Homework Assignment 12
Exercise: Look up these passages to determine the divine parameters for the use of the gift of sex:
Genesis 2:24
Exodus 20:14
Proverbs 5:15-17
Proverbs 6:23-32
1 Corinthians 6:15-20
Ephesians 5:3
1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
Hebrews 13:4
While the first basic error deprecates sex, the second error spiritualizes it. It is sometimes described in such elevated terms that one would hardly know that the primary aspect of the sexual relationship is physical and emotional pleasure. Sex is sometimes solemnized to the point that Christians are afraid to admit it is fun. Play and laughter should not be banished from the bedroom.
Scripture reveals three purposes for the sexual dimension of marriage: procreation, pleasure, and protection.
Procreation--The divine mandate to "be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth" was given before the fall (Gen. 1:28) and after the flood (Gen. 9:7) so that the earth would be populated. Children are the logical outcome of a love relationship.
Pleasure--God created the pleasure of sexuality to enhance this aspect of communication and shared experience. Read these passages to see what they say about sexual desire and pleasure:
Genesis 3:16
Genesis 18:12
Genesis 26:8
Deuteronomy 24:5
Proverbs 5:18-19
The relationship between Solomon and Shulamith so beautifully portrayed in the rich poetic imagery of the Song of Solomon offers an unparalleled illustration of sensuous love. For a clear picture of this pattern for the sexual expression of love, you and your partner may want to read A Song for Lovers by S. Craig Glickman, a commentary on the Song of Solomon which includes a new translation and paraphrase of the book.
Protection--Another divine purpose for the sexual union between a husband and wife is to protect them both from immorality.
Exercise: Look up these passages to determine the divine parameters for the use of the gift of sex:
Genesis 2:24
Exodus 20:14
Proverbs 5:15-17
Proverbs 6:23-32
1 Corinthians 6:15-20
Ephesians 5:3
1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
Hebrews 13:4
While the first basic error deprecates sex, the second error spiritualizes it. It is sometimes described in such elevated terms that one would hardly know that the primary aspect of the sexual relationship is physical and emotional pleasure. Sex is sometimes solemnized to the point that Christians are afraid to admit it is fun. Play and laughter should not be banished from the bedroom.
Scripture reveals three purposes for the sexual dimension of marriage: procreation, pleasure, and protection.
Procreation--The divine mandate to "be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth" was given before the fall (Gen. 1:28) and after the flood (Gen. 9:7) so that the earth would be populated. Children are the logical outcome of a love relationship.
Pleasure--God created the pleasure of sexuality to enhance this aspect of communication and shared experience. Read these passages to see what they say about sexual desire and pleasure:
Genesis 3:16
Genesis 18:12
Genesis 26:8
Deuteronomy 24:5
Proverbs 5:18-19
The relationship between Solomon and Shulamith so beautifully portrayed in the rich poetic imagery of the Song of Solomon offers an unparalleled illustration of sensuous love. For a clear picture of this pattern for the sexual expression of love, you and your partner may want to read A Song for Lovers by S. Craig Glickman, a commentary on the Song of Solomon which includes a new translation and paraphrase of the book.
Protection--Another divine purpose for the sexual union between a husband and wife is to protect them both from immorality.
