Read pages 166-172, from the last full paragraph on page 166, "Yeah, but I have a long history ..." down through the fourth paragraph on page 172, "Yeah. He was a man after God’s ..."
This is a rather long section that goes through a lot of ideas that challenge some of the cherished teachings of the American Christian church.
First, Cait talks about how she kept her virginity because "That was the one thing that seemed to be the true mark of whether or not you were a ‘good’ girl or a ‘bad’ one." Have you heard similar things taught, even if not that direct? Consider the story Cait tells about her descent into sexual promiscuity. How did those kinds of teachings contribute to her slide?
The conversation flows into the difference between having sex and making love. Our society uses the terms interchangeably, but Cait makes a clear distinction between them. Do you think Cait's right, that there is a difference? Why or why not? Do you think it's helpful for Christians to consider what is in essence a practical reason for staying sexually pure?
Cait goes on to talk about guilt, sin and feelings. She makes the arguement that if someone keeps virginity for the selfish gain of better sex when they get married, it can actually be sinful. What do you think of that argument? If you disagree, try to argue your position from the Bible. Remember, in this particular argument, Cait isn't talking about God's laws, so you can't use any of them in this debate.
Towards the end of the section, Cait finally discusses what she considers to be the only true godly position - seeking sexual purity just because God says that's what he wants believers to do. She wraps it up by considering that King David was a man after God's own heart. She acknowledges his sins then says: "... don’t you think King David would’ve been better off if he’d obeyed God in all areas, if he’d never fallen?" What do you think of that argument? Consider what the New Testament says about Christian liberty, freedom, license and things that are profitable. (Depending on the version of the Bible you use, you may need to search for different words.) Does that help you understand what Cait is arguing?
If you have any questions or comments about "A Novel Approach," please email me at cheryl@cherylokimoto.com.
More questions about sexual purity.
