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Holy Sexuality and the Gospel: Sex, Desire, and Relationships Shaped by God's Grand Story
From the author of Out of a Far Country , which details his dramatic conversion from an agnostic gay man who put his identity in his sexuality to a Bible professor who now puts his identity in Christ alone, comes a gospel-centered discussion of sex, desire, and relationships.
Dr. Christopher Yuan explores the concept of holy sexuality--chastity in singleness or faithfulness in marriage--in a practical and relevant manner, equipping readers with an accessible yet robust theology of sexuality. Whether you want to share Christ with a loved one who identifies as gay or you're wrestling with questions of identity yourself, this book will help you better understand sexuality in light of God's grand story and realize that holy sexuality is actually good news for all.
Dr. Christopher Yuan explores the concept of holy sexuality--chastity in singleness or faithfulness in marriage--in a practical and relevant manner, equipping readers with an accessible yet robust theology of sexuality. Whether you want to share Christ with a loved one who identifies as gay or you're wrestling with questions of identity yourself, this book will help you better understand sexuality in light of God's grand story and realize that holy sexuality is actually good news for all.
256 pages, Paperback
Published November 20, 2018
454 people are currently reading
3090 people want to read
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November 29, 2018
I understand why Yuan’s work is popular. First, he’s a nice guy and is a great speaker with a compelling story, the kind that Christians love to hear—the classic bad boy, really bad boy, to preacher story. It also titillates us and makes us feel good listening to theology that agrees with what we’ve been told about the dark and evil located outside of us, in the stuff we would never do.
Because it is likely that the majority of potential readers of “Holy Sexuality” will be pastors, youth leaders, families, and friends of LGBTQ people (both Christian and not), I’m writing this review for you. I’m a straight evangelical Christian, mother of two adult straight children, faithful follower of Jesus, active in my evangelical church, author of a book on the history of the cultural and religious discrimination against LGBTQ community, and speaker on the topic.
With this review, I hope to push readers beyond what might be comfortable. Often we aren’t interested in digging around in difficult topics until an issue becomes personal in some way. Only then you may see what is glaringly obvious to ever increasing numbers of us Christians—that there are millions of LGBTQ single and married Christians faithfully following and serving God. And books like “Holy Sexuality,” ignores them, and does great injustice and harm to them.
I hope you’ll also begin to wonder why conservative leaders continually create a turn stile of methods, nuanced language, and shifting theology to “deal” with homosexuality.
Since his last book, Yuan has significantly ramped up his negative messaging about homosexuality. His words carry weight and go a distance (he speaks publicly several hundred times each year). The impact from this book will be elevated levels of damage to LGBTQ people and their families, a continuation of misinformation about sexual orientation, and driving of people (not just LGBTQ people, but those who support their full inclusion in churches) from Christian churches.
In “Holy Sexuality,” Yuan creates freshly nuanced language and reshaped questionable theology. His ideas might indeed seem “holy.” So, let me lay them out a bit more clearly.
First, I need to step back here a bit to lay some historical groundwork.
Christian theology about sexuality in general, and with respect to gay people in particular, is quite a new concept. Christians had widely avoided discussing sexuality at all until the 1970s. And there was certainly no theology about homosexuality coming from the conservative church during that time.
Further, did you realize the first usage of the word “homosexual” in the Bible was in the Revised Standard Version in 1946 where it appeared in 1 Cor. 6: 9-10? Before the RSV was published, throughout history that Corinthians text had been interpreted and understood as a situation in which a socially more powerful and/or older man imposed exploitative, abusive penetrative sex on a boy, or on a subservient person.
During the RSV translation process of Corinthians in the 1930s and early 1940s, the team decided to join two Greek words—malakoi and arsenokoitai—into one word “homosexual” for ease in understanding. The team had been tasked to update the language of the popular King James, the ASV, and the ESV to more modern English. For the most part, until then, the two Greek words had been a variation on “effeminate” (one who takes the sexual penetrated role of a woman) and “sodomite” (one who penetrates another person, typically with excessive lust and with no intent to procreate). Even in the 1930s, the word “homosexual” carried a different meaning and implication than it does today. Then, homosexuality was wrongly considered a mental illness; not a moral issue, but a pathological one.
It’s even more obvious that the word homosexual as we understand it today (one who is emotionally, romantically, and sexually attracted to the same sex) is a poor conjoining and translation of two words that throughout history had referred to exploitative sex.
The placement of the word “homosexual” in Corinthians went relatively unnoticed for the next 30 years. Historical denominational journals, pastoral counseling magazines, and Christian books reflect this. There was simply no discussion taking place that connected morality and sin to homosexuality using 1 Corinthians. (This is all part of the historical work I am now doing.)
Then in the 1971 The Living Bible paraphrase, the words “homosexual/homosexuality” were introduced in six more places in the Bible for the first time (Leviticus twice, Deuteronomy, 1 Kings, Romans (inferred) and 1 Timothy). Surprising, isn’t it? Still, there was no theology created around homosexuality. The Christian church was not in the fix-the-gays business. The translation notes on this Bible indicate the translations, just as had happened in the RSV, were cultural decisions, not theological ones.
About the same time, in 1973, medical experts lifted the designation of mental illness off homosexuality. They had never had the science or studies to support the pathological designation. The history of understanding the progression of human sexuality from 1870 till 1970 is fascinating! For another time . . .
Sadly, in the late 1970s, a landscape created primarily by the Moral Majority and conservative politics developed in America that made it politically advantageous for conservatives and financially advantageous for TV evangelists at the time to blame moral decline in the country and church on a few select topics: abortion (did you know the SBC supported abortion in the early 1970s? Pretty surprising, right?), drugs, and “the gays.”
Still, historical documents show that absolutely no “gay theology” had yet been constructed.
By the end of the 1970s, however, the first Christian groups began to slowly appear with a mission to “fix” the gays and make them straight by employing reparative therapy, and even suggesting that gay people enter into heterosexual marriages. Even though the word “homosexual” was placed in the RSV and the TLB with no theological considerations, and little medical understanding, still, it was conveniently there.
Previously discarded theories as to why some people were gay were recycled, re-tooled slightly, and wrapped in Christianese. Voila! A new Christian industry was born and along with it, a slowly emerging theology informing Christians about “what God clearly says about homosexuality.”
Over the next generation, Christian ministries tried to make gay people straight by: encouraging them to find the root of the problem in their relationship to their smother-mother or distant father, repenting for an imagined outright rebellion against God, memorizing and employing key verses on temptation, avoiding contact with other gay people, modifying their behaviors to be more masculine for gay men and more feminine for lesbians, and even marrying opposite sex partners as a sign of faith that God would change their attraction with this step of obedience.
All that foolishness didn’t work and tragically caused massive amounts of shame, depression, substance abuse issue, promiscuity, suicide, and broken families and marriages for LGBTQ people.
So, now what’s next if we can’t make gay people straight and stop them from being gay?
Here was an opportune pivot point for the conservative church. Instead, they honed in on the next iteration of a more refined theology. This is the most common currently, and it focuses on imposed celibacy for LGBTQ people.
Even in this celibacy-for-gay camp, there is a variety of beliefs around how LGBTQ people are “allowed” to identify—either as a “gay Christian” or a “same-sex attracted Christian.” And, still, identification as a same-sex attracted celibate Christian does not seem restrictive enough personally for Christopher Yuan, so he has created another level of more nuanced language and has reshaped theology about homosexuality, celibacy, and even marriage.
Here is what I suspect may be at play. And no, I do not have a degree in psychology, but recall, I have thousands, yes, really, of LGBTQ friends and acquaintances whom I have listened to closely and observed for about twenty years, with almost fifteen of those years within LGBTQ Christian environments. I have hundreds of friends who have gone the Christian reparative therapy route. I have multiple dozens of friends who have been leaders, authors, therapists, and speakers in the ex-gay/celibacy movements.
The theology and rules set that Yuan has had a part in creating, teaching, and living by are no longer working for him. He admits that he is still sexually tempted (p. 126) and writes: “As a policy, I never travel alone, and I'm blessed my mother has committed to travel with me wherever I go as my prayer warrior and someone to hold me accountable when I am on the road.” (p. 73) Adding, “One of the things lacking today is a robust theological discussion on sexual orientation.” (p. 67)
What? The 40 or so books on the topic I have personally read and reviewed with at least an equal number above that which I have read are not enough?
Maybe it is not enough, because they don’t work.
Yuan built his new theology with a few foundational beliefs:
“One cannot properly understand human sexuality unless it is rooted in “theological anthropology”(p. 12); and, we must believe in the fall of Adam and Eve leading to the doctrine of original sin or we reject the work of Christ on the cross” (p.26)... all concluding: “When it comes to sexuality, the place to start must always be the image of God and the doctrine of sin. No Christian should ever challenge these fundamental principles. (p. 33)
To be a “real” Christian, it seems, we are forced to choose between two alternatives -- either choose faith and literal reading of the Bible in intellectual exile, or be intellectually curious and honest and abandon your faith. I choose the middle ground. Incorporating Scripture and science does not diminish my respect for and submission to God’s authority.
I don’t use the Bible as a science book, or as a template dictating the limited heteronormative binary of human sexuality, and still, I am a Christian, one who refuses to abuse Scripture and use unsubstantiated interpretations created by others to marginalize groups of people that are not like me.
So when Yuan constructs yet another new variation of “robust theological discussion on sexual orientation,” I strongly object.
As with prior conservative variations, in creating his new modification, Yuan ignores what medical and psychological professionals universally agree upon—that homosexuality is a natural variation of human sexuality. For Yuan, “same-sex sexual practice or any struggle with sin such as resisting same-sex sexual desire has only one root cause: original sin.” Adding, “To claim the primary root of homosexuality is anything but original sin is to deny orthodoxy.” (p. 37) Again, I don’t imagine I am going to fall off into a heretical abyss if I side with medical experts on this one.
Yuan vehemently rejects the connection between his theology and harm suffered by LGBTQ people stating there is no empirical evidence. (p. 152) Not only is there statistical evidence, it is highly disturbing that Yuan needs to see numbers to “prove” the damage caused by his strain of theology. Evidence shows LGBTQ kids who are rejected by their families are 8.4 times more likely to attempt suicide than LGBTQ kids who are supported by their families. Reading one Brene Brown book on shame should be enough to rethink this destructive theology.
