Redefining Sexuality: A Journey Towards Inclusivity and Understanding
Summary
Today, I began our sermon by welcoming everyone to Menlo Church, expressing my gratitude for your presence, and setting the stage for our ongoing series on the body, gender, and sexuality. I emphasized the importance of understanding the framework from last week's discussion and encouraged everyone to view it if they hadn't already. This series aims to build on each week with shared commitments and a structure that fosters a respectful and sensitive dialogue on these complex topics.
I then delved into the historical context of our current cultural understanding of sexuality, tracing it from the early 1900s with Freud's theories on sexual repression, through the sexual liberation movements of the 1960s, and up to the present day with the advent of the internet and smartphones. This historical overview set the stage for understanding the profound shifts in societal attitudes towards sexuality and its implications on individual and collective well-being.
Following this, I addressed the concept of purity culture that I grew up with, which narrowly defined sexuality and often led to shame and confusion. I argued that sexuality is not just about the act of sex but encompasses a broader spectrum of human experience and expression. I introduced a tool used in ministry to discuss the different perspectives people have about sex, from seeing it as godlike to viewing it as shameful, and presented it as a gift from God meant to be enjoyed within the context of marriage.
I then spoke about the biblical perspective on sexuality, emphasizing that it is more than just physical intimacy; it is about how we love and care for others, reflecting God's love for us. I highlighted the importance of understanding our sexuality as part of our identity as image bearers of God, made with dignity, value, and worth.
Towards the end of the sermon, I addressed the challenges and misunderstandings surrounding sexual ethics within the church, particularly concerning the LGBTQI+ community. I apologized for the ways in which the church has historically mishandled this conversation and emphasized our commitment to a more inclusive and compassionate approach.
I concluded by inviting everyone to reflect on their own views and experiences of sexuality, encouraging openness to God's transformative love and power in all areas of our lives, including our sexuality. I offered a time for prayer and reflection, inviting those who felt led to seek prayer and support from our team.
### Key Takeaways
1. Historical Context of Sexuality:
Understanding the shifts in societal attitudes towards sexuality from the early 1900s to today helps us grasp the complex landscape we navigate. The rise of sexual liberation movements promised greater happiness but often led to increased confusion and dissatisfaction. This historical perspective is crucial for understanding our current cultural and personal struggles with sexuality. [20:47]
2. Sexuality Beyond Physical Acts:
Sexuality is not confined to physical acts but is a broader expression of our human identity and relational capacities. It encompasses how we love, care, and connect with others, reflecting the image of God in us. Recognizing this can help us approach discussions about sexuality with greater compassion and depth. [13:43]
3. The Role of Purity Culture:
The purity culture of the past has shaped many of our understandings and experiences of sexuality, often leading to feelings of shame and inadequacy. Acknowledging its impact allows us to address its shortcomings and reframe our approach to teaching about sexuality in a way that affirms the holistic nature of our identities. [05:41]
4. Inclusivity in Sexual Ethics:
The church must strive for a more inclusive approach to sexual ethics, recognizing the harm caused by past exclusions and misrepresentations, particularly towards the LGBTQI+ community. Apologizing for these missteps and committing to ongoing dialogue and understanding is essential for healing and growth. [30:46]
5. Empowering Healthy Conversations:
Encouraging open and respectful conversations about sexuality within our communities is vital. By fostering an environment where people feel safe to express doubts, ask questions, and share experiences, we can support each other in navigating the complexities of sexuality with wisdom and grace. [01:17]
### Chapters
0:00 - Welcome
01:17 - Introduction to the Series
02:40 - Addressing Cultural Formation
04:12 - Prayer for Openness and Reception
05:41 - Discussing Purity Culture and Its Impact
07:00 - Expanding Our Understanding of Sexuality
09:32 - Biblical Insights on Relationship and Community
10:59 - Defining Biblical Sexual Ethics
13:43 - Sexuality as an Expression of Love
15:07 - Why the Physical Matters in Sexuality
16:27 - Historical Context of Sexual Attitudes
19:25 - The Impact of Technology on Sexuality
20:47 - Evaluating the Promises of Sexual Liberation
22:00 - Theological Perspectives on Sexual Expression
23:27 - Addressing the Church's Role and Response
26:21 - Paul's Teachings on Body and Sexuality
27:51 - Confronting Sexual Immorality
29:14 - Apology and Commitment to Inclusivity
30:46 - Closing Remarks and Invitation for Reflection
33:30 - Prayer and Invitation for Personal Ministry
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Genesis 2:18 - "Then the Lord God said, 'It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.'"
2. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 - "Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body."
3. John 13:34-35 - "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."
### Observation Questions
1. What does Genesis 2:18 reveal about God's intention for human relationships?
2. According to 1 Corinthians 6:18-20, why is sexual immorality considered a sin against one's own body?
3. How does Jesus describe the way people will recognize His disciples in John 13:34-35?
4. In the sermon, what historical events were highlighted as significant shifts in societal attitudes towards sexuality? ([16:27])
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of being made in God's image with "infinite dignity, value, and worth" influence our understanding of sexuality? ([04:12])
2. What are the implications of viewing our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit, as stated in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20?
