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What's Tolerated Today Is Practiced Tomorrow
By Pastor Phillip Lee
Homosexual advocates have been very creative in their interpretation of Scripture in an attempt to validate the practice of homosexuality. Many homosexual advocates frequently impart their own personal meanings into biblical texts in an attempt to make personal experience the ultimate test of truth rather than the Truth and Authority of Scripture. However, the Bible does not condone the practice of homosexuality in any of its forms, but in fact condemns it as a damaging sin.
To those that state "The Bible doesn't condemn homosexuality," or "The Bible doesn't say anything about homosexuality," they usually don't mean that homosexuality is never mentioned in the Bible, what they normally mean is one of the following: Homosexuality as practiced or viewed today never appears in Scripture, or even though the Bible does speak against homosexuality, what the Bible says does not apply to present day situations.
I remain amazed at how some people today make surprising claims about the biblical attitude toward homosexual behavior. As an example, there are those who would have us believe certain biblical characters were homosexual. Not one individual is named in the entire Word of God as a homosexual. While there are those that would have us believe that Cain and Abel, David and Jonathan, Ruth and Naomi, even Jesus and the "beloved disciple, or Paul and Timothy," were alleged homosexual pairs, is at best a flimsy, if not a quantum leap by some pro-gay apologists to claim biblical support for their cause and way of living.
When considered objectively, the Scriptures are not silent concerning homosexuality. Within the totality of Scripture, the practice of homosexuality is always mentioned as a violation of God's divine intent for human sexuality. The major references to homosexuality in Scripture are: Leviticus 18:22; 20:13; Romans 1:18-32; 1 Corinthians 6:9; 1 Timothy 1:10; Genesis 19; 2 Peter 2:7 and Jude 7. Pro-gay apologists and theologians have interpreted each of these texts in such a way as to eliminate their applicability to the current ethical and moral debate on the issue.
The Holy Scriptures clearly and repeatedly condemn any violation of God's divine order, whether through immoralities (1 Corinthians 6:16-20) or through perversion of sexual roles (Romans 1:18-32; Leviticus 18:27; 20:13). Today, The Church is continually being challenged to adjust its beliefs and theology regarding sex, to bend, if not bow down to, opinion polls and the many that have embraced science, feelings, notions, and experience over The Truth and Authority of Scripture.
There is no way biblically to arrive at any other conclusion than the practice of homosexuality is a perversion of divine order. Period. Furthermore, to stand and condemn homosexuality in all its forms is not a symptom of homophobia or narrow-minded bigotry. It is to stand on the side of righteousness and truth and to be in obedience to the One who said, "You shall be holy, for I am holy" (1 Peter 1:16). For The Church, God the Father is the only One we should seek to please.
Today, far too many are dismissing and departing from the scriptural model of Christian sexuality. Almost on a weekly basis, I hear - "I know what the Scriptures have to say about living within God's holy boundary lines regarding sexual expression; however, I am going to follow my feelings and emotions rather than The Truth I know." What has happened to the fact and reality that God is Holy and calls all of His followers to holiness which points directly to the fact that He is a God to be feared as well.
Christians are the temple of the living God. God has said: "I will be their God and they will be my people. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you. I will be a Father to you and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty" (2 Cor. 6:16-18). Considering God's promises, every Christ-follower must purse godliness and holiness and abstain from anything and everything that seeks to contaminate body and spirit.
The Church has always been, as it remains today, God's vehicle to preserve His Truth and defend His Church against error (Matthew 5:13; 1 Timothy 3:15). Today, other immoralities are aggressively pounding away at the Church's door, such as pornography, abortion, rampant divorce, and cohabitation. Are we, The Church, to give way before these because the general population approves them?
