In what ways does the allegory of the Song of Solomon being a story of Christ’s love for the church work well? In what ways does it miss aspects of the text?
Compare the “loose woman” of Proverbs 7 with the “capable wife” of Proverbs 31. Do they share anything in common, or are they utter opposites?
In the Numbers 5 teaching about adultery, what are the differences in power between the husband and the wife? How does this power dynamic compare to what Matthew says about divorce and adultery?
It’s safe to assume most of what we read in the Bible was written by a man. How might some of these passages be different had they been written by a woman?
Applying the Text:
Which metaphor from the first two chapters of the Song of Solomon catches your attention? Why does it stand out to you?
How, if at all, do these biblical passages affect our understanding of men’s desire vs. women’s desire?
Sex and desire are tricky topics to discuss in church. How can we incorporate these texts into our study and use of scripture without omitting these themes?