Inside of book 3 within Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis wrote a chapter entitled Sexual Morality. Lewis takes an unusual angle, comparing food to sex, using this to explain why an adult may venture into a strip club. This appetite is called the Beast of Lust by the group Tribe of Dan, a powerful force which persuades people to wander further than they ever expected or thought to go beyond God’s boundaries defined by the Bible. Lewis is likely referencing 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, where the apostle Paul warns believers against giving into their sexual desires outside of marriage. Paul introduces the concept of soul ties, where sleeping with another person binds a part of your soul together with this individual. These ties are strong, often ruining marriages due to previous encounters, one night stands or prior relationships.
One of my favorite classes I taught for 10 years changed its name several times, yet the textbook remained the same, Mere Christianity. Upon reaching C.S. Lewis’ chapter on sex, I usually spent a day introducing students to Leviticus 18, a guide for what is and what isn’t lawful sexually. Although many of the things mentioned are common sense, if you have ever read the book of Genesis, you might be surprised by what you missed, overlooked or like me, shake your head, feeling like you need a shower. Incest, homosexuality and one night stands are a common theme within the first 37 chapters of Genesis. Chapter 38 even eludes to masterbation in verses 9-10 and contains an act of prostitution before ending in the birth of twins. Yes, there are definitely shocking words from inside the Bible, yet why do they exist?
First, sex is the first and last act of the sinful nature. Galatians 5:19 lists sexual immorality as the most natural feeling, inclination or tendency that human beings face. When someone feeds this hunger without limits, it can give birth to orgies, the last act of the flesh in Galatians 5:21 when sin is full blown. Second, God doesn’t beat around the bush; He is honest, telling the world what to expect when you indulge into worldly pleasures, Romans 8:5-9. Free will gives everyone options, to do as they please while on earth. Finally, Jesus is real, speaking on your level, even if it meant speaking to drunk guests at weddings, John 2:1-11. While many churches are afraid of speaking about sex in sermons, the Bible is full of shocking words to get your attention so that one day, you might make reservations for a future life in heaven, John 3:16-17. Jesus is just a prayer away, Romans 10:9-10!
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 