Setting studies aside, Yuan could simply invest time in listening and learning directly from LGBTQ Christians and their families. That could be emotionally risky though for a man who has build his own high walls of protection. Yuan controls the questions asked of him in public settings. (For a particularly raw view into this and other dynamics going on in Yuan’s life, consider watching “Yuan Speaks at Yale Part 2” on YouTube starting at the 5:30 mark.)
With homosexuality rooted in original sin, what’s a gay Christian to do? As indicated, above, in the past, it was suggested that they submit to some form of therapy to become ex-gay, or maybe remain celibate for life. And here another switch-up—no, says Yuan, those are not viable options. (p. 39) Wait, what about all those other books by conservative Christians who say this is the most acceptable option? What happened to that and what God clearly told them?
“I believe both these paths (the ex-gays and celibate gays) fall short in the same way, by elevating sexual orientation as a redeemable category.” (p. 39) “With same-sex attractions, the problem is sin, and the gospel is the answer.” (p. 40) “The terms heterosexual and homosexual originate from a secular anthropology that elevates sexual desires as a legitimate way to categorize humanity.” (p. 46) “Using a term that confuses our true identity is unwise, and embracing such a broad category that includes sinful behavior should be roundly rejected.” (p. 47)
I found the following sentences to be quite stunning: “Segregating ourselves into straight Christians and gay Christians gives the false impression that we’re fundamentally different at the core of our being. We need more unity not less, and this segregation by orientation is in essence a form of affective apartheid.” (p. 72) Affective apartheid?
Did you catch all that? If being gay is sin, and calling oneself gay is sin, and even sexual orientation terms for heterosexual and homosexual are secular, and inherently elevate sexual sin, what solution does Yuan suggest to rise above all this linguistic gymnastics?
Glad you asked, “what other options do we have, you may ask other than heterosexuality and homosexuality? What we need is a completely new paradigm to represent God's sexual ethic. Holy sexuality.” (p. 47) This term has been tossed around for about a decade usually in this form: what is the opposite of homosexuality? Not heterosexuality, but holisexuality.
Yuan wants to jettison the sexual orientation terms, all of them, in the church: “We pigeonholed ourselves into the wrong framework for biblical sexual expression: heterosexuality, bisexuality, or homosexuality. It's time to break free from this paradigm and embrace God's vision for sexuality. Holy sexuality consists of two paths: chastity in singleness and faithfulness in marriage.” (p. 47)
What follows is an odd discourse on the elevation and idolization of marriage in the U.S. addressing the Obergefell v Hodges same-sex marriage decision.. “Not only did it (the decision) redefine marriage, but it also legally ratified the falsity that marriage is the pinnacle of love.”(p. 77) Yuan then adds, “I respectfully, but resolutely, disagree. Marriage may be an expression of love, but it's not the highest ideal of love. God is. Let me further elucidate how Justice Kennedy's assertions are found lacking when measured against biblical truth. Marriage may be an expression of fidelity, but it's not the highest ideal of fidelity. God is.” (p. 77) Yuan in contrast to the Supreme Court, states “marriage is not a basic human or civil right.” (p. 92)
Now, what should the church do with all these celibates who struggle with loneliness? I’ve read this solution several times in many other gay celibate books, and each time I find it overly altruistic. Yuan suggests that Christian families should include single people of the church in their own families in order to create a family for them. Yuan then asks “Will you commit to making this a reality for the sake of me and all Christian singles? (p. 137) As I mentioned, quite altruistic, and where is the biblical model for couples taking in the church celibate? My goodness, many of us struggle to love the stranger and the immigrant well, and that is in the Bible.
I know there are bisexual people who have attractions along the spectrum from straight to gay. Some people with some level of same-sex attraction can successfully marry heterosexually. Yuan takes the possibilities a bit further: “Many assume that lifelong celibacy is the only option for believers with same-sex attraction. While we shouldn't promote biblical marriage as the ultimate prize as ex-gay ministries have done in the past, we also shouldn't discount the possibility that God can do the impossible. Mandating lifelong celibacy for those with same-sex attraction on the false premise that physical marriage is impossible for them does not permit God to be God, the only one who determines the future.” (p. 116)
Yuan does engage pro-gay theology, and in particular Matthew Vines, founder of The Reformation Project. In the spirit of transparency, I have known Matthew since 2013, before the formation of The Reformation Project. I’ve been on the board of the organization for 6 years, and am now the chair of the board. Matthew is one of my closest friends. So, when Yuan writes about him and makes assumptions as to his character and beliefs, it is quite easy for me to see through it.
Yuan writes: “To conclude that bad fruit refers to suicide, attempted suicide, or even suicidal ideation requires a biblical interpreter to abandon basic exegetical principles. Furthermore, for Vines, hardship and distress are utterly incompatible with his idea of Christian life. Matthew’s irresponsible methodology is essentially a dance with deception.” (p. 149) Adding, “Matthew Vines simply represents a new iteration of the health, wealth, and prosperity movement,” (p. 150) and “Vines’ interpretation leaves no room for suffering and cross bearing in the life of the believer. (p. 149) None of what Yuan writes is an accurate reflection of what Matthew has publicly expressed, or how he lives his life. Yuan has embellished and distorted Matthew’s stances.
Matthew writes in “God and the Gay Christian”: “Much of our culture does promote the idea that our greatest fulfilment is to be found in sex and marriage. To the extent that Christians accept that view, we risk idolizing romantic love and losing sight of our first love, Christ. It is true, too, that God does not promise us easy lives. We are called to deny ourselves, to take up our crosses, and to follow Jesus.”
Yuan concludes, “If a leader blatantly takes Scripture out of context like this, twisting the Bible to say what it doesn't say, everything else he teaches should be suspect.” (p. 155) On this Yuan and I agree. When a leader twists Scripture, takes it out of context and lies, he/she is not to be trusted. I do not trust Christopher Yuan.
On page 33, Yuan quotes a Chinese proverb: “A millimeter discrepancy leads to a thousand mile loss. If the point of departure is a bit off from the start, the deviation in the end can be overwhelmingly large.”
The theology in “Holy Sexuality” is off, by a thousand miles. While Yuan wants increasingly “robust” sexual orientation theology, I think we need to go back to the point of departure and reexamine the wrong assumptions. We need to listen to both the experts on sexual orientation and to LGBTQ Christians themselves. It is abundantly clear that all the fix-the-gays variations have not and are not working and do create damage.
Yet, Yuan builds the walls tighter unto himself to control a natural part of him, and the conservative church applauds him, puts him on hundreds of stages, and peddles his theology as “God’s truth.”
Take your eyes off the stage. Look at the ones to the sides. They are really the greater story. Despite all the barriers built against them, and the damage done to them, many of them have been there loving, serving, and worshipping God. They are the LGBTQ Christian community—single, dating, married, celibate—and they are speaking. Listen to them.
Because it is likely that the majority of potential readers of “Holy Sexuality” will be pastors, youth leaders, families, and friends of LGBTQ people (both Christian and not), I’m writing this review for you. I’m a straight evangelical Christian, mother of two adult straight children, faithful follower of Jesus, active in my evangelical church, author of a book on the history of the cultural and religious discrimination against LGBTQ community, and speaker on the topic.
With this review, I hope to push readers beyond what might be comfortable. Often we aren’t interested in digging around in difficult topics until an issue becomes personal in some way. Only then you may see what is glaringly obvious to ever increasing numbers of us Christians—that there are millions of LGBTQ single and married Christians faithfully following and serving God. And books like “Holy Sexuality,” ignores them, and does great injustice and harm to them.
I hope you’ll also begin to wonder why conservative leaders continually create a turn stile of methods, nuanced language, and shifting theology to “deal” with homosexuality.
Since his last book, Yuan has significantly ramped up his negative messaging about homosexuality. His words carry weight and go a distance (he speaks publicly several hundred times each year). The impact from this book will be elevated levels of damage to LGBTQ people and their families, a continuation of misinformation about sexual orientation, and driving of people (not just LGBTQ people, but those who support their full inclusion in churches) from Christian churches.
In “Holy Sexuality,” Yuan creates freshly nuanced language and reshaped questionable theology. His ideas might indeed seem “holy.” So, let me lay them out a bit more clearly.
First, I need to step back here a bit to lay some historical groundwork.
Christian theology about sexuality in general, and with respect to gay people in particular, is quite a new concept. Christians had widely avoided discussing sexuality at all until the 1970s. And there was certainly no theology about homosexuality coming from the conservative church during that time.
Further, did you realize the first usage of the word “homosexual” in the Bible was in the Revised Standard Version in 1946 where it appeared in 1 Cor. 6: 9-10? Before the RSV was published, throughout history that Corinthians text had been interpreted and understood as a situation in which a socially more powerful and/or older man imposed exploitative, abusive penetrative sex on a boy, or on a subservient person.
During the RSV translation process of Corinthians in the 1930s and early 1940s, the team decided to join two Greek words—malakoi and arsenokoitai—into one word “homosexual” for ease in understanding. The team had been tasked to update the language of the popular King James, the ASV, and the ESV to more modern English. For the most part, until then, the two Greek words had been a variation on “effeminate” (one who takes the sexual penetrated role of a woman) and “sodomite” (one who penetrates another person, typically with excessive lust and with no intent to procreate). Even in the 1930s, the word “homosexual” carried a different meaning and implication than it does today. Then, homosexuality was wrongly considered a mental illness; not a moral issue, but a pathological one.
It’s even more obvious that the word homosexual as we understand it today (one who is emotionally, romantically, and sexually attracted to the same sex) is a poor conjoining and translation of two words that throughout history had referred to exploitative sex.
The placement of the word “homosexual” in Corinthians went relatively unnoticed for the next 30 years. Historical denominational journals, pastoral counseling magazines, and Christian books reflect this. There was simply no discussion taking place that connected morality and sin to homosexuality using 1 Corinthians. (This is all part of the historical work I am now doing.)
Then in the 1971 The Living Bible paraphrase, the words “homosexual/homosexuality” were introduced in six more places in the Bible for the first time (Leviticus twice, Deuteronomy, 1 Kings, Romans (inferred) and 1 Timothy). Surprising, isn’t it? Still, there was no theology created around homosexuality. The Christian church was not in the fix-the-gays business. The translation notes on this Bible indicate the translations, just as had happened in the RSV, were cultural decisions, not theological ones.
