Review: Rethinking Sexuality

Rethinking Sexuality: God’s Design and Why it Matters

By Juli Slattery (Multnomah)

Rethinking Sexuality may suggest a reinterpretation of the traditional view of sexuality, although the publisher’s name should tip readers to the author’s traditional stance. By rethinking, Slattery means to call readers out of hiding and into addressing head-on the varied issues of sexuality.

Slattery addresses the shame, hurt and confusion of sexuality experienced by many people, along with our tendency to hide sexual temptation and sin. She proposes a new concept she calls “sexual discipleship,” or forming our sexuality around our relationship with God.

According to Slattery, the majority of Christians function as “sexual atheists,” not realizing God created desire as a means to draw us into covenant relationship with God. In response, she develops a theology of sex grounded in God as Creator and Jesus as Lord of our total being, including our sexuality.

The last third of the book explains how to live one’s sexual discipleship in what Slattery calls “missional relationships,” or intentionally engaging in people’s lives for the purpose of being used by God to bring hope to hurting people. These relationships require caring for people in conflicted situations while simultaneously communicating biblical teachings to people seeking hope in the midst of pain.

Rethinking Sexuality offers provocative material for discussion.

Eric Black, executive director/editor/publisher
Baptist Standard