I suppose my follow-up question would be to inquire about your fourth point, “What’s okay before marriage?” Not to be needlessly critical, but I cannot seem to pick a direct answer out of your post. You pose your question, offer what “some” and “many” might say or do, even suggest that boundaries should be set. But in the same spirit of frankness with which the subject of sex was introduced, I would love to see a bit more clarity insofar as the definition of these boundaries. I believe that young men and women often find themselves wandering all too aimlessly down these roads, identifying that they have gone too far only after the guilt and shame have set in. Blurry boundaries are difficult to honor, after all.

Song of Solomon seems to imply total purity — i.e, no foreplay of any sort or kind; some might suggest everything short of kissing — in its refrain, “Do not stir up or awaken love until it pleases” (2:7, 3:5, 8:4).

Would you agree, pastor?

Again, I hope my tone is not misread. I merely ask for greater clarity. I hope you hear me right.