Living Out Podcast (Living Out)
Explore every episode of Living Out Podcast
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| 24 Feb 2022 | Is Same-sex Attraction Inherently Sinful? (Questions No One Wants To Answer #4) | 00:34:56 | |
Is the mere experience of same-sex attraction sinful, or is it morally neutral? When does temptation turn into sinful desire? Working out whether same-sex attraction is inherently sinful is important as we want to take sin seriously and repent of it on the one hand, whilst not feeling shame and guilt over something that isn't sinful. Join us as we explore this potentially divisive issue.
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| 10 Mar 2022 | Does Christian Teaching Cause LGBT Mental Health Problems? (Questions No One Wants To Answer #5) | 00:36:00 | |
Christians who hold to traditional teaching on biblical sexuality are sometimes accused of harming the mental health of LGBT people. In this episode the team explore whether biblical sexuality really does harm LGBT people, expose some of the assumptions and missteps behind that claim and look at how churches can be better at supporting everyone with mental health difficulties. Resources mentioned and related
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| 24 Mar 2022 | Why Am I Gay? (Questions No One Wants To Answer #6) | 00:31:03 | |
How helpful is it to ask the question "Why Am I Gay?" and what are some of the pitfalls in answering it? The team analyse various attempts to explain why some people are same-sex attracted and point to more helpful ways to think about the question in the light of a Christian perspective on God's sovereignty and our humanity. Resources mentioned and related
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| 21 Apr 2022 | Welcome and Dignity (How Biblically Inclusive is Your Church? #1) | 00:35:53 | |
We're starting a new series looking at how churches can be more biblically inclusive, working through our 10-point Living Out Church Audit. In this episode, we discuss the first two statements:
Resources mentioned and related | |||
| 05 May 2022 | Honesty and Equality (How Biblically Inclusive is Your Church? #2) | 00:33:15 | |
We're continuing our series looking at how churches can be more biblically inclusive, working through our 10-point Living Out Church Audit. In this episode, we discuss statements three and four:
Resources mentioned and related | |||
| 19 May 2022 | Sacrifice and Identity (How Biblically Inclusive is Your Church? #3) | 00:37:24 | |
We're continuing our series looking at how churches can be more biblically inclusive, working through our 10-point Living Out Church Audit. In this episode, we discuss statements five and six:
Resources mentioned and related
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| 07 Apr 2022 | Series 4: How Biblically Inclusive is Your Church? - Trailer | 00:01:12 | |
A trailer for the fourth series of the Living Out podcast where we'll be exploring how churches can become more biblically inclusive and support same-sex attracted Christians in their walk with God. | |||
| 02 Jun 2022 | Leadership and Safety (How Biblically Inclusive is Your Church? #4) | 00:32:28 | |
In the next instalment of our series looking at how churches can be more biblically inclusive, working through our 10-point Living Out Church Audit, we discuss statements seven and ten:
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| 16 Jun 2022 | Relationships and Community (How Biblically Inclusive is Your Church? #5) | 00:30:48 | |
In this series we're looking at how churches can be more biblically inclusive, working through our 10-point Living Out Church Audit. In this episode, we discuss statements eight and nine:
Resources mentioned and related
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| 07 Jul 2022 | Meet the Authors #14 - Greg Coles | 00:34:03 | |
We kick off a new Meet The Authors podcast series by interviewing Greg Coles. Greg is a writer, blogger, speaker and Senior Research Fellow at the Center For Faith, Sexuality and Gender. In the show he shares his experience of growing up gay and Christian, how he wrestled with biblical teaching and came to appreciate many of the blessings of singleness. We also discuss his books, how he went public about his sexuality, and how we can all experience intimacy and belonging.
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| 21 Jul 2022 | Meet the Authors #15 - Jennie Pollock | 00:33:38 | |
Today we're joined by writer, editor and speaker Jennie Pollock, author of the book If Only: Finding Contentment in the Face of Lack and Longing. We discuss how to face the reality of disappointments in life when it doesn't turn out as hoped. Jennie shares her thoughts on singleness and sexuality, how to critique the culture more effectively and how to find a real joy in following Jesus.
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| 30 Jun 2022 | Church Leader Interview (How Biblically Inclusive is Your Church? #6) | 00:32:23 | |
For the last show in this current series, we're joined by Tom Putt who is the vicar at St John the Baptist, Burford. Tom shares about what he learned at a Living Out course and how he's been navigating the sexuality conversation in his own church. We also talk about the points of the church audit that are most challenging for him and how he hopes to embed biblical inclusion at the heart of his church's life together. We have a dedicated Church Leaders area of the website where you can download the church audit to work through in your own context. You can also find out about Living Out courses in your area or get in touch with us to explore hosting one yourself. Resources mentioned and related | |||
| 01 Sep 2022 | Meet the Authors #18 - Ashleigh Hull | 00:29:41 | |
Ashleigh shares her story of being a Christian teenager with same-sex attraction. We discuss how she shared that with friends and family, the support she received and how she now supports young people in their own struggles with sexuality. We also talk about how following Jesus has shaped Ashleigh's identity and why she trusts God's pattern for sexuality in a world that increasingly rejects it. Resources mentioned
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| 04 Aug 2022 | Meet the Authors #16 - Jez Field | 00:31:52 | |
Church leader Jez Field shares why he found Glynn Harrison's book 'A Better Story' so helpful in understanding and critiquing our culture's take on sexuality. He also explains how he seeks to better understand our culture in order to be more effective in communicating faith, building relationship and making disciples. Resources mentioned
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| 15 Sep 2022 | Meet the Authors #19 - Stuart Parker | 00:32:16 | |
Stuart is the Director of True Freedom Trust (TfT), a ministry that supports same-sex attracted Christians. In this interview we talk with him about his work and the help that TfT offers. We also discuss Stuart's own story of becoming a Christian and experiencing same-sex attraction and find out what it is that enables him to press on with Jesus. Resources mentioned
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| 18 Aug 2022 | Meet the Authors #17 - Greg Johnson | 00:34:06 | |
In this fascinating interview with Greg, we learn more of his story of reconciling his faith and sexuality. We also talk about how Jesus releases us from shame. In the second half, we discuss Greg's book, Still time to Care, which explains the history of the ex-gay movement, how terminology has changed and how we can move from a paradigm of cure to a paradigm of care for sexual minorities. Resources mentioned
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| 29 Sep 2022 | Meet the Authors #20 - Jo Arkell | 00:32:52 | |
Jo and Anne talk about their friendship and how Jo has supported Anne with her same-sex attraction over the years, as well as how they've encouraged each other to press on with Jesus. Jo also talks about her experience of engaging with LGBT issues in the secular world, particularly at her boys' school. She also shares about how she talks to her children about sexuality. | |||
| 13 Oct 2022 | Meet the Authors #21 - Dan Reid | 00:28:29 | |
In this interview with Dan, he shares about how friends have supported him when he came out about his same-sex attraction. In the second half, he talks about how God brought him back from a period of sexual experimentation and freed him from shame and regret. Dan also gives helpful insight into his experience of singleness and how the church can support those of us who are unmarried.
