Sacred Sex, by Tony Evans

I have never heard Tony Evans preach live, but after reading a few of his books, I am impressed and can easily see why people love him and his teaching and reaching.  Evans, pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, writes with straight-forward language, a solid biblical foundation, and practical, convicting content.

In his book Sacred Sex, Evans speaks frankly and openly about sexual purity and the high value God places on sex.  He addresses unmarried people, but the focus seems to be on married men.  (Of course, as a married man, I may have simply read through my own lens. . . .)

As is often the case when someone writes from a strong biblical perspective, someone familiar with biblical teaching on sex will not find much new in Sacred Sex.  Evans points out that "the consummation of a marriage on the wedding night is designed to inaugurate a covenant." This is the reason the misuse of sex is so destructive: God has made the act of sex a bonding event.  When the act of marriage is performed outside the covenant of marriage, the consequences can be devastating.

Evans offers hope and healing, but pulls no punches: "If you are involved in an illicit sexual relationship, using porn, or dabbling in any kind of sexual immorality, you must stop it, repent, and begin the process of seeking forgiveness, offering forgiveness, and healing."  Evans doesn't allow for any gray area, doesn't beat around the bush, and calls for repentance and a renewed commitment to Jesus.

Sacred Sex is too brief, and leaves some questions unanswered, but it's solid and straightforward enough to be a great resource for teaching on sexual purity.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the complimentary electronic review copy!