We show our love for the Lord by keeping His commandments. But what are those commandments really?
I've realized that the Law of Chastity is really something created by the church. But what do the scriptures really say? The church has a very clear definition: "No sex before marriage between only a man and a woman." There are additional recommendations, especially for youth, on how to avoid crossing that line.
But what is really said about chaste living in the scriptures? Is there cultural context that is relevant? For example, what does it mean that ancient Middle Eastern (and still probably some modern as well) culture arranged marriages for girls that were possibly below 14 years of age? Is it relevant that Mary was probably that young or younger? What kind of import does a marriage license have for individuals that are over twice that age? While I appreciate the symbolic significance of exchanging vows, is it fair or even necessary that marriage licenses be required for 30 year old couples, when Mary as a pre-teen was getting married?
Galatians 5:16 - Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
But what is lust here? The footnote points us to the Topical Guide: lust, chastity. But is that what is really spoken of?
The Reina-Valera Spanish Bible says "los deseos de la carne." Desires of the flesh.
Is that phrase really referring to sexual desires? Or general worldly desires? "Worldly lusts?" Because if we are to walk in the Spirit, we should be able to avoid all worldy lusts.
Sure enough, starting in verse 19, the works of the flesh are listed. Fornication and adultery are listed, but so are a slew of other sins. So, the relation of the lust of the flesh in v 16 is, I would say, a proof-texting of that particular verse.
Moreover, the flesh "lusteth" against the Spirit. But that doesn't mean the flesh has sexual desire for the Spirit. That doesn't make sense. Perhaps it is merely suggesting its ability to tempt others away into worldly paths.
