Guiding Your Children's Understanding of Sex: A Biblical Approach

How to Have Conversations About Sex with Your Children

Publication Date: January 2023

As parents, it is our responsibility to guide our children through the journey of understanding their bodies and the purpose of sexuality. One of the most crucial aspects of this journey is having open and honest conversations about sex. By providing them with accurate information and biblical guidance, we can help them develop a healthy and godly perspective on this topic.

Understanding God's Design

God's creation is intentional and purposeful. From the very beginning, God designed us as male and female (Genesis 1:27). Our bodies and our sexuality are intricately connected to His divine plan. It is essential for our children to understand that their sex organs have been given to them by God. These organs are not something to be ashamed of or hidden away; they are part of His design for us.

"We’re not just teaching our kids about sex, but about stewardship."

As parents, we have the privilege and responsibility to help our children grow in their understanding of God's design for sex and their bodies. This understanding should begin at an early age and continue to develop as they mature, with a special emphasis during puberty.

Teaching Stewardship

When we talk to our children about sex, we are not just discussing the physical act itself; we are teaching them about stewardship. God has entrusted us with our bodies and our sexuality, and it is our duty to use them in a way that honors Him. By helping our children understand the purpose and boundaries of sex, we are teaching them how to be good stewards of this gift.

Just as God created the world and entrusted it to us, He has also created our bodies and entrusted them to us. We are called to use our bodies in a way that brings glory to Him and aligns with His will. By teaching our children about the purpose and beauty of sex within the context of marriage, we are equipping them to be faithful stewards of their bodies.

Starting Early

Children begin to notice the differences between boys and girls at a young age. As parents, we can use these observations as opportunities to start conversations about God's design for sex and gender. By answering their questions honestly and age-appropriately, we can lay a foundation of understanding and openness.

It is important to remember that these conversations should be ongoing and age-appropriate. We should not shy away from discussing sex and sexuality with our children, but rather approach these topics with sensitivity and biblical wisdom. As they grow and mature, we can provide them with more detailed information and guidance.

Using Scripture as a Guide

The Bible is our ultimate guide when it comes to understanding God's design for sex and sexuality. It provides us with wisdom and insight into His intentions for our bodies and relationships. By incorporating Scripture into our conversations, we can help our children see that God's plan for sex is rooted in love, commitment, and purity.

Here are a few key passages that can serve as a foundation for discussing sex with our children:

• Genesis 1:27: "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them." This verse establishes that God intentionally created us as male and female, each with unique roles and purposes.


• Proverbs 16:4: "The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble." This verse reminds us that God has a purpose for everything He has created, including our bodies and sexuality.


• 1 Corinthians 6:19-20: "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body." This passage highlights the importance of honoring God with our bodies and using them in a way that brings Him glory.

By discussing these verses and others with our children, we can help them understand the biblical foundation for our discussions about sex and guide them towards making choices that align with God's plan.

Navigating the Challenges

Having conversations about sex with our children can be challenging, especially in a culture that often promotes a distorted view of sexuality. However, as parents, we have a unique opportunity to counteract these messages and provide our children with a biblical perspective.

Here are a few tips for navigating these challenges:

• Be proactive: Initiate conversations about sex before your children hear misleading information elsewhere. By being proactive, you can ensure that your children receive accurate information from a biblical perspective.


• Be open and honest: Create an environment where your children feel comfortable asking questions and discussing their thoughts and concerns. It is important to be honest with them, using age-appropriate language and explanations.


• Be available: Let your children know that you are there for them and that they can come to you with any questions or concerns. Establishing open lines of communication will help them feel supported and understood.


• Be consistent: Have ongoing conversations about sex and sexuality as your children grow and mature. This will reinforce the importance of these topics and allow for continued guidance and understanding.

Remember, the goal of these conversations is not just to provide information, but to help our children develop a healthy and godly perspective on sex. By approaching these discussions with love, grace, and biblical wisdom, we can guide them towards making choices that honor God and lead to a fulfilling and joyful life.

As parents, we have the privilege and responsibility to walk alongside our children as they navigate the complexities of their bodies and sexuality. By having open and honest conversations rooted in Scripture, we can equip them to embrace their sexuality as a gift from God and use it in a way that brings Him glory.