Human Sexuality & the Teachings of Jesus - Part 4

On Sunday 16th March 2025, our Sunday service teaching was a panel discussion on sex and sexuality, hosted by Community Pastor Hannah Poole. She was joined by Senior Pastor Lesley Thompson, Youth Pastor Lara Sokunbi, and Connect Group Leader Josh Miller. Together, they explored how we can support young people and equip parents in today’s cultural landscape.

Want to run a Connect Group Session based on this teaching? The notes are here.

Helping Young People Navigate Sex and Sexuality: A Church Family Conversation

On Sunday, our church community gathered for a panel discussion on sex and sexuality, hosted by Community Pastor Hannah Poole. She was joined by Senior Pastor Lesley Thompson, Youth Pastor Lara Sokunbi, and Connect Group Leader Josh Miller. Together, they explored how we can support young people and equip parents in today’s cultural landscape.

Understanding the Cultural Landscape

We discussed the pressures young people face, from social media influences to explicit content being just a click away. Messages about sex and relationships often contrast with God’s vision, making open, honest conversations within the church crucial in guiding young people toward His design.

Testimonies and Biblical Perspective

Personal experiences were shared, highlighting struggles and transformation. The discussion reinforced the need for Christian community and discipleship. We also explored sexual consecration, emphasizing that we are made in God's image and called to honour Him in every area of life. Healthy boundaries were likened to a controlled fire—beneficial in its proper place but destructive when unchecked.

Equipping Parents for Conversations

Parents play a key role in discipling their children. Rather than a one-time talk, we encouraged ongoing discussions, asking thoughtful questions, and using everyday situations—like media content—to explore values. Practical advice included fostering non-parental Christian mentors and modeling healthy relationships.

Addressing Complex Questions

We also considered how to respond when young people wrestle with identity and sexuality, emphasizing love, truth, and walking alongside them in faith. Open dialogue, rather than avoidance or judgment, helps young people bring their struggles to Jesus and find clarity in His wisdom.

A Call to Continued Conversations

Rather than one-off discussions, we must cultivate an ongoing culture of openness and support. Jesus is good news in every area of life, including our sexuality. We encourage you to listen to the full panel discussion in full!