He found freedom through Christ.
Timothy TA Ateek, the lead pastor overseeing vision and preaching at Watermark Community Church in Dallas, openly shared his personal journey with pornography during a recent sermon aimed at young adults attending The Porch, the church’s ministry for individuals in their twenties and thirties. Ateek recounted his own struggles with pornography spanning several years, highlighting how these struggles initially hindered his ability to fully engage in ministry nearly two decades ago.
Addressing the gathered crowd, Ateek spoke candidly about the allure of pornography as a misguided attempt to fill emotional voids such as feelings of inadequacy or unlovability. He emphasized that engaging in pornography can create a barrier to developing a deeper intimacy with Jesus, noting, “It’s difficult to immerse oneself in sin while maintaining a close relationship with Christ simultaneously.”
Reflecting on pivotal moments in his journey, Ateek recalled a critical juncture when he applied to lead a Bible study group and was confronted with questions about his struggles with pornography. This encounter prompted him to confront the impact of his actions on his ministry and spiritual life. “Sin,” he explained, “significantly affects our ability to serve.”
Despite his ongoing battle with temptation, Ateek revealed that it has been 19 years since he last struggled actively with pornography. He acknowledged the long and arduous path to freedom, recounting how his faith and a deepened understanding of God’s grace played transformative roles in his recovery.
Ateek also discussed the broader implications of pornography use within relationships, citing research indicating its detrimental effects on marital satisfaction, unrealistic expectations, and body image issues, as well as its potential role in increasing divorce rates and contributing to sexual dysfunction.
Throughout his sermon, Ateek underscored the importance of aligning one’s life with God’s will as outlined in Scripture, particularly emphasizing the call to sanctification and purity. He encouraged attendees to cultivate a daily relationship with Jesus Christ, highlighting the transformative power of surrendering to Christ’s redemptive work.
In sharing his personal struggles and the lessons learned along the way, Ateek aimed to offer hope and practical guidance to those grappling with similar challenges. His message resonated with transparency and a deep commitment to helping others navigate their own journeys toward spiritual and emotional wholeness.