All Christians are called up upon to make decisions concerning the practices in which they will engage. God expects us to make our decisions based upon His word. We are to keep Him & His word first in our lives. Purpose of the lesson is to take an honest look at dancing and base it to the way the Bible specifies how we live. This is the time of year when JRs/SRs in high school to attend the prom. Many people, religious ones included, have no problem w/their children attending these types of social activities. The bible, as in all matters, gives us guidance in this area.

There are 6 different kinds of dancing in the Bible:

1. Judges 21:21 – festival

2. Psa. 149:3; 150:4; Ex. 15:19-21 – praise

3. Eccl. 3:4; Psa 30:11 – happiness

4. Jer. 31:13; Lk. 15:25 – rejoicing

5. 2 Sam. 6:14, 16; Judges 11:34; Ex. 32:19; 1 Sam. 18:6; 30:16 – in times of celebration

6. Mt. 14:6; Mk. 6:22 – sensual dancing

Most of these examples are not the same as the modern day dance.

7. that which causes suggestive or close body movements causing improper desires.

It is evident that some dances are not sinful.

8. In the entire Bible, there is not one example of couple dancing.

Consider the popular dance these days: bumping & grinding.

Would this type of dancing be designated as a sin by passages in the New Testament?

1. Gal. 5:19-21 – the lust of the flesh.

a. 5:19 – sensuality - refers to sensuality & sexual excesses.

b. Thayer: filthy words, indecent bodily movements and unchaste handling of males and females."

2. 5:21 - those who practice carousing will NOT inherit the kingdom of God.

3. The phrase, "And such like..."?

a. includes things that pertained to lewdness or revelries.

As Christians, we are to be governed by the principles of the Bible.

4. Rom. 12:2; 9; 21 - The standard in which to live by.

5. Romans 8:5-8 – Are you canal minded?

Modern dance violates 4 basic principles of being a Christian.

1. A Christian should try to avoid any temptation which brings forth an unnecessary risk to His spiritual life.

2. 1 Thess. 5:21-22 - Dancing is not conducive to spiritual living.

3. Christians should not arouse emotions which cannot be honorable fulfilled.

4. To engage in the modern dance compromises our influence as a Christian.

Parents…what can you do to help here?

Let’s work together to help our kids be the best they can be!