Chastity Vs. Homosexuality And Pre-Marital Sex Essay, Research Paper
Homosexuality is an extremely controversial subject, not just within the Church, but also within all of society. The Church states that homosexuality is only wrong when individuals act upon it. Since sex is only for procreation, and two people of the same sex cannot procreate, then for them to have sexual relations would be sinful. In today’s media, homosexuality as well as “free sex” are both highly glorified. Many morals have been lost, but we, not only as Christians but also as moral individuals must recognize the perverse and twisted effects this has on our attitudes towards sex. We now see sex to be for enjoyment only, and procreation is often just a hassle that comes along with sex. This is an inappropriate approach to sex and has brought many repercussions such as abortions or sexually transmitted diseases. Pre-marital sex is also considered a sin because it’s purpose is not procreation. A Christian and moral alternative to both homosexuality and pre-marital sex is chastity.
The Church does not believe that homosexuality is inborn. However, a person does not become a homosexual because he wants to be one. By the time an individual discovers his homosexual tendencies, it is too late to do more than learn to control them. According to the Church, homosexual acts are wrong. They are unnatural and do not serve the purpose of procreation. “Do not lie with a man as one lies with a woman; that is detestable.” Although the homosexual act is a sin, homosexuals themselves are not automatically sinners for having these abnormal sexual feelings. They should not be condemned by society for this condition. “Although the particular inclination of the homosexual person is not a sin, it is more or less strong tendency ordered toward an intrinsic moral evil; and thus the inclination itself must be seen as an objective disorder.” We should understand that homosexuality is morally wrong, but such individuals should not be held morally responsible, unless they act upon their sexual desires. It is not sinful if homosexuals share their love, as long as they do not have sex. Sex is always sinful if it is not for procreation. With rare exceptions, homosexuality is neither inherited nor the result of a disturbance within the chromosomes or DNA. Homosexuals are made, not born that way. Buried under the ‘gay’ exterior of the homosexual is the hurt and rage that crippled his or her capacity for true maturation, for healthy growth and love. Homosexuality is a condition like any other and could probably be over come with the appropriate therapy. Unless homosexuals can change and learn to live in a normal heterosexual marriage, then chastity is the only goal. However you disagree with homosexuality or their lifestyles, it is wrong to condemn them in any way, shape or form.
“It is deplorable that homosexual persons have been and are the object of violent malice in speech or in action. Such treatment deserves condemnation from the church’s pastors wherever it occurs. It reveals a kind of disregard for others which endangers the most fundamental principles of a healthy society. The intrinsic dignity of each person must always be respected in word, in action and in law.” We must understand that although acting out on homosexual desires is sinful, homosexuals themselves are not “evil” or sinners. We should recognize that the church does not condone homosexual acts and therefore they should strive to be chaste. Two people of the same sex can never procreate, so it would be sinful for them to participate in sex.
Pre-marital sex is a big issue among teenagers today. Because of the media and peer pressure, sex is portrayed to us as something that “everyone is doing”. The idea of sex purely for procreation between two individuals in a loving marriage has been lost. But the fact of the matter is that not “everyone” is doing it. For teenagers, chastity is a much better way. Not only is it morally correct, it also takes away a lot of the problems that come along with sex, such as pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, or the possibly more serious emotional repercussions. “Millions have died from pre-marital sex, but no one has ever died from chastity.” Teens should be better educated about sex. If given all the correct information, they are much more likely to make the practical and moral choice, being chastity. Education however, is key, since we are constantly being bombarded by the media telling us to have sex. Everything around us these days seems to be about sex. Everytime we turn on the television, go to the movies, listen to music, it is everywhere and we cannot hide from it. So instead, we should learn that just because these are the options being offered to us, it doesn t mean that they are the correct or moral ones. ” every genital act must be within the framework of marriage.” Pre-marital sex is a sinful and often foolish act. As teenagers, we should all practice chastity and recognize that sex is a sacred union between two married persons. Not just some commercialized perverse form of pleasure.
Chastity is the best and most moral way to act upon sex. Whether you are a homosexual, or an un-married person, the purpose of sex should always be to procreate, and not just for pleasure. “Sex gets in the way of loving one another and sex gets in the way of long God when it is pursued outside of marriage.” This is a moral absolute that we should carry with us throughout our lives. Especially for teenagers, who are so often unfairly pressured about sex. Illegitimate sex leads to many problems. Young teen mothers are often “forced” into having abortions because they cannot take care of a child at such a young age. If we practiced chastity, teenagers wouldn’t be getting pregnant. “Chastity doesn’t harm us. Chastity is a virtue that regulates human love. Chastity is purity of mind, body, and soul.” This also applies to homosexuals. They can practice chastity, and at the same time still have a loving relationship with a partner of the same sex. Everybody wins with chastity. If you were chaste before you were married, it is also more likely for your marriage to last, preventing divorce. Being chaste gives you time to develop emotional relationships first, instead of the other way around. Often what happens is after the physical, couples break up because they feel that the goal of the relationship has already been reached. “One main reason for divorce is lack of emotional intimacy. ‘You have to develop intimacy in all areas – including emotional, physical, intellectual, even musical – to have a happy marriage.’ ” Chastity is an alternative that we all as Christians should consider. By being chaste, we are taking control of our lives, and taking a moral and practical stand.
Our world has become a commercial place, where morals, values, and religion are put aside for the bigger, richer, and more glamorous modern society. Homosexuality and sex are romanticized and embraced but all in the wrong ways. We as Christians should remember that sex is a sacred union between a loving, married couple. God gave us the gift of sex so that our species could carry on and flourish. Let us not distort this beautiful gift. Respect it, and cherish it, by being chaste.