Authentic Human Sexuality
An Integrated Christian Approach
By
Judith K. Balswick
Jack O. Balswick
Reviewed by
Geoffrey W. Sutton
The Balswicks provide a primer on human sexuality for
evangelical readers. They draw on scientific research and integrate those
findings with a Christian worldview. In contrast to authentic sexuality in the
context of relationships, they illustrate inauthentic sexuality in terms of harassment,
pornography, and rape. I read their book in the context of writing A House
Divided: Sexuality, Morality, and Christian Cultures (2016).
The book is divided into four parts. The first part reviews
human sexuality. They opine that “all human beings struggle with their sexual
nature and come short of the sexual wholeness that God intended (p. 14).” They
advocate readers approach the subject with “humility and compassion.” They
present authentic sexuality as that which is ‘real, genuine, believable, and
trustworthy.” Part one continues with information on sexuality and child
development. Their theological discussion refers to being created in the image
of God and they affirm sexuality as a part of God’s created work. At the end of
this part, the authors write about “homosexuality*.” They review related terms
and the history of same-sex attraction. In their concluding chapter, they refer
to biblical references to “homosexual behavior.” They review research on sexual
orientation and lead readers to the conclusion that “homosexual orientation…is
not a simple matter of choice (p. 134).” Their chapter and part one concludes
with the following statement.
Even though we hold to the model of
a heterosexual, lifelong, monogamous union, our compassion brings us to support
all Christians who pursue God’s direction for their lives. (p. 136).
In Part two, the authors present their view of authentic
sexuality. They discuss singlehood and sexuality and offer some principles to
respect dating partners. The issue of virginity arises in this dating context: “While
one can never erase the past, single
persons can always reaffirm their virginity and recommit themselves to celibacy
again. (p. 159). Following a discussion of cohabitation, they write about marital
sexuality—the chapter subtitle is explanatory, “Maximizing Sexual
Fulfillment.” Problems arise for couples thus, the examine the “causes and
consequences” of extramarital sex. This chapter includes the possibility of
healing a relationship and guidelines to prevent an affair.
Inauthentic sexuality is the focus of Part three. The topic
of sexual harassment is presented from the perspective of balancing motives and
actions. They do not condone sexual harassment but encourage concern for
victims and perpetrators. The next chapter focuses on sexual abuse, the harmful
impact on victims, and the importance of ministry. Problems of rape and sexual
violence are identified in a separate chapter. The last two chapters deal with
porn and sexual addiction.
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Authentic Human Sexuality offers a segment of evangelical
Christians a way to embrace their sexuality within a context that blends
Christian teaching and behavioral science findings. They avoid the views of
more conservative evangelicals who take a stronger stance favoring sexual
purity outside of marriage and preach against same-sex relationships. They also
avoid the wider embrace of diversity presented by progressive Christians. Some
of the older language in this text may be off-putting to the generation of
2020, but this may be remedied in their 2019 edition.
I can see how this book would be useful in evangelical
colleges and universities. What might make the book better would be a more
in-depth look at the emotional components of sexuality, a greater appreciation
of neuroscience, concerns about birth control and abortion, and an appreciation
of psychopathology.
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* Homosexuality. I placed the term in quotes because it is
the term used by the authors for what we might now refer to as people who
identify as LGBTQ+; however, their use is not exactly the same as the diverse
gender identity found in LGBTQ+.
**********
The Authors
Judith K. Balswick (EdD, University of Chicago) is a
licensed marriage and family therapist. She has taught in the marriage and
family program at Fuller Theological Seminary.
Jack O. Balswick (PhD, University of Iowa) is a senior
professor of sociology and family development at Fuller Theological Seminary.
Balswick, J, K. &
Balswick, J.O. (2008). Authentic human sexuality: An integrated Christian approach,
Second Edition. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity. (Link to 3rd Edition)
Sutton, G. W. (2016). A
House Divided: Sexuality, morality, and Christian cultures. Eugene, OR:
Pickwick.
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