About the same time, in 1973, medical experts lifted the designation of mental illness off homosexuality. They had never had the science or studies to support the pathological designation. The history of understanding the progression of human sexuality from 1870 till 1970 is fascinating! For another time . . .
Sadly, in the late 1970s, a landscape created primarily by the Moral Majority and conservative politics developed in America that made it politically advantageous for conservatives and financially advantageous for TV evangelists at the time to blame moral decline in the country and church on a few select topics: abortion (did you know the SBC supported abortion in the early 1970s? Pretty surprising, right?), drugs, and “the gays.”
Still, historical documents show that absolutely no “gay theology” had yet been constructed.
By the end of the 1970s, however, the first Christian groups began to slowly appear with a mission to “fix” the gays and make them straight by employing reparative therapy, and even suggesting that gay people enter into heterosexual marriages. Even though the word “homosexual” was placed in the RSV and the TLB with no theological considerations, and little medical understanding, still, it was conveniently there.
Previously discarded theories as to why some people were gay were recycled, re-tooled slightly, and wrapped in Christianese. Voila! A new Christian industry was born and along with it, a slowly emerging theology informing Christians about “what God clearly says about homosexuality.”
Over the next generation, Christian ministries tried to make gay people straight by: encouraging them to find the root of the problem in their relationship to their smother-mother or distant father, repenting for an imagined outright rebellion against God, memorizing and employing key verses on temptation, avoiding contact with other gay people, modifying their behaviors to be more masculine for gay men and more feminine for lesbians, and even marrying opposite sex partners as a sign of faith that God would change their attraction with this step of obedience.
All that foolishness didn’t work and tragically caused massive amounts of shame, depression, substance abuse issue, promiscuity, suicide, and broken families and marriages for LGBTQ people.
So, now what’s next if we can’t make gay people straight and stop them from being gay?
Here was an opportune pivot point for the conservative church. Instead, they honed in on the next iteration of a more refined theology. This is the most common currently, and it focuses on imposed celibacy for LGBTQ people.
Even in this celibacy-for-gay camp, there is a variety of beliefs around how LGBTQ people are “allowed” to identify—either as a “gay Christian” or a “same-sex attracted Christian.” And, still, identification as a same-sex attracted celibate Christian does not seem restrictive enough personally for Christopher Yuan, so he has created another level of more nuanced language and has reshaped theology about homosexuality, celibacy, and even marriage.
Here is what I suspect may be at play. And no, I do not have a degree in psychology, but recall, I have thousands, yes, really, of LGBTQ friends and acquaintances whom I have listened to closely and observed for about twenty years, with almost fifteen of those years within LGBTQ Christian environments. I have hundreds of friends who have gone the Christian reparative therapy route. I have multiple dozens of friends who have been leaders, authors, therapists, and speakers in the ex-gay/celibacy movements.
The theology and rules set that Yuan has had a part in creating, teaching, and living by are no longer working for him. He admits that he is still sexually tempted (p. 126) and writes: “As a policy, I never travel alone, and I'm blessed my mother has committed to travel with me wherever I go as my prayer warrior and someone to hold me accountable when I am on the road.” (p. 73) Adding, “One of the things lacking today is a robust theological discussion on sexual orientation.” (p. 67)
What? The 40 or so books on the topic I have personally read and reviewed with at least an equal number above that which I have read are not enough?
Maybe it is not enough, because they don’t work.
Yuan built his new theology with a few foundational beliefs:
“One cannot properly understand human sexuality unless it is rooted in “theological anthropology”(p. 12); and, we must believe in the fall of Adam and Eve leading to the doctrine of original sin or we reject the work of Christ on the cross” (p.26)... all concluding: “When it comes to sexuality, the place to start must always be the image of God and the doctrine of sin. No Christian should ever challenge these fundamental principles. (p. 33)
To be a “real” Christian, it seems, we are forced to choose between two alternatives -- either choose faith and literal reading of the Bible in intellectual exile, or be intellectually curious and honest and abandon your faith. I choose the middle ground. Incorporating Scripture and science does not diminish my respect for and submission to God’s authority.
I don’t use the Bible as a science book, or as a template dictating the limited heteronormative binary of human sexuality, and still, I am a Christian, one who refuses to abuse Scripture and use unsubstantiated interpretations created by others to marginalize groups of people that are not like me.
So when Yuan constructs yet another new variation of “robust theological discussion on sexual orientation,” I strongly object.
As with prior conservative variations, in creating his new modification, Yuan ignores what medical and psychological professionals universally agree upon—that homosexuality is a natural variation of human sexuality. For Yuan, “same-sex sexual practice or any struggle with sin such as resisting same-sex sexual desire has only one root cause: original sin.” Adding, “To claim the primary root of homosexuality is anything but original sin is to deny orthodoxy.” (p. 37) Again, I don’t imagine I am going to fall off into a heretical abyss if I side with medical experts on this one.
Yuan vehemently rejects the connection between his theology and harm suffered by LGBTQ people stating there is no empirical evidence. (p. 152) Not only is there statistical evidence, it is highly disturbing that Yuan needs to see numbers to “prove” the damage caused by his strain of theology. Evidence shows LGBTQ kids who are rejected by their families are 8.4 times more likely to attempt suicide than LGBTQ kids who are supported by their families. Reading one Brene Brown book on shame should be enough to rethink this destructive theology.
Setting studies aside, Yuan could simply invest time in listening and learning directly from LGBTQ Christians and their families. That could be emotionally risky though for a man who has build his own high walls of protection. Yuan controls the questions asked of him in public settings. (For a particularly raw view into this and other dynamics going on in Yuan’s life, consider watching “Yuan Speaks at Yale Part 2” on YouTube starting at the 5:30 mark.)
With homosexuality rooted in original sin, what’s a gay Christian to do? As indicated, above, in the past, it was suggested that they submit to some form of therapy to become ex-gay, or maybe remain celibate for life. And here another switch-up—no, says Yuan, those are not viable options. (p. 39) Wait, what about all those other books by conservative Christians who say this is the most acceptable option? What happened to that and what God clearly told them?
“I believe both these paths (the ex-gays and celibate gays) fall short in the same way, by elevating sexual orientation as a redeemable category.” (p. 39) “With same-sex attractions, the problem is sin, and the gospel is the answer.” (p. 40) “The terms heterosexual and homosexual originate from a secular anthropology that elevates sexual desires as a legitimate way to categorize humanity.” (p. 46) “Using a term that confuses our true identity is unwise, and embracing such a broad category that includes sinful behavior should be roundly rejected.” (p. 47)
I found the following sentences to be quite stunning: “Segregating ourselves into straight Christians and gay Christians gives the false impression that we’re fundamentally different at the core of our being. We need more unity not less, and this segregation by orientation is in essence a form of affective apartheid.” (p. 72) Affective apartheid?
Did you catch all that? If being gay is sin, and calling oneself gay is sin, and even sexual orientation terms for heterosexual and homosexual are secular, and inherently elevate sexual sin, what solution does Yuan suggest to rise above all this linguistic gymnastics?
Glad you asked, “what other options do we have, you may ask other than heterosexuality and homosexuality? What we need is a completely new paradigm to represent God's sexual ethic. Holy sexuality.” (p. 47) This term has been tossed around for about a decade usually in this form: what is the opposite of homosexuality? Not heterosexuality, but holisexuality.
Yuan wants to jettison the sexual orientation terms, all of them, in the church: “We pigeonholed ourselves into the wrong framework for biblical sexual expression: heterosexuality, bisexuality, or homosexuality. It's time to break free from this paradigm and embrace God's vision for sexuality. Holy sexuality consists of two paths: chastity in singleness and faithfulness in marriage.” (p. 47)
What follows is an odd discourse on the elevation and idolization of marriage in the U.S. addressing the Obergefell v Hodges same-sex marriage decision.. “Not only did it (the decision) redefine marriage, but it also legally ratified the falsity that marriage is the pinnacle of love.”(p. 77) Yuan then adds, “I respectfully, but resolutely, disagree. Marriage may be an expression of love, but it's not the highest ideal of love. God is. Let me further elucidate how Justice Kennedy's assertions are found lacking when measured against biblical truth. Marriage may be an expression of fidelity, but it's not the highest ideal of fidelity. God is.” (p. 77) Yuan in contrast to the Supreme Court, states “marriage is not a basic human or civil right.” (p. 92)
Now, what should the church do with all these celibates who struggle with loneliness? I’ve read this solution several times in many other gay celibate books, and each time I find it overly altruistic. Yuan suggests that Christian families should include single people of the church in their own families in order to create a family for them. Yuan then asks “Will you commit to making this a reality for the sake of me and all Christian singles? (p. 137) As I mentioned, quite altruistic, and where is the biblical model for couples taking in the church celibate? My goodness, many of us struggle to love the stranger and the immigrant well, and that is in the Bible.
I know there are bisexual people who have attractions along the spectrum from straight to gay. Some people with some level of same-sex attraction can successfully marry heterosexually. Yuan takes the possibilities a bit further: “Many assume that lifelong celibacy is the only option for believers with same-sex attraction. While we shouldn't promote biblical marriage as the ultimate prize as ex-gay ministries have done in the past, we also shouldn't discount the possibility that God can do the impossible. Mandating lifelong celibacy for those with same-sex attraction on the false premise that physical marriage is impossible for them does not permit God to be God, the only one who determines the future.” (p. 116)
Yuan does engage pro-gay theology, and in particular Matthew Vines, founder of The Reformation Project. In the spirit of transparency, I have known Matthew since 2013, before the formation of The Reformation Project. I’ve been on the board of the organization for 6 years, and am now the chair of the board. Matthew is one of my closest friends. So, when Yuan writes about him and makes assumptions as to his character and beliefs, it is quite easy for me to see through it.
Yuan writes: “To conclude that bad fruit refers to suicide, attempted suicide, or even suicidal ideation requires a biblical interpreter to abandon basic exegetical principles. Furthermore, for Vines, hardship and distress are utterly incompatible with his idea of Christian life. Matthew’s irresponsible methodology is essentially a dance with deception.” (p. 149) Adding, “Matthew Vines simply represents a new iteration of the health, wealth, and prosperity movement,” (p. 150) and “Vines’ interpretation leaves no room for suffering and cross bearing in the life of the believer. (p. 149) None of what Yuan writes is an accurate reflection of what Matthew has publicly expressed, or how he lives his life. Yuan has embellished and distorted Matthew’s stances.