3. How does the historical context provided in the sermon help us understand current cultural struggles with sexuality? ([16:27])
4. What does it mean to love one another as Jesus loved us, and how does this relate to our discussions on sexuality? ([13:43])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own experiences and views of sexuality. How have they been shaped by cultural influences or purity culture? How can you reframe these views in light of the biblical perspective shared in the sermon? ([05:41])
2. The sermon emphasized the importance of inclusivity and compassion, especially towards the LGBTQI+ community. How can you personally contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate approach within your church community? ([29:14])
3. In what ways can you foster open and respectful conversations about sexuality within your small group or community? What steps can you take to create a safe environment for these discussions? ([01:17])
4. How can you apply the understanding that sexuality is more than just physical acts but a broader expression of love and care in your daily interactions with others? ([13:43])
5. Considering the historical shifts in societal attitudes towards sexuality, how can you navigate these changes while staying true to your faith and biblical principles? ([16:27])
6. Reflect on the idea that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. What practical steps can you take to honor God with your body and sexuality? ([26:21])
7. How can you show love and support to someone who is struggling with their sexuality or has been hurt by the church's past handling of sexual ethics? ([30:46])
Devotional
Day 1: Understanding Sexuality's Historical Evolution
The journey through the historical context of sexuality reveals significant shifts in societal attitudes from the early 1900s to the present day. These changes, influenced by movements and technological advancements, have shaped current cultural and personal struggles with sexuality. Understanding this evolution is crucial as it helps in recognizing the roots of many modern sexual ethics and misconceptions. This perspective allows for a more informed and compassionate approach to discussions about sexuality, acknowledging how past ideologies continue to impact present beliefs and behaviors. [20:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jl23JxrvnAw&t=1232s)
Ecclesiastes 1:9-10, "What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun. Is there a thing of which it is said, 'See, this is new'? It has been already in the ages before us."
Reflection: How does understanding the historical context of sexuality change your perspective on current sexual ethics and practices?
Day 2: Sexuality as a Reflection of Divine Image
Sexuality extends beyond mere physical acts; it encompasses a broader spectrum of our human identity and relational capacities. It is an integral part of how we love, care, and connect with others, reflecting the divine image within us. Recognizing this broader definition helps approach discussions about sexuality with greater depth and compassion, fostering a more holistic view of human relationships. [13:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jl23JxrvnAw&t=808s)
Genesis 1:27, "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them."
Reflection: In what ways can you honor the divine image in yourself and others through your expressions of sexuality?
Day 3: Reevaluating the Impact of Purity Culture
The purity culture has significantly influenced many people's understanding and experiences of sexuality, often leading to feelings of shame and inadequacy. By acknowledging its impact, there is an opportunity to address its shortcomings and reframe our approach to teaching about sexuality in a way that affirms the holistic nature of our identities. This reevaluation is essential for developing a healthier, more biblically grounded understanding of sexual ethics. [05:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jl23JxrvnAw&t=326s)
1 Thessalonians 4:3-4, "For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor."
Reflection: How has purity culture shaped your views on sexuality, and what steps can you take to align your beliefs more closely with a holistic biblical understanding?
Day 4: Embracing Inclusivity in Sexual Ethics
The church's journey towards a more inclusive approach to sexual ethics involves recognizing and apologizing for past harms, particularly towards the LGBTQI+ community. This commitment to inclusivity and compassion is crucial for healing and fostering a community where all individuals feel valued and understood. Such an environment encourages ongoing dialogue and understanding, which are essential for growth and unity within the church. [30:46](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jl23JxrvnAw&t=1831s)
Galatians 3:28, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."
Reflection: What are practical ways you can contribute to creating a more inclusive and understanding environment regarding sexual ethics in your community?
Day 5: Fostering Healthy Conversations on Sexuality
Encouraging open and respectful conversations about sexuality within our communities is vital for navigating its complexities with wisdom and grace. By creating a safe space for people to express doubts, ask questions, and share experiences, we empower individuals to explore and understand sexuality in a supportive and nurturing environment. This approach is key to building stronger, more empathetic relationships within the community. [01:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jl23JxrvnAw&t=62s)
James 1:19, "Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;"
Reflection: How can you actively create and participate in safe spaces that encourage healthy and respectful conversations about sexuality in your community?
Quotes
1) "We are living in a moment where your sexual identity and experience are seen as simultaneously the most important things you can be and do, as well as completely casual, malleable, and inconsequential. I would say God disagrees. Our return to a lifelong relationship to sexuality is complicated for all of us." [07:00]
2) "Sexuality is the act of sex, but it's also much more than that. Add to it the political passions that we brought to the conversation, and usually the way that some political perspectives framed the conversation was, what do you care about what happens in my bedroom anyway?" [05:41]
3) "The average teenager carries a device that until very recently would have been considered a supercomputer. And there's amazing things, like amazing things that they can do, that they have access to, and they can stay connected with. But it's also given them, in many cases, unlimited access to a portal that has those good things, but it also has the very worst devious sex content that has ever been created in humanity available all the time to all of them, all while their brain is still under construction." [24:50]
4) "The biblical boundary of physical sexual intimacy is prescribed in this passage here. And while people, men and women, have fallen short of this biblical standard, as we fall short of every biblical standard, it has been consistently taught as the sexual ethic through the leaders of Judaism on the pages of the Old Testament, by Jesus himself, the writers of the New Testament, and the overwhelming majority of church." [10:59]
5) "Paul acknowledges our physical appetite, and the difference between our physical appetite and our true hunger. In the midst of our appetite, a vision for us that does not just save our souls, but satisfies our deepest longings, the hunger inside of us that only he can satisfy." [26:21]
6) "God longs for us to experience wholeness in the way we experience sexual intimacy as a mingling of souls in this expression of sexual intimacy in marriage. Sexual intimacy requires exclusivity. Accessibility minus exclusivity erodes intimacy. That's not just a Bible truth. That's like a sociological reality that we know is true." [10:59]
7) "But Paul says that the Holy Spirit, who lives in every Christian, is in us, in our bodies. That God came to save all of us. And if that's true, then we need to give him influence and access to how we use our bodies too." [27:51]
8) "We are all sexually broken. The foot of the cross is even for all of us. God loves all of us. And we want to be a community of God. And we want to be a community where that is reiterated. I want you to understand that this is a part of the path of following Jesus." [30:46]
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