What about women? It’s a question most men think about, but don’t always know how to talk about.
In Episode 6 of Seven Questions That Rattle in the Minds of Most Men, we explore the power of beauty, the battle with sexual temptation, and the war that rages within every man. Through an honest look at Scripture and personal experience, we explore why “just try harder” isn’t the answer – and why the fight against sin requires more than willpower. Rather than beginning with a list of “don’ts,” recognize the beauty of women as part of God’s creation while honestly confronting the power and deception of sin.
It’s rarely easy, but the good news is Jesus not only frees us from sin’s penalty, but gives us His Spirit to help us walk in freedom. So how do we learn to see beauty without being mastered by it? Acknowledge her beauty. Bounce your eyes. Cry out to God for help.
Discussion Questions
- What is a one concept, insight or application you’ll take away from this session?
- What messages about women, sex, and masculinity did you absorb growing up? Have you had to reconsider any of those messages as you’ve gone through life?
- John kicks off with the question, “What do you think is God’s most beautiful creation?” Why do you think he starts with beauty rather than rules about what men should or shouldn’t do?
- Temptation is described as attractive, pleasurable, desirable, deceptive, and ultimately destructive. Why is it so difficult to recognize the danger when something promises immediate pleasure?
- How does the way we look at women reflect whether we see them as whole people made in God’s image, or primarily as objects for our own pleasure? What is the difference between appreciating a woman’s beauty and reducing her to her appearance? How can we cultivate a greater appreciation for God himself without treating the beauty of his creation as something bad or shameful?
- Consider the conflict between the flesh and the spirit presented in Galatians 5:16–17, 22–25. Have you experienced the tension between wanting to honor God and wanting something you know is wrong?
- Consider the struggle the apostle Paul presents in Romans 7:15-25. How have you experienced the tension between wanting to honor God and wanting something you know is wrong? How does Jesus move the discussion of sexual sin beyond outward behavior to the heart?
- John posits that a conversation focused only on “don’t look, don’t lust, don’t click” is inadequate. Why might rules alone fail to change the heart?
- If you do give in to temptation, what should happen next? How can you respond with confession, repentance, and renewed dependence on Christ rather than hiding or giving up?
- John emphasizes that Christ died not only to forgive sin but to free us from its power. How should both forgiveness and freedom shape the way we respond after a failure?
- Is there a situation in which you know you need a clearer boundary or more accountability? Who are the brothers you can go to for support, encouragement and accountability?
For Further Reflection
- One thing I learned or reconsidered today is ________.
- One situation where I need to be more intentional is ________.
- One way I can rely on the Holy Spirit this week is ________.
- One brother I can ask for prayer or accountability is ________.