Leaders Guide Updated

Biblical Sexuality Resources
Leader’s Guide
TITLE OVERVIEW GOALS MATERIALS NEXT STEPS
Foundations Present the what and why Lay foundation for dia- Video: Jason Jensen Intro Decide on a daily prayer
of this process; we can have logue & process; Video: Cameron’s Story assignment
hope in this process LGBTQ ministry is possible Video: Kate’s Story
Clarifying Our Beliefs Articulating our starting Determine where each Video: Greg Jao Intro Read the articles and
place and the values of the of us is at in our current Video: Lindsay answer questions
process framework Hermeneutics Intro
Handout: Four Perspectives
Interpreting Scripture Establish three principles Understand and articulate Video: Wesley Hill on Conversation about
of hermeneutics; develop our hermeneutical Marriage convictions
fluency through dialogue approach Handout: Interpreting
Scripture
Genesis 1-2 Gives us helpful worldview Engage the Scripture in Background for Genesis Application
Manuscript Study formation related to design community concerning Handout: Genesis 1-2
and intention of marriage creation, worldview, and Manuscript
human sexuality
Mark 10:2-12 Helps us understand Jesus’ Engage the Scripture in Background for Mark 10 Application
Manuscript Study frame of reference when community around Jesus’ Handout: Mark 10:2-12
asked a question related to view of marriage and Manuscript
marriage divorce
Romans 1 Engages the most extensive Engage the Scripture Background for Romans Application
Manuscript Study and theological passage in in community around a Handout: Romans 1
the New Testament relating specific New Testament Manuscript
to same-sex erotic behavior view on homosexual Video: Wesley Hill on
behavior Romans 1
Theological Paper In light of hermeneutics and Grow in theological Theological Summary Address obstacles to this
Discussion inductive studies, help us fluency in context, of Human Sexuality, theology, seek ways to
consider theological frame- consider applications in Lament #1, Lament #2, communicate good news
work; helps us work toward campus mission Additional study
clarity of conviction
Talking about Sexuality Compares two different Develop humble and Video: Jason Gaboury on Talk with two students
communicators addressing compelling approach Chastity about sexuality and
issues of sexuality to conversation about Video: Wesley Hill on debrief the experience
sexuality Celibacy
LGBTQ Ministry Investigates implications of Resource staff for next Video: Kate and Cameron Take one insight from
Implications vision, people, and structures steps in LGBTQ ministry Case Study Kate/Cameron or handout
as we pursue ministry to Handout: Start Here and apply to conversation
LGBTQ students this week
Page 1
PART 1
Foundations:
90-minute session
40 minutes: Introduction
50 minutes: Campus story and discussion
A First Step in Our Supplies
Discernment Process
Projector, speakers, flip chart,
blank paper, pens
Download video at:
http://collegiateministries.intervarsity.org/biblical-sexuality/biblical-sexuality-resources-leader-guide
Overview
The module includes three parts. In part one, Jason outlines the next 18 months of inviting staff teams
to engage with the theology of human sexuality. Part two highlights Cameron’s story, a transgender
student’s journey of faith. Part three investigates how Kate prepared her InterVarsity chapter to
engage with the LGBTQ community and her discipleship choices while journeying with Cameron.
• Jason Jensen is InterVarsity’s National Field Director for the West and directs the Discipleship
Initiative. He lives in Berkeley, CA, with his wife, Susi, and two kids in high school/college.
• Cameron Gaebler graduated from Harvey Mudd College in 2012, where she was involved
with 3CIV under Kate Vosburg’s leadership. She now lives in North Hollywood, CA, with her
spouse, Leif Gaebler. She is studying at Fuller Theological Seminary and working to build
bridges between Christian and LGBTQ communities.
• Kate Vosburg is on staff with InterVarsity at the Claremont Colleges, where the chapter is
referred to as “3CIV.” She served as a consultant for the LGBTQ task force and is a great
resource for LGBTQ ministry. She lives with her husband, Dave, and three children in Southern
California.
Introduction
“The intent of the next 90 minutes is to set the stage for our team’s engagement in the theology of
human sexuality and to pay particular attention to our initial impressions on how this might impact
relationships with students who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, or Queer (LGBTQ).”
:7 Jason Jensen Introduction
:30 GROUP DISCUSSION

