.V. screens, commercial ads, magazines and theaters. The more sex you advertise- however raunchy and filthy you can make it- the more customers you will attract.  Sex has become such a lucrative business that it brings in almost 10-14 billion a year . One author even suggested that “pornography is bigger than any of the major league sports, perhaps bigger than Hollywood; ending with Porn is “no longer a sideshow to the mainstream…it is the mainstream.” We can see this simply with commercials advertising shampoo- sexual innuendos permeate all that we watch. Young and old no longer can get away from images whether walking to school, taking the train or watching daytime television. Sex is everywhere and its images leave lasting impressions and have many looking through dirty lenses.  Yet who created sex with all its pleasure and all its benefits? As Christians we believe that God is the author of sex as a way of procreation- YES. But also as a means for enjoyment between a man and a woman under one condition- Marriage. God’s definition of sex is one that is pure, holy and bond creating. The culture has perverted the true intent of God’s purpose and gift in sex.   

Sad to say many have bought into and drank down the representation of sex by our culture. Television, internet , magazines and movie screens have infiltrated many thoughts and beliefs,  in turn affecting  behaviors, homes and futures. Sadly not only has society bought into the downward spiral of sex gone wrong but many believers have also accepted its deception. This should not be. As believers we have the truth of God’s word that gives us a clear picture of sex and guidelines that will not only protect us but keep us from harming ourselves.

 In 1^st Corinthians 6:12-20 Paul addresses the people of Corinth and says this,

“I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything. You say, “Food for the stomach and the stomach for food, and God will destroy them both.” The body, however, is not meant for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. By his power God raised the Lord from the dead, and he will raise us also. Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! Do you not know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, “The two will become one flesh.” But whoever is united with the Lord is one with him in spirit.

Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

Corinth, by many theologians is compared to a modern day New York City or Las Vegas; characterized as a bustling city, a center attraction. There was worship of many gods and sexual immorality was rampant. The Apostle Paul had to address the Corinth church because seemingly some of the cultures beliefs had infiltrated the church (sound familiar). Paul begins by challenging the people with their own slogan. “Everything is permissible” was a popular saying but Paul challenged that thought with “is it beneficial”.  Though we have the freedom to choose; Paul encourages believers to make choices that will benefit themselves and their faith not compromising Christian core values. 

The Corinthians believed that every need that presented itself had to be gratified hence- “Food is for stomach, stomach for food.” Why you wonder? It was only the right and normal thing to do in Corinth. Honestly, when you are hungry you satisfy your hunger … isn’t it the same as with sex?  No! Paul tells us that though his body craves many things he does not obey his flesh. He will not be enslaved by anything.  Christ was Lord of his body, not his passions, desires or flesh. It was Christ! And since Christ was Lord the Apostle Paul would do everything and anything to make sure his body was subject to Christ and nothing else.  Our natural default mode is to be dominated, mastered and enslaved by our appetites and sinful desires. When we are not walking in the spirit we give way to the flesh. Remember a rule to live by- just because you feel it; doesn’t mean its right and here are three truths about sex. Take notes-

1. Sex is good!

Sex in the context of marriage is to be enjoyed and a source of pleasure between a husband and wife. Yes, sex is a means for procreation but mostly a source of enjoyment for a married couple.  You are supposed to enjoy your spouse and be captivated by them. There is no shame or embarrassment in the act, it is a gift from God.

1 Corinthians 7: 4-5 tells us that a man and woman in marriage does not have authority over their bodies but they willingly yield it to their husband or wife. Husbands and wives are not to withhold sex as a form of punishment or “payback”. Sex is not a weapon. Instead love your spouse, be faithful to your spouse and be captivated by them. Paul admonishes couples to not deprive one another except for prayer and with consent from both parties with a limited time as to not give the enemy room to tempt.

