Sex, Jesus, and the Search for Meaning
In a world where sex is often reduced to a mere physical act, the Bible offers a profoundly different perspective. According to Jesus, sex is not just about pleasure or procreation, but about unity, commitment, and spiritual significance.
The Pharisees’ Question
The Pharisees once asked Jesus, “Is it lawful to divorce one’s wife for any cause?” (Matt. 19:3). This question was not just about marriage, but about the nature of sex and relationships. Jesus’ response took them back to the beginning, to the creation story in Genesis.
Male and Female
In Genesis 1:28, God creates humanity “male and female” in his own image. This is not just a statement about biology, but about the fundamental nature of human relationships. Jesus quotes this passage in his response to the Pharisees, emphasizing that marriage is a union between two people who become “one flesh” (Matt. 19:5).
The Helper
In Genesis 2, God creates the woman as a “helper” for the man. This role is not inferior, but rather complementary. The woman is created from the man’s side, emphasizing their equality and unity. Jesus sees this passage as a foundation for understanding marriage and sex.
Sex and Unity
According to Jesus, sex is not just a physical act, but a spiritual one. It is an expression of unity and commitment between two people. In marriage, two people become “one flesh,” a union that is both physical and spiritual. This understanding of sex is rooted in the creation story and is central to Jesus’ teaching on relationships.
The Consequences of Divorce
When the Pharisees ask Jesus about divorce, he responds by saying that it was allowed in the Old Testament because of the hardness of people’s hearts (Matt. 19:8). However, Jesus tightens up the law, saying that divorce is only permissible in cases of adultery. This teaching protects women and children from being abandoned and emphasizes the importance of commitment in marriage.
A Picture of God’s Love
So why does Jesus see marriage and sex in such uncompromising terms? Because it is a picture of God’s love for humanity. Marriage is a union between two people who become one flesh, just as God becomes one with humanity through Jesus Christ. This understanding of sex and relationships is rooted in the Bible and is central to Christian teaching.
Conclusion
In a world where sex is often reduced to a mere physical act, the Bible offers a profoundly different perspective. According to Jesus, sex is not just about pleasure or procreation, but about unity, commitment, and spiritual significance. By understanding sex and relationships through the lens of the Bible, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of human relationships.
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