A Biblical View of Sexuality – Q&A on Full of Grace and Truth
What does the Bible say about sexuality, identity, and marriage? These are questions many Christians are asking today. In Full of Grace and Truth, Vaughan Roberts explores a biblical view of sexuality with clarity and compassion. In this Q&A, Blackburn Vicar Chris Anderton shares his thoughts on the book and why its message matters for the church today.
What are your initial thoughts on Full of Grace and Truth?
It’s helpful in approaching the issue of identity and sexuality from a biblical and theological point of view, as well as understanding the Bible’s teaching on this topic as a whole. Each of us is fallen, sinful and in need of Christ. No matter who we are or what we struggle with, ALL of us want to be working out how we can be living ALL for Christ.
How would you summarise it to someone unfamiliar with the book?
It’s a short explanation of the Bible’s teaching on sex and marriage and a call to communicate that teaching with both grace and truth.
Is there anything you found particularly helpful?
While the main content is based on Vaughan’s Lausanne talk, it’s really helpful having the Introduction and Afterword for context on pastoral application.
Why is a biblical view on sexuality important today?
Our society, and also many churches, are confused about this subject and we need to rediscover God’s good and beautiful plan for sex and marriage - and be confident in it.
What do you think it means in practice to be both full of grace and truth in this area?
To be clear and confident that God’s way is good; and to teach that clearly. To be aware that this subject is a real struggle for many people, so we need to teach and pastor carefully and biblically.
In the Afterword, Vaughan writes about living in ‘the new way of the spirit’ rather than ‘the old way of the written code’, which focuses on moralism and fails to address the heart. He helps us see how when Christ has captured our life and desires, that’s what will make the difference to our hearts. And that’s what we need to focus on.
What are the challenges you’ve personally faced in teaching sexuality with both grace and truth?
A big challenge is how you express yourself upfront in your preaching, because you can’t always be as pastorally sensitive as you might be personally.
Watch Vaughan's helpful video: encouragement for pastors on biblical sexuality
How can churches teach sexuality with grace and truth?
Vaughan makes the point that this is an issue about the Bible. It’s about being willing to stand for the truth of the Bible, but being willing to do this graciously.
Do you think this is a resource you would share with others?
Yes. With church leadership teams and PCCs, and also advertised to the congregation. It’s only short, so it’s more of an introduction to the topic, but it’s a really helpful one.
Any further thoughts?
The extra resources look good; I can imagine using them as a one-off session in a home group or leadership setting.
Many thanks for your time, Chris!
Explore Full of Grace and Truth
Read a sample chapter
Download free study resources on sexuality
Watch Vaughan's encouragement for youth on biblical sexuality video.
Who should read this book?
Church leaders and pastors
Christians exploring biblical sexuality
Small groups and home groups
Anyone wanting a clear, compassionate Christian perspective
Watch Vaughan's introduction to the book and why he wrote it: Full of Grace and Truth: the gospel and sexuality in the global church
Explore more Christian books on sexuality and gender:
Biblical teaching on marriage and relationships
Christian books on gender identity
Resources for church leaders on sexuality