Who would have thought that an article on this subject would ever be written? It hasn't been that many years since homosexuals were still "in the closet." They were afraid that their lifestyle choice would be discovered. They knew this would probably bring public humiliation, the end of their marriages, and other very unpleasant consequences. The fear of discovery probably contributed to a higher-than-average alcoholism rate among their number.
Now things have changed. More and more people have become "understanding" of the homosexual's plight. After all, modern psychiatry has convinced many people that they cannot help being homosexuals. In last week's bulletin, we noted that this lifestyle is a choice. One is not born a homosexual.
Denominational Approach to Homosexuality
Many of the mainstream denominations have been troubled by this issue for several years. As far back as the 1970s, the issue of homosexuals serving in the ministry was a subject of discussion at their meetings. The other volatile issue that surfaced at about the same time was women in the ministry. Perhaps we will discuss that subject at another time.
I have tried to follow the discussion since those days. One article I have, from the Connersville News Examiner dated November 11, 1978, is about the 104th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio. The Episcopal Church is the American branch of the Church of England. It seems a Committee on Sexism and Sexuality had drafted a resolution that was to be considered at their annual convention. The resolution contended that there is no Biblical evidence for condemning homosexuality. It noted that the story of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) concerned the inhospitality of its residents--not their homosexuality.
Furthermore, the chairwoman of the committee, Dee Beggs, had this to say, "We think it is more sinful to be judgmental than to condone responsible sexuality, and that includes homosexuality." She also said the report and recommendations do not label any sexual behavior as explicitly sinful. At the same convention, Episcopal Bishop John Krumm reiterated his stand against homosexual priests, but said he would consider persons who attempt "to live lives of self-discipline and self-control."
Prior to the opening of the 70th General Convention, held in Indianapolis in 1994, another document relating to the guidelines for "pastors" reads as follows, "We believe sexual relationships reach their fullest potential as healthy relationships and minimize their capacity for ill when in the context of chaste, faithful, and committed lifelong unions between mature adults. We believe this is as true for homosexual as for heterosexual relationships and that such relationships need and should receive the pastoral care of the church." The article also noted that the United Church of Christ was the only Protestant denomination that currently allowed ordination of sexually active homosexuals.
Let's fast-forward to the situation in the Episcopal Church today? Just last year, the church elected its first openly homosexual bishop, the "Reverend" V. Gene Robinson. He was elected on June 7, 2003 by the Diocese of New Hampshire, and has now been approved by the church's General Convention. The "Rector" at St. Paul's Church in Concord, NH, the "Reverend" David Jones, said, while he would not have supported Robinson's election as bishop ten years ago, he now believes the Bible condemns promiscuity but has no words for committed homosexual relationships. He also said he sees Jesus' teachings as ultimately placing love above law.
The Bible teaches that a bishop is to be a man who meets several qualifications, including being the husband of one wife (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:6-9). "Reverend" Robinson left his wife and children to be with his "partner." How can anyone who claims to respect the Bible as God's word remain in a church that so openly ignores its teachings?
Furthermore, homosexuality is condemned in both the Old and New Testaments (Leviticus 18:22; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11). Under the Old Law, it was punishable by death. Need we say more?
What Does the Bible Say?
In all fairness, we must point out that not all people in the Episcopal Church agree with what was done. Time will tell what the consequences will be.
In the first place, the Bible says nothing about denominations. In fact, the concept of denominationalism is the product of men and is contrary to the Lord's desire that all of those who follow Him be "one, even as He and the Father are one." (John 17:21)
Jude identified the sin that was prevalent in Sodom and Gomorrah as the sin of fornication--not lack of hospitality (Jude 7).
The statement that being judgmental is the greater sin is a classic misuse of Jesus' statement about judging (Matthew 7:1). He was condemning those who made unrighteous judgments (John 7:24). We are told to "prove all things and hold on to what is right." (1 Thessalonians 5:21)
Where did Jesus say anything about love being above law? He did say, "If you love me, keep my commandments." (John 15:14) The Holy Spirit guided the apostles in teaching what Christ had taught them (John 14:26; 16:13). Paul said the things he wrote were the commands of Christ (1 Corinthians 14:37). James wrote that we must live according to the law of liberty (James 1:25). It is past time for people to recognize the authority of the Bible.
Brother Curry touches on a subject that is causing much conflict among the members of denominational churches. The ever-increasing desire to be more "politically correct" is causing many to cave in and follow society's demands. For many years, inside the leadership of the mainstream Protestant churches, they have been battling, not only about homosexual clergy, but also about homosexual members.
Sadly, many in the homosexual community seek to change the issue. It's not about love-Paul commanded us to love all men (Galatians 6:10). We do not hate homosexuals; we hate the sin--homosexuality. Read the Bible passages. They are either true or false. God's attitude toward homosexuality has not changed since the beginning of time, when He assigned the death penalty to such conduct! Would one dare charge God with hating homosexuals? Keep the record straight. He hates the sin-not the person who sins!
As Christians, we need to be understanding of the difficulty involved for those who are caught up in this lifestyle. It takes time, and possibly professional help, for one to leave such a situation. Pray for them and help them understand that God will help them overcome their chosen lifestyle. We must also be willing to forgive and forget when they seek to leave the paths of sin-whatever path they have been following. In one church, where a man repented, sought counseling, and left the homosexual lifestyle, some members didn't want the elders to allow him to place membership with them. Such people need to study Matthew 6:14,15. God wants us to save sinners-all sinners. We need to remember that to God, sin is sin, and we ought not to make some sinners feel as though they are beyond being saved. Such attitudes will cost the souls of those who harbor unloving spirits. Don't ever close the door on any sinner; for by doing so, you may be closing the door on yourself! (KMG)