1. What are your initial thoughts or responses about processing the theology of human
sexuality as a team?
2. What are 2-3 values we want to uphold through this process? Examples could be honesty, respect
for varying frameworks, commitment to engage, etc.
List the 2-3 values on the flip chart and keep this sheet
to post as a reference during future conversations.
Page 2
Transition
“As we clarify our position on human sexuality and specifically the biblical definition of marriage, it
has implications on engaging with LGBTQ students on campus. We will begin by taking some quiet
space for you to write down questions, fears, or implications of what it would mean for us to engage
LGBTQ students with the gospel.”
Make blank paper and pens available for those who need it.
:5 PERSONAL REFLECTION
:5 Cameron Comes to Faith

1. What initial thoughts or surprises struck you from Cameron’s story?
2. What did you notice about Cameron’s faith journey?
:5 Kate Prepares a Chapter for LGBTQ Ministry

(Note: In this video portion, the term “Mutual Ally Training” is used. The goal of the Mutual Ally
Training was “to promote understanding, trust, and respect between queer people and Christians.”
The hope was that the training would help people in both communities think about what it means to
welcome all people, regardless of faith or sexual orientation, into their community.)

1. What are you learning from Kate’s approach?
2. In what ways does Kate and Cameron’s story address some of your questions, fears,
or implications?
Next Steps
“We need to undergird this whole process in prayer. I invite you to decide on a daily prayer
assignment from now until our next meeting. For example, you might pray daily for hope, listen to
God for a word, etc. We will debrief what we are hearing in prayer at the beginning of our next
check-in with this process.”
Page 3
PART 2
90-minute session
Clarifying Our Beliefs 20 minutes: Debriefing prayer assignment

60 minutes: Clarifying our beliefs
10 minutes: Intro to hermeneutics & prayer
Supplies
Post the team values sheet on the wall as a reference. Team values, projector, speakers,
flip chart, handout
Print copies of Kate’s “Four Perspectives.”
Download materials at:
Overview
In this module, Greg provides a framework of why beliefs matter and three possible outcomes for
InterVarsity as we choose clarity around human sexuality. Each staff will be given an opportunity to
name his or her starting place with beliefs. Lindsay then sets the stage for a discussion about
hermeneutics (how we interpret the Bible).
• Greg Jao is an InterVarsity Vice President and Director of Campus Engagement. He lives with his
wife, Jennifer, and two daughters in New York City.
• Lindsay Olesberg serves as InterVarsity’s Scripture Engagement Director. She lives in Iowa City
with her husband, Jon, and two teenage kids.

As you engaged in the prayer assignment, what do you sense that the Lord wants us to understand
in this process? Conclude discussion with prayer.
Introduction
“Greg Jao will set the stage for a discussion clarifying our beliefs.”
:4 Greg Jao Introduction
:6 GROUP DISCUSSION
What responses do you have to Greg’s framework?
Transition
“We will take the next hour to highlight where each of us is coming from using a resource that Kate
Vosburg created. It is an intentional choice to use resources that you can replicate with your students.
We will begin quietly by reading over the handout. Star which one of the four examples most reflects
your position.”
Pass out Kate’s “Four Perspectives.”
Page 4
The first part of this session has attempted to “set the stage” as Kate suggests in the document.
In your large group discussion begin with ground rules and then outline the four perspectives.
Write Kate’s four perspectives on the flip chart for reference:

a. Redeemed Sexuality
b. Queer-Affirming from Scripture
c. Queer-Affirming from Lens of Love
d. Undecided
Have each member identify his or her perspective.
Encourage members to ask one another questions.
Without coming to conclusions, bring the discussion to a close.
Transition
“In order to process these issues well, we need to think together first about how we come to biblical
convictions. Then we will take time in communal study to manuscript some key biblical texts. Lindsay
will give us a brief overview of what we are stepping into.”
:3 Lindsay Olesberg Introduction to Hermeneutics
Next Steps
“As preparation for next time, please read these articles related to hermeneutics and take notes on
the questions included with each one. I will email you the links.”
How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth, chapter 1, “The Need to Interpret”
The Drama of Scripture, Finding Our Place in the Biblical Story, “Prologue”
Hermeneutics Reading Guide
:7 Conclude in Prayer
Page 5
PART 3
Interpreting Scripture
60-minute session
40 minutes: Exploring the three
elements of hermeneutics
20 minutes: Wesley Hill example & prayer
Supplies
Team values, projector, speakers,
Print copies of “Interpreting Scripture.” flip chart, markers, handout
Post the team values sheet on the wall as a reference.
Overview
In this module we will explore the implications of a text-centered, historically-culturally informed,
and canonical approach to Scripture. Wesley Hill’s story is a concrete example of one person’s journey
discerning lifestyle choices through the larger framework of Scripture.
• Wesley Hill is an assistant professor of the New Testament at Trinity School for Ministry in
Ambridge, Pennsylvania. He identifies himself as a gay, celibate Christian and is the author
of Washed and Waiting: Reflections on Christian Faithfulness and Homosexuality
(Zondervan, 2010). Wesley enjoys living in intentional community with Aidan and Melanie Smith.
Wesley also co-curates the Spiritual Friendship blog, focusing on celibacy, friendship, and the
value of the single life (SpiritualFriendship.org).
List the three elements on the flip chart and post on an easel or wall as a reference:
Text-centered
Historically-culturally informed
Canonical
Introduction
“As a way to synthesize the readings, we will zoom in on the three elements of a hermeneutical
framework: text-centered, historically-culturally informed, and canonical.”
Pass out “Interpreting Scripture.” Divide the room into three groups. Assign each
group one of the elements listed on the flip chart. Give each group a sheet from the
flip chart and a marker.
“Spend five minutes on your own jotting down notes on the handout and zooming in on the
element assigned to you (either text-centered, historically-culturally informed, or canonical).“
Transition
“You have 20 minutes in your groups to discuss the handout and highlight the key points on the flip
chart. Each group will have two minutes to present.”
:10 GROUP PRESENTATIONS

Each group has two minutes to summarize their key points. Invite text-centered to go first, then
historically-culturally informed, and finally canonical. Post the flip charts on the wall.
Page 6
1. What are we learning about approaching Scripture with an interpretive framework?
2. What are the implications as we engage in specific manuscript studies around sexuality?
Transition
“We will conclude by listening to Wesley Hill’s reflection on his study of sexuality through the
Scriptures. As a same-sex-attracted Christian, he brings a live, personal question: ‘what does
Scripture say about my desire to enter into a same-sex marriage?’ Note how his hermeneutical
framework impacts his conclusion.”
:5 Wesley Hill on Bringing His Questions to Scripture

1. What stands out to you from Wesley’s reflections on the process?
Next Steps
Choose someone you know who has convictions in a certain area. Ask how he or she came to their
conviction. Listen for hermeneutical principles.
If you are interested in learning more about hermeneutics, consider reading the additional articles
listed below. Select a partner and discuss the article.
Conclude in Prayer
Additional Articles
Biblical Exegesis: A Beginner’s Handbook, John H. Hayes and Carl R. Holladay, 3rd ed.
(Westminster John Knox Press: Louisville, 2007). Chapter 1, “Introducing Exegesis,” pp.1-33.
The Art of Reading Scripture, Ellen F. Davis and Richard B. Hays, eds. (Eerdmans: Grand Rapids,
2003). “Reading Scripture as a Coherent Story,” pp. 38-53.
Questions for Hayes and Holladay:

• In what ways is exegesis an everyday activity? In what ways is it specialized?
• What are the particular challenges of exegeting the Bible?
Questions for Davis and Hays:
• To what extent do you see the Bible as a unified, coherent story? What do you see in the Scrip-
ture that supports or challenges a coherent reading?
• What are the implications of the biblical story being a non-modern metanarrative?
Page 7
PART 4
Study of Genesis 1-2

