Book Description

Sexuality is one of the most important theological topics in the church today. Ministry leaders, parishioners, and family members are increasingly grappling with questions on what it means to live out a Christian sexual ethic in the 21st century. The Bible and Sexuality: A Course Reader is an anthology of essays originally incorporated into a course taught by biblical scholar and author, Karen R. Keen. Keen covers both descriptive and normative ethics, examining what the biblical authors believed about sexuality and how that relates to Christian faith and practice now. This accessible and concise book will appeal to anyone who wants to understand the sexual ethics of the biblical authors in their socio-historical context, as well as how Scripture informs our ethics today. As a course reader, it is a helpful resource for college teachers and Bible study group leaders who want to guide students through an engaging discussion on sex and the Bible. A distinctive of the book is equipping learners to think through their overarching ethical framework and methods of biblical interpretation. Praise for the class from former participants: "Karen is a gifted teacher and Bible scholar. I would highly recommend this course to anyone who wishes to deepen their understanding of the Bible and sexuality." - Rev. Dr. Michael Norrie, chaplain "Karen's facilitation skills created a brave and compassionate learning environment that invited honest questioning and conversation. At a time when people can feel overwhelmed, intimidated, and alienated by conversations regarding Scripture, ethics, and sexuality, Karen's course offers a refreshing and stretching environment to explore one's beliefs in the context of a charitable learning community." - Lee Kosa, lead pastor at Cedar Park Church "Iron can't sharpen iron in isolation and Karen creates safe and knowledgeable space for such a dialogue. I would highly recommend this class." - Gil Vollmering, Jr., church elder and parent of a gay son.