An Overview of Eros (Part 1)

I have become known as the girl in Bible study that always wants to talk about sex. This is fine with me. I do not think that churches talk about sex enough. Certainly not in proportion to how much the Bible talks about it or in ways that are relevant! Well, I don't want my friends to ever think that a subject is too taboo to talk about with me, especially when it concerns spiritual matters. That's why I was so excited to get to teach the chapter concerning "Eros" in C.S. Lewis's book The Four Loves this week! Lewis has such a fresh, insightful, and romantic view of the matter. I think it should be mandatory reading! Here is the companion guide I made to go along with tonight's discussion:

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An Overview of Eros (Part 1)

-Eros is different than human sexuality. Sexuality only becomes a part of Eros when it is used as an expression of love.  What is involved in sex? What is involved in love?

-Sexual relations ships can occur with or without Eros.

-Eros, though very important, is a small part of marriage.

-Eros is not usually a precursor to desire.

-Eros wants the beloved more than the sex act.

-Eros makes the pursued not just someone, but THE one.

-Eros transforms a need-pleasure into the highest of all appreciative pleasures.

-Eros needs most intensely because it appreciates most intensely.

-Eros is not an act, it is a mode of perception. Discuss the quote: “Love you? I AM you.”

-Paul encourages his followers not to abstain from Eros for too long or else it can become a distraction rather than a virtue. See 1Corinthians 7:1-16

-Sensuality is not the destroyer of marriages but rather all of the other distracters that come up.

-Eros is laughter loving. It does not treat sex too seriously. What are some reasons why sex IS serious?

* Eros illustrated:

Sexual Desire	Need to Eat	Eros
Is discarded after the need is met.	Is discarded after the need is met.	Pursues the needs of the beloved.
If need is left unmet discomfort ensues.	If need is left unmet discomfort ensues.	Appreciates the beloved and is dismayed if the need is not returned.
Is natural/biological.	Is natural/biological.	Is natural with added emotional and spiritual components.
Can become a distracter.	Can become a distracter.	Is a point of view.