2. Sex does have strings attached!

This year movies like No Strings Attached have promoted the idea that it is possible to have a sexual platonic relationship without an emotional bond-often termed “friends with benefits”. Glamour magazine published an article written by an individual who found herself in a sexual relationship with a close friend by choice. Meaning they chose to have a sexual platonic relationship. Why? She stated that it felt safe and comfortable since there had been a close relationship. But what first started out as fun had repercussions none were ready for. The relationship soon soured and “the thrill of sex faded”. In the end she was left without a friend and deeply scarred stating that she “began to feel like a sucker or, worse, a volunteer prostitute”. In the end, “the problem with friends with benefits’ is that it provides neither friends nor benefits”.

“Friends with benefits” is a complete fallacy. Sex was created to bond a man and woman together but not just physically. Sex also creates a mental, soul and emotional attachment. God said let the “two become one” flesh and so sex is part of that meshing of two lives. It is only natural that attachments are created and desires for a deeper committed relationship are magnified. Sex, again, is not just a physical act. It affects the whole person (mind, body and soul) and when it is initiated outside the boundaries God set up consequences are many and quite painful.

3. Flee sexual sin!

Flee from flirting and inappropriate conversation! When it comes to sexual sin there is only one way to fight and that is to run. Don’t stand and try to overcome it- flee! Many think that sexual sin almost always begins in the bedroom but it can begin with an inappropriate conversation with someone on the job, at school or in church. Inappropriate flirting that has gone overboard to the point where sexual innuendos are discussed. All of us know when we have crossed lines that we should not have crossed and we also know when we are approaching boundary lines that God is telling us not to cross. When you have the Holy Spirit you know the “check” that cautions you to beware. When you feel the check of the Holy Spirit, obey and cut the conversation short. The best thing you can do is leave at the conversation stage. Leave unscathed!

Flee from pornography- Sexual sins 99.9% of the time begin in the mind. What we watch and listen to affects how we think.  As I stated earlier pornography is a lucrative business that pulls in close to 14 billion dollars annually but worse pornography has become more and more mainstreamed. What once was taboo is now open for all to see. It is easily accessible on the internet, regular cable channels and facebook can link you to pages with elicit photos. It is a fact that we have to be more aware and more aggressive against this fight remembering that the Holy Spirit lives within each believer. We do not want to grieve the Holy Spirit and so we make decisions to stay away from that which would grieve him; making our members obey Christ and not our desires! Cut those behaviors/actions off that you know are sinful.  Give no provision for the flesh

Lastly, flee from compromising situations! When you know you are in a compromising situation, flee.  I heard one gentleman put it this way, flee when you’re no longer watching the movie on your living room couch with your boyfriend or girlfriend. Flee all forms of sexual immorality remembering not even a hint. Most couples who desire to stay pure have fallen into the trap that they are either “strong enough” to withstand sexual temptation. Truth is no one is strong enough that is why the Bible says flee.

These are three truths about sex. Three truths that I believe can help you evaluate where you are today and what you may need to change so that whether you are married or single you can reap the benefits of living a Spirit led and sincere life before Christ. Keep in mind sexual sin has brought many a leader down and affected a number of churches, ministries and families. Please do not be deceived and understand that the only way towards true freedom with any sin is confession and repentance. Seek counsel, prayer and let the word of God teach you what is true and false.

Pastor Adam Durso

Revelation 4:1

This passage of scripture paints a picture for us of the God that we serve, His character and His power. John, the writer of the book of Revelation gives us a glimpse into the very throne room of God after having a vision of this glorious sight, and His reaction to what He witnessed.

Granted, this particular book of the Bible contains symbolic imagery, but they are illustrations of the majesty and vast greatness of God. In the text, the elders and cherubim cry out in worship continuously “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty…”“You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.”

 The sole purpose of their existence is to give God honor and praise and to glorify His name. They acknowledge God as the only source of their being, and that none other deserves their praise. That is indeed a glimpse of heaven, but yet a literal model of the condition that we should possess.

Unfortunately, in our churches we have not yet embraced the spirit of worship represented in this text.  Instead, we have become less reverent and have devalued the greatness of God for our own creature comforts.  In order to remain relevant and approachable to the world, we have diminished God’s greatness. We no longer promote or showcase His awesomeness or the fact that He was, and is, and is to come or that He is eternal and omnipotent.  We have traded holiness for familiarity.   We measure God by our finite human standards, and in doing so we have “dumbed down” God to suit our own limitations, in a sense.  