Matthew writes in “God and the Gay Christian”: “Much of our culture does promote the idea that our greatest fulfilment is to be found in sex and marriage. To the extent that Christians accept that view, we risk idolizing romantic love and losing sight of our first love, Christ. It is true, too, that God does not promise us easy lives. We are called to deny ourselves, to take up our crosses, and to follow Jesus.”
Yuan concludes, “If a leader blatantly takes Scripture out of context like this, twisting the Bible to say what it doesn't say, everything else he teaches should be suspect.” (p. 155) On this Yuan and I agree. When a leader twists Scripture, takes it out of context and lies, he/she is not to be trusted. I do not trust Christopher Yuan.
On page 33, Yuan quotes a Chinese proverb: “A millimeter discrepancy leads to a thousand mile loss. If the point of departure is a bit off from the start, the deviation in the end can be overwhelmingly large.”
The theology in “Holy Sexuality” is off, by a thousand miles. While Yuan wants increasingly “robust” sexual orientation theology, I think we need to go back to the point of departure and reexamine the wrong assumptions. We need to listen to both the experts on sexual orientation and to LGBTQ Christians themselves. It is abundantly clear that all the fix-the-gays variations have not and are not working and do create damage.
Yet, Yuan builds the walls tighter unto himself to control a natural part of him, and the conservative church applauds him, puts him on hundreds of stages, and peddles his theology as “God’s truth.”
Take your eyes off the stage. Look at the ones to the sides. They are really the greater story. Despite all the barriers built against them, and the damage done to them, many of them have been there loving, serving, and worshipping God. They are the LGBTQ Christian community—single, dating, married, celibate—and they are speaking. Listen to them.
October 2, 2021
Wow. I'm inspired and challenged by this book and by Christopher Yuan's example of godly obedience in his own personal life. Yuan successfully demonstrates that holy sexuality is not gay vs straight but rather faithful obedience to God's design for both singleness and marriage. That is my very over-simplistic summary, as he discusses identity, discipleship, and more. It's rich with content and wisdom, both in theology and practical application.
If you find yourself confused on the topic of sexuality and/or identity, have a family member struggling with same sex attraction, or just want to know how better to love and support your neighbor (single and married), this is a fantastic resource. Although, the audience that could benefit is much wider than these few I've mentioned. I highly recommend!
P.S. His mom is my new hero.
If you find yourself confused on the topic of sexuality and/or identity, have a family member struggling with same sex attraction, or just want to know how better to love and support your neighbor (single and married), this is a fantastic resource. Although, the audience that could benefit is much wider than these few I've mentioned. I highly recommend!
P.S. His mom is my new hero.
August 27, 2023
Rosaria Butterfield calls Christopher Yuan’s book, Holy Sexuality and the Gospel “the most important humanly composed book about biblical sexuality and godly living for our times.” That is quite a statement from such a respected woman. After a thorough reading, I concur that this indeed is a powerful and timely book.
Christophe Yuan is a professor at Moody Bible Institute who marks out who we are as human beings in this book. He clearly identifies us as image bearers of God, created with a purpose for God’s glory. However, each creature has fallen short of God’s glory and has been plunged into a state of sinfulness - by nature and by choice. Yuan establishes biblical sexuality and builds upon this foundation by exploring the biblical basis for marriage and singleness.
The theme of holy sexuality is at the center of the book. Holy sexuality, which is radically contrary to the zeitgeist we’ve grown accustomed to consists of two paths: “chastity in singleness and faithfulness in marriage.” Yuan explains, “Chastity is more than simply abstention from extramarital sex; it conveys purity and holiness. Faithfulness is more than merely maintaining chastity and avoiding illicit sex; it conveys covenantal commitment.”
Yuan maintains that the term holy sexuality is necessary since current terminology does not adequately or accurately reflect the biblical standard of sexual expression. He argues, “The purpose of this phrase is to transcend the current secular paradigm of sexual orientation that is unable to point toward God’s clear intent for sexual expression.” Holy Sexuality is meant to eliminate the confusing jargon which is usually associated with this controversial subject. Yuan adds, “Instead of deterring how we ought to live based on enduring patterns of erotic desires, God’s call for all humanity, quite simply, is holiness.”
The matter of homosexuality has been vigorously debated in recent days and has been especially elevated since the recent Supreme Court decision that legalized so-called “same-sex marriage.” Personally, I struggle with much of the literature that is either for or against “same-sex marriage.” It is hotly contested on both sides and generally produces more heat than light. But Dr. Yuan’s book takes a different path. Never once does he deviate from the biblical path to purity. He maintains the biblical boundaries of marriage between a man and a woman and sets forth a case that is both compelling and compassionate.
Christopher Yuan has written a thoughtful and compelling book. It is grounded in sacred Scripture and faithfully reflects the teaching of Scripture. Yuan’s convictions are uncompromising, yet he writes out of a deep and authentic love for people in the homosexual community. His tone is always charitable, yet he never compromises the teaching of God’s Word. Holy Sexuality and the Gospel is a much-needed corrective to the overly simplified approach that some Christian writers take. It avoids the pitfalls typically associated with this subject and leads readers to a place of faithfulness and fulfillment. Christian readers will be encouraged and challenged by Dr. Yuan’s heart. And readers who struggle with same-sex desires will be patiently instructed by a writer who writes with patience and biblical fidelity.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
Christophe Yuan is a professor at Moody Bible Institute who marks out who we are as human beings in this book. He clearly identifies us as image bearers of God, created with a purpose for God’s glory. However, each creature has fallen short of God’s glory and has been plunged into a state of sinfulness - by nature and by choice. Yuan establishes biblical sexuality and builds upon this foundation by exploring the biblical basis for marriage and singleness.
The theme of holy sexuality is at the center of the book. Holy sexuality, which is radically contrary to the zeitgeist we’ve grown accustomed to consists of two paths: “chastity in singleness and faithfulness in marriage.” Yuan explains, “Chastity is more than simply abstention from extramarital sex; it conveys purity and holiness. Faithfulness is more than merely maintaining chastity and avoiding illicit sex; it conveys covenantal commitment.”
Yuan maintains that the term holy sexuality is necessary since current terminology does not adequately or accurately reflect the biblical standard of sexual expression. He argues, “The purpose of this phrase is to transcend the current secular paradigm of sexual orientation that is unable to point toward God’s clear intent for sexual expression.” Holy Sexuality is meant to eliminate the confusing jargon which is usually associated with this controversial subject. Yuan adds, “Instead of deterring how we ought to live based on enduring patterns of erotic desires, God’s call for all humanity, quite simply, is holiness.”
The matter of homosexuality has been vigorously debated in recent days and has been especially elevated since the recent Supreme Court decision that legalized so-called “same-sex marriage.” Personally, I struggle with much of the literature that is either for or against “same-sex marriage.” It is hotly contested on both sides and generally produces more heat than light. But Dr. Yuan’s book takes a different path. Never once does he deviate from the biblical path to purity. He maintains the biblical boundaries of marriage between a man and a woman and sets forth a case that is both compelling and compassionate.
Christopher Yuan has written a thoughtful and compelling book. It is grounded in sacred Scripture and faithfully reflects the teaching of Scripture. Yuan’s convictions are uncompromising, yet he writes out of a deep and authentic love for people in the homosexual community. His tone is always charitable, yet he never compromises the teaching of God’s Word. Holy Sexuality and the Gospel is a much-needed corrective to the overly simplified approach that some Christian writers take. It avoids the pitfalls typically associated with this subject and leads readers to a place of faithfulness and fulfillment. Christian readers will be encouraged and challenged by Dr. Yuan’s heart. And readers who struggle with same-sex desires will be patiently instructed by a writer who writes with patience and biblical fidelity.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
May 25, 2019
In 2011, Christopher Yuan opened up and shared his personal testimony in Out of a Far Country: A Gay Son’s Journey to God, a Broken Mother’s Search for Hope (co-authored with his mother, Angela Yuan). In Holy Sexuality and the Gospel, he follows up his testimony with a book that deals more broadly with “sex, desire, and relationships shaped by God’s grand story” (tagline on the cover). The book could be viewed as a biblical theology of sexuality with particular reference to those who struggle with same-sex attraction, as well as those who love them. Yuan does not spend much time tackling the verses in the OT and the NT traditionally understood as condemning same-sex practice—he leaves that to others, citing the work of Robert Gagnon (The Bible and Homosexual Practice) and Kevin DeYoung (What Does the Bible Really Teach About Homosexuality?). His focus is more on understanding sexuality in terms of the big picture of the biblical narrative of creation, fall, redemption, and consummation. I found the book to be clear, theologically sound, and pastorally encouraging.
In the Foreword, Rosaria Butterfield gives a ringing endorsement. Not one to pull her punches, she argues that “the idol of our historical epoch is this: your sexual desires define you, determine you, and should always delight you” (p. xiv). She praises Yuan’s book as a tearing down of the idol of our day, showing how it is on a collision course with the gospel.
In Chs. 1-3, Yuan frames the discussion in light of creation in the image of God. In Chs. 4-5, he deals with the fall and our fallen sin nature that is the root of all sexual sin. In Ch. 6, “Holy Sexuality,” he sets out the main thesis of the book and defines the key phrase that is part of the title of the book. In Chs. 7-9, he addresses the related issues of desire, temptation, and sexual orientation. With regard to the latter, sexual orientation, he rejects it as a modern construct owing more to Freud than to the Bible. In Chs. 10-11, he offers a wonderful biblical theology of marriage. In Chs. 12-14, he addresses the topic of singleness and the need for the church to be the family of God in which we are all brothers and sisters in Christ. In Chs. 15-16, he deals with the doctrine of sanctification. In Chs. 17-20, he wraps up with pastoral guidance on how to have these difficult conversations with the LGBT community, and the need for discipleship for those converted from that community and brought into the church. The book has a study guide at the end with a list of questions for use in small group discussions.
Going back to Ch. 6, what is “Holy Sexuality”? I can’t do better than to quote Yuan himself. He explains this key concept, which is also part of the book title:
This is a very helpful reframing of the issue: instead of framing it in terms of sexual orientation (homosexual vs. heterosexual), Yuan frames it in terms of holiness (either faithfulness in marriage or chastity in singleness). This reframing avoids two problems. It avoids the problematic claim that those who struggle with same-sex attraction must undergo ex-gay conversion therapy in order to be changed from homosexuals into heterosexuals. It also avoids the claim that those who struggle with same-sex attraction ought to adopt a gender identity of being “homosexual” or “gay” and then choose celibacy, a life-long commitment to being an unmarried gay person. Yuan argues that chastity in singleness (for as long as God is calling you to be single) is the better approach. Who knows? God may call the same-sex attracted person to be married to someone of the opposite sex, and then he is calling them to holy sexuality in the form of faithfulness in marriage.
