I have a question.

People have real questions.

I was at GCC last week for the first of the series on sex. While I thought the sermon was excellent I have a couple questions. First of all I am in my mid 40s and divorced. I do not have a girlfriend and at this point do not want one. I used to profess to being a Christian but am not sure that I do that now. Right now spiritually I would say I am looking at options for how God fits into MY reality of life. Being a healthy male I do have sexual urges. My question is what is wrong with me going and renting a porn flick and watching it in the privacy of my home? I am not subject children to it. I am not being public with it. I am not violating a physical or emotional bond with any other person. In short I do not see how this effects my ability to function and interact with other people. I understand what the pastor said about allowing sexual actions to lead me off my ultimate goal. But, I do not understand how me looking at porn in the privacy of my home impacts anyone negatively. So I guess my question is, what is the point of that sermon to a middle aged single divorced person? I can see how it would impact a married couple or how it would impact a teen who has their whole life ahead of them. But me? I do not see how it applies. Thank you for taking time to answer this. Some day I might tell you my story.  

I think he speaks for many who won't ask. (He probably speaks for many who don't classify themselves as someone "looking at options" but they aren't asking. They'll just do what they want to do and play church on the weekends.) I respect this guy.

Thanks so much for your email. Really, the questions you ask are good ones. They’re really valid. I greatly appreciate the candor and thoughtfulness of your words.

As much as I’d love to be able to answer your email with black and white answers, I can not. However, I would love the opportunity to talk further with you about them, and I’d be very interested to hear whatever parts of your story that you’d choose to share. Conversation gives us the chance to consider other perspectives and gain understanding.

I’m so glad you’re finding the teaching and services at GCC relevant and helpful as you continue to sort through your options for how God fits in your life. We believe that people matter. They matter to God and they matter to us. Regardless if you decide to contact me further, I’m grateful to know that you’re present.

I believe people need to know that you care before they care what you know. This guy needs to know that he matters to God. Anything else at this point doesn't matter much.

Romans 3:10 As it is written: "There is no one righteous, not even one;"

Comments

[God's Truly]

I'm greatful that you have shared this on your blog. I like what you said about "People need to know you care before they care what you know" That heart is what has kept me coming back to GCC. The world is full of hurt people of all walks of life. They need a place they can turn to. A place that looks like Jesus Christ.