Singleness & Same-Sex Attraction (with Dr. Greg Coles)
Feb 5, 2024
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Dr. Greg Coles, author, speaker, and scholar at the Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender, shares insight and hope for singles with same-sex attraction. Topics discussed include recognizing the beauty of singleness and same-sex attraction, forming friendships with married couples, the healing power of present friendships, exploring same-sex attraction and healing, and a message to the speaker's younger self about following Jesus.
Singleness should be taken seriously as a beautiful option for followers of Jesus, challenging the elevated view of marriage.
Same-sex attraction should not be equated with socially acceptable forms of sinfulness, encouraging acceptance and finding purpose in stewarding one's body.
Deep dives
The Importance of Singleness and Same-Sex Attraction
The podcast episode explores the importance of singleness and same-sex attraction. The speaker emphasizes that singleness is a beautiful option for followers of Jesus, and it should be taken seriously. The discussion highlights the pressures and gifts of singleness and challenges the elevated view of marriage. The episode provides relatable stories and encourages listeners to consider the possibilities and beauty in singleness, regardless of same-sex attraction.
Challenging Misconceptions about Singleness and Same-Sex Attraction
The episode challenges misconceptions about singleness and same-sex attraction. It critiques the negative portrayal of singleness and the unrealistic elevation of marriage. The speaker emphasizes that both singleness and marriage have their challenges and highlights the opportunity to see how the Spirit works in different ways. The discussion highlights the need to avoid trying to conform people with same-sex attraction to more socially acceptable forms of sinfulness.
Finding Purpose and Redemption in Singleness
The podcast delves into finding purpose and redemption in singleness. The speaker explores the idea of stewarding one's body in a way that reflects God's deep interest in our embodiment. The discussion encourages a shift from the idea of saving oneself for marriage to understanding the purposefulness of stewarding one's body for the Lord. It highlights the journey of embracing singleness as a commitment and promise to Jesus, finding beauty and joy in the unique experiences that come with attraction to the same sex.
Friendship and Community in Singleness
The episode discusses the role of friendship and community in singleness. It highlights the advantages of being a single person in forming deep and meaningful relationships with individuals and married couples. The discussion explores the opportunities for single individuals to be present and engaged in various contexts, offering a unique perspective and support. It emphasizes the importance of finding friends and community within local church and chosen communities, rather than relying solely on digitally mediated relationships for depth and intimacy.
If you're single and you experience same-sex attraction, this episode is for you. Dr. Greg Coles offers insight, humor, delight, and hope that defies typical Christian categories of what a "good and beautiful life" can look like.
Greg Coles is an author, speaker, and scholar at the Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender. Check out Greg's books (these are paid links):