I have been accustomed to say that same-sex attracted Christians are called to celibacy, but Yuan has convinced me that is not quite right. The focus on holy sexuality is on holiness in one’s sexual life, not on the patterns of one’s sexual attractions, whether changing them or acquiescing to them. The call of God to the same-sex attracted Christian is no different than the call of God to all Christians. All of us, whether single or married, are called to the same standard: sexual holiness. This is such an encouraging and liberating approach that cuts through the confusion around orientation and gender identity and issues a clarion call to all Christians to submit our sexuality to the Lordship of Christ.
I also appreciated Yuan’s theological acumen in Chs. 7-8, where he does a careful anatomy of temptation and desire, and the whole the fraught question of the moral status of same-sex attraction. Among those who agree that same-sex relationships are not morally permissible for Christians, there seem to be two main views of the moral status of same-sex attraction. I am simplifying here. Within each camp, individual thinkers have different nuances, terms and definitions, but broadly speaking the two main camps are: (1) the view that sexual orientation is not ontologically real but a late 19th century innovation; that there are only sexual desires and sexual temptations; and that same-sex desire is sinful and must be mortified (Denny Burk, Heath Lambert, Owen Strachan, Sam Allberry, Rosaria Butterfield); and (2) the view that sexual orientation is a real category; that the homosexual orientation is a result of the fall, and is sinful if acted on; but that being gay itself—as a gender identity, not as a sexual practice—is sanctifiable (Wesley Hill, Nate Collins, Mark Yarhouse, Ron Belgau). The former camp tends to use the term “Christians who struggle with same-sex attraction or SSA,” whereas the second camp is comfortable speaking of “celibate gay Christians.”
Yuan falls in the first camp and is critical of the second. In Ch. 7, he deals with same-sex temptations, and argues that it is not sinful to struggle with and be tempted by this sin. He appeals to the fact that Jesus was tempted and was nevertheless without sin (Heb 4:15). In fact, Yuan argues, Jesus was “the ultimate example of struggling,” yet without ever succumbing to sin. “The Christian life doesn’t mean you won’t be tempted; it means you’ll have the Spirit-wrought ability to be holy even in the midst of temptations. What matters most is not that we are tempted but how we respond to temptation” (pp. 56-57). He quotes John Owen: “It is impossible that we should be so freed from temptation as not to be at all tempted” (Overcoming Sin and Temptation, ed. Kelly Kapic and Justin Taylor [Crossway, 2006], 159). So same-sex temptations are not sinful.
But what about same-sex desires? That is a different question and Yuan addresses it in Ch. 8. He takes a teleological approach to desire and argues that “the moral value of any desire is determined by whether its ‘end’ transgresses or conforms to God’s standard” (p. 61). Every desire has a telos—an end, intended goal, or aim. In order to know whether any given desire is good or evil, we have to examine its telos. Yuan appeals to the teaching of Jesus, who taught his disciples to consider the telos of sexual desire:
The implication is that not all admiring of a woman’s physical beauty is sinful—if not done with lustful intent. Not even all looking at a woman with sexual desire is sinful—if it is the woman’s husband doing the looking (here Yuan quotes the Song of Solomon; p. 62). In the husband’s case, the telos is good and therefore the desire is good and holy. But applying this teleological analysis to same-sex desire yields a different moral calculus: “The end of same-sex sexual desire is sexual intimacy between two men or two women—which is sinful behavior. If the end is wrong, then the desire is wrong. Thus, same-sex sexual desire per se is sinful” (p. 63). But what about same-sex nonsexual romantic desire? Such desires would be sinful, because they are a desire to be united in a one-flesh union with someone of the same-sex. “While lacking eroticism, when these romantic affections are toward a person in which a biblical covenantal union cannot occur, they are still wrong” (p. 64). To sum up:
I love that line: “Every single desire we have must be put to the test. What is its end?” Yuan’s teleological moral analysis of desire is thoroughly biblical and stunningly simple. It cuts like a hot knife through the butter of all the confusion, perplexity, and controversy that has somehow gunked up evangelical thinking on this issue.
There is much more that I can’t summarize here. Suffice it to say, Yuan has written a spiritually sensitive, biblically sound, Christ-honoring book on a highly relevant topic. I highly recommend it to all Christians, especially those who struggle with SSA or who love someone who does.
In the Foreword, Rosaria Butterfield gives a ringing endorsement. Not one to pull her punches, she argues that “the idol of our historical epoch is this: your sexual desires define you, determine you, and should always delight you” (p. xiv). She praises Yuan’s book as a tearing down of the idol of our day, showing how it is on a collision course with the gospel.
In Chs. 1-3, Yuan frames the discussion in light of creation in the image of God. In Chs. 4-5, he deals with the fall and our fallen sin nature that is the root of all sexual sin. In Ch. 6, “Holy Sexuality,” he sets out the main thesis of the book and defines the key phrase that is part of the title of the book. In Chs. 7-9, he addresses the related issues of desire, temptation, and sexual orientation. With regard to the latter, sexual orientation, he rejects it as a modern construct owing more to Freud than to the Bible. In Chs. 10-11, he offers a wonderful biblical theology of marriage. In Chs. 12-14, he addresses the topic of singleness and the need for the church to be the family of God in which we are all brothers and sisters in Christ. In Chs. 15-16, he deals with the doctrine of sanctification. In Chs. 17-20, he wraps up with pastoral guidance on how to have these difficult conversations with the LGBT community, and the need for discipleship for those converted from that community and brought into the church. The book has a study guide at the end with a list of questions for use in small group discussions.
Going back to Ch. 6, what is “Holy Sexuality”? I can’t do better than to quote Yuan himself. He explains this key concept, which is also part of the book title:
From Genesis to Revelation, in the entirety of the biblical witness, only two paths align with God’s standard for sexual expression: if you’re single, be sexually abstinent while fleeing lustful desires; if you’re married, be sexually and emotionally faithful to your spouse of the opposite sex, while also fleeing lustful desires.
No terminology has accurately represented the biblical standard for sexual expression, which encompasses these two ways of living. While the category of heterosexuality includes some sinful behavior, it also does not clearly include chaste singleness. Therefore, a new phrase is necessary—holy sexuality. The purpose of this phrase is to transcend the current secular paradigm of sexual orientation that is unable to point toward God’s clear intent for sexual expression.
This term holy sexuality is meant to simplify and disentangle the complex and confusing conversation around sexuality. The truth is that God’s standard for everyone is holy sexuality: chastity in singleness and faithfulness in marriage. Different expectations for different people are not only unfair; they’re unbiblical. Instead of determining how we ought to live based on enduring patterns of erotic desires, God’s call for all humanity, quite simply, is holiness. (p. 48)
This is a very helpful reframing of the issue: instead of framing it in terms of sexual orientation (homosexual vs. heterosexual), Yuan frames it in terms of holiness (either faithfulness in marriage or chastity in singleness). This reframing avoids two problems. It avoids the problematic claim that those who struggle with same-sex attraction must undergo ex-gay conversion therapy in order to be changed from homosexuals into heterosexuals. It also avoids the claim that those who struggle with same-sex attraction ought to adopt a gender identity of being “homosexual” or “gay” and then choose celibacy, a life-long commitment to being an unmarried gay person. Yuan argues that chastity in singleness (for as long as God is calling you to be single) is the better approach. Who knows? God may call the same-sex attracted person to be married to someone of the opposite sex, and then he is calling them to holy sexuality in the form of faithfulness in marriage.
I have been accustomed to say that same-sex attracted Christians are called to celibacy, but Yuan has convinced me that is not quite right. The focus on holy sexuality is on holiness in one’s sexual life, not on the patterns of one’s sexual attractions, whether changing them or acquiescing to them. The call of God to the same-sex attracted Christian is no different than the call of God to all Christians. All of us, whether single or married, are called to the same standard: sexual holiness. This is such an encouraging and liberating approach that cuts through the confusion around orientation and gender identity and issues a clarion call to all Christians to submit our sexuality to the Lordship of Christ.
I also appreciated Yuan’s theological acumen in Chs. 7-8, where he does a careful anatomy of temptation and desire, and the whole the fraught question of the moral status of same-sex attraction. Among those who agree that same-sex relationships are not morally permissible for Christians, there seem to be two main views of the moral status of same-sex attraction. I am simplifying here. Within each camp, individual thinkers have different nuances, terms and definitions, but broadly speaking the two main camps are: (1) the view that sexual orientation is not ontologically real but a late 19th century innovation; that there are only sexual desires and sexual temptations; and that same-sex desire is sinful and must be mortified (Denny Burk, Heath Lambert, Owen Strachan, Sam Allberry, Rosaria Butterfield); and (2) the view that sexual orientation is a real category; that the homosexual orientation is a result of the fall, and is sinful if acted on; but that being gay itself—as a gender identity, not as a sexual practice—is sanctifiable (Wesley Hill, Nate Collins, Mark Yarhouse, Ron Belgau). The former camp tends to use the term “Christians who struggle with same-sex attraction or SSA,” whereas the second camp is comfortable speaking of “celibate gay Christians.”
Yuan falls in the first camp and is critical of the second. In Ch. 7, he deals with same-sex temptations, and argues that it is not sinful to struggle with and be tempted by this sin. He appeals to the fact that Jesus was tempted and was nevertheless without sin (Heb 4:15). In fact, Yuan argues, Jesus was “the ultimate example of struggling,” yet without ever succumbing to sin. “The Christian life doesn’t mean you won’t be tempted; it means you’ll have the Spirit-wrought ability to be holy even in the midst of temptations. What matters most is not that we are tempted but how we respond to temptation” (pp. 56-57). He quotes John Owen: “It is impossible that we should be so freed from temptation as not to be at all tempted” (Overcoming Sin and Temptation, ed. Kelly Kapic and Justin Taylor [Crossway, 2006], 159). So same-sex temptations are not sinful.