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| 27 Oct 2022 | Meet the Authors #22 - Ed Shaw | 00:34:15 | |
Today we're chatting to Ed Shaw about his experiences of coming to terms with his sexuality as a young Christian and how, as an adult, he became more open about his same-sex attraction. We also find out how Living Out was born. In the second half we discuss why permanent, faithful, stable sexual same-sex relationships aren't God's best for us, but what we can learn about intimacy in friendship from the good in those relationships. Ed then shares about why he's found it helpful to read LGBT novels, poetry and non-fiction. Resources mentioned
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| 10 Nov 2022 | Meet the Authors #23 - Andrew Bunt | 00:27:48 | |
In this show we talk to Andrew Bunt about his new book, Finding Your Best Identity: A Short Christian Introduction to Identity, Sexuality and Gender. He shows how his own personal experience of wrestling with these questions has helped him understand what's at the heart of the struggle for identity. We discuss the ways that culture encourages us to form our sense of who we are and explore some practical ways that we can live out our true identity in Christ. | |||
| 24 Nov 2022 | Meet the Authors #24 - Julie Maxwell | 00:30:44 | |
Community paediatrician Julie Maxwell shares her experience of working with youth and navigating the transgender conversation. She gives some helpful advice, practical tips and resources for parents, youth leaders and others who are trying to support young people questionning their gender identity.
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| 08 Dec 2022 | Meet the Authors #25 - Andrew Wilson | 00:33:05 | |
Andrew talks about the relevance of 1 Corinthians to our contemporary culture and the importance of grounding sexual ethics in the bigger picture of marriage, the gospel and God's creation plan for human flourishing. We also discuss how to engage with people who disagree with us on sexual ethics and how to teach well on sexuality as a church leader, with the need for it to be rooted in honouring singleness and church as family. Resources mentioned and related
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| 22 Dec 2022 | Meet the Authors #26 - Stuart Ferguson | 00:31:46 | |
As a single, same-sex attracted man, Stuart shares how he finds his needs for intimacy are met in godly friendships and church community. We also talk about how we can honour God in celibacy and find it emotionally and spiritually satisfying, and we discover what everyone's favourite Christmas carols are. Resources mentioned and related
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| 15 Dec 2022 | Christmas Special 2022 | 00:46:19 | |
In our Christmas special, the team tell their best (or worst) cracker jokes, reveal their favourite Christmas presents and talk about desserts, Christmas traditions and favourite books, TV and films. We also discuss how we can overcome the difficulties of being single at Christmas and cope with sexual temptation and difficult family relationships. And we share the aspect of the Christmas message that gives us most encouragement in our faith. Plus there's a look back at 2022 in stats and a discussion of what we're most looking forward to in 2023. Resources mentioned
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| 19 Jan 2023 | Meet the Authors #28 - Andy Robinson | 00:31:57 | |
Andy shares the biblical hope and truth that keeps him going as a same-sex attracted Christian. He also talks about his experience as a single pastor and how that's uniquely equipped him to support others. In the second half of the show, we explore Andy's writing about exorcism. He explains that the response to Satan’s normal attacks on the believer isn’t exorcism. We need to be alert to spiritual attack whilst being careful that we don't demonise those whose particular battle is gay temptation. We also discuss his blog series on good pastoral support for same-sex attracted Christians and the value of listening and not making assumptions.
