Introduction

Part 1: Sex, Gender and Theology

1. Sexuality, the Sexes, Having Sex

2. Gender. Language, Power and History

3. Theology. Sources and Applications

Part 2: Being Theological About Sex

4. Desiring

5. Framing Sex: Must the Framework be Marriage?

6. Covenants and Covenant-Makers

Part 3: Being Theological About Gender

7. God - Beyond Male and Female

8. "In Christ there is neither Male nor Female"

Part 4: Being Theological About Same-Sex Love

9. The Bible and Same-Sex Love

10. Tradition, Reason and Same-Sex Love

Part 5: Learning to Love

11. Virginity, Celibacy, Chastity

12. "Condilemmas": Sex and Contraception in
the Time of HIV/AIDS

13. Marriage and the "States of Life"

14. Inclusive Theology and Sexual Minorities

References

"Many of the critiques of God, Sex, and Genderoffered in
this review emerge from Thatcher's own lines of
interrogation. In this and other ways, the book succeeds in drawing
readers into what is truly an exhilarating mode of reflection. As
such, it offers a major contribution towards theological depth and
creativity in this important set of discourses, renewing the often
reflexive ethics of sex and gender through witness to the Word
become flesh." (Studies in Christian Ethics, 16
April 2014)

"Written as a text for post-secondary courses, this book
aims to provide "a comprehensive and consistent theological
understanding of sexuality and gender, which is broad,
contemporary, undogmatic, questioning, inclusive, and relevant to
readers' interests, needs, and experience"
(xi)." (Studies in Religion, 1 September
2013)
"Adrian Thatcher's new book will be a rich resource for those
studying and teaching sex, gender and sexuality in theological
perspective ... The volume is a valuable one, which I hope will
prompt readers to go and explore Thatcher's own extensive work form
the past, as well as the broader context of theological scholarship
on sexuality, gender and marriage within which it sits." (Theology,
1 January 2012)

""Here is a clear and coherent account of where we are in terms of
Christian teaching and practice about sex and gender, and it should
appeal to students and general readers alike." (Church Times, 26
August 2011)

"A theologian offers a theology of both sexuality and gender,
discussing such topics as homosexuality and same-sex unions."
(Publishers Weekly, 8 March 2011)

"Adrian Thatcher brings an unparalleled knowledge and understanding
to the writing of this book. He knows what readers - both beginners
and seasoned - want and need in an introductory text. The
author is not only sensible and comprehensive, but also critical
and challenging, as well as discerning and wise, and above all
accessible. His book provides a truly excellent introduction to the
profound and often troubling questions raised by the gender and
intimacies of our bodies in relationship to one another and to
God."

--Gerard Loughlin, Durham University

"Two things shine through this book: Adrian Thatcher's
scholarship and his humanity. This book will help readers
understand how and why centuries of Christian teaching on sex and
gender developed as it did, and offers a wealth of resources for
meeting the challenges of today."

--Elaine Graham, University of Chester

Adrian Thatcher is currently Visiting Professor in Applied Theology at the University of Exeter, UK. He is the author of numerous books, including: The Savage Text: The Use and Abuse of the Bible (Wiley-Blackwell, 2008); Theology and Families (Wiley-Blackwell, 2007); The Guide to Christian Marriage and to Getting Married in Church (2003); Living Together and Christian Ethics (2002); and Celebrating Christian Marriage (ed., 2001).

A. Thatcher, University of Exeter, UK