The following offers a capsule of one of my conversations with a gay activist.

Gay-activist: We have liberals, the press, and society on our side. You have neither the faith nor the strength to fight us, so you might as well just surrender now. We have no intention of stopping until every Christian is discredited and silenced.

Me: Careful. You are messing with the wrong Christian.

Gay-activist: Whoa! Didn’t Jesus tell you to turn the other cheek?

Me: Yes, He did. However, when it comes down to fighting for lost souls, standing in the gap, and speaking the truth about sexual sin, I will not cower in the face of homosexual intimidation. I will endure your harsh rhetoric, insults, and threats but I will not sidestep either truth or grace being purposed to speak clear truth about this issue and extend grace toward every person – yourself included.

Passivity and Silence = Surrender

There is no doubt, much of American culture and the Church has been consumed by the grip of political correctness with regard to homosexuality and related issues. Any public expression of disagreement with any aspect of the homosexual movement, or with homosexuality itself, is met with accusations of homophobia and verbal gay-bashing.

The relentless quest by gay activists is a non-stop crusade for acceptance and to gain society’s stamp of approval on homosexual behavior. Even within the Church, the right to withhold affirmation and the right to believe that homosexuality is not on a moral par with heterosexuality remains under constant bombardment.

The strategy of shifting the debate about homosexuality away from religious beliefs and psychology by pro-gay activists to the realms of human rights and social justice has been and continues to be nothing short of genius. Equally within the realm of genius has been the relentless pro-gay camp campaign and strategy of portraying homosexuality as a condition and not a problem. This component of the strategic pro-gay agenda has evolved to same-sex attraction not needing to be fixed but rather to the mode of acceptance and approval.

Today, while a segment of the Church continues to consciously and deliberately avoid the subject of homosexuality, God, however, is not silent and has never been silent. As true faithful followers of Christ Jesus, we take the Bible in its entirety or not at all. We do not have the luxury of randomly selecting portions of Scripture and discarding the rest. God’s Word is not a thing that a person can push around at their convenience. The Bible is a Voice, a Word, the very Word of the living God.

The Church must call homosexual practice sin, and that will remain offensive to many. We cannot water down God’s Word. There is no doubt our courage will be tested, there will even be times when some must stand alone and defend what is right. As Paul said to Timothy: “At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me.” (2 Timothy 4:16)

Today, maybe more than ever, a true faithful follower of Christ Jesus has crucified his rights and is willing to be completely and fully led by God’s Spirit. He fears God, that is, he has a healthy awe and respect for God and does not take God lightly. We, as God’s people, should not be out to advance the claims of a church, of a nation, of an ideology, but of Jesus Himself. There can be no true compassion, integrity, and outreach if the Name, the teachings, the promises, the life, the death, the resurrection, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit are not proclaimed – and, proclaimed to the virtually untouched mission field around the world called “the gay community”.

What is stopping so many today in defending the Authority of Scripture with regard to homosexual practice? Is it fear of being beaten in an argument? Fear of not knowing what to say? Fear of messing it all up? Such fears are groundless. Christians are not in the business of “winning the argument”.

People are not argued into the Kingdom of God. What is eloquent and pierces a heart and soul is the personal testimony of someone whose life has been transformed by Christ. This is exactly what excites and captivates the imagination and interest. Not being well versed or educated on the subject of homosexuality is no excuse for remaining silent. We each have our own story to tell.

I would submit the calamity and dilemma many professing Christians face today with regard to homosexuality is not unlike a time when Elijah spoke and said: “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal is God, follow him.” But the people said nothing. (1 Kings 18:21)

Today, more than ever, we are in need of Christians that will not sidestep truth or grace but offer crystal clear truth on a host of issues, including homosexuality, toward every person. Frankly, this is exactly what the Church was called to be from the beginning and it is exactly what people are looking for today. It is a Church just like this that saved my life.

Many know and understand the importance and significance of reaching the un-reached peoples of the world for Christ Jesus. What about the un-reached homosexual population? We, the Christian community, have a lot to learn about bringing Jesus to the gays and lesbians who hopefully will one day knock at the doors of our churches. How about, “If you struggle with homosexuality and feel trapped – there is hope! Come on into Church and investigate the roots and causes of your struggle with homosexuality. We will walk with you as you look past the surface, deep into your heart, and consider God’s will for your life.”