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| 05 Jan 2023 | Meet the Authors #27 - Anne Witton | 00:35:14 | |
Anne shares her story of growing up gay and coming to faith in Christ at university. She talks about what has been good and what has been hard about being a same-sex attracted Christian, and what it is about God that keeps her going. We discuss her writing about what it means to be a truly inclusive church, why it's important that straight allies listen to all LGBT voices and how we can fully support friends in the grief and pain of coming out of a gay relationship. Resources mentioned | |||
| 02 Feb 2023 | Quickfire Questions Bonus Episode | 00:30:29 | |
This bonus compilation episode features 13 guests from our second Meet The Authors series answering a series of five questions. They talk about what they'd say to their younger selves, recommend some resources, discuss what churches have done to help them, share what's been good about being same-sex attracted and / or single, and give some top tips for deepening healthy intimacy in friendship. Resources mentioned
You can read reviews of many of these resources on the Living Out website here. | |||
| 16 Feb 2023 | Misstep 1 - 'Your identity is your sexuality' (The Plausibility Problem #1) | 00:32:17 | |
In this series, the team and guests take a tour of Ed Shaw's book, The Plausibility Problem, looking at the misstep he identifies in each chapter. This first episode explores the question of whether our identity is our sexuality. We discuss what part sexuality plays in shaping our identity, how we can find an identity rooted in Christ and how we can balance the reality of our struggles with sin with our status as children of God. Resources mentioned and related
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| 30 Mar 2023 | Misstep 4 - 'If it makes you happy, it must be right' (The Plausibility Problem #4) | 00:30:42 | |
'If it makes you happy, it must be right' is a prevalent view in our culture. In this episode, the team critique this assumption. They share honestly some of the pain involved in following Jesus as same-sex attracted Christians and look at why following Jesus' example of costly obedience to God is truly life-giving. They also question whether we're actually good at determining what makes us happy and expose the ways that rejecting God's good design actually leads to greater unhappiness and unfulfillment. Resources mentioned and related
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| 13 Apr 2023 | Misstep 5 - 'Sex is where true intimacy is found' (The Plausibility Problem #5) | 00:35:29 | |
The team critique our cultural idolatry of sex and romance, which has also pervaded the church. We talk about why the assumption that sex is vital for human flourishing is so damaging and look at the impact it has on friendship, singleness and marriage. We see how the Bible challenges our cultural obsession with sex and explore how we can foster deep, non-sexual intimacy with God and others in Christian community. Resources mentioned and related
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| 16 Mar 2023 | Misstep 3 - 'If you're born gay, it can't be wrong to be gay' (The Plausibility Problem #3) | 00:34:10 | |
In this episode we discuss whether our sexualities are something we're born with or whether our childhood development and cultural influences play a part on shaping our desires. We also talk about some of the damage that can be done if we follow all our innate desires, and discuss the doctrine of original sin and what that means for us. And we point to the goodness of God in helping us understand what's best for us. Resources mentioned and related
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| 02 Mar 2023 | Misstep 2 - 'A family is Mum, Dad and 2.4 children' (The Plausibility Problem #2) | 00:35:42 | |
We continue our exploration of Ed Shaw's book, The Plausibility Problem by looking at what family really means for a Christian. We look at how Jesus defines family and why that's good news for single, celibate people. We also talk about practical steps we can take to live as family and share our lives with one another in a meaningful way. Resources mentioned and related
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| 27 Apr 2023 | Misstep 6 - 'Men and women are equal and interchangeable' (The Plausibility Problem #6) | 00:33:58 | |
In this episode we discuss how the Bible upholds the view that men and women have absolutely equal value and dignity, looking at how Jesus treated women and recognising the role that women played in his ministry and the growth of the early church. We also contrast Jesus' example of servant leadership with some of the power struggles in church and society today. We suggest how we can push back against gender stereotypes and promote body positivity to value the diverse experinces, interests and skills of both genders. We also discuss the genuine differences between women and men which mean that we aren't simply interchangeable, and look at how we can work in cooperation rather than competition with each other. Resources mentioned and related
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| 11 May 2023 | Misstep 7 - 'Godliness is heterosexuality' (The Plausibility Problem #7) | 00:33:09 | |
What is godliness and what does it look like for people who experience opposite-sex and same-sex attraction? That's the question we explore today. We also look at why the idea that godliness for a gay Christian means developing heterosexual desires is unhelpful and unbiblical. Resources mentioned and related
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| 25 May 2023 | Misstep 8 - 'Celibacy is bad for you' (The Plausibility Problem #8) | 00:33:17 | |
Today we unpick some of the cultural assumptions about sex being a need which underpin the idea that celibacy is bad for you. We discuss the problems with the view that sex is the only form of intimacy, sex is just about pleasure and sexual expression is core to our identity. We examine some faulty interpretations of significant Bible passages on sexual desire and show that the Holy Spirit enables us to live fulfilled lives as celebate people who enjoy God, his people and his creation. Resources mentioned and related
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| 08 Jun 2023 | Misstep 9 - 'Suffering is to be avoided' (The Plausibility Problem #9) | 00:33:32 | |
In the last of our current series – going through the missteps identified in The Plausibility Problem by Ed Shaw – we discuss whether suffering can and should be avoided. We share our own painful experiences and examine why some argue that the suffering of celibate same-sex attracted Christians is a reason to abandon traditional biblical teaching on sexual ethics. We go on to show that suffering is a normal part of following Jesus, whether you're gay or straight, single or married. We look at some of the reasons why God allows us to suffer and the joys and benefits that we receive precisely because we suffer. We also look at practical things that help us when we're struggling and ways that we can use our pain to love and serve others. Resources mentioned and related
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| 22 Jun 2023 | Understanding Youth Culture feat. Mike Snowdon (Youth Leaders' Crash Course #1) | 00:38:51 | |
The Emerging Generations team discuss the need to understand the culture that our young people are steeped in so that we can be more effective in communicating biblical truth about sexuality. We look at Jonathan Haidt's moral matrix to understand the values that shape our young peoples' moral decisions and see that they care about harm, fairness and freedom. We reflect on how we can listen well, find common ground and show how the Bible ultimately answers the questions that young people care about. Discussion questions
