Week 8: Unlocking Passion

Discussion Questions

1. In Chapter 11 of the book, the authors discuss a variety of teachings that break this basic rule: just be nice to each other. Why do you think advice that, frankly, nice people wouldn’t act out was so readily accepted in these books (e.g., demanding sexual favours from a postpartum wife)?
2. The authors posit that a cross-centered view of sex, rather than only focusing on being unashamed, is a more biblical and Christlike view for marriage. What do you think the difference is between the two? What are some examples of spouses who really got this right?
3. In the passion chapter, the authors discuss the concept in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe: “He is not a tame lion.” Have you been seeing God as a tame lion? Do you feel comfortable “letting go” and experiencing the wildness of passion?
4. Passion is not found while ignoring imperfections, but in embracing the whole person. This can be hard for many of us who struggle with our bodies especially. What can we do to empower ourselves and our spouses in this area?
5. God created sex as an ecstatic, improper, and wildly raw experience. Do you have a hard time letting yourself get swept away into passion? What positive truths can we all remember to remind ourselves that it’s OK to let go?
6. Sheila explains that passion is like a train going down two railroad tracks. Why are both of these tracks necessary? What happens when one is missing?