A Biblical Understanding of Sexuality
This week, our journey through 1 Corinthians brings us to a topic that, while perhaps uncomfortable, is crucial for our faith community—sex and sexual immorality. It’s not a subject chosen lightly or for sensationalism; rather, it's where our study through 1 Corinthians has naturally led us.
In 1 Corinthians 5, Paul confronts a situation of sexual immorality within the Church—a man involved with his stepmother, a scenario that even non-believers found shocking. This passage isn’t just a window into the challenges of the early Church; it’s a mirror reflecting issues still present in today’s churches. So what does Paul mean by sexual immorality? In the Greek, this word is porneia. You can imagine what word we get in English from this Greek root! But in ancient times, there were no illicit websites or dirty magazines. So the translators do a good job saying “sexual immorality.”
The unfortunate reality is that no church is immune to scandals. From the Catholic priest abuse scandal to systemic issues within the Southern Baptist Convention and even closer to home with several in our own denomination, these incidents remind us that sexual immorality knows no denominational bounds. Such events deeply grieve us, not just because of the hypocrisy they unveil, but because of the real harm done to individuals and the broader disillusionment with faith they can cause.
Paul's instruction to “hand this man over to Satan” is a directive towards church discipline with a goal of restoration, not punishment. It’s about removing the individual from the church community in hopes that they will come to repentance and ultimately be saved. It’s a tough, yet necessary, action that underscores the church’s commitment to holiness and the well-being of its members.
The prevalence of sexual immorality and the church’s response to it underscores a larger issue: how we navigate the tension between upholding biblical standards of morality while extending grace and restoration to those who stumble. It’s a balance that requires wisdom, compassion, and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit.
Moreover, the purity culture movement of recent decades, with its emphasis on sexual abstinence outside of marriage, has garnered criticism for its unintended consequences. While well-intentioned, aspects of this movement have sometimes resulted in shame, guilt, and a distorted view of sexuality and forgiveness. It’s important to remember that our identity and worth are not defined by our past mistakes but by our present and future in Christ.
We must also pay attention to verses 12 and 13, in which Paul states, “What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside.” Paul’s letter to the Corinthians was very specific to addressing and dealing with sexual immorality within the church, not amongst unbelievers.
Paul’s message to the Corinthians and to us is clear: the Church must address sexual immorality within its ranks, not with a spirit of condemnation, but with the aim of healing, restoration, and a return to godly living. This includes practical steps for individuals struggling with sexual sin, encouragement for pure relationships, and support for those seeking healing from past hurts.
Paul writes a clarifying section: verse 9 says, “I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with immoral people.” What letter? I thought this was First Corinthians? Well, based on the clues in 1 and 2 Corinthians, like this one, it seems as though Paul actually wrote the Corinthians four times.
As we delve into these topics, let’s approach them with open hearts and minds, ready to learn, grow, and support one another. Our goal is not to cast judgment but to foster an environment where every member of our community can pursue holiness, healing, and the fullness of life in Christ. Together, let’s navigate these waters, leaning not on our own understanding but on the wisdom and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Blog adapted from February 11, 2024, message by Minister Mark Ashton