It is the clarity of the Holy Scriptures that should compel each and every faithful follower of Christ Jesus to be a light where there is darkness, rather than hiding our witness from those who need it.

Luke 6:45 tells us, “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” If we truly care about the eternal destination of a multitude of men and women, snared and deceived by the brokenness of same-sex attraction, we will not be silent.

Silence cannot and must not be an option

The welfare of individuals, families, and the Church as a whole depends on our facing reality honestly, compassionately, and courageously.

The Bible is not unclear. We have not been given a muffled message. To be able to refute unsound doctrine we must be able to listen to others and separate the truth from the lie and the Gospel from secular humanism.

Silence implies consent

Many who experience, if not suffer discrimination today, are individuals who do not withhold but rather insist on speaking the “truth” about sexual immorality. In America, we have strayed so far from “truth” on what constitutes healthy sexuality, anyone challenging or standing up for “truth”, righteousness and holiness will be hated.

Hate ideology in its purest form

“If the world hates you, know that it has hated Me before it hated you.” (John 15:8)

Let the world change its beliefs with regard to sexual expression but a Christian must not. Let others close their eyes and their mouths to moral concerns, but Christians must not. True, faithful followers of all the teachings of Christ Jesus must continue to live with conviction, commitment, and constancy.

When a Christian individual, family, ministry, or church offers a blend of uncompromised grace and “truth” they are well-positioned to offer dynamic ministry. But what happens when “truth” is withheld?

It is an undeniable fact many in the Church today are consciously and deliberately avoiding the topic of homosexuality. Frankly, gay activists have done their job well in scaring many speechless. I, all too frequently hear excuses such as:

• Homosexuality is just too confusing.

• If I speak about homosexuality I might hurt someone’s feelings.

• Stating gays and lesbians can change seems politically incorrect.

• I just can’t hit that balance of both truth and grace on the topic of homosexuality.

• This subject just rubs too many the wrong way.

I will summarize all of the above in one word – fear.

Fear appears to be guiding far too many. Or is it many have become preoccupied and concerned about personal reputation more than that of Christ Jesus?

It is catastrophic to be held in the “grip of fear” because fear is a formidable barrier to what God desires to accomplish in our lives and in the life of His Church.

God has not given His people a spirit of fear, “…for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

Personally, I have found that those who are so defensive and uptight about the topic of homosexuality usually do not understand the causes of homosexuality, and nor do they see just how their negativity is actually working against the process of recovery that men and women with unwanted same-sex attractions are desperately seeking.

A very popular and important Scripture that is constantly offered to the broken is John 8:32, “you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Question: How will they know the truth and be free if truth is being withheld?

With everything that has transpired and everything that continues to unfold, most Christians still learn more about homosexuality from movies, the Internet, and television than they learn in their own congregations.

Often, hanging in the balance, are many who struggle with same-sex attraction and remain torn by the ongoing rhetoric and debate while yearning to hear the redemptive truth of the Bible.

If we truly love God then we have nothing to fear.

If we truly love God and people, we cannot allow them to live a compromised life of sexual brokenness and sin, unchallenged?

Personally speaking, I learned early on in my new life in Christ Jesus there is no wiggle room with regard to God’s commandments. Consequently, I found healing and wholeness in the Church because “truth” was not withheld from me.

Anyone that does not side fully with the “truth” of the Holy Scriptures regarding homosexual practice while at the same time uncompromisingly extending God’s grace is enabling and contributing to a distorted view of Christianity.

Speak the Scriptural truths regarding homosexual practice.

Silence implies consent

I am compelled to take things further due to the intensity of what is currently coming down the pike.

One might think with all of the accomplishments of gay activists they would be satisfied especially with the achievement of same-sex marriage now being legal throughout America. Not so.

Now the focused push of the gay agenda is a demand for all individuals and institutions to publicly state whether you are for full and unequivocal social and legal equality for LGBT people, or are you against it, with your position and answer to be made known publicly. In other words, neutrality, “love the sinner but hate the sin,” avoiding the subject entirely, or “polite acceptance” will no longer be acceptable or tolerated.

