How should Christians deal with difficult topics, such as sex?
Question:
Hello Brother in Christ!
I have recently been studying Christian perspectives on sex, and I would like to know your thoughts on the matter. How should Christians talk and discuss sex? How do we, as teachers, open up such topics? And how do we start such conversations so we can teach Christians more effectively on the matter? What to do and say when a brother or sister in Christ shares certain aspects of their sexual experiences? How do we probe the matter, and how can we encourage the brethren to ask such questions about the topic, as it may still be a taboo in some places?
I'd really appreciate your guidance regarding this.
Thank you!
Question:
"Therefore, I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God" (Acts 20:26-27).
When you look at the topics that Paul covers in his writings, you will find sexual issues being mentioned frequently. It isn't surprising. The Greek and Roman societies were heavily involved in various types of sexual sins (Romans 1:22-27).
In your lessons, you should cover the topics of lust, temptation, and sin (James 1:13-16; I John 2:15-17). Just as you discuss why stealing and lying are wrong, you should be discussing why adultery, fornication, and pornography are wrong (I Corinthians 6:9-20; I Thessalonians 4:3-8). In a discussion of marriage, it should be mentioned that sex is proper and expected between married couples (Hebrews 13:4; I Corinthians 7:1-5).
Notice in all the cited passages, while sex is discussed, it is done in a way that is factual and not titillating. Here are some examples:
- The Direction of Your Life
- I Wish Someone Had Told Me
- I Quit!
- Not What They Told You
- Illogical Fixes to Problems
- A Tale of Two Women
- Why Sex Without Being Married is a Sin
When someone trusts you to discuss their sins, treat them with respect and dignity (James 5:16). The goal is always to help people reach heaven. If someone approaches you in private about their sins, then respect their privacy and do not gossip about them. If the person is of the opposite sex, make sure another person of the same sex is present when you discuss matters. You will find that if you help people with their issues, more will trust you to help them with their issues.
One of the things I do is offer classes on sexual matters to adolescents with their parents' permission. It is better to deal with questions before they become major issues in a young person's life.