90-minute session
Set up and study Genesis 1-2
Supplies
Team values, manuscript of
Genesis 1-2, background handout for
Post the team values sheet on the wall as a reference. Genesis study
Overview
The study of Genesis 1-2 gives us helpful worldview formation, including in the areas of design and
the intention of marriage.
PART 5
Study of Mark 10:2-12

90-minute session
Set up and study Mark 10:2-12
Supplies
Team values, manuscript of
Post the team values sheet on the wall as a reference. Mark 10:2-12, background handout for
Mark study
Overview
The study of Mark 10:2-12 helps us understand Jesus’ frame of reference when asked a question
related to marriage.
PART 6 90-minute session
Study of Romans 1
75 minutes: Manuscript study of Romans 1
15 minutes: Wesley Hill video discussion
Supplies
Team values, manuscript of Romans 1,
Post the team values sheet on the wall as a reference. background handout for Romans 1,
projector, speakers
Overview
The study of Romans 1 engages the most extensive and theological passage in the New Testament
relating to same-sex erotic behavior.
Page 8
:75 MANUSCRIPT STUDY
Transition
“In review of our study of Romans 1, Let’s watch Wesley Hill’s reflections on the text.”
:3 Wesley Hill Reflections on Romans 1

1. In what ways does Wesley’s commentary add to our Romans discussion?
2. Does he add anything new or surprising?
Page 9
PART 7
Pre-assignment
1. Read the Theological Summary of Human Sexuality paper. Download
2. Reflect on these 3 questions:
a. What are examples you have seen this fall where this theology intersects with
issues on campus?
b. What in this theology strikes you as “good news” to students and faculty?
c. What are the biggest obstacles in our culture to this theology?
Theological Summary 90-minute session
of Human Sexuality
30 minutes: Lament 1 or 2
60 minutes: Discussion
Supplies
Team values, flip chart, markers, handout,
post-its
Post the team values sheet on the wall as a reference

Print copies of the Lament liturgy
Overview
This module creates a framework to discuss the Theological Summary of Human Sexuality paper. We
roughly follow the outline of the paper in the discussion by beginning with lament related to the Fall
section, and focusing our discussion on campus ministry implications of the Redemption and Resto-
ration sections. By so doing, we are practicing theological reflection, and relating our reflections to
the reality of our context.
Please download one of the two liturgies of lament offered and lead through that liturgy
for the first 30 minutes of this session. One lament is specifically related to the LGBTQ community
and the other is more general, reflecting on several issues of the Fall mentioned in the paper.
Discern which liturgy would best serve your team as an introduction to the paper discussion.
:30 LAMENT
Read through one of the two laments.
:5 GROUP DISCUSSION
In what way did you sense God’s presence or leading?
Conclude debrief by praying for open ears, soft hearts, clear minds, and courage as we discuss theol-
ogy and consider mission on campus.
Page 10
Post three newsprint papers on the wall. Write one of the following questions on each.
1. What are examples you have seen this fall where this theology intersects with issues on campus?
2. What in this theology strikes you as “good news” to students and faculty?
3. What are the biggest obstacles in our culture to this theology?

“On page one, at the conclusion of the Cultural Context section, it reads, “As followers of Jesus, we
must respond to our context with truth, compassion, conviction, and hope.” We want to direct our
attention to how this theology impacts our context, ministry on campus. We will begin addressing the
questions from our preassignment. Choose one of the questions on the wall and summarize your an-
swer on a post-it note. Record one idea per post-it. Repeat the process for all three questions.”

Assign a team of staff to each flip chart and provide marker.
Group post-its by repeated themes and topics.
Write a summary of the key responses on the flip chart.

