Tuesday, February 17, 2009

QUESTIONS ABOUT GOD-LOVE-SEX

The Song of Solomon deals frankly with the subject of physical intimacy, especially within the context of marriage. At a2 Church we believe that "all Scripture is inspired by God and profitable" (2 Timothy 3:16). That's one reason we're willing to address any subject the Bible addresses.

Since the topic of sex and sexuality usually raises a host of questions, the following answers are meant to help you understand the purpose, objective and importance of this series.

Why preach the Song of Solomon?
First of all, as 2 Timothy 3:16 indicates, all Scripture is inspired by God.

Second, culture speaks to the issue of sex and sexuality on an unrelenting basis. Cultural icons like Britney Spears, Paris Hilton, Lindsey Lohan, Hugh Hefner, Kanye and Chris Brown, to name a few, constantly focus on the subject.

Third, sex, sexual sin and sexual abuse can create incredible pain and brokenness in the lives of people. These subjects must be addressed from the pulpit. Instead of allowing culture to be the only voice that speaks to these issues, the church must provide clear and loving guidance from God's Word.


How graphic will the series be?

The Song of Solomon has perplexed a lot of people because of the graphic nature of its content. One commentator puts it like this: "The description of physical beauty [in Song of Songs] is frank without crassness." That's the balance we will be striving for in this series.

We will strive to be candid, while being discreet. We want to be sensitive, while also courageously presenting the truth of God's Word on this very delicate issue.

According to Mark Driscoll, the 21st century church can learn a lot from the early Jews who received this sacred work. They, unlike many Christians in the church today, were not "prudish" in matters of sexuality. The Song of Songs was read at the Passover liturgy, and certain passages were often sung to celebrate marital love and intimacy within a covenant relationship. Driscoll writes, "...such a healthy and God-honoring frank celebration is precisely the kind of cleansing so desperately needed in our dirty age." Amen.


What age should my child be to attend the series?

The content of the series is intended for General Audiences, unless otherwise stated. I believe it is appropriate for children Grades 6 and up... While my eight year old will attend a2 Kids during the series, my 16 year old will be present during the series. I really want her to hear God's Word on this subject.

On some occasions, I may choose to add a disclaimer if we feel that the message could be challenging for younger audiences. But by and large, the content of this series will not only be acceptable, but critically important for teens, young adults, adults and seniors.


I'm praying for you and look forward to seeing you this Sunday @ a2 Church.

1 comment:

Shannon Johnson said...

Look forward to the wrap up too! Nick went to download the podcast tonight when they got home. My sweet husband is SICK....SICK flu like - but if he was not.....I was going to be sure he got a big kiss! I think you talked great to marrieds - and then encouraged singleness as well as those hurting. Julie and I had lots of good conversation during our girl time today at the spa! LOL