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We need to be careful with terms. 'Flesh' does not mean our human desires, sexual or any other one. The term refers to anything apart from Spirit enabled life. It can include our religious life where that is mere form or doctrine. One's view on masturbation must be guided by an understanding of...

Paul was addressing specific issues within the Corinthian church, both ascetic and libertine. His themes were not in any way related to Song of Songs. I accept the view that SoS is a collection of love poems. As such its themes and imagery assert a very positive view of human sexuality. John NZ

Jesus' hold on you is far greater than any grip you have on Him. Stop analysing. Accept Jesus knows you thoroughly and that He will be there with you wherever you are at. John NZ

Keep your perspective. None of that is lost in God;s eyes. Jesus reminded us of that ".... treasures in heaven..." As a pastor's wife you have the expectations of that role upon you, both your own and those of other people. They can become shackles Be authentic. That's all that Jesus asks...

Nothing in the NT, understood without Greek glasses, opposes the OT view of human sexuality. The allegorical approach was adopted by church fathers because their Greek influenced thinking could not accept that Holy Writ could possibly be so obviously about sexual enjoyment. Protestant teaching...

Sure I accept those biblcial standards too. But nothing in those verses places the negative stance you seem to have on normal human sexuality. Song of Songs is a anthem of praise to the expression of our God desinged human sexuality sexuality. John NZ

Which view, if I understand correctly what you are saying, is pure paganism, a view of sex and our God- given capacities and functions, as something 'unclean', 'undesirable, less that the pure 'spiritual.' John NZ

As a leader then get some support form the older leadership in your church. Hopefully thay can wlak you through this time and turn in into a worthwhile learning experience for you. John NZ

Some have seen a therapist. I suggest you try that too if you can. Or an older, wise, caring perosn yu can really trust. John NZ

Sadly lack of a suitable response is not uncommon. Can you try some third party - pastor, police, school counselor? John NZ

That is horrible but not uncommon. I have come across may situations where the one doing the caring is overlooked or even criticised by the one being cared for while uninvolved family members are favoured. Your sisters may have manipulated your mother. Can you ask your mother why she did that...

In the Psalms you will find many emotions and conflicting thoughts expressed. Don't be downcast and lose sight of Jesus's strong hold onto you even in the tough times. We all have those times. John NZ

Like any book I may not agree with all of its contents. I most certainly disagree with Davidson's non-egalitarian views for example. One example of my concerns with "Divine Sex' is Thelos's account of The Esther story which was unsupported by detailed references to other works establishing that...

Well, I both believe in and have experienced God's power in healing people of past issues. But I have also had experiences when God hasn't, or healing has come through therapy or some other source. That's why I reject simplistic 'solutions' from people who have little or no experience of mental...

Those who know nothing of mental illness can offer only the ignorance that simplistic text quoting reveals. With such beliefs you will never be in a position to really help anyone with mental health struggles. Sad John NZ

Let's clarify some details. Are you perfect ie you always, totally express and live out the mind of Christ within you? If not then there will be areas where a person still has the past very much alive. I am sure ytou don't claim perfection and full maturity in Christ. Paul in Romans 12:1-2...

'a'=not 'a' is simply an illogical statement. Inserting the word "God' does not change the inherent illogic of the question. John NZ

Some people are very spiritually aware. That is a gift to be carefully developed. Sometimes though there is a family inheritance of some involvement in occult practices of some sort. That needs to be dealt with or the gift can become 'contaminated' unwittingly. As a general rule any insight is...

That is sadly some unhelpful, if not harmful teaching you have been given. the Psalms contain may such expressions of inner conflicts, doubts and struggles. Martin Luther struggled with depression all his life.He used the Psalms when he was experiencing his very dark times. Beware of simplistic...

Good. However, very few pastors have the time, skills or knowledge to adequately deal with serious abuse issues. Some more experienced support, if that is possible, could be life changing. Bless you John NZ