Birds and Bees: A Conversation about God, Sex and Sexuality
Took a look this weekend at Birds and Bees: A Conversation about God, Sex and Sexuality, a new study from Threads (LifeWay’s young adult line of curriculum). The study was written by Gregg Matte, senior pastor of Houston’s First Baptist Church and founder of Breakaway Ministries at Texas A&M University, one of the largest weekly college Bible studies in the nation.
Based on 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8, Birds and Bees unpacks this important passage and develops a biblical perspective on sex and sexuality. While the cover proclaims, “Whether your single, in a serious relationship, or married, this study was written for you,” I think that the key to making this study a great choice for many groups will be a commitment to follow what the study refers to as “non-negotiable ground rules” (explained in the first video) and basic sensitivity.
The study covers a fairly extensive set of topics in its six sessions.
- God’s will and purpose for sex and sexuality
- Understanding God’s intended design for sex and sexuality
- How sexual desire turns into lust–and what to do about it
- Exploring the complications and effects of homosexuality and same-sex attractions
- Overcoming sexual wounds
- Practical and biblical ways to live as God intended
Although there is a DVD, it’s really not what I would call a DVD-driven series. Rather than featuring a teaching component, the purpose of the DVD is to provide a variety of media and enhance the experience of the group.
Like most of the Threads studies I’ve reviewed, Birds and Bees was developed to be a challenging experience. Although not a homework-driven study, there is plenty to wrestle with in every session. With 12 to 18 pages of reading and questions that drive conversation, it will take some commitment and discipline to make it through the content in less than 90 minutes.
An excellent leader’s resource section is included on the DVD, making it easy for the group leader to prepare for the session ahead. The primary challenge will be determining how much of the available leader notes and background information to incorporate.
If you’re looking for a study that tackles the sensitive subject of sex and sexuality, I think you’re going to want to take a look at Birds and Bees. A challenging study, this is one that belongs on your recommended list.