But what about same-sex desires? That is a different question and Yuan addresses it in Ch. 8. He takes a teleological approach to desire and argues that “the moral value of any desire is determined by whether its ‘end’ transgresses or conforms to God’s standard” (p. 61). Every desire has a telos—an end, intended goal, or aim. In order to know whether any given desire is good or evil, we have to examine its telos. Yuan appeals to the teaching of Jesus, who taught his disciples to consider the telos of sexual desire:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matt 5:27-28 ESV, emphasis added).
The implication is that not all admiring of a woman’s physical beauty is sinful—if not done with lustful intent. Not even all looking at a woman with sexual desire is sinful—if it is the woman’s husband doing the looking (here Yuan quotes the Song of Solomon; p. 62). In the husband’s case, the telos is good and therefore the desire is good and holy. But applying this teleological analysis to same-sex desire yields a different moral calculus: “The end of same-sex sexual desire is sexual intimacy between two men or two women—which is sinful behavior. If the end is wrong, then the desire is wrong. Thus, same-sex sexual desire per se is sinful” (p. 63). But what about same-sex nonsexual romantic desire? Such desires would be sinful, because they are a desire to be united in a one-flesh union with someone of the same-sex. “While lacking eroticism, when these romantic affections are toward a person in which a biblical covenantal union cannot occur, they are still wrong” (p. 64). To sum up:
Every single desire we have must be put to the test. What is its end, goal, or purpose? If you’re biblically married and your romantic desires are for your spouse, those desires are good and blessed. If you’re single and have romantic desires for someone of the opposite sex who is a potential spouse in biblical marriage, then those romantic desires are permissible. All other romantic desires are improper and should not be allowed to grow or flourish. That’s true for everyone—male or female, opposite-sex attracted or same-sex attracted” (pp. 64-65).
I love that line: “Every single desire we have must be put to the test. What is its end?” Yuan’s teleological moral analysis of desire is thoroughly biblical and stunningly simple. It cuts like a hot knife through the butter of all the confusion, perplexity, and controversy that has somehow gunked up evangelical thinking on this issue.
There is much more that I can’t summarize here. Suffice it to say, Yuan has written a spiritually sensitive, biblically sound, Christ-honoring book on a highly relevant topic. I highly recommend it to all Christians, especially those who struggle with SSA or who love someone who does.
November 29, 2018
Years ago I met Dr. Christopher Yuan for the first time. I was at a denominational convention where he and his mother had a booth set up to promote their ministry and book Out of a Far Country: A Gay Son's Journey to God. At the time, I was intrigued by the brief introduction to them and their story. Little did I know that my wife and I would be experiencing similar circumstances when our son expressed to us that he identified as gay. It was during this time I contacted Christopher and invited him to speak at our church. All in our family were encouraged by his message of hope. Christopher shared his personal story along with his parents during our morning worship service. That evening he led two seminars related to Christianity, the church, and LGBTQ+ individuals. It was during his presentations that I first heard Christopher use the term "holy sexuality." He used the term in his first book as well. This term is more than just another evangelical buzzword. As Rosaria Butterfield has said, this term is "a concept that changed the paradigm of what it means to live out God's best for us."
Just a few weeks ago, I received an advanced readers copy (ARC) of Christopher's newly released book Holy Sexuality and the Gospel: Sex, Desire, and Relationships Shaped by God's Grand Story. I began reading and found myself highlighting phrases and paragraphs on almost every page. Dr. Yuan unpacks so much related to sexuality. While he addresses LGBTQ+ identifiers, his book is not focused solely on these. Sexual sin, whether homosexual or heterosexual is sin. Yuan states...
"We cannot properly understand human sexuality unless we begin with theological anthropology. Anthropology, in general terms, is the study of humanity. Essentially, it's the human search to answer the important question Who am I?"
"All our thoughts an actions are influenced at some level by how we answer the question Why am I? This suggests a closer relationship between essence and ethics than many realize. The two inform each other. Who we are (essence) determines how we live (ethics), and how we live determines who we are."
Dr. Yuan's solid emphasis on the gospel and identity as bestowed by God presents a firm foundation for the book. As an HIV+ man who had for years lived sexually promiscuous as a gay man, was a self-described partier and drug user, and eventually went to prison for dealing drugs, Yuan does not speak as one who views sin as superficial or overly-simplified. He writes and speaks as one who has been in the pit, experienced an undeserved rescue, and continues to live amazed at the grace and mercy offered from God. The main character in Dr. Yuan's story is not himself, but God.
Some have declared Yuan's perspective on anthropology or ontology to be flawed. I have read declarations that he misuses data and scientific proof. Others who identify as LGBTQ+ see Dr. Yuan as a sell-out or a betrayer. The negative reviews of his books mostly feign to be intellectual analyses, but often reveal a personal vitriol against Dr. Yuan based on his current message and lifestyle.
Yet, for those who have actually read Yuan's writings (not just the two books here, but also his second book Giving a Voice to the Voiceless: A Qualitative Study of Reducing Marginalization of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Same-Sex Attracted Students at Christian Colleges and Universities) or heard him speak, it is clear that Dr. Yuan is not playing fast and loose with science, research, or historical aspects of biblical Christianity and sexual ethics. His revealed research and intelligent insight debunks any theory that he simply bases his beliefs on conservative, biblical talking points or Twitter-size hot-button phrasing. Does Dr. Yuan have a personal agenda? Absolutely. Every author does. Every Christian does. Dr. Yuan's agenda is not to harm others at all. His agenda is revealed in his writings clearly. It is simply to declare the message of the gospel well, unapologetically, without compromise, and fully in love.
On a practical level, Dr. Yuan's latest book on holy sexuality should be read by any evangelical pastor seeking to minister well to those in the church or community desiring to better understand their LGBTQ+ friends and relatives without abandoning biblical fidelity. He addresses the reality of loving without affirming. For those who do not believe their friends or church families are impacted by this reality of culture, it is time to wake up. Many pastors would rather just not address these issues. Some who have done so end up doing more harm than good, that is certain. For pastors seeking to ignore the very real questions being asked by those self-identifying as gender fluid or any one of the many letters being expressed by the common LGBTQ+ identifier (or their loved ones) the fact is clear - you cannot remain silent. Your silence speaks loudly.
Dr. Yuan's book is not only informational related to the biblical understanding of sexuality, but relatable, insightful, and practical. The included study guide provides real-life questions that can be addressed in small group studies. These all point to biblical answers and are firmly rooted in the gospel and a biblical worldview.
I agree with Rosaria Butterfield who stated in her review that this book is the "most important humanly composed book about biblical sexuality and godly living for our times."
I encourage every Christian with a loved one identifying as LGBTQ+ to read this book. I encourage every single adult Christian (heterosexual or same-sex attracted) to read this book to better understand the very real concept of holy singleness and holy sexuality. In addition to Dr. Yuan's clear and correct take on holy sexuality, his focus on the value and role of those whom God has called to singleness within the body of Christ is powerful and needed. He addresses head-on the idolatry that has overtaken some within the Christian church regarding the false elevation of marriage as essential for spiritual maturity.
There's more to unpack here, but for sake of space, I will end with "Read this book! It is needed and valuable."
Just a few weeks ago, I received an advanced readers copy (ARC) of Christopher's newly released book Holy Sexuality and the Gospel: Sex, Desire, and Relationships Shaped by God's Grand Story. I began reading and found myself highlighting phrases and paragraphs on almost every page. Dr. Yuan unpacks so much related to sexuality. While he addresses LGBTQ+ identifiers, his book is not focused solely on these. Sexual sin, whether homosexual or heterosexual is sin. Yuan states...
"We cannot properly understand human sexuality unless we begin with theological anthropology. Anthropology, in general terms, is the study of humanity. Essentially, it's the human search to answer the important question Who am I?"
"All our thoughts an actions are influenced at some level by how we answer the question Why am I? This suggests a closer relationship between essence and ethics than many realize. The two inform each other. Who we are (essence) determines how we live (ethics), and how we live determines who we are."
Dr. Yuan's solid emphasis on the gospel and identity as bestowed by God presents a firm foundation for the book. As an HIV+ man who had for years lived sexually promiscuous as a gay man, was a self-described partier and drug user, and eventually went to prison for dealing drugs, Yuan does not speak as one who views sin as superficial or overly-simplified. He writes and speaks as one who has been in the pit, experienced an undeserved rescue, and continues to live amazed at the grace and mercy offered from God. The main character in Dr. Yuan's story is not himself, but God.
Some have declared Yuan's perspective on anthropology or ontology to be flawed. I have read declarations that he misuses data and scientific proof. Others who identify as LGBTQ+ see Dr. Yuan as a sell-out or a betrayer. The negative reviews of his books mostly feign to be intellectual analyses, but often reveal a personal vitriol against Dr. Yuan based on his current message and lifestyle.
Yet, for those who have actually read Yuan's writings (not just the two books here, but also his second book Giving a Voice to the Voiceless: A Qualitative Study of Reducing Marginalization of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Same-Sex Attracted Students at Christian Colleges and Universities) or heard him speak, it is clear that Dr. Yuan is not playing fast and loose with science, research, or historical aspects of biblical Christianity and sexual ethics. His revealed research and intelligent insight debunks any theory that he simply bases his beliefs on conservative, biblical talking points or Twitter-size hot-button phrasing. Does Dr. Yuan have a personal agenda? Absolutely. Every author does. Every Christian does. Dr. Yuan's agenda is not to harm others at all. His agenda is revealed in his writings clearly. It is simply to declare the message of the gospel well, unapologetically, without compromise, and fully in love.
On a practical level, Dr. Yuan's latest book on holy sexuality should be read by any evangelical pastor seeking to minister well to those in the church or community desiring to better understand their LGBTQ+ friends and relatives without abandoning biblical fidelity. He addresses the reality of loving without affirming. For those who do not believe their friends or church families are impacted by this reality of culture, it is time to wake up. Many pastors would rather just not address these issues. Some who have done so end up doing more harm than good, that is certain. For pastors seeking to ignore the very real questions being asked by those self-identifying as gender fluid or any one of the many letters being expressed by the common LGBTQ+ identifier (or their loved ones) the fact is clear - you cannot remain silent. Your silence speaks loudly.
Dr. Yuan's book is not only informational related to the biblical understanding of sexuality, but relatable, insightful, and practical. The included study guide provides real-life questions that can be addressed in small group studies. These all point to biblical answers and are firmly rooted in the gospel and a biblical worldview.