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| 06 Jul 2023 | Responding to Culture (Youth Leaders' Crash Course #2) | 00:30:44 | |
In this show, we critique some of the commonly held cultural views such as 'I'm inherently good and know what’s best for me'; 'I won't be happy unless I embrace and act on my desires'; 'Love equals complete acceptance'; 'If something’s not hurting anyone, it can’t be wrong' and 'Porn is an expression of normal sexuality'. We think about ther kernels of truth underlying some of these ideas whilst highlighting the damage they've often caused and pointing to biblical truth as a better narrative. Discussion questions
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| 20 Jul 2023 | Teaching the Bible (Youth Leaders' Crash Course #3) | 00:34:58 | |
In this show the team discuss how we can teach on biblical sexuality to our young people. We talk about the importance of painting the bigger picture of sexuality throughout Scripture and setting it in the context of God's heart for his people and the gospel which is good news for everyone. We discuss how to tackle the passages that specifically mention homosexuality and give some ideas of things to think about when teaching young people about sex. We also discuss lots of tricky questions that we've been asked and think about how to handle them in a clear, biblical and compassionate way. Discussion questions
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| 03 Aug 2023 | Pastoral Support: The Wider Community feat. Tim Alford (Youth Leaders' Crash Course #4) | 00:33:24 | |
We talk about how we as youth leaders can prepare ourselves and our churches to care for all young people, especially in the area of sexuality. We discusss the importance of modelling godly discipleship ourselves and creating an honest and safe culture for young people to share their struggles. We also look at how we can engage well with parents and church leaders, communicate sensitively and ensure that youth work is an integral part of the whole life of the church. This episode features a bonus interview with Tim Alford, National Director of Limitless, the youth and children’s movement of the Elim Pentecostal Churches. He is also youth leader at The Source Church in Malvern and a Youth Ministry Specialist Lecturer. Discussion questions
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| 17 Aug 2023 | Pastoral Support: Caring for Same-sex Attracted Teens (Youth Leaders' Crash Course #5) | 00:37:22 | |
In this show we discuss how to support young people who are experiencing same-sex attraction or questioning their sexuality. We look at how to understand the young person's experience and how to respond when they come out to you. In the second half of the episode we look at how we disciple and offer ongoing support to young people who are struggling with their sexuality. Discussion questions
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| 31 Aug 2023 | Thinking About Transgender feat. Dr. Julie Maxwell (Youth Leaders' Crash Course #6) | 00:39:49 | |
In this show we're looking at how to support young people who are struggling with their gender identity. We define the terms and share our own stories of gender confusion before discussing some of the reasons why increasing numbers of young people might be identifying as transgender. In the second half we get practical with advice about how to support young people experiencing distress about their gender, including how to respond with compassion, how to talk about identity and how to offer hope in suffering. This episode also features an interview with community paediatrician Dr. Julie Maxwell. Discussion questions
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| 28 Sep 2023 | LGBT+ Teenagers and Mental Health feat. Dr. Preston Sprinkle (Youth Leaders' Crash Course #7) | 00:38:38 | |
In the last episode of this series, Andrew and Ashleigh seek to understand the connection between LGBT+ and mental health and share some of their own experiences. They explore difficult issues like the social stress model, family rejection and insidences of suicide. There are plenty of practical tips on supporting young people who wrestle with mental ill health and they show how the Christian gospel both makes sense of suffering and offers hope in the midst of it. Discussion questions For the episode:
For the series:
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| 12 Oct 2023 | John 4 and Genesis 3 (Bible Encouragements #1) | 00:33:32 | |
Join Anne and Ed as they discuss some passages of Scripture that have really encouraged them. Ed's pick is John 4 and he explains why Jesus' encounter with the woman at the well helps him understand Jesus' heart for those who have sinned sexually and the beautiful way that he stewards his sexuality. Anne shares why Genesis 3 helps her make sense of life and God's purposes for sexuality and points forward to the hope of the gospel for all of us, whatever our areas of brokenness. Resources mentioned and related
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| 26 Oct 2023 | 2 Corinthians 12 and Revelation 5 (Bible Encouragements #2) | 00:29:52 | |
Ashleigh explains how Revelation 5 helps her keep an eternal perspective in times of change and makes sense of the longings in her heart. 2 Corinthians 12 is one of Andy's favourite passages and he shares how Paul's teaching about his thorn in the flesh is an encouragement to look to Jesus whose grace is sufficient for us. Resources mentioned and related
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| 09 Nov 2023 | Psalms 63 and 73 (Bible Encouragements #3) | 00:32:52 | |
Andrew and Anne each pick a Bible passage that has helped them persevere in living faithfully for Jesus. Anne explains why Psalm 63 has helped her identify and overcome idolatry in her friendships with women and encouraged her to hunger for God instead. Andrew's choice of Psalm 73 shows that God himself is the greatest gift to us and we don't need to envy those who have things – like same-sex relationships – that we think we want. Following Jesus never means missing out on good and ultimate satisfaction. Resources mentioned and related
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| 23 Nov 2023 | Romans 7 and Acts 8 (Bible Encouragements #4) | 00:28:40 | |
Adam explains how Romans 7 shows that God understands our experiences and the clash of desires in our hearts. He takes comfort from the fact that the Bible is very real about the struggles we all face but also offers freedom from condemnation for those who come to Christ. Ed has chosen Acts 8 as a passage as an example of a beautiful encounter between Jesus and someone who experienced the shame of not having children. He takes encouragement from the fact that Jesus – the one who was despised and rejected – meets us in our pain and offers us hope. Resources mentioned and related
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| 07 Dec 2023 | 10th Anniversary Special | 00:36:57 | |
Ed is joined by Living Out co-founders Sam Allberry and Sean Doherty to talk about the early years of the ministry and some highlights from its history. They share the story of how and why Living Out started and what their expectations were when it was launched ten years ago. In the second half of the show they share their personal highlights, discuss the impact Living Out has had and express their hopes for the future. Resources mentioned and related
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| 21 Dec 2023 | Hebrews 2 and 1 Corinthians 6 (Bible Encouragements #5) | 00:30:39 | |
Andy explains how Hebrews 2 speaks into his experience of suffering and temptation in the area of sexuality, by reminding him that Jesus has been tempted and is sympathetic when we're struggling.
