Celibacy
Last week, I was at Moody Bible Institute, to speak at their Annual Pastors’ Conference. It coincided with the release of my new book Privilege the Text: A Theological Hermeneutic for Preaching.
I had been informed earlier that Moody Radio, specifically The Chris Fabry Show—a national affair that runs on several hundred Christian radio stations—wanted to interview me when I was up there. I assumed it was another publicity engagement for the new book.
But I was wrong. Chris Fabry wanted to talk about celibacy! Of course, I was only more than delighted to expound on what I call “ecclesiological singleness”—by choice, for life, unto Christ, in community. For almost an hour! It was a great deal of fun, I confess!
The Chris Fabry Show is a live, call-in show and yes, there was an uncomfortable question or two! You’ll have to listen to it ….
Abe Kuruvilla is the Carl E. Bates Professor of Christian Preaching at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (Louisville, KY), and a dermatologist in private practice. His passion is to explore, explain, and exemplify preaching.
6 Comments
GREAT interview Abe. Fascinating and love how God has equipped you to speak about this. “It’s a gift.” Eye-opening perspective…not just about celibacy, but about God’s purpose for our lives as he calls us to live in relationship with Him and with others. A gift….from God…to know Him and glorify Him in its given purpose. The question I contemplate: will we accept His gift(s) to us…ultimately? For me it brings up fear of cost…that’s usually at the root of my, “no thanks, God.” And I miss the GIFT! Really turns my thoughts about marriage and my calling to be married into something else entirely. I appreciate you sharing this with me. Good, good stuff.
Thanks for the wise observations, Curry. May God use you two as examples for his glory!
Slogging my way through “Privilege the Text: A Theological Hermeneutic for Preaching” and really enjoying it. Honestly! I got mine early because I pre-
ordered it on my iPad. Hope I can finish before I get to teach some lessons on Psalms in the Fall.
I know, it’s a slog!
Thanks, Amy.
Thank you for being you, Abe. We, as Christians and a society, need you.
Praying for you.
Thanks for the encouragement, Miss M!