Do we fully realize that the entire universe is held together by the power of His word ALONE?

We, as His church, need a sobering awakening to who God truly is. As appealing and recognizable as the concept may seem, Jesus is not our homeboy.  He is not a little better than us mere mortals.  He is God.  Jesus is a member of the Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit), a member of the Godhead.  Unfortunately, we have become too casual when we enter into the realm of worship.  We act irreverently in, and toward the presence of God.  Our praise is distracted, lame and un-engaging. We fail to realize that beyond and regardless of our circumstances, He is always worthy of our utmost devotion. We have not yet come to a place where we can cast our cares down and solely concentrate on true worship. To do so is to surrender ourselves and let go of our “stuff” to enter into His presence.

Jesus gave of himself completely, bearing the cross in anguish as an ultimate act of sacrificial worship.  Yet we respond by suppressing our praise.  As vast as our universe may be, it still pales in comparison to the greatness of its creator: God!  His creations are unparalleled to Him! God spoke all things into creation and they are unmatched by His immense power. There is none like Him. In worship, you give of yourself and proclaim to God that He alone is worthy of the Glory, Honor and Praise forever!

Glory

 Glory is living for God. We do not exist solely for ourselves and we were created to glorify God. The center of the universe isn’t any one of us. There are beliefs circulating in some churches that promote very self-centered teachings, a theology that God has to fulfill our selfish agendas and cater to our needs. They teach that the individual is great and that God is here to advance their pursuits and desires. The “me-centric” doctrines promote a lie that is totally built on self importance.

The truth is that Christianity is all about GOD from the book of Genesis to Revelation, beginning to end and no flesh should glorify itself in His presence. We are nothing without Him and must realize that gifts, wisdom and knowledge are given by Him. We have to dispel this self righteous thinking that we are better than others because the truth is that the only good in us is what God has done for us and who He is in us. What often occurs is that we focus too much on ourselves and the pursuit of our own desires. This just leads to a place of barrenness and dissatisfaction. Too many have adopted a philosophy that “God would not want me to be unhappy,” and consequently pursue relationships, hobbies, jobs or locations to fill the void.  Happiness, real joy, isn’t found in any other thing or person but God! God is the giver of every good and perfect thing! Seeking elsewhere just leads us further away from the truth. We are so easily distracted by the temporal things of this world instead of pursuing the greater joy which is only sustained by God.

 (I Cor. 10:31)

Honor

 We have to learn to honor what God considers honorable.  In today’s society we have allowed ourselves to be lax and compromise in our parental practices. Children are not taught to be respectful and to honor authority but this is what the Bible teaches.  If a child is taught respect for those inside and outside of the home and to honor authority, this is a trajectory for their future. Many of today’s problems stem from this issue and it can follow a child into their adulthood. There are adults who struggle with the concept of honoring authority but it is God’s mandate to give honor where honor is due. Honor includes the home, church, government, society, the workplace and the elderly population. Respect is earned and honor is given before the Lord. God is to be honored for who He is.

Power

 God is supernatural.  He is omnipotent and all powerful. He is the Almighty God and we need His power to walk this Christian walk. We cannot do it in our own strength and our feeble attempts fail us. We are constantly bombarded with all sorts of temptations that appeal to our flesh, but with the power of God working in us, we are able to walk uprightly before the Lord.  God’s power working in us and through us proves to be a force that changes lives. His power enables us to do great things for the community, our society and our homes. We need His power to reverberate wherever He sends us. It is His power that truly transforms lives.

In being relevant and attractive in our approach to winning the lost for Christ, we have to always remember to keep God in His rightful place and not compromise our reverence for who He is. We want to be a church that unapologetically believes that the God that we serve is alive and functions greatly in the lives of His people. God is still the all-powerful God of the miraculous, and as His people we must uphold the standard of righteousness He has established. God is God and He deserves the Glory, Honor and Power!

Rev. Adam Durso, D.D

The accounts of the prophets hold many stories that often times are overlooked. First, because some accounts are difficult to understand and second because people usually find it hard to make connections with these stories and everyday life. This year I have found myself in the book of Jeremiah many a time and I believe that the words written here will encourage, bless and even convict your heart as we approach this New Year desiring a new way for our personal lives and our ministries.

