Many Christian couples struggle with intimacy, even those deeply rooted in faith and professional training. This isn’t a failure of belief, but a reflection of how deeply cultural narratives have shaped our understanding of sex – often to the detriment of healthy relationships and spiritual growth. Dr. Juli Slattery, president of Authentic Intimacy, joins Jim Daly on Focus on the Family to unpack how to reclaim a God-centered approach to sexuality.
The Cultural Distortion of Sexuality
The conversation centers around the idea that sex is not neutral; it either strengthens a marriage and faith or creates division. Modern society has often stripped sexuality of its spiritual context, turning it into a purely physical act divorced from deeper meaning. This has left many Christians ill-equipped to navigate intimacy within biblical boundaries, leading to shame, avoidance, or even harmful patterns.
Key Topics Explored
The discussion covers a range of essential themes:
- Cultural Sexuality: How broader societal trends influence individual beliefs and behaviors.
- Surrendered Sexuality: Approaching sex as an act of worship and mutual giving, not selfish gratification.
- Purity vs. Integrity: Moving beyond restrictive rules to embrace a holistic understanding of sexual health.
- Sexual Identity: Aligning identity with God’s design, rather than succumbing to fluid or distorted narratives.
- Healing from Sexual Sin: Finding restoration and freedom through faith and counseling.
- Singles and Sexuality: Applying biblical principles to single life, resisting societal pressures.
- Surrender to Love: Letting go of control and embracing vulnerability within a committed relationship.
Seeking Help and Resources
Focus on the Family offers practical resources for couples seeking guidance:
- A free Marriage Assessment tool to identify strengths and weaknesses.
- Christian counselors available to provide support and direction.
- Dr. Slattery’s book, Surrendered Sexuality, offered as a thank-you gift to monthly partners.
The program is designed to be frank but not graphic, making it suitable for mature audiences while encouraging discretion for younger listeners. The message is clear: sex is sacred, and reclaiming it requires intentionality, honesty, and a willingness to confront cultural distortions with biblical truth.
Ultimately, this conversation offers a pathway toward healthier, more fulfilling intimacy rooted in faith, not shame. It’s a reminder that sexuality isn’t just about physical pleasure; it’s a divine gift meant to draw us closer to God and one another.
