Extreme “Christian” Views on Homosexuality: Part 1
Okay, I’m certain I’ll get a little hate mail on this one, but at least read through the whole thing before you jump to a conclusion one way or the other.
This is a topic that is highly volatile and charged with emotion. There are some “Christians” (I put it in quotes because that is what they term themselves, but their actions reveal otherwise) who picket the funerals of openly homosexual men/women with signs such as “Burn In Hell Homo”…yeah I’m pretty sure that is not Christlike in any way shape or form, enough said!
On the other end there are some “Christians” (in quotes because they refuse to accept the Bible as authoritative) who make their decisions based upon emotions and what feels right or easy. They don’t want to hurt anybody’s feelings and in doing so reject God’s Word. This group is a little trickier. Often, their arguments sound compelling, are dripping with good intentions, and often relate to a person very close to them who struggles with homosexuality. The most recent example is that of Brian McLaren. At one time McLaren was a solid, evangelical pastor who believed in and preached the truth and reliability of the Bible. Today, Mr. McLaren questions the veracity of almost all evangelical doctrine and theology (Heaven, Hell, Salvation, Christ alone for salvation, etc…). He recently performed his son’s gay marriage and in the article (McLaren and same-sex marriage) regarding the event he made this very telling statement:
“I was a good kid, I believed what I’d been told. And as a pastor, I started having gay people come out to me and what became clearer and clearer to me is that their experience was not explained by the theology I inherited. And that it would be unjust to continue to uphold what I’d been taught. Maybe I could say it like this: My call to love God and love my neighbor was in conflict with what I’d been taught the Bible required me to say and do.” – Brian McLaren
McLaren says that when his or others experience or feelings didn’t line up with Scripture then it must be Scripture that changes, or at least the application of Scripture. When in truth the point of Scripture is to show US where WE are wrong and guide us in the right path:
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. – 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT
I’m going to wrap Part 1 up this way, If you begin to select the sins you see as “damndable” you will never select any sins that you struggle with, only those you see in others. This violates the the very underpinnings of how Christ commands we are to deal with sin, “…first take the beam out of your own eye…”, “…let he who is without sin cast the first stone…”. If, in constrast, you begin to select the sins you see as “acceptable” where and when do you draw the line? You begin to develop theology and practice based upon what is palatable and easy instead of what is true. This violates Jesus clear teaching on following him, “…take up your cross and follow me…”, “…deny yourself and follow me…”. Jesus Christ has neither called us to be judgmental nor comfortable.
Part 2: A Biblical Response to Homosexuality (and every other sin)
DaveCrandall.Me 
Very tastefully written Pastor Dave. It is just facts, and up to this point I wouldn’t foresee any hatemail. I myself have often been called a “Cafeteria Christian ” I’m sure you are fa.iliar with this term. I understand why I have been given this title as well (primarily because of my strong political affiliation.) However, what people fail to realize is that under NO circumstances do I condone or even accept sinful behaviors. I just choose to love all people, because we are all sinners, but we have all been given the priceless gift of grace. I feel as a Christian it is my duty to love and accept the p
October 25, 2012 at 9:29 am
People first, but also to share God’s gift. The reason I have been struggling with these types of issues lately is because I have recently been told my salvation is in jeopardy because I am a Democrat. Now, I do know better, but then I began questioning my political decisions. So my question to you is how do I decide? My brain tells me to throw aside the social issues (sort of a separation of church and state mentality) but my heart says the Lord will be highly disappointed in me for choosing a Democratic ticket. I have really been struggling with this, because I am very political. Can you offer any advice? Scripture that relates to government? Shall i just chill and wait for parts 2 &3 ? Thanks for approaching this touchy issue!
October 25, 2012 at 9:39 am
Hey Julie!
Great questions, I love having these types of real, honest discussions! I believe when we do it in this fashion it honors God and grows us.
Yes, whenever real people are involved and impacted it becomes very real; flesh, blood, and emotions are a lot tougher to tear down than ‘straw-men’. It sounds like you’ve had some conversations with some of the people who would hold the “Homo in Hell” signs if they are suggesting that you political party leanings somehow make your more or less of a Christian. In regards to the homosexuality issue, I would say hang on for parts 2 & 3, as I’m going to address how I believe the Bible and Jesus would approach this. In regards to politics allow me to offer a few suggestions:
1. Candidates, parties, governments, and nations come and go, the only thing that is and will always be true and stand is the Bible. So, when a candidate, party, government, or nation disagrees with the Bible it is they who must change.
2. I do my best to steer clear of all labels, including, maybe especially, political ones. It not only locks you into their (whichever political party’s) agenda but it causes others to immediately assign to you their agenda…all of it!
3. Where the Bible speaks, speak up and stand strong! Where the Bible is silent, communicate your opinion with softness and grace, accepting that others may disagree with you.
4. There is no such thing as the perfect candidate, list your priorities from that which is clearly biblical to that which is purely opinion. Research each candidate (local, state, national) and choose those candidates which best reflect your highest priorities (those that are Biblical). If you have multiple candidates that “score” equally on that level, then proceed to those which are opinion based and run with the candidate who most closely reflects you.
5. If you find yourself, because of #4, lining up with a candidate on Biblical issues, but differing in opinion issues that are important to you, then work your tail off to change those opinion areas within that ‘party’ or candidates platform.
If you’d like I’d be more than happy to set up a time to chat, and you can bounce all those thoughts swirling around in your head off me. Check with Traci and we can set something up if you think that would help.
Have a great day, and I’ll see you on Sunday,
Dave
October 25, 2012 at 3:09 pm
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