WordAlone Document — April 27, 2004

Concerning the Gift of Sexual Life

and Its Divinely Created Structure

Resolution adopted by the 2004 annual convention

Whereas, the Scriptures testify that God created the gift of sexuality (Genesis 1 and 2; Mark 10:6-9; Ephesians 5:28-33); and

Whereas, the Scriptures clearly teach that marriage is a life-long bond of faithfulness between one man and one woman and the context for which sexual intercourse is reserved (I Corinthians 6:15-20; Hebrews 13:4; Galatians 5:16-19); and

Whereas, that Biblical teaching about sexual life has shaped and continues to shape the moral fabric of civilization in profound and positive ways; and

Whereas, that Biblical teaching about sexual life is facing unprecedented challenges in society and the church; and

Whereas, a tradition so universal and valuable should not be changed without overwhelming Biblical and confessional warrant;

Therefore, be it resolved that the WordAlone Network honor and uphold Biblical teaching about sexual life and its vision for marriage and urge all Christians to do likewise; and

Be it further resolved, that any proposed change in standards and definitions for sexual life or marriage which contradicts this Biblical teaching be rejected; and

Be it further resolved, that this resolution be conveyed to the ELCA Task Force on Human Sexuality, to the ELCA Conference of Bishops, to the Church Council of the ELCA, and The Rev. Mark Hanson, presiding Bishop of the ELCA.