Jeremiah, a young teen, receives the call of God to be a prophet to the nations at a time when sin abounded to the utmost.  Jerusalem was in a sorry state and history will show that during these moments prophets would rise to speak of impending discipline from God and his undying love for His people. Jeremiah was called to the same purposes but his reply was like many of ours.

 God says to Jeremiah,” Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations” (Jer. 1:5 NIV). God clearly speaks to Jeremiah and declares that the plan He had for his life began when Jeremiah was formed at birth.  Jeremiah was created for this very purpose- to be a prophet to the nations.  Let me add that God still speaks today like he did years ago- one word from Him can change the entire trajectory of the rest of your life!  Others may have called you a mistake but God birthed you with purpose and if you’re breathing today know that God has a work for you to do that will advance His kingdom and bring Him glory.

But like us Jeremiah replies as such, “Ah, Sovereign Lord… I do not know how to speak; I am only a child” (Jer. 1:6 NIV). Quickly Jeremiah points out his weaknesses due to fear and insecurity. He didn’t believe he could accomplish what God had created him to do- to be His mouth piece.  Excuses do not trigger the power of God- your “Yes” does. That trust in Him and his capability is what moves His hand to action.

Remember, where your human strength ends God’s power begins!

Still God recognized Jeremiah’s fear and said to Him, “Do not say, ‘I am only a child.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord (Jer. 1:7-8 NIV).  The Lord comforted Jeremiah in his fear and also promised that He would not leave him alone or without what He needed to fulfill his call- His authoritative word.“Then the Lord reached out His hand and touched my mouth and said ‘Now, I have put my words in your mouth” (Jer. 1:9 NIV).  The Lord had provided all Jeremiah needed in one touch. This reminds us that when we can’t, God can and will if we trust Him. In order for God to get the glory, He must position us outside of our comfort zones- “smack dab” in the midst of our weaknesses.

The Lord’s task for Jeremiah and I believe for us corporately today is this-“to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant” (Jer. 1:10 NIV). God’s heart for you as an individual in this New Year is to build you up, to plant you and to see you flourish so that it will bring Him glory and expand His kingdom. But before He can build and plant in your life there are things that He must first uproot, tear down, destroy and overthrow.

The theory of relativity declares that no two objects can occupy the same space at the same time. Similarly in your life, your heart, mind and desires cannot be simultaneously occupied and owned by the Lord and sin and compromise. You must uproot the things that are lodged in your heart and may have been planted there from previous generations. You must tear down every thought that is in opposition to what God says about you by taking every thought captive in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. And you must completely destroy the areas of compromise. It was never a walled city, a raging river at flood stage or a nine foot tall giant that kept the people of God from their destiny- it was compromise. Destroy the things that have held you back in the past!

 Lastly it is imperative that you overthrow whoever is sitting on the throne of your heart. There could only be one Lord and one King. You and God cannot occupy the same throne. In every new level with God there is a new place of consecration because God will not build His kingdom on top of our secular foundation.

Today, uproot and tear down, destroy and overthrow so that God can build and plant something even greater in you for 2011!

God Belongs in My City Prayer walk from 20/20 Vision For Schools on Vimeo.

Shot October 30, 2010 as students led 1,500+ people to prayer walk Manhattan, lifting up schools, local government, and the media…

20/20 Vision for schools looks to empower churches, local organizations, and individuals to develop empowering and effective relationship between them and their local school. One of the key aspects of this effort is the empowering of students to lead not only those around them but their entire generation and future generations….

The God Belongs in My City prayer walk is one expression of this. It was not only student led but also student organized under the direction and leadership of Daniel Sanabria. These students understood that one of the most effective ways to impact not only their community but institutions larger was through the power of prayer. At the beginning of the walk over 1500 gathered around the department of education headquarters to lift up not only those in power but for the issues surrounding our education system.

Here is the Music Player. You need to installl flash player to show this cool thing!

(Excerpt from Bizarro World Conference breakout sessions)