Keeping Desire and Temptation in Their Place

In the history of theological debate, one of the most important steps towards
doctrinal clarity involves getting the terminology right. The ancient church sorted through the Trinitarian debate by clarifying the distinction between “essence” and “person.” Likewise, the Reformation haggled over the proper meaning of “righteousness” and “justification.”

A similar need has now arisen in 21st century, as Christians respond to the sexual challenges of postmodernity. In this case, the key terms are “desire” and
“temptation.” We need a clear understanding of these biblical terms in order to
address the matter biblically, especially when it comes to heated debates regarding same-sex attraction (SSA). For instance, the question is raised as to whether a same-sex attracted person must mortify his or her desires. Likewise,
denominations like the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) have wrestled over whether a person may soundly self-identify as a “gay Christian.”