Yes, today, it really does seem that anything goes. There is no right or wrong. Not only this, but many would have us believe that personal morals are equated with legal rights. Today, sex is looked on more and more as a constitutionally guaranteed right - a right to fulfill one's biological drives however one see fit. When we commit sexual sin, which is war against our own body, as well as sin against God, we bring negative consequences upon our soul and spirit. The Apostle Peter made this point in 1 Peter 2:11, when he pleaded: "I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul."
As a Christian, meaning I embrace the totality and Authority of Scripture, I could never as a faithful follower of Christ Jesus, encourage, endorse, promote or validate the practice of homosexuality in any form. To do so would be a blatant misuse and contradiction of Scripture.
History dictates, lest we forget, what we, The Church tolerate today will be practiced tomorrow. With holiness and truth as our motivation, we, The Church, must be very careful not to adopt the customs of the world.
Ultimately, when a notion, theory, feeling or personal opinion contradicts the Holy Scriptures, it should be rejected.
From All of Us at His Way Out Ministries...
His Way Out Ministries is a world-wide interdenominational referral ministry of Exodus International, called to encourage, strengthen, unify and equip Christians to minister the transforming power of the Lord Jesus Christ to those affected by homosexuality. To each of you who continually bless us by your encouragement, ministry participation, monthly financial support, offerings and prayers...we remain truly grateful!
Pastor Phillip Lee
Executive Director
His Way Out Ministries
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Presently, our web site receives approximately 5,000 visits per month. It is not unusual to spend 3 - 4 hours per day email counseling individuals, families and churches in Bakersfield, around America and overseas in such places as Africa, Australia, Europe and the Caribbean. Church referrals are at an all-time high with the majority of referrals being youth and families combating the crisis of homosexuality.
We need your help! You make it possible for us to bring the healing power of Jesus Christ to a multitude in need of ministry. The need is great. Too often, the resources are few. We desperately need you to help us in this effort. Will you join us by sending a donation today?
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His Way Out Ministries, 1412 17th Street, Suite 313
Bakersfield, CA 93301
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His Way Out Ministries is a nonprofit, tax exempt Christian ministry associated with Exodus International.
Other ways you can help:
- Add His Way Out Ministries to your prayer list.
- Ask your pastor to check out our website.
- Tell your friends about His Way Out Ministries and encourage them to visit this web site.
- Encourage your pastor to consider hosting a seminar or inviting His Way Out Ministries to speak at your church.
- Ask your church to consider adding His Way Out Ministries to its missions budget.
- Show our teaching DVD or Video: "Homosexuality and the Reality of Change" to your Sunday School class.
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Parent Support Group
Beginning February 1, 2010
His Way Out Ministries is pleased to announce a new "Parent Support Group." Co-facilitated by Craig and Karen Fulwyler, the first meeting will be held on Monday, February 1, 2010 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at Chester Avenue Community Church in Bakersfield, CA. The objectives?
- To understand and face the complexities of emotions, actions and questions that all parents have upon learning of a child's homosexuality.
- To challenge parents to make godly choices for spiritual growth in their own lives in response to the issues facing the family.
- To encourage parents to allow God to use them in the lives of their children as well as their children's friends.
Following the first meeting on February 1st, meetings will be held on the first Monday evening of each month from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. For more information about the new "Parent Support Group," please contact His Way Out Ministries at (661) 321-9551.
As a parent, perhaps all you want to do right now is hide and cry out your pain to the Lord. Or perhaps you are so angry with Him that you don't want to talk to Him. Maybe the whole topic is so painful you want to stay in denial so you won't have to deal with it. Whatever your state, do not despair. God will take you through the healing process at your own pace. Know that you will get through this. Others have and you can too.
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4 Part Video Series
Live Interview with Philip Lee
His Way Out Ministries has opened His Way Out Vimeo Channel with an in-depth interview with Pastor Phillip Lee filmed on location at Television Jamaica.
His Way Out Vimeo Channel
The program, Religious HardTalk, is a hard-hitting, controversial and thought provoking series by renowned journalist Ian Boyne. Religious HardTalk delves into matters concerning the Church and religion with diverse guests in no holds barred, incisive discussions, debates and interviews.
