5 Keys for Sexual Health
In the first century A.D., Jesus launched a sexual revolution through the spread of the early church.
Those early disciples believed that sex was sacred. Wherever the gospel was preached, the status of women and children was elevated from their subordinate positions. People were called to lives of mutual respect, learning to rule over their sexual appetites, rather than have those appetites over rule them. In the Greco-Roman sex-saturated empire, those early Christians held a radically different worldview. Through personal holiness and generous hospitality, the early church brought restoration and reform.
The church today is surrounded by a similar culture that the early church did. And we are still called to be salt and light. This is about more than a list of moralistic “do’s and don’t’s”. More than behavioural modification. These are matters of the heart.
These five keys are principles that inspire people to walk securely in their identity as children of God, in sexual integrity and rich relationships.
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Gospel-centredness
Churches that are strong in this principle bring great emphasis to the redeeming work of Jesus. The atmosphere is rich with testimonies of God’s grace. They believe that all things can indeed be made new, and someone’s past doesn’t mean they are disqualified from a beautiful future.
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Transparency
When this principle is present, there is time and space made for vulnerable conversations, honesty, and confession. It is understood that every believer is on a journey of sanctification, so it is easier to be real about struggles, temptations and past mistakes. Leaders set an example in humility.
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Holistic
When we say “holistic”, we are referring to the way that following Jesus will affect us—body, soul and spirit. Holiness is understood to be a matter of the heart and ultimately, of worship. Family of origin, traumatic circumstances, and personal choices are considered in the discipleship process.
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Honour
Churches that have an atmosphere of honour will be respectful towards men and women alike. The marriage covenant is held as sacred, and simultaneously, those who are single feel seen and honoured as a valuable part of the community. There is space for pure and life-giving friendships between the sexes.
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Legacy
If a community of faith values legacy, they will intentionally build relationships between the generations, pouring into the young and welcoming the presence of the elderly. Children are seen as a blessing and worthy of investment. Families are seen as a pillar of society and so are graciously supported.
Does your church have a sexually-healthy culture?
We have developed a questionnaire to help church leaders and teams to thoughtfully consider how well they are incorporating these 5 Keys into their culture.
You can find our free Sexual Health Evaluation here!
The Sexual Health Evaluation is a tool developed by The Union Movement to help you identify the strengths and vulnerabilities in your church community regarding holistic sexual health.
Get in touch.
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