History Extra podcast Sex and Christianity: 2,000 years of love and fury
23 snips
Jan 1, 2025 
Diarmaid MacCulloch, a noted professor and author, dives into the tangled history of sex and Christianity. He discusses Jesus's views on sexuality and the perplexing rise of celibacy within the church. Did the church ever show tolerance for homosexuality? MacCulloch examines shifting interpretations of biblical texts and societal influences on sexual ethics over 2,000 years. He also highlights how religious life provided women with newfound freedoms, challenging rigid societal norms. This conversation is sure to spark lively debate!
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Diverse Christian Views on Sex
- There's no single Christian view on sex and sexuality.
- Views have been inconsistent and contradictory throughout history and across different Christian traditions.
Biblical Views on Sex
- The Bible presents a complex and sometimes contradictory view of sex, reflecting its diverse origins.
- It emphasizes purity and fidelity, but also includes texts like the Song of Songs, which celebrates love and desire.
Jesus's Teachings on Sex
- Jesus's teachings on sex and marriage were often counter-cultural, challenging Jewish norms on divorce and polygamy.
- Early Christians sometimes struggled with or modified these teachings to fit their cultural context.