Check it out today!
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For Wives Only!
Hope for Wives When Sexual Impurity Hits a Marriage
Wives, when you vowed, "I do," for better or worse you thought you knew what "worse" meant. Now, you realize it can actually mean unimaginable. You have been betrayed and the effects can be devastating.
Thankfully, there is hope if you are in this situation. While homosexuality or sexual impurity in a marriage certainly produces a crisis, it may be that with the "secret" becoming known, the marriage has opportunity to survive.
Has fierce loyalty to your spouse, as well as shame, insecurity and embarrassment kept you from sharing with family and friends? You are not alone! Please consider joining our discipleship, support group where you can experience support in a safe environment with biblical guidance, prayer and encouragement for your healing journey.
Meetings are held on the first Saturday of each month from 9:00am to 11:00am at the His Way Out Ministries office. Facilitated by Ginny Mitchell, topics/teachings and group discussion include: Dynamics of Disclosure, Admitting Fears, Angry - But Not Stuck, and much, much more! The next meeting will be held on Saturday, January 2nd beginning at 9:00am.
For information, or to register your interest in taking part in this life-changing experience, please contact His Way Out Ministries at (661) 321-9551 or email us.
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What Does the Bible Say About Homosexuality?
Free 36min MP3
Listen online to a presentation by Pastor Phillip Lee to the congregation of Parkside Church on the subject What Does the Bible Say About Homosexuality? You can Listen Online to the 6.2 MB, 36min, MP3 at this link.
Give it a few moments to begin downloading and it will play. Windows 95/98 users make sure your Windows Media Player (or other MP3 software) is up to date. Right-click and choose "Save Target As..." to save it on your computer. (If Internet Explorer attempts to save as .mpga you can change it to an .mp3 file type.) You can then play it later or copy it to any MP3 portable player.
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His Way Out Teaching Modules
Begining March 6, 2010
Homosexuality and the Church - March, 6, 13, 20, 27
- Why has the issue of homosexuality been so divisive to the Church?
- How does God want us to see gay people?
- Who should we welcome into the Church?
- Where can I find the Scriptures on homosexuality?
- What sends an ex-gay person back into the old lifestyle?
- What do ex-gay people want to tell the Church?
Now, It's Personal! - May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, June 5
- How do I as a parent, a pastor, a friend, a Christian, respond to an individual confessing
they are gay?
- What do we know about homosexuality?
- Is homosexuality inborn?
- Is there a difference between acceptance and approval?
- As a parent, how do I go on after learning of my child's homosexuality?
- My husband is gay. Do I stay in the marriage?
- What are the most common pro-gay arguments?
- Where do we go from here?
Reaching Gay Youth - July 10, 17, 24, 31, August 7, 14
- So, what does a friendship with a "gay youth" look like?
- "I can change? How long is this going to take?"
- How do I begin a dialog with a gay youth?
- "What if people think I'm gay?"
- Want to connect with a youth? Be authentic.
Understanding Homosexuality - September 11, 18, 25, October 2, 9, 16
- Can homosexuals really change?
- How do I combat pro-gay arguments?
- How long does change take?
- Is there any scientific evidence to support the practice of homosexuality?
- Will the person become heterosexual?
- What are the root causes of homosexuality?
Sexual Purity? November 6, 13, 20
- Why is maintaining sexual purity so vital to the life of a Christian?
- What constitutes sexual immorality?
- How can a Christian walk in purity when temptation seems to be around every corner?
- Sexual purity? Shouldn't that be one way to recognize a Christian today?
All His Way Out Ministries "Teaching Modules" are designed and dedicated to raising awareness, educating and encouraging the Body of Christ to minister to those who struggle with homosexuality. As well, offering encouragement and support to individual strugglers, families and churches impacted by homosexuality. All Teaching Modules will be facilitated at Chester Avenue Community Church in Bakersfield, CA.
