1. The Grounding Dynamics of Relational Values
The Intrinsic Ethic
The Grounding Dynamics of Relational Values

2. Sex in Today’s Culture Exploitation Recreation Initiation
Communication
Commitment
Communion

3. Sex as Exploitation Narcissistic focus.
Self gratification without concern for the other or the consequences.
Clue: I try to talk someone into having sex when she/he is hesitant..

4. Sex as Recreation Motivation is enjoyment.
Only moral issue is consent.
Clue: Sex is often the only time I “feel close” to another person.

5. Sex as Initiation Sex as “getting to know” someone.
We have sex before experience other forms of intimacy.
Clue: Sex is an early, expected encounter when I really like someone.

6. Sex as Communication
Sex is an important way of expressing love and care.
Two people who seem to be in love and expect the relationship to last.
Clue: 3 or more relationships that haven’t lasted, though I thought they were serious.

7. Sex as Commitment
Once we know we are in love, and have made a genuine commitment, making love is an important form of sharing.
Clue: We’ve been together long enough to know each other well, and are sure that we want to be together forever.

8. Sex as Communion
Sex as ‘holy ritual’ that expresses the profound soul connection we have in the context of our lifetime commitment.
Clue: We are lovers, best friends, and soul-mates who continue to explore and share deepening forms of intimacy.

9. Biblical Roots—Imago Dei
In the image of God they were created; male and female God created them…

10. Grounding Principles Interiority -- Radical Dignity
Relationality -- Communion
Creativity -- Life-Giving
Responsibility -- Stewardship

11. The minimalist ethical question
How far can we go?
The minimalist ethical question

12. How far can we go? Is our expression of affection truly mutual?
Is it honest? Does it tell the truth about the depth and quality of our relationship?
Can we take responsibility for the way in which our love is expressed?

13. An integral ethical approach
How far can we go?
An integral ethical approach

14. How far can we go? In our trust with each other?
In our ability to communicate?
In our vulnerability to each other?
In opening our relationship to generative service?
In deepening our covenantal fidelity?

15. Meaning of Sexual Intercourse
Mutual Self-Giving
Sacramental Embodiment of God’s Creative & Faithful Love
The ‘Symbolic Language’ of Truth.
Beyond Individualism to the Communal & Social Dimension of Loving.

16. Sexual Ethics in Process
The Changing Landscape of Human Intimacy

17. Ancient & Medieval World View
Anthroprocentric
Other Worldly
Static

18. Emerging World View Open & Expanding
Incarnational—Sacred as Immanent and Transcendent.
Cosmogenesis

19. Emerging Sexual Ethic Human Sexuality as gift and blessing.
Embodying the life-giving and loving energy of God in the universe.
Human relationships as en-fleshing respect, reverence, and responsibility.
Sexual encounters express values that are life-enhancing, mutual, covenantal, faithful, and joyful.