Right Thinking Grows from Discussion. Children Can Bravely Face Temptation

Taiwan Church News 2625, June 23, 2002

Reported by Li Yi-ying, translated and rewritten by David Alexander

   The Rev. Mr. Wang Rong-yi is a chaplain at Mackay Memorial Hospital, an agency of the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT) in Tam-sui.  He asserts, "In discussing pre-marital sexual intercourse, we must return to the question of the basic nature of love."  True love is respectful. Darkness is full of cravings.  Sex must be based in love first.  If sexual behavior is separated from love, sexual partners become tools.  Many unmarried men and women who are sexually active think only in the moment.  Each regards himself/herself and his/her partner as relevant only for this moment..  But, premarital sexual intercourse is not just a momentary thing.  We must take a long term view. Eschewing premarital sex is not an old fashioned ideology, it is an attitude aimed at the long term future each man and woman. One should not place one's future mental health at the mercy of a stranger's sudden urge.

   Facing the circumstances surrounding the social values of youth, Rev. Wang advocates "discussion".  No matter if the church or the society has approved or disapproves of pre-marital sexual intercourse, young people all face sexual temptations.  In this circumstance, the best method is to face youth openly and discuss matters honestly.  "Open discussion overcomes erroneous ideologies, and can lead people into legitimate thought."  By means of discussion youth can be led into right thinking, given attentive and clear reasons for abstinence, and shown a responsible attitude.  "Clear and accurate thinking helps youth to maintain a position of abstinence from premarital sex, and this can help them to fact temptation bravely."

   Rev. Wang says that true love is a basic part of self respect.  "In facing temptation, one must understand the results of giving in to it, and the fruits of resisting.  Youth must understand that accepting the idea of waiting for true love bears fruit of greater value than can be obtained by giving oneself over to pre-marital sex."