I agree with Rosaria Butterfield who stated in her review that this book is the "most important humanly composed book about biblical sexuality and godly living for our times."
I encourage every Christian with a loved one identifying as LGBTQ+ to read this book. I encourage every single adult Christian (heterosexual or same-sex attracted) to read this book to better understand the very real concept of holy singleness and holy sexuality. In addition to Dr. Yuan's clear and correct take on holy sexuality, his focus on the value and role of those whom God has called to singleness within the body of Christ is powerful and needed. He addresses head-on the idolatry that has overtaken some within the Christian church regarding the false elevation of marriage as essential for spiritual maturity.
There's more to unpack here, but for sake of space, I will end with "Read this book! It is needed and valuable."
November 1, 2022
My former FCA Director would always refer to his wife as a donut.. because in his words she was, “hot and holy”. This doesn’t really relate to the book, but I have ADD so you can understand.
Big fan. “Holy sexuality is about chastity in singleness and faithfulness in marriage.” The church would do well to read this.
Big fan. “Holy sexuality is about chastity in singleness and faithfulness in marriage.” The church would do well to read this.
December 10, 2018
One of the most divisive issues in my church in recent years has been the push to be inclusive and accepting of the LGBTQ lifestyle. We've lost many members, on both sides of the issue, because we've held to the belief that God says no to this. It's tough, when you truly love someone who is fighting this battle, to stand by, love them, and yet, call their desire sinful. Christopher Yuan, in Holy Sexuality and the Gospel, asks us to look at sexuality with a different slant.
As the book description says:"Dr. Christopher Yuan explores the concept of holy sexuality--chastity in singleness or faithfulness in marriage--in a practical and relevant manner, equipping readers with an accessible yet robust theology of sexuality. Whether you want to share Christ with a loved one who identifies as gay or you're wrestling with questions of identity yourself, this book will help you better understand sexuality in light of God's grand story and realize that holy sexuality is actually good news for all."
As a gay man himself, Yuan has concluded that the Gospel calls all of God's people to holy sexuality, not heterosexuality. While he agrees that homosexual relationships are sinful, he also points out that heterosexual relationships outside the bonds of marriage are also sinful, and there should be no distinction between the two. He states that "any sin (such as same-sex sexual practice) or any struggle with sin (such as same-sex desire) has only one root cause: original sin." He then goes on to point out that "All sinful temptations and behavior present us with a real struggle and fight."
Yuan writes with great grace for all sinners, whether their struggle is with gossip, or dishonesty, or sexuality. He speaks hope that, "When we're born again, the old has gone, and the new has come - we are a new creation. Our sexuality is no longer who we are, but how we are." That distinction is important throughout the book.
For churches struggling to minister to the world around them, Yuan's book will be an important reference. I can definitely recommend reading it. No matter what your viewpoint is, Yuan clearly, and firmly backed by Scripture, explains how he came to his conclusions.
As the book description says:"Dr. Christopher Yuan explores the concept of holy sexuality--chastity in singleness or faithfulness in marriage--in a practical and relevant manner, equipping readers with an accessible yet robust theology of sexuality. Whether you want to share Christ with a loved one who identifies as gay or you're wrestling with questions of identity yourself, this book will help you better understand sexuality in light of God's grand story and realize that holy sexuality is actually good news for all."
As a gay man himself, Yuan has concluded that the Gospel calls all of God's people to holy sexuality, not heterosexuality. While he agrees that homosexual relationships are sinful, he also points out that heterosexual relationships outside the bonds of marriage are also sinful, and there should be no distinction between the two. He states that "any sin (such as same-sex sexual practice) or any struggle with sin (such as same-sex desire) has only one root cause: original sin." He then goes on to point out that "All sinful temptations and behavior present us with a real struggle and fight."
Yuan writes with great grace for all sinners, whether their struggle is with gossip, or dishonesty, or sexuality. He speaks hope that, "When we're born again, the old has gone, and the new has come - we are a new creation. Our sexuality is no longer who we are, but how we are." That distinction is important throughout the book.
For churches struggling to minister to the world around them, Yuan's book will be an important reference. I can definitely recommend reading it. No matter what your viewpoint is, Yuan clearly, and firmly backed by Scripture, explains how he came to his conclusions.
November 28, 2018
Holy Sexuality and the Gospel by Christopher Yuan
This book addresses what the Bible has to say about sexuality and the Bible. Christopher doesn’t bash the reader over the head with his Bible, but provides a reasoned, well-thought out and Scriptural approach to the subject of all sexuality. Not all readers will agree with his stance, because as Rosario Butterfield says in the forward, “. . . the gospel is on a collision course with the idol of sexual freedom.” However, what he has to say as a same-sex attracted person and a Christian is crucial for the church to hear and act upon.
At the heart of his assertion is the fact that an individual’s identity is not found in his sexuality, but rather in Christ. As a Christ-follower, a person must live in a way that honors God and His word. He also calls for the church to minister to those who find themselves as singles because of choice or same-sex attraction.
For readers who are aware of the conflict this subject raises and the proponents on the other side of the issue from Christopher, he addresses some specific arguments against his stance. Although he does so boldly, this book is laced with compassion, calling all readers regardless of same-sex attractedness or opposite-sex attractedness, to a holiness that represents the gospel well.
This book was thought-provoking and required a careful reading, but was definitely worth the time it took to read. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher for my honest review.
This book addresses what the Bible has to say about sexuality and the Bible. Christopher doesn’t bash the reader over the head with his Bible, but provides a reasoned, well-thought out and Scriptural approach to the subject of all sexuality. Not all readers will agree with his stance, because as Rosario Butterfield says in the forward, “. . . the gospel is on a collision course with the idol of sexual freedom.” However, what he has to say as a same-sex attracted person and a Christian is crucial for the church to hear and act upon.
At the heart of his assertion is the fact that an individual’s identity is not found in his sexuality, but rather in Christ. As a Christ-follower, a person must live in a way that honors God and His word. He also calls for the church to minister to those who find themselves as singles because of choice or same-sex attraction.
For readers who are aware of the conflict this subject raises and the proponents on the other side of the issue from Christopher, he addresses some specific arguments against his stance. Although he does so boldly, this book is laced with compassion, calling all readers regardless of same-sex attractedness or opposite-sex attractedness, to a holiness that represents the gospel well.
This book was thought-provoking and required a careful reading, but was definitely worth the time it took to read. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher for my honest review.
November 29, 2018
One of the best books on sexuality that I've ever read. Christopher calls us to a higher standard when it comes to the subject of sexuality. He helps us to see that our identity should not be in whether we are gay, straight, married, single, or in anything else other than Jesus alone. If you haven't read Christopher's first book, Out of a Far Country, (a memoir), I highly recommend it, as well!
February 5, 2025
So much truth and such an amazing testimony
January 29, 2020
Great food for thought! I love how much scripture the author used & how heartfelt he seemed. The reasoning definitely made my head spin a couple of times, but overall it was a good, timely read. And most importantly, the truth was told in love.
December 23, 2024
Been chipping away at this one for a while. Yuan provided an excellent scriptural perspective to the conversation of same-sex relationships in the church, which I think we can always learn more about. He suggested that the issue here is more an issue of unbelief and misconstrued identity than one of sexual orientation, saying that our main concern should be converting people back into faith before we start to try to influence their sexuality. “Chastity in singleness, faithfulness in marriage” was his motto here, and he consistently emphasized that our sexual righteousness is something we all should take seriously, not just those who consider themselves to be homosexuals. Truly such an informative read that educated me on conversations to have and how to have them.
August 3, 2022
Excellent. Solid. Yuan's story and teaching is simple and profound. My take away here is that both marriage and singleness are seasons. That doesn't disparage either one, but gives perspective that we rarely hear.
October 2, 2022
I picked this book up lightly—but wow—I could not have imagined how God would use this book to bring a deeper understanding of the Gospel, to stir up affections for the Savior who is central to this Gospel, and to grow in compassion towards those who have not yet received this true Hope of the Gospel.
Yuan constantly circles back to this question: “How does ________ fit into God’s grand story—creation, fall, redemption, and consummation?” I love how this provides a practical means for us to consider how to conform to a biblical understanding of any topic—including sexuality.
Yuan builds a foundation and framework from which to consider sexuality, addressing that we try to explain our biblical worldview through the use of a secular one by using culturally coined terms. This can be problematic because these terms can lead to a false diagnosis and, in turn, a false solution. For example, homosexuality is not “the problem” to be “fixed” by heterosexuality. The problem (with every individual) is original sin and the only solution is Jesus Christ.
The use of this biblical framework through the use of the “God’s Grand Story” question brings clarity to how we should view sexuality. The greatest misconception addressed is that sexuality is not “who we are” but “how we are”. Our identity comes from God —we are image bearers and being male or female is an intrinsic aspect of who we are, not a social construct. Due to the Fall, we are all born into a completely sinful condition—this is not our original identity, but a distortion of how we were made to be. The only solution to this original sin is to be saved by it—we must repent and turn to Jesus, the one who gives better, fuller, more abundant life. Through Him we are justified, we are being sanctified, and one day we will be glorified! That is the hope and that is the assured promise given to all who believe.
As Yuan continues to address sexuality from different angles—he always comes back to Scripture and points back to how this fits in the meta-narrative of Scripture (God’s Grand Story). He addresses how to view marriage and singleness in light of this Truth. In holy sexuality we are either called to chastity in singleness or faithfulness in marriage. Whether single or married, there is community in God’s church—we are called to commit our lives to grow in this community together—through discipleship.
Throughout the book, Yuan addresses the heart and mentality we are called to have towards those who have same-sex attractions, whether they are lost or a brother/sister in Christ. He does well to address this through personal experience, and ultimately, through the lens of God’s Word. He also gives practical ways to be intentional in loving and coming alongside others in this. Let’s pray and fast (pgs 170-172 we’re incredibly challenging and convicting!). Let’s listen. Let’s be intentional. Let’s be patient and persistent. Let’s be transparent about how Christ has changed our lives (and how He is changing our lives). “We must show the beauty of the Gospel lived out in our daily lives and let that be the foundation from which we proclaim the good news to the lost.”
