Sex and the church
Book Description
Ethicist Kathy Rudy invites readers into a bold exploration of sexuality within Christian faith, challenging conventional approaches to one of the most contentious issues facing modern churches. Rather than rehashing familiar debates about inclusion and exclusion, this thoughtful work ventures into deeper theological territory, examining fundamental questions about human intimacy and spiritual community.
Rudy begins by analyzing how contemporary political movements have shaped religious conversations around gender and sexuality, revealing how many denominations have become trapped in narrow frameworks of rights and privileges. She then shifts the discussion toward more profound inquiries: Should sexual orientation and gender define our spiritual identities? Does the traditional nuclear family model best serve Christian commitment? What role does physical intimacy play in our relationship with the divine?
Drawing from both academic queer theory and the lived experiences of gay and lesbian Christians, the author constructs a framework that moves beyond polarized positions. Her approach examines how different forms of intimate relationships might contribute to authentic Christian community formation.
The book culminates in Rudy's proposal for a renewed sexual ethic that adapts ancient theological concepts of unity and creativity for contemporary church life. This work offers readers a thoughtful pathway through complex questions of faith, sexuality, and community belonging, presenting a vision of Christian fellowship that embraces broader expressions of human connection and spiritual commitment.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Short (< 200 pages) (~4 hours)
🕉️ Tradition: Christianity
📄 Length: 157 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Understand spiritual ethics
- ✓ Explore Sexualité
- ✓ Explore Sex role
- ✓ Explore Églises protestantes
- ✓ Explore Sex, religious aspects, christianity
- ✓ Explore Aspect religieux
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects of Sex role
- ✓ Explore Homosexualité
