Week 7: Chapter 6 — Sexual Saints

1.Thomas pushes back against both a gnostic suspicion of physical pleasure and a purely therapeutic view of sex. In his view, what is the sacred purpose of marital sexuality? How does that framing differ from what you have heard most often — in church or in culture?

2.He draws extensively from the Song of Solomon to argue that erotic love between husband and wife is not merely permitted by God but celebrated by him. Does it change anything for you to read the Song of Solomon as inspired Scripture that includes frank celebration of physical desire? Why or why not?

3.Thomas argues that the vulnerability required for full physical intimacy parallels the vulnerability required for full spiritual intimacy with God — both require that we be known entirely and not turn away in shame. How has physical intimacy with your spouse shaped your understanding of what it means to be fully known?