Hey Bethel family, this Sunday we are going to be in a section of Ezekiel that may cause you to ask, “Is that REALLY in the Bible?!” Chapter 23 contains some of the most sexually explicit content in all of Scripture. Be reassured we want to handle this text in a way that pleases God, the Divine Author of this passage. We want to talk about what the Bible speaks about while talking about it in the way the Bible presents it. If we truly believe all the Bible is “breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16) then there is a way to approach this text that would lead to the building up of our church family. So, how can you prepare? Here are a few suggestions:

• Read chapters 23-24 a head of time. Answer the question for yourself, “When describing Israel’s sin (as well as sin in general), why would God choose to use such graphic language to communicate rebellion?
• Pray: (1) that God’s intended purposes would be accomplished through His Word in His people here at Bethel. (2) That hearts, minds, and thoughts would be guarded against sin and turned towards Jesus. (3) That I would have wisdom to handle this passage of Scripture in a way that glorifies God and exhalts the Savior.
• If you have young children who will hear the message, be thinking of some possible questions that may arise in their minds. Prepare to have some helpful age-appropriate responses to disciple them in thinking about sexuality and the deadliness of sin.

Thanks for being a church who treasures the entire Word of God. Grace and peace, Pastor Matt