Overall, this book was not only helpful in developing a better biblical framework on sexuality, but it was helpful as a means to grow in Gospel centeredness by always coming back to “How does this fit in God’s Grand Story?” We must remember that all things (including sex, desire, and relationships) are shaped by God’s grand story and God’s grand story is shaped by Christ—which must mean that all of these are a means to conform to Jesus Christ and become more like Him. He is our Hope, our aim and our destination. *pg195
Yuan constantly circles back to this question: “How does ________ fit into God’s grand story—creation, fall, redemption, and consummation?” I love how this provides a practical means for us to consider how to conform to a biblical understanding of any topic—including sexuality.
Yuan builds a foundation and framework from which to consider sexuality, addressing that we try to explain our biblical worldview through the use of a secular one by using culturally coined terms. This can be problematic because these terms can lead to a false diagnosis and, in turn, a false solution. For example, homosexuality is not “the problem” to be “fixed” by heterosexuality. The problem (with every individual) is original sin and the only solution is Jesus Christ.
The use of this biblical framework through the use of the “God’s Grand Story” question brings clarity to how we should view sexuality. The greatest misconception addressed is that sexuality is not “who we are” but “how we are”. Our identity comes from God —we are image bearers and being male or female is an intrinsic aspect of who we are, not a social construct. Due to the Fall, we are all born into a completely sinful condition—this is not our original identity, but a distortion of how we were made to be. The only solution to this original sin is to be saved by it—we must repent and turn to Jesus, the one who gives better, fuller, more abundant life. Through Him we are justified, we are being sanctified, and one day we will be glorified! That is the hope and that is the assured promise given to all who believe.
As Yuan continues to address sexuality from different angles—he always comes back to Scripture and points back to how this fits in the meta-narrative of Scripture (God’s Grand Story). He addresses how to view marriage and singleness in light of this Truth. In holy sexuality we are either called to chastity in singleness or faithfulness in marriage. Whether single or married, there is community in God’s church—we are called to commit our lives to grow in this community together—through discipleship.
Throughout the book, Yuan addresses the heart and mentality we are called to have towards those who have same-sex attractions, whether they are lost or a brother/sister in Christ. He does well to address this through personal experience, and ultimately, through the lens of God’s Word. He also gives practical ways to be intentional in loving and coming alongside others in this. Let’s pray and fast (pgs 170-172 we’re incredibly challenging and convicting!). Let’s listen. Let’s be intentional. Let’s be patient and persistent. Let’s be transparent about how Christ has changed our lives (and how He is changing our lives). “We must show the beauty of the Gospel lived out in our daily lives and let that be the foundation from which we proclaim the good news to the lost.”
Overall, this book was not only helpful in developing a better biblical framework on sexuality, but it was helpful as a means to grow in Gospel centeredness by always coming back to “How does this fit in God’s Grand Story?” We must remember that all things (including sex, desire, and relationships) are shaped by God’s grand story and God’s grand story is shaped by Christ—which must mean that all of these are a means to conform to Jesus Christ and become more like Him. He is our Hope, our aim and our destination. *pg195
May 5, 2024
May be the best book I’ll read all year.
March 25, 2024
This book dissects the sin of homosexuality and outlines how those who experience same sex attraction and those who know of same sex attracted individuals can combat it…holiness. Yuan doesn’t stop at same sex attraction but also dives into the beauty of singleness and the completeness we have in Christ. He outlines what “holy sexuality” is and its application in our lives. He even steps into friendships and the intimacy that can be experienced as we model all relationships after Christ based solely on the desire to “be Holy as He is Holy.”
May 18, 2024
Dr. Yuan writes with clarity and compassion on this divisive topic, addressing not just LGBTQ+ relationships but sexuality in general from a Christian perspective. I had the privilege of hearing him speak in person at my university last fall, and appreciate his message as a conservative Christian who has questioned my sexuality in the past. Recommend to teens and up.
February 10, 2025
This was an unexpectedly fantastic read! I had not heard of this author prior to December of last year, but his perspective on these matters aligns with scripture. This book is beneficial for everyone as it deals with the topic of holy sexuality which applies to all. It's also very helpful for those who want to minister well to those who struggle with SSA or believing the lies of the culture.
July 5, 2025
This book is a great read for any believer that seeks to honor the Lord with their sexuality. Dr. Yuan covers heterosexuality, homosexuality, unwanted same sex attraction, singleness, eunuchs, and more. Such a great read that points to Jesus as the source of all satisfaction! In a world that shouts lies about sexuality, this book really teaches truth about the topic. Honest and open with no shame or apologies! Highly recommend!
December 30, 2025
Written to help those in homosexual relationships or those who have friends or family members in homosexual relationships. This book gives sound theology of God's intentions for sex. Though not the focus of the book, he also gives great insights into singleness and the church.
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February 15, 2023I will always be endlessly thankful to Dr. Yuan for the universalizing effect of his theology of sexuality. It’s changed my life a number of times.
Honestly, I’d like to say parts of this book were a bit too black and white, and maybe they were. Yet he’s been through it all and truly has an incredible faith that I look up to. So even though there’s a lot in here that I’d like to avoid or ignore, I’m thankful that he is an author willing to push me toward obedience.
Honestly, I’d like to say parts of this book were a bit too black and white, and maybe they were. Yet he’s been through it all and truly has an incredible faith that I look up to. So even though there’s a lot in here that I’d like to avoid or ignore, I’m thankful that he is an author willing to push me toward obedience.
February 12, 2019
The best book I've read on identity, gender, same-sex issues, singleness, and the grand scale of marriage within a Biblical framework.
This book is an important read for those desiring to minister to those hurting because of sexual sin in our society. It is also a helpful foundation for understanding one's own identity in Christ.
This book is an important read for those desiring to minister to those hurting because of sexual sin in our society. It is also a helpful foundation for understanding one's own identity in Christ.
April 20, 2020
This was an immensely satisfying read. In my opinion, it is the most important book for a Christian single to read; really, any Christian at all! The book's main message is simply this - we are first and foremost children of God; image bearers, called to a divine work by God, to glorify Him in whatever we do. The author meaningfully discusses original sin and its implications on sexuality (no, not just same-sex attractions either!) and leads the reader through how God is redeeming this fallen-ness through Christ and His teachings.
It was so refreshing reading a book so rich in theology, but so simple in teaching and empathy. It showed me that there is more in common between us as sinners - same-sex attracted, opposite-sex attracted singles, or married couples - than any of these "states". The encouragement is the same - whatever God has given you right now, be it singleness or marriage, is good. The call is simple and compelling - to yearn and learn how to be fully satisfied in Christ, because nothing else and no one else (not a spouse, not an intimate friendship) will ever do.
I would strongly recommend it for anyone who desires to be encouraged by God's careful creation, and thoughtfulness in restoring us to Him.
It was so refreshing reading a book so rich in theology, but so simple in teaching and empathy. It showed me that there is more in common between us as sinners - same-sex attracted, opposite-sex attracted singles, or married couples - than any of these "states". The encouragement is the same - whatever God has given you right now, be it singleness or marriage, is good. The call is simple and compelling - to yearn and learn how to be fully satisfied in Christ, because nothing else and no one else (not a spouse, not an intimate friendship) will ever do.
I would strongly recommend it for anyone who desires to be encouraged by God's careful creation, and thoughtfulness in restoring us to Him.
April 10, 2025
Yea good. I agreed with his judgement the vast vast vast majority of the time.
Quibbles:
- Any discussion of singleness and celibacy has to deal with the factors he deals with. I would weigh them a little differently than he does at times. But only very slightly. It's hard to strike the balance between Scripture's teaching about the goodness of marriage and of singleness without giving slight undue weight to one. I waver between them all the time. I'm currently in a phase where I think the church underemphasises marriage/children, but this is a judgement call fuelled by what I see with my limited perspective.
- There was a lot of theology that Yuan assumes that the reader may not share. Obviously, you can't explicitly state or argue for everything in a single volume. But some ideas were asserted without being proved. To be clear, I agreed with all these points, but thought there were occassions where it may have helped his case to explain/prove them.
Quibbles:
- Any discussion of singleness and celibacy has to deal with the factors he deals with. I would weigh them a little differently than he does at times. But only very slightly. It's hard to strike the balance between Scripture's teaching about the goodness of marriage and of singleness without giving slight undue weight to one. I waver between them all the time. I'm currently in a phase where I think the church underemphasises marriage/children, but this is a judgement call fuelled by what I see with my limited perspective.
- There was a lot of theology that Yuan assumes that the reader may not share. Obviously, you can't explicitly state or argue for everything in a single volume. But some ideas were asserted without being proved. To be clear, I agreed with all these points, but thought there were occassions where it may have helped his case to explain/prove them.
November 10, 2021
This was a fantastic read. Christopher Yuan presents a robust exploration of what it looks like for any individual person to honor God with his or her sexuality. Included here are many more topics than just “gay vs straight”. The concepts of marriage, faithfulness, singleness, and commitment to God’s truth are all explored here, often with a freshness and sincerity that was deeply motivating.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
January 2, 2025
Exceptionally well-written book about sexuality and the Gospel. Neither outright condemnation and rejection of people who struggle with various sexual sins nor outright affirmation and acceptance of all identities are rooted in the Gospel. We must find our hope, our security, and our identity in Christ and Christ alone and embrace the calling to be holy as He is holy.
December 2, 2022
Excellent book by Yuan, and I always love when the author reads their own book. As I was listening, I couldn't help but think that it would be a good book for older teens to read. It's important to have a good theology of sex and sexuality, especially in today's world.
May 27, 2020
The book gets a 3 instead of a 4, because while what was covered in the book was great, the significance of the family takes a hit, being passed over and under emphasized in light of the author targeting his own demographic.
February 28, 2021
This book looks specifically at having conversations with someone who is gay. But, this book is also extremely helpful for anyone who is single, dating, or married.
Dr. Yuan wonderfully explains how the church has done a poor job in ministering to, and walking alongside, those who have same sex attractions. On top of this, I found myself convicted at many of his writings on how we are to have a “holy sexuality”. The back of the book has an eight week study guide full of questions to dive deeper into this topic. Overall, I think anyone and everyone could benefit from reading this book.
Dr. Yuan wonderfully explains how the church has done a poor job in ministering to, and walking alongside, those who have same sex attractions. On top of this, I found myself convicted at many of his writings on how we are to have a “holy sexuality”. The back of the book has an eight week study guide full of questions to dive deeper into this topic. Overall, I think anyone and everyone could benefit from reading this book.
July 19, 2025
Excellent book about biblical sexuality that was well composed. Now just wishing I tried even harder to take his class while I was at Moody 🥲
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