Personally, I remain extremely concerned that most Christians still do not understand what has happened and what is coming.

Tragically, much of the Church has become desensitized by the bombardment and constant flooding of homosexual imagery through homosexual-related messages, media, and people sharing their stories about “gay is good”. It is an undeniable fact that homosexual imagery has influenced many into thinking that it is just another part of life.

We, the Church, are continuing to pay a very high price due to our reluctance, and sometimes fear, in not talking about and educating ourselves on the subject of homosexuality leaving the culture to teach our children and adults in terms of what to think and believe.

With far too many Christians having mostly ignored the extremely detailed and strategic pro-gay manifesto, how is it we are surprised by the effectiveness of their propaganda and relentless campaign? For far too long, we, the Church have been in defense mode, bobbing and weaving just to fend off the impact of the gay rights movement.

Herein lies a personal, and I believe justified concern. Even at this late hour of the pro-gay campaign, most Christians are still failing to see the reality of what has happened and what is on its way. To date, many individual Christians and churches have been bombarded by unprecedented pressure, both legally and socially, to capitulate to the “gay is good” notion.

While it certainly remains possible to resist any notion or theology that flies in the face of God’s Word that homosexual practice, in any form and to any degree, is acceptable to God, Christian ethics and conduct, resistance will no longer occur without paying a high price.

A time of intense testing is underway. Standing upon and remaining faithful to the Truth and Authority of Scripture regarding God’s intent for human sexuality, is going to cost. Sadly, there will be those choosing to deny the Truth and Authority of Scripture regarding homosexual practice to avoid any and all conflict. Consciously choosing to avoid, set aside, dismiss or avoid God’s Word regarding homosexual practice will not bring clarity.

“The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits.” (1 Timothy 4:1)

Truth must be spoken and it must be spoken with compassion, understanding, and the knowledge that truth often cuts extremely deep before it can begin to bring about healing and wholeness. Ultimately, faithful followers of Christ Jesus must speak the truth about homosexuality because it is truth alone that will bring about freedom and wholeness.

Many years ago, it was Christians, speaking both truth and grace into my life that made all the difference. I would not be here today without them. My particular sin and brokenness were not overlooked but rather talked about openly and in conjunction with many, many other sins. For the first time in my life, I began to be who God created me to be which, by the way, also included loving even the broken parts as He did and does.

Jesus said, “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14)

When we embrace the truth of Scripture without compromise, Jesus empowers us to walk in His purposes.

Truthless grace accomplishes nothing

The faithful to and for God must indeed count the cost of remaining faithful and unwavering to His Word. The days forward will require strength and resolve as continued heat and pressure will continue and intensify.

Indeed, there are deep, critical, and vital issues before us today with raging political theological currents doing their utmost to submerge the Church. Clearly, real and vital issues about the healing and transformation of sexual brokenness have and continue to sharply divide with many lives hanging in the balance.

We, the Church, will not serve humanity, unity, or the cause of Christ Jesus by ignoring the differences that exist or by sticking our heads in the sand. We must not allow emotion or the present political climate to dictate to the Church what we believe nor what we do to further God’s Kingdom.

The time is very, very near where many must decide whether or not they will continue to travel the narrow road with Jesus.

Neutrality will no longer be acceptable

The ultimate issue for the homosexual is the same as it is for every individual. Where do they stand? Are they dead in sin or alive in Christ?

Therefore, we must not withdraw, we must not be silent.

Passivity and silence = surrender

Pastor Phillip Lee
Executive Director
His Way Out Ministries

His Way Out has been faithfully ministering to men and women seeking a way out of sexually broken lifestyles since 1994. We could not do it without the support of Christians like you. Every dollar that you give to His Way Out Ministries helps to further this vital ministry. Won’t you take a minute to prayerfully consider a monthly donation to His Way Out? Please consider making a one-time donation or set up a secure monthly PayPal contribution on our donation page at https://www.hiswayout.com/donate/. Thank you, Pastor Phillip Lee

20160821

What is causing so many men and women to radically dismiss and depart 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.”

Today, far too many are banking their entire being on, “Well, since God is love, how can any form of sexual expression be unacceptable to Him?” 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?

