Sex = Salvation?

Sex = Salvation?? (yes, I'll keep it PG "ish")

So, our society has some hang ups that cross realms that don't normally get joined in one conversation. But, as I began to think about a dangerous question my friend Josh posed to me, I began to see how our society (and myself sometimes) views lead to sex and salvation being strange bed partners (excuse the pun- well, okay, if you liked it, laugh- I won't tell).

The Question: What is salvation, is it just getting into heaven? Like an exclusive country club (what the church in general is described as sometimes...)? You're either in or out? That's the view many people, Christians and non-Christians alike, seem to believe is the crux of Christianity. I wonder if there's not something larger in this idea of salvation than just this limited definition? Rather than try and convince anyone that I'm right over someone else, I'm just going to pose some unfinished thoughts that may help me (if no one else) think through this underthought thought. (huh?)

Sex. It's the selling point of 75% of advertisements (my made up statistic from personal viewing of four channels on my rabbit ears- no cable for the cheap). It's the climax (again sorry for the pun - Who am I kidding, this is too much fun) of most romantic movies and many other genres also. It's what guys talk about when they're together, and what is seen as the ultimate seal on a relationship (marriage or otherwise).

Obviously, sex is a big part of a romantic relationship, whether in wish, desire, or deed. But, is it the main thing as so many times it is looked upon (by me included)? Probably not. Many times, we are just looking for intimacy, to feel loved, or to feel normal. Sex is a part of a healthy relationship in the right context (I would define this as inside marriage, but for the sake of our discussion, people with different views keep reading), but there are more important parts of a relationship and ones that last longer, are harder, and more satisfying at times (yes, I know what I just wrote... I said I would keep it PG ish). Things like talking with your significant other about their tough day, supporting them through it, praying with them, doing the mundane tasks like the dishes (thanks honey), and on and on- I probably left out many of the best ones, but you get the picture. Sex is but one joyous part of a relationship, not the whole thing, though we sometimes reduce a wonderful, glorious, relationship to one act.

How does this relate to Salvation? The definition I laid out above for salvation makes me wonder if it's not somehow reducing life (even after death) to something too simplistic. Is that a bad thing that it's simplistic? It's like looking at one piece of a 1000 piece puzzle and framing it, showing it off, and exclaiming it's the best thing ever. How much better would that one piece look when placed amongst the rest of the puzzle? Would life look any different if salvation wasn't just about getting into heaven but also about real life right now? Would heaven look any different?

I by no means have the complete answer, but will continue to ask questions as I seek to look at the whole picture maybe from a Heavenly perspective than an earthly one. Will that mean sex or salvation become less important to me? HECK NO!!! But maybe, I can place them in their proper perspective and have a more full experience with life.

Please give me your feedback. I'd love to see where you land on this fun topic.

Ideas to be discussed after S&S (sex & salvation): How Dance Class is challenging me to be a better person...