Book Review: Alive by Cooper Pinson
Alive: Gospel Sexuality for Students gives teenagers and young adults a biblical, gospel-centered framework to understand sexual issues. In a changing culture where feelings about our identity inform our sexual choices, this ten-week small group resource by Cooper Pinson of Harvest USA, applies biblical truth in a compassionate way to sexual struggles.
Cooper Pinson, with years of experience working with students, aims to bring the theological truths of our union and communion with Christ into the world of sexuality. Students are met where they are and encouraged to talk about the issues that are part of their everyday world. At the same time, they are guided to learn robust, deep, and strengthening theological content that will help them follow Jesus in how they express their sexuality.
Out of this framework, topics addressed include God’s good design for sexuality, gender-related issues, singleness, dating, marriage, masturbation, pornography, and same-sex attraction, among others. Students are shepherded to understand their sexuality in the light of who Jesus is and to approach these issues with truth, faith, and compassion.
I love to be around young people. When I taught Sunday School I let them know it was because I walked away from church and missed hearing important, life-changing messages in my formative years. They might reject any message I share, but at least they will have heard it. That’s the same mentality I have for teens and God’s design for sexuality.
Teens need to hear Biblical truth, especially when it comes to sex. There is so much pressure, starting at younger and younger ages over all the topics that Alive covers. I appreciate that Alive tackles every possible subject I could imagine when it comes to sexuality, down to transgender and dating abuse.
This 10-week study starts with a weekly scenario, then moves on to reflective questions regarding the scenario. There is Biblical search and discussion on the topic, as well as questions to thoroughly engage in the topic. I thought the author did a fantastic job tackling the sensitive subjects with such comprehension and Biblical wisdom. The Leader’s Guide is probably the best resource I’ve ever come across in a study. I know most youth groups might be nervous to talk about the very specific issues included in this study, but if we don’t, the world will. I can’t think of a book more relevant that doesn’t compromise truth, yet also is not a harsh political agenda, than Alive. I truly hope youth pastors and leaders embrace everything Alive offers teens, and that teens move past the awkward silence and giggles to tackle everything Alive has. I truly believe the teen years will be better handled with this information.
Alive is intended for 8th grade through high school and suggested to use in a small group, gender specific format. They believe by doing so, a small group featuring leaders of the same sex as teens will help make the study more comfortable and the atmosphere one to build trust and conversation.
To purchase Alive, please click HERE.
I received a copy of Alive in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
