Today, a popular error that has been made and continues to be made by many, is the attempt to blur the lines with regard to Christian ethics making “love” an omnipotent spiritual quality which has the power to validate anything that is done in its name.
Under this particular line of thinking, one could justify any type of sexual relationship, including those considered unacceptable and incompatible with Christian teaching and conduct.
However, Jesus Himself tells us clearly, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” (John 14:15, 15:10; Matthew 19:17) The unfortunate and misleading view that “love” in and of itself validates behavior, has led many to confuse compassion with acceptance of homosexuality.
True love for God is demonstrated and exhibited in our obedience to and for God.
In the face of a very long list of challenges regarding homosexual practice versus The Authority of Scripture, there are those quick to point out that Jesus Himself never addressed the issue. That said, the error of such logic can easily be demonstrated.
Jesus did not directly condemn incest or bestiality either; can, therefore, such practices be considered acceptable? While Jesus did not directly talk about homosexual practice in any form or to any degree, He clearly affirmed the Genesis teaching on the matter of human sexuality. Jesus declared the marriage covenant between man and woman as an unalterable and sacred union. (Matthew 19:4-6)
Those attempting to revise Scripture and trump Biblical injunctions against homosexual practice, avoid one clear and central theme throughout Scripture – the symbolism of marriage itself. As Paul states in Ephesians 5:31-32, “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. This is a great mystery, and I am applying it to Christ and the Church.” Homosexual acts, of any kind or to any degree, are undeniably incompatible with the marriage covenant.
Indeed, God is love – absolutely. But true love has boundaries that protect, guide, and show concern for its recipients. Ultimately, showing support for, and more importantly, standing upon The Authority of Scripture “for marriage between one man and one woman” is not intolerant. If so, then nature itself would be intolerant. Marriage was established by God Himself and as a result, it cannot be redefined by each new generation.
These are perilous times for The Church with regard to homosexuality and the many related issues. Far too much of man’s wisdom now prevails with far too much of God’s wisdom and truth being rewritten and discarded. Today, thankfully, the majority of Christian churches in America continue to view homosexual practice as outside the realm of appropriate Christian conduct.
At His Way Out Ministries, we believe wholeheartedly in the infallibility and Authority of Scripture. His Way Out Ministries balances truth about homosexuality with the compassion of God for homosexual people as revealed through both His Word and His Son.
Nevertheless, the battles continue, as those endeavoring to promote homosexuality seem unwilling to concede any ground, at times defying Biblical and constitutional standards.
Therefore, His Way Out Ministries remains dedicated to raising awareness, educating and encouraging the Body of Christ to minister to those who struggle with unwanted same-sex attraction while being centered on the Biblical foundations of compassion, integrity, and dependence on God.
Pastor Phillip Lee
Executive Director
His Way Out Ministries
www.hiswayout.com