Human Sexuality and the Christian Faith

Human Sexuality and the Christian Faith - Episcopal Edition

Human Sexuality and the Christian Faith: Outline

penultimate WORD:

Human Sexuality

and the Christian Faith:

A Study for the church’s reflection and deliberation [Episcopal Edition]

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ADAPTING THIS STUDY FOR USE WITH YOUTH

(junior and senior high)

General suggestions: Begin with some opportunity for the youth to clarify their feelings on this topic. Deal with language early on. What are the words used for body parts, sexual acts, etc.? Define terms used in the study (for example, “heterosexual”).

Many of the questions and comments in the study are written from an adult point of view. Adapt them for youth. For example (page 3), “What messages are you receiving from the church?” Deal with some of the questions in terms of “how it is different for you than it was or is for your parents.”

Issues which are not given significant attention in the study could be expanded for youth, such as AIDS, date rape, blaming the victim, sexual harassment and abuse among teenagers.

A four‑session format is suggested for use with youth: 1) Introduction; 2) Sexual abuse; 3) Gay and lesbian relationships; 4) Genital sexual relationships outside of marriage. The leader should thoroughly study and digest the biblical and theological material (chapters 2 & 3) so as to be able to incorporate the relevant biblical and theological understandings into the discussion of the contemporary issues.

Session 1: Introduction

1. Summarize the first chapter, and engage participants in some of the questions. (Adapt them.) Indicate the three areas of concern that will be addressed in subsequent sessions.

2. Emphasize that we should not assume what the biblical view of sexuality is, but that we need to explore what Scripture says and how that relates to sexuality today. Select some passages that seem especially interesting and important for youth to consider. Highlight the Old Testament and New Testament summaries.

3. Discuss examples of how sexuality gets distorted in our society.

Session 2: Sexual abuse

(It is crucial to be sensitive to the likelihood that victims of sexual abuse are present. Try to establish a context of trust and respect for them and their experiences.)

1. Review the data in Chapter 1, section B – three areas of concern today, adding date rape and sexual harassment or abuse among teens (e.g., slapping, hitting, threatening, demeaning name‑calling).

2. Highlight biblical perspectives:

…the need to distinguish between what was then and what is God’s will today

…gender hierarchy‑‑does this continue today? how?

…women as property‑‑does this continue today? how?

…creation stories: equality, mutuality; sexuality as a good gift, an important aspect of who we are

…Song of Songs

…God’s reversals of human inequalities (Joel)

…how Jesus valued women and others devalued in society; all are to be loved and respected; the importance of right relationships with others

…Paul’s emphasis on responsible sexual behavior; not abusing or taking advantage of another’s sexuality; the importance of Gal.3:28

…what is different about how Christians approach sexuality?

4. Discuss chapter 5, part A, focusing on types of abuse among teenagers. How does the victim gets blamed? (e.g., “she asked for it”) How can this be countered?

5. What should the church be saying or doing about sexual abuse?

Session 2: Gay and lesbian relationships

[Be sensitive to the questioning and struggles over sexual orientation that may be going on with some of the youth. A helpful resource for dealing with this is the issue paper, “Youth and Homosexuality” from the Federation of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (P.O. Box 27605, Washington, DC 20038).]

1. Review the data and perspectives in chapter 1.

2. Highlight biblical perspectives:

…why was sexual activity between those of the same sex viewed so negatively?

…how do these passages relate to how we understand homosexuality today? (chapter 5 section B)

…discuss the questions in, “Implications of the biblical witness...” (chapter 5 section B)

…discuss the implications of Jesus crossing conventional boundaries to accept and include all people, and his concern for attitudes and actions that separate us from God (chapter 2 section C)

…what is the significance of Romans 1:26‑27 and

…1 Corinthians 6:9‑10 for addressing gay and lesbian relationships in our own day? (chapter 2 appropriate assigned reading)

3. How does contemporary knowledge, including of sexual orientation, help us better understand God’s creation? (chapter 3 sections D and E)

4. Discuss fears and struggles regarding matters of homosexuality.

5. How should Christians respond to gay and lesbian persons and their relationships?

Session 4: Genital sexual activity outside of marriage

1. Summarize how views of marriage have varied, the importance of commitment as the context for genital sexual activity, and the data and perspectives in chapter 1 section B.

2. Highlight biblical perspectives:

…the varied practices in the Old Testament.

…Paul’s “warnings against sexual immorality,” “1 Corinthians 5‑7,” and “sexuality and the mission of the church” (pages 22ff.)

…why is what Christians do with their bodies important?

3. Why is it important for us to live out our sexuality in faithful, enduring commitments? What is involved in making such a commitment?

4. From chapter 5, discuss the vignettes on “teenage sexual activity” and “young adults living together.”

5. What kind of guidance should the church provide young people regarding genital sexual activity outside of marriage?

Human Sexuality And The Christian Faith – Episcopal Edition.

A study for the church’s reflection and deliberation