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Now on DVD and VHS Tape
Homosexuality and the Reality of Change
"We recently received, and watched, the video you sent us. It was excellent. We will be sharing it with other people at our church. One part that especially ministered to us was when Pastor Lee said from Philippians 1:6 that God is never going to give up His job of working in our life to conform us to the image of Christ. It helps makes sense of life's trials." Thank you for your ministry...Tom & Catherine
Homosexuality and the Reality of Change presents a biblical perspective on homosexual behavior with honesty and compassion. This 50 minute video contains information on: Can Homosexuals Really Change?, Will the Person Become Heterosexual?, How Long Does Change Take?, Exposing the Roots of Homosexuality, HIV and AIDS, Biblical and Scientific Evidence for Change, and much, much more.
This video is an excellent resource for teachers, churches, pastors, support group leaders, or anyone desiring a clear, comprehensive understanding of homosexuality.
The Good News of Jesus Christ and His love, acceptance, and forgiveness, His power to heal and restore has brought hope to many struggling with homosexuality. If you know someone struggling with same-gender attractions Homosexuality and the Reality of Change can help.
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Videos are available on DVD and VHS for only $19.95.
Use the Menu on the left to order using PayPal
or call us at 661-321-9551
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Check out the trailer on Vimeo!
If you have a slow internet connection, try the link below:
Reality of Change - Small Video
2min 38sec, 1.3MB, QT.mov (will open in a new window or tab)
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IT'S ABOUT LIFE
Food Ministry to Those Impacted by AIDS
AIDS profoundly impacts one's life whether that person has been infected by it or they are a family member or a friend of someone who has. The social stigmas, fears and especially the "aloneness" associated with AIDS makes it oppressive to live with. "IT'S ABOUT LIFE" is a crucial part of His Way Out Ministries. Because His Way Out Ministries is committed to compassionately communicating God's heart through a caring Christian community, His Way Out Ministries will be a receiving house for non-perishable food items. This will assist those with AIDS to maintain a balanced diet and good nutrition. Two major considerations in food donations for folks with AIDS are speed and ease of preparation. An appetite sometimes doesn't last long and the item has to be readily accessible and speedily prepared for the patient to be able to enjoy it.
We invite churches, companies, ministries, corporations, individuals, and the entire City of Bakersfield to join with us in caring. Offer your support by donating the below listed items.
| Canned tuna | Canned soups |
| Canned ravioli | Canned pasta products (e.g. SpaghettiO's) |
| Hamburger Helper | Peanut butter |
| Jams and jellies | Breakfast cereals |
| Breakfast bars | Fruit cocktail |
| Canned peaches | Top Ramen |
| Cup o' Noodle soups | Canned potatoes |
| Canned corn | Macaroni and cheese mixes |
| Rice 'o Roni type mixes | Chili beans |
| Tomato paste, Tomato sauce | Spaghetti sauce |
| Potted meats | Canned stews |
| Instant potato mixes (e.g. scalloped) | Instant oatmeal variety packs |
| Kleenex | Paper towels |
| Toilet paper | Popsicles (not frozen) |
| Instant breakfast drinks | Spaghetti |
His Way Out Ministries is located in The Haberfelde Building in downtown Bakersfield, California; 1412 17th Street, Suite 313. Items will be distributed in cooperation with other outreaches in our community. This is a continuous, on-going ministry. For further information, please call (661) 321-9551. God Bless You for your giving.
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His Way Out Ministries
Services
- Consultations
- Family Support Group
- Individual Prayer Ministry
- "Time Out" Discipleship Series
- Ministry Support Network
- Speakers available to address Christian groups
- "Moving On" Advanced/Closed Support Groups
- "It's About Life" Ministry to Those Impacted by AIDS
His Way Out Ministries is a referral ministry of Exodus International and continues to enjoy a strong ministry partnership with Exodus Global Alliance partnering with EGA in the development of ex-gay ministry in the Caribbean.
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