1. How can we best address the obstacles?
Work in pairs. Assign each pair a different obstacle listed on flip chart.
Discuss in pairs and then share ideas with whole group. Record ideas on flip chart. (20 minutes)
2. How can we intentionally communicate the good news this term? (10 minutes)
:5 Conclude in Prayer
Additional Study on the Theology of Human Sexuality
Note: Please begin your theology paper process with the initial discussion guide, beginning with lament
and discussing the paper, before engaging these additional study suggestions.
We offer this resource humbly and with some hesitation, since it represents a great deal of detailed
study and evaluation, and may lead to long and confusing process for staff. However, we recognize two
realities that convince us to put forward these suggestions. First, some staff and students are already
studying viewpoints different from what is represented by our Theological Summary of Human Sexuality.
If that is you, we want to resource your further study and help guide it. Second, some teams have
already planned to engage alternative perspectives in their process. We want to resource that study as
well as possible. After exploring many resources and approaches, we offer a focused option for study
and discussion below.
Page 11
PART 8 60-minute session
Talking about Sexuality

40 minutes: Discussing two examples
20 minutes: Next steps
Supplies
flip chart, markers, blank paper

Overview
This module explores how to talk about sexuality in our culture. Jason Gaboury and Wesley Hill offer
two different examples of a humble and compelling approach to addressing countercultural issues.
• Jason Gaboury is InterVarsity’s Regional Director in New York and New Jersey. He and his wife,
Sophia (NYC Area Director), live in New York City with their two girls.
Introduction
“Pay attention to HOW Jason communicates about chastity. Take notes as you listen. What can we
learn about communicating about sexual issues in a humble and compelling manner?”
Provide blank paper and pens for those who need it.
:5 Jason Gaboury on Chastity

1. Take a minute to summarize individually what you notice about how Jason engages
the topic of chastity.
2. Turn in pairs and compare notes: What tangible things did you notice about HOW Jason
chose to engage the subject of chastity? (6 minutes)
3. As a large group: Invite the group to offer bullet points to build a list on the flip chart.
(9 minutes) For example:
Observations of HOW to communicate
• Create a personal connection
• Make provocative statements
• Etc.
Page 12
Leader’s Notes
Jason’s approach:
• Create a personal connection
• Make provocative statements
• Provide concrete steps for participate
• Highlight how current reality is destructive
• Invites the listener into a new reality
:2 Wesley Hill on Celibacy as a Life-Giving Option
“Take a moment to write down your initial comparisons and contrasts. How does Wesley apply a
similar framework in his communication of celibacy and how is he different?”

1. What did you hear in Wesley’s communication that was similar? different?
2. What are we learning about communicating in our context?
:20 Next Steps

1. Take five minutes to briefly script your framework for either chastity or celibacy.
2. Take the last 15 minutes to share in pairs the outlines and offer feedback to one another.
Assignment
“During the coming week have a conversation with at least two students on this topic. Explore their
views and consider what Scripture might be helpful for you to study together. Debrief with a partner
what you are learning concerning communication around sexual issues.”
Page 13
PART 9
LGBTQ Ministry 60-minute session

30 minutes: Discussing implications
Implications 30 minutes: Discussing recommendations

prayer
Supplies
Print copies of “Start Here.” handout
Overview
This module invites teams to explore ministry to LGBTQ students through the lens of vision, structure, and
people. Kate and Cameron provide a real case study and opportunity for us to learn from their mistakes.
“Foundations,” (module one) is a prerequisite to this module, as Kate and Cameron’s story builds off
prior knowledge.
• Cameron Gaebler graduated from Harvey Mudd College in 2012, where she was involved with 3CIV
under Kate Vosburg’s leadership. She is studying at Fuller Theological Seminary and working to build
bridges between Christian and LGBTQ communities. She now lives in North Hollywood, CA, with her
spouse, Leif Gaebler.
• Kate Vosburg is on staff with InterVarsity at the Claremont Colleges, where the chapter is referred
to as “3CIV.” She served as a consultant to the LGBTQ task force and is a great resource for LGBTQ
ministry. She lives with her husband, Dave, and three children in Southern California.
Introduction
“Drawing on lessons from our Growth strategy, we need to apply vision, structure, and people when
pursuing LGBTQ ministry. We will return to Kate and Cameron’s story and see how a failure to consider
all three created multiple challenges.”
:3 Kate & Cameron, a Spring Break Case Study

Divide the room into three groups. Have each group spend five minutes answering the question, “What
is your vision for this spring break trip?”
Note: Only Kate knows about Cameron in this scenario.
• Group one represents the Urban Project Director.
• Group two represents the InterVarsity staff from a chapter participating in the project.
• Group three represents Kate bringing students from 3CIV.
Page 14
Choose a representative from each group to share their vision with the whole group. In the large group,
discuss the following two questions.
1. What would need to happen to create greater alignment between the three different foci?
2. Structures and systems create the framework to fulfill the vision. What needs to be considered to
include a student who identifies as transgender, same-sex attracted, etc.?
Transition
“Take the next five minutes on your own to read and make observations on this resource.”
Pass out “Start Here.”