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| 22 Jan 2024 | Farewell to Anne | 00:42:12 | |
In this special episode we say a sad farewell to our Content Director, Anne Witton. Anne shares her reasons for stepping down from front-line ministry at this time and talks honestly about some of the joys and struggles of her work with Living Out. The team discuss highlights of the last few years, share favourite resources and remember plenty of funny moments. Resources mentioned and related
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| 08 Feb 2024 | Featured Episode: Isn’t the Christian Sexual Ethic Harmful and Repressive? (Explore Questions #2) | 00:30:53 | |
While we work on our next series, we thought we'd take the opportunity to highlight a couple of episodes from the vault. In our second series, we took on some of the most common questions we get asked about faith and sexuality, including this one: isn't the Christian sexual ethic harmful and repressive? In the second half, we push back on the claim that the pattern for sexuality laid out in the Bible is harmful, and we share our own experiences of the Christian sexual ethic as life-giving. Oh, and you can step back in time and find out what we were all watching on TV! Resources mentioned
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| 22 Feb 2024 | Featured Episode: How Important Is All This? (Explore Questions #6) | 00:33:51 | |
Our new series is coming soon, and in the meantime we're highlighting a couple of episodes from the vault. In our second series, we took on some of the most common questions we get asked about faith and sexuality, including this one: how important is all this? Resources mentioned
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| 07 Mar 2024 | Starting the Conversation (Church Leaders #1) | 00:33:54 | |
In the first episode of this new series, we talk about why and how we should start the conversation on sexuality and gender in our churches. Andrew, Ashleigh and Ed share their experiences of what happens when you do (and don’t) discuss these topics in church, and why not being upfront on what we believe can be so unhelpful. The team also discuss how to engage well with our culture and our own church family as we prepare to have these conversations, making sure we’re clear on what we believe and the range of views and experiences we’ll encounter as we talk about sexuality and gender.
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| 29 Feb 2024 | Series 9: Church Leaders - Trailer | 00:01:12 | |
Ashleigh introduces our brand new podcast series - coming 7th March! | |||
| 21 Mar 2024 | Teaching on Sexuality (Church Leaders #2) | 00:32:58 | |
What cultural and biblical context do we need to bear in mind as we teach on sexuality and gender? How do we handle the Bible passages which directly address homosexuality? Ashleigh, Andy and Andrew discuss the need to approach these topics with both clarity and compassion, whether it’s best to do a one-off sermon or a whole series, and the importance of being aware of the people we’re speaking to and their experiences.
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| 04 Apr 2024 | Pastoral Care (Church Leaders #3) | 00:37:09 | |
In this episode we discuss how we can provide good pastoral care, both for those who are themselves same-sex attracted and wanting to follow Jesus, and for those who have gay family members and want to love them well. | |||
| 18 Apr 2024 | Handling Disagreement (Church Leaders #4) | 00:33:35 | |
What if there’s disagreement in our church on sexuality? Ashleigh, Ed and Andy discuss why this isn’t something we can just agree to disagree on, and some key principles to bear in mind as we work things out in light of that. The team then offer some practical wisdom on how to have these conversations within your church leadership team and as a whole church, including whether it’s helpful to hold events engaging with opposing views. Resources mentioned and related
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| 02 May 2024 | Church Membership and Discipline (Church Leaders #5) | 00:31:39 | |
How should we approach a conversation with a gay couple wanting to get baptised or get their child baptised? What should we bear in mind when considering who to invite to formal church membership or leadership positions? How can we be consistent and loving in disciplining people who are living unrepentantly in ways that are contrary to what the Bible teaches? Ashleigh, Ed and Andy discuss the issues of church membership and discipline particularly in relation to sexuality and relationships, but also more broadly for anyone who is part of a church. Resources mentioned and related
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| 16 May 2024 | The Next Generation (Church Leaders #6) | 00:32:53 | |
How as churches can we best engage and help the next generation on the issue of sexuality? It can be an intimidating topic to tackle, but Andy, Ashleigh and Andrew encourage us that young people need the gospel as much as anyone else, and that it speaks good news into their big questions and concerns on sexuality and gender. The team also offer some practical wisdom on how we as church families can all play our part in proclaiming and living out the good news, as we navigate an issue which presents big challenges but also big opportunities to connect the next generation with the gospel.
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| 30 May 2024 | Engaging With Society (Church Leaders #7) | 00:38:48 | |
How do we engage with a culture which holds such different views to us on sexuality and gender? It’s easy to feel hopeless or fearful as we engage in conversations with those around us on these sensitive issues, but in this episode Ed, Adam and Andrew help us to think about how we can do it well. In particular, what sort of mindset or attitude should you and your church family adopt as you approach these topics? How can you equip your church family to engage with and understand our culture? How can we communicate lovingly, and how do we respond to pushback or pressure to engage with things which seem to contradict our faith? Resources mentioned and related
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| 13 Jun 2024 | Legal Freedoms (Church Leaders #8) | 00:35:05 | |
What are your legal freedoms to speak on sexuality and gender at church and in the workplace? Andy and Andrew are joined by Danny Webster from the Evangelical Alliance to think through our legal freedoms when it comes to what we say and what we do on issues of sexuality and gender, both at church and in the secular workplace. The team discuss what the law says about all this, the implications for who we employ or admit as members in our churches, the need to be clear and consistent in what we say and do, and what the future might hold. Resources mentioned and related
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| 27 Jun 2024 | Series 10: Different Stories - Trailer | 00:00:53 | |
For our next podcast series, we're going back to our roots - hearing stories from same-sex attracted Christians about the goodness and faithfulness of God in their lives. We hope you'll join us and be encouraged! First episode coming 4th July. | |||
| 04 Jul 2024 | Simon: Reconciling Sexuality, Faith and Ministry (Different Stories #1) | 00:34:18 | |
Simon shares his story of coming to faith and coming to terms with his sexuality. We ask him about his experience of sharing with friends about his sexuality having kept it quiet for 10 years, and some of the benefits and challenges of being same-sex attracted in ministry. Simon also shares what he would tell his younger self now, and some reflections on how much our sexuality is part of our identity. Resources mentioned and related: | |||
| 18 Jul 2024 | Ryan: From Joyless to Joyful Obedience (Different Stories #2) | 00:26:24 | |
Ryan shares his story of coming out as a teenager, coming to faith at university, and the gradual, ongoing process of reconciling his faith and sexuality. He unpacks some of the key things God has taught him along the way, including why following Jesus means gaining so much more than you lose, and why living a single and celibate life isn't a waste of your sexuality. | |||
| 01 Aug 2024 | Katherine: The Power and Beauty of Stories (Different Stories #3) | 00:31:49 | |
Katherine shares her story of dating a girl as a teenager, and noticing how Jesus genuinely transformed the lives of Christians she knew. As she opened up the Bible for herself and got to know and love Jesus, Katherine tells us how she accepted the invitation to follow him in all areas of her life, including with her sexuality.
