Inevitably, when learning about chastity, some of our young people (and even many adults, for that matter!) want to know, “how far can I go without crossing the line?” But that is the wrong question to ask (h/t Inflated Tires):
Chastity is about overcoming our selfish sexual desires, upholding our own dignity, the dignity of the other and the sacredness of our sexuality. It’s not a matter of repression, but rather, through the blood of Christ, being free from the bond of lust and sin in order to be able to experience real love.
Here’s some more specific advice from chastity speaker, Jason Evert
General rule of thumb: Sex and, therefore, sexual arousal, are meant only for marriage. Any action that will or could potentially lead to either should be avoided (yes, sometimes even french-kissing) The key is to always desire to love and please God above all else. It’s not easy, but, with recourse to the Holy Spirit and the saving blood of Christ, pure love is possible – even if we have fallen in the past.
Find out more at PureLoveClub.com – which includes a “how far is too far” Q&A.
Let no one have contempt for your youth, but set an example for those who believe, in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.
~1 Timothy 4:12When you decide firmly to lead a clean life, chastity will not be a burden on you; it will be a crown of triumph.
~St. Josemaria
Related: Chastity and Freedom
One Comment on “TOB Tuesday: How Far is Too Far?”
I really liked that second movie. I recently led a small group discussion with some men on physical boundaries and might pass that video along to them. Not sure if you heard of Mark Driscoll but he did a sermon on sexual sin and you can check it out here. http://www.marshillchurch.org/media/religionsaves/sexual-sin Below is one of my favorite quotes from a book based on the sermon series.
“They often ask where to draw the line for sexual activity outside of marriage. What they are asking is how close they can to sin while still being without sin. But there is already sin in their heart because they are seeking to get closer to sin and not closer to God. The Bible says, “But among you there must not even be a hint of sexual immorality (Ephesians 5:3).” Thus, the issue is now where the line is, but when the time is. That is why the repeated refrain in the Song Solomon is a warning not “Stir or awaken love until it pleases.”