1. What struck you from the recommendations? What questions do you have?
2. What are some of the implications as you minister to LGBTQ students?
:12 Conclude
Spend some time listening to God about how to respond in your own sphere of influence, and pray
about what you hear.
Next Step
Share God’s invitation for you that emerged in prayer.
Resources available at:
Biblical Sexuality Resources Leader’s Guide
Foundations
Video: Jason Jensen Introduction
Video: Cameron Gaebler’s Story of Coming to Faith
Video: Kate Vosburg’s Story of Starting LGBTQ Ministry
Clarifying Our Beliefs

Video: Greg Jao Introduction
Handout: Kate Vosburg’s paper “Four Perspectives”
Video: Lindsay Olesberg Introduction to Hermeneutics
Handout: How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth, chapter 1, “The Need to Interpret”
Handout: The Drama of Scripture: Finding Our Place in the Biblical Story, “Prologue”
Hermeneutics Reading Guide
Interpreting Scripture
Handout: “Interpreting Scripture”
Video: Wesley Hill on Bringing His Questions to Scripture
Additional resources on hermeneutics
Genesis 1-2
Genesis 1-2 Manuscript
Handout: Genesis 1-2 Background
Mark 10:2-12
Mark 10:2-12 Manuscript
Handout: Mark 10 Background
Romans 1
Romans 1 Manuscript
Handout: Romans 1 Background
Video: Wesley Hill Reflections on Romans 1
New Theological Paper

Theological Paper COMING
Discussion Guide COMING
Talking about Sexuality

Video: Jason Gaboury on Chastity
Video: Wesley Hill on Celibacy as a Life-Giving Option
LGBTQ Ministry Implications

Video: Kate & Cameron, a Spring Break Case Study
Handout: “Start Here”

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Biblical Sexuality Resources

TITLE OVERVIEW GOALS MATERIALS NEXT STEPS

:7 Jason Jensen Introduction

:30 GROUP DISCUSSION

:5 Cameron Comes to Faith

:10 GROUP DISCUSSION

:5 Kate Prepares a Chapter for LGBTQ Ministry

:28 GROUP DISCUSSION

Clarifying Our Beliefs 20 minutes: Debriefing prayer assignment

:15 GROUP DISCUSSION

:4 Greg Jao Introduction

Pass out Kate’s “Four Perspectives.”

Write Kate’s four perspectives on the flip chart for reference:

:3 Lindsay Olesberg Introduction to Hermeneutics

:20 GROUP DISCUSSION

:10 GROUP PRESENTATIONS

:5 Wesley Hill on Bringing His Questions to Scripture

:10 GROUP DISCUSSION

Questions for Hayes and Holladay:

Study of Genesis 1-2

Study of Mark 10:2-12

PART 6 90-minute session

:3 Wesley Hill Reflections on Romans 1

:12 GROUP DISCUSSION

Theological Summary 90-minute session

Post the team values sheet on the wall as a reference

:10 PERSONAL REFLECTION

:10 GROUP DISCUSSION

:30 GROUP DISCUSSION

Additional Study on the Theology of Human Sexuality

Talking about Sexuality

Post the team values sheet on the wall as a reference.

:5 Jason Gaboury on Chastity

:15 GROUP DISCUSSION

:2 Wesley Hill on Celibacy as a Life-Giving Option

:15 GROUP DISCUSSION

:20 Next Steps

LGBTQ Ministry 60-minute session

Implications 30 minutes: Discussing recommendations

:3 Kate & Cameron, a Spring Break Case Study

:27 GROUP DISCUSSION

:15 GROUP DISCUSSION

Clarifying Our Beliefs

New Theological Paper

Talking about Sexuality

LGBTQ Ministry Implications

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