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| 15 Aug 2024 | Simon: Intimacy and Emotional Dependency (Different Stories #4) | 00:34:56 | |
We chat to Simon about how understanding God’s bigger purposes for his people has helped fuel his excitement for living God’s way when it comes to sexuality. Simon tells us how getting involved in True Freedom Trust helped him find a supportive community where he could be more open about his sexuality, having not come out to anyone until his early 20s. Simon also shares his experience of emotional dependency and what God has taught him about healthy relationships and intimacy. We talk about loneliness, singleness and forming friendships with deeper commitment. Resources mentioned and related
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| 29 Aug 2024 | Paul: Responding to Our Desires (Different Stories #5) | 00:28:55 | |
Paul tells us how he came to faith as a teenager, and how a combination of clear teaching and sharing with good friends has helped him navigate same-sex attraction and stay faithful to Jesus. Paul also shares how he unexpectedly fell in love with his now wife, and his advice for any same-sex attracted Christians considering an opposite-sex marriage. We also chat about how we respond to our desires. Is it harmful to deny ourselves things we desire? How do we know which desires are good to act on and which aren’t? What are the different lenses we might look at those questions through and how do they influence our approach?
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| 12 Sep 2024 | Laura: Good Friendship (Different Stories #6) | 00:32:04 | |
Looking for purpose and meaning at medical school, Laura spoke to a Christian friend who invited her to church. She decided to put her trust in Jesus, and it was only several years later she realised she was same-sex attracted. We chat with Laura about how she’s found trusting that God’s ways are good since then, and why good friendships are so important as she seeks to follow Jesus. She shares how her friendships have sometimes been complicated by attraction or emotional dependency, and some of the things God has taught her about friendship along the way. Resources mentioned and related
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| 26 Sep 2024 | David: Radical Celibacy (Different Stories #7) | 00:32:38 | |
As a gay teenager, David felt rejected by the Church and couldn’t see a plausible way for him to be a Christian. He became an activist set on destroying Christianity and opposing it at every turn. But his time at university found him looking for something deeper, eventually leading to an unlikely encounter with Jesus and the love of God.
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| 10 Oct 2024 | Robert: Real Love (Different Stories #8) | 00:34:06 | |
This episode contains discussion of childhood sexual abuse, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Sometimes God breaks into our lives in the most unlikely circumstances. Robert was sexually abused by a teacher at school, forced into becoming a Christian, and went on to marry a woman and lead a church – all while being same-sex attracted and not truly knowing Jesus. From there things fell apart, and Robert began living as an out gay man. Only later would he come to know the love of God for the first time, and give his life to Christ. Resources mentioned and related If you’re affected by any of the issues raised in this episode, please reach out to someone you trust. In the UK, you can also contact Samaritans for support – call 116 123 free, 24 hours a day. Samaritans also provide a full list of organisations you can contact for advice on a range of issues, including abuse and mental health. You can find that here. | |||
| 24 Oct 2024 | Nat and Matt: Mixed-Orientation Marriage (Different Stories #9) | 00:33:15 | |
As a teenager, Nat was fascinated by God and got confirmed. But when she came out as a lesbian at 16, she was met with rejection from her peers and a Christian school teacher. At university, she joined the LGBT society and remained angry at God and at Christians for the way she’d been treated. But then she met Matt when she started working, and his reaction to her story was different. They tell the story of how they met, how Nat gave her life to Jesus, how they started dating, and share some of the benefits and challenges of their mixed-orientation marriage. Resources mentioned and related This episode contains a reference to self-harm. | |||
| 07 Nov 2024 | What & Why? (Kaleidoscope Specials #1) | 00:35:14 | |
What is Kaleidoscope? Why have we made it? Andrew and Ashleigh, our Emerging Generations team, share their hopes for the series, and catch up with two of the people who contributed to it. Katherine tells us what conversations about sexuality were like for her growing up, and why she’s excited for Kaleidoscope giving space for more open conversations in churches. And Ben shares his thoughts on how we can have those conversations well, with some particular tips for youth leaders. | |||
| 21 Nov 2024 | Hearing from Parents (Kaleidoscope Specials #2) | 00:29:31 | |
We speak to two parents, Jo and Claire, about the world their children are growing up in and their experience of talking to them about sexuality, gender and faith. They share how their churches have tackled these issues so far, and why they’re excited about Kaleidoscope. We also hear from Sean – a parent, church leader, and someone who experiences same-sex attraction – about the difference Kaleidoscope would have made for him as a teenager and how he hopes it will help start good conversations on these big topics. | |||
| 05 Dec 2024 | Youth Pilot & Church Leaders (Kaleidoscope Specials #3) | 00:30:19 | |
James, a youth leader and Kaleidoscope contributor, shares his experience of trying out the series with some of his youth group, including what they particularly enjoyed about the series. We also hear from Eleanor, who tells her story in episode 3 of Kaleidoscope, about some of the blessings of singleness, her reflections on how the Church has handled the wider issue of sexuality, and why she as a church leader is excited about Kaleidoscope. Finally, Adam tells us about his experience of faith and sexuality as a teenager, what’s changed in our culture and in the Church for young people growing up today, and what stands out to him about Kaleidoscope.
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| 19 Dec 2024 | Christmas Special 2024! | 00:27:19 | |
Who’s the Tiny Tim of the Living Out staff team? And the Scrooge? How can we keep going as single people over Christmas and New Year, and look out for the single people around us? All this and more in our (slightly chaotic) podcast Christmas Special! Resources mentioned and related
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| 23 Jan 2025 | Series 11 Trailer: Friendship | 00:00:56 | |
Friendship. We all need it, and it's especially valuable in making the single life plausible. But how do we do it well? How can we foster healthy intimacy in friendship? What example does Jesus give us? All this and more to come in our new podcast series - stay tuned! | |||
| 30 Jan 2025 | Designed for Friendship (Friendship #1) | 00:34:16 | |
How can we be friends with God? What does that actually look like in daily life? Does being friends with God mean we don't need human friends?
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| 13 Feb 2025 | Friendship and Jesus (Friendship #2) | 00:31:55 | |
How does being friends with Jesus change the way we do friendship, with Christians and non-Christians? What are the most encouraging and challenging things about the friendship Jesus offers us? And how do we practically go about addressing the friendship deficit in our own lives, while having realistic expectations of ourselves and our friends? We’re joined by Vaughan Roberts for a challenging, encouraging and liberating conversation about the joys and limits of human friendship, and how knowing Jesus as our friend transforms our view of and approach to friendships. Vaughan is the rector of St Ebbe’s church in Oxford and author of True Friendship. Resources mentioned and related
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| 27 Feb 2025 | Friendship and Intimacy (Friendship #3) | 00:33:53 | |
Isn’t intimacy all about sex? How and why should we pursue intimacy in our friendships? We’re joined by Katherine (Kaleidoscope contributor and part of the Being Human team at the Evangelical Alliance) for a conversation about different kinds of intimacy, how we can practically cultivate deeper and more intimate friendships, and how to navigate some of the risks inherent to pursuing intimacy in friendships. Resources mentioned and related
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| 13 Mar 2025 | Talking with Friends (Friendship #4) | 00:32:29 | |
So far in this series we’ve talked about why we need friendships and the difference Jesus makes to them, but what does that look like in reality? Adam and Ashleigh each sit down with a friend to talk about how their friendship has brought them closer to God and taught them more about him, and share their reflections on what has helped their friendships to thrive. Why not share this episode with a friend and let them know how much you appreciate them? Resources mentioned and related
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| 07 Jan 2021 | Meet the Authors #1 - Andrew Bunt | 00:35:02 | |
For this episode, we’re chatting to Andrew Bunt. Andrew is part of the leadership team at King’s Church Hastings and Bexhill and is also a speaker and writer with Living Out. In this interview we explore his story as he sought to reconcile his faith and his sexuality. He covers coming out, forming views on what the Bible says about homosexuality, wrestling with the implications of biblical teaching, issues of identity and emotional dependency and advice on how we can do better to nuture godly intimacy. Resources mentioned
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| 28 Jan 2021 | Meet the Authors #2 - Adam Curtis | 00:28:51 | |
In this episode, we have a fascinating conversation with Adam Curtis. Adam is a Curate in Sidcup and oversees evangelism at his church. In this interview Adam gives an honest, warm and hopeful account of how he came to terms with his same-sex attraction and applied the truths of the gospel to his sexuality. We also discuss his research on Queer Theology and the sexuality of Jesus. Resources mentioned
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| 04 Feb 2021 | Meet the Authors #3 - Dani Treweek | 00:31:30 | |
In this episode, we’re talking to Dani Treweek who is the chair of singlemindedconference.com and has recently completed PhD research into a theological ethic of singleness. Dani explains about her research into singleness in the church and unpacks some of the issues that we all need to think about in order to value and include single people in church life. She talks about how we can learn from historical Christian thinking that challenges our contemporary cultural blind spots and leads us into a richer understanding of God’s design for singleness, marriage and our sexualities. Resources mentioned · On ‘Old Books’ and the Single Christian Life Dani Treweek · 7 Myths about Singleness Sam Allberry · Breaking the Marriage Idol: Reconstructing Our Cultural and Spiritual Norms Kutter Callaway | |||
| 25 Feb 2021 | Meet the Authors #4 - Sam Allberry | 00:32:37 | |
In this episode, we’re talking to Sam Allberry who works as a pastor and an apologist, and was part of the team that founded Living Out. Here Sam talks to us about how the church is supporting same-sex attracted Christians, which bits of the Bible he focuses on when he teaches about sexuality and why it is a gospel issue. We also chat about his recent books about singleness and sexual ethics and explore themes of consent, Christian community and the purpose of marriage. Resources mentioned
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| 11 Mar 2021 | Meet the Authors #5 - Vaughan Roberts | 00:31:54 | |
In this episode, we’re talking to Vaughan Roberts. Vaughan is a pastor at St Ebbe’s Church Oxford, where he has been for 30 years. Here he shares his experiences of coming out as same-sex attracted and what he’s learned about sharing personal experiences with others. He explores whether it’s wise for all same-sex attracted Christians to come out, and some things to think about when we do share with others. We also discuss friendship and what Song of Songs can teach us about intimacy with Christ. Resources mentioned
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| 25 Mar 2021 | Meet the Authors #6 - Jeanette Howard | 00:29:38 | |
This week we're chatting with Jeanette Howard - author, speaker, gardener and pet-sitter. We explore her story of growing up with gender confusion, developing same-sex attraction and coming to faith in the 1980s through her then-girlfriend. She explains how she left a gay lifestyle behind and shares what has helped her to grow in her love of Jesus. She also challenges the church to support others like her by being real family to one another. We also talk about her latest writing project - Betrothed: Wooed By a Greater Love. Resources mentioned
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| 08 Apr 2021 | Meet the Authors #7 - Sean Doherty | 00:33:32 | |
This week we're chatting with Sean Doherty who works in theological education and teaches Christian Ethics. He realised he was gay/same-sex attracted in his late teens but to his surprise he ended up married to Gaby, who is currently a curate. Sean talks about his experiences of marriage as someone who is same-sex attracted, and explores more generally what godly sexual attraction looks like. We also discuss how the church can respond in a helpful way when a gay couple become Christians and we talk about what healthy committed friendship looks like. Resources mentioned | |||
| 19 Apr 2021 | Meet the Authors #8 - Kate Wharton | 00:33:36 | |
Today we have vicar and New Wine leader Kate Wharton on the show talking about why she felt called by God to make a public committment to singleness. We explore how churches can make single people feel more welcome and included at all levels of church life. Kate also gives us some wonderful wisdom about developing good friendships. Resources mentioned
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| 06 May 2021 | Meet the Authors #9 - Peter Ould | 00:31:33 | |
On this show we interview consultant statistician and ordained Church of England priest Peter Ould. Peter shares his rich theological journey into what it means to be human and what it means to be male, as well as what his biblical research has uncovered about the meaning behind God’s proscriptions for sexual behaviour. We look at how Peter sees a deliberate refusal to enter a same sex sexual relationship as an act of worship. We also discuss human identity, idolatry of relationships, ways of describing sexual orientation and research into the fluidity of sexuality. Resources mentioned
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| 20 May 2021 | Meet the Authors #10 - Rob Wood | 00:31:28 | |
In this episode we're talking with Rob Wood, an ordinand in the Church of England and formerly head of True Freedom Trust's teaching ministry. He is also co-author of the book Satisfaction Guaranteed. Rob shares why he gave up a gay lifestyle to follow Jesus wholeheartedly and and explains what he finds compelling about the Christian narrative. His conviction is that biblical teaching on sexuality is good news for everyone and only God can bring lasting freedom from shame. Resources mentioned
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| 03 Jun 2021 | Meet the Authors #11 - Andrew Goddard | 00:30:33 | |
Church leader and Christian Ethics tutor Andrew Goddard has a vast amount of experience having dialogue on issues of sexuality in the church. He shares the fascinating story of that engagement over the last couple of decades, the resources he's found particularly helpful, and some advice about how to have honouring and helpful discussions with those who have a different viewpoint from us. Resources mentioned
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| 17 Jun 2021 | Meet the Authors #12 - Preston Sprinkle | 00:32:46 | |
International author and speaker Preston Sprinkle joins us in this show to talk about his work in the area of transgender. We discuss the work of the Center for Faith, Sexuality and Gender, which he heads up, and his latest book, Embodied, which is an accessible guide to the transgender conversation. He also explains intersex conditions and we unpack sex binaries and gender stereotypes. Resources mentioned
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| 01 Jul 2021 | Meet the Authors #13 - Rachel Gilson | 00:32:52 | |
On this show we're interviewing Rachel Gilson, a leader at Cru and PhD at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. She came to faith from an intellectual, non-Christian, lesbian background and is now married to a man. We talk about her story, why she's convinced that the Bible's teaching isn't arbitary when it comes to who we can sleep with, and the fact that we can follow God's rules because we can trust God's good character. We also talk about the purpose of marriage, what it's like to be in a 'mixed-orientation' marriage, and its opportunity to reveal the good news of the gospel to the world. Resources mentioned
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| 15 Jul 2021 | 13 Guests, 5 Questions - Bonus Episode | 00:34:00 | |
We've finished our first Meet The Authors series, but this episode features thirteen guests giving their answers to five quickfire questions. We'll hear what advice our guests would give to their younger selves, what resources they recommend, how churches have been particularly helpful, what's been good about being same-sex attracted or being single, and top tips for deepening healthy intimacy in friendship.
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| 29 Jul 2021 | Series 2: Exploring the top questions - Trailer | 00:01:07 | |
A trailer for the second series of the Living Out podcast where we'll be exploring the top questions on faith and sexuality. | |||
| 02 Sep 2021 | What Does God Really Say About Sexuality? (Explore Questions #1) | 00:31:54 | |
Join Ed, Andrew and Anne as they share how they discovered God's purposes for sexuality. We explore why we can trust what the Bible says on sex, what Jesus had to say and how to understand the specific mentions of homosexuality within the broader context of biblical teaching on sexuality. And prawns get a mention too. Resources mentioned
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| 16 Sep 2021 | Isn’t the Christian Sexual Ethic Harmful and Repressive? (Explore Questions #2) | 00:30:53 | |
In the first half of the show we explore ways in which Christians / churches have sadly harmed people in the areas of sex and sexuality. We talk about how silence has made it hard for people to feel safe and understood; how churches have sometimes created cultures of shame; and we discuss the damaging legacy of conversion therapy. In the second half, we push back on the claim that the pattern for sexuality laid out in the Bible is harmful, and we share our own experiences of the Christian sexual ethic as life-giving. Oh, and you can find out what we've all been enjoying on TV recently. Resources mentioned
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| 30 Sep 2021 | Christian + Same-Sex Attracted: Is It Doable? (Explore Questions #3) | 00:35:01 | |
Andrew, Andy and Anne dive into the practicalities of living as same-sex attracted Christians seeking to be faithful to biblical teaching on sexuality. Each shares the difficulties, what has helped and the surprising blessings that have come from experiening this particular struggle. We also look at how the church can help make discipleship for same-sex attracted Christians more doable with plenty of encouragement and signposts to further resources. We also find out why Andy's job makes Andrew feel hungry. Resources mentioned | |||
| 14 Oct 2021 | Isn’t God Being Unfair? (Explore Questions #4) | 00:31:52 | |
Today we're discussing whether God is unfair when he says that sex should only be within a marriage between one man and one woman. Ed, Andy and Anne recount their personal experiences of wrestling with this question and share some favourite biblical encouragements. We talk about the good things about being single, the importance of trusting in the character of our good Father and not making sexuality the biggest thing in our lives. We'll also find out what Ed likes to read on a beach holiday. Resources mentioned and related
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| 11 Nov 2021 | How Important Is All This? (Explore Questions #6) | 00:33:51 | |
In today's show, Anne, Ed and Andy discuss whether sexuality is really a big deal. Why are Christians obsessed with sex when there seem to be so many other pressing issues? Do Christians need to fall out over sexual ethics or is it something we can just agree to disagree on? How can we respond when churches and denominations change their stance? Resources mentioned
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