Guest teacher David Bennett shares his journey from atheistic gay activist to follower of Jesus, discussing God's radical and mysterious love. He challenges traditional concepts of love, emphasizes divine romance through friendship, and explores the transformative power of unconditional love. Bennett's personal transformation and encounters with God's love in unexpected places offer a unique perspective on theology and sexuality.
God's love is unique for every person, transcending human limitations to reveal a divine romance beyond physical relationships.
Encountering God's love amidst weakness and submission leads to a revival of longing to share the transformative message.
Deep dives
David Bennett's Background and Testimony
David Bennett, a speaker and scholar known for writing 'A War of Loves,' shared his remarkable journey as a modern-day apostle bridging the LGBTQ community and the church. Despite facing spiritual attacks upon the book's release, John Tyson's unwavering support and David's dedication highlighted his commitment to sharing the message of God's love.
Encountering the Love of God in Unexpected Places
During his visit to Church of the City, David found a welcoming community of LGBTQ followers of Jesus, fostering a revival of longing to share the love he experienced. His challenges with canceled visits due to lockdowns and personal struggles with desires highlighted the theme of encountering God's love amidst weakness and submission to divine guidance.
The Mystery of God's Love and Good News
David delved into the complexity of human sexuality and gender in light of God's love, emphasizing the need to interpret life's mysteries through the lens of divine love. He highlighted the limitations of reducing love to physical relationships, reiterating that the Gospel unveils a greater eros, beyond sexual expression, rooted in divine romance.
Revisiting Romans 1 and 2: Embracing God's Grace
Reflecting on Romans 1 and 2, David navigated the tension between condemnation and grace, emphasizing the transformative power of the Gospel over mere moralism. By debunking misconceptions and advocating for a grace-centered approach, he encouraged a reevaluation of biblical passages and the acceptance of God's inclusive and loving nature.
This Sunday, guest teacher David Bennett continued our Fall sermon series, The Jesus Stuff, with a teaching on the radical and mysterious love of God. Framed under the idea that God has a love that is unique for every person, David shared his testimony of moving from an atheistic, gay activist, to becoming a follower of Jesus, who now advocates for a positive moral vision of biblical sexuality and discipleship.
You can hear more about our beliefs on sexual formation in the sermons and podcasts below or visit our website church.nyc/sexual-formation.