Killing the "Sin Baby"

Last night was F-U-N.

For those working with youth ministries or any ministry that is larger, you can identify with the continual concern of people connecting with each other and with God... not just slipping in and out.

Our continual goal is to create moments and opportunities where the students can interact with others, the text, worship, etc.
Last night we set up 30 round tables. Each table had an adult/ Student Leader (high quality Senior) as a table leader/ facilitator. We dove into the 1st chapter of James. I offered some insights and threw questions out to the tables to be discussed. I've heard great feedback on the night from leaders and students alike. There's was a focus and depth of discussion in the room that was refreshing.


My big takeaway from James one was the picture of the sin "life cycle" In James 1:14-15...

14but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. 15Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.

Here's the slides we used to help us think throw the "life cycle" outlined in this text:





So, my observations...

1. This life cycle helps us see that the conception of sin is when we entertain that thought, urge, idea that is temptation.
2. Once we act on that urge, the "sin baby" is born.
3. As we nurture, and feed those urges, and continue on, the sin grows.
4. The sin gives birth to death... this is more than hell. It leads to a deadening of our souls.
5. To end the "sin life-cycle" the sin baby must be put to death. The more the sin baby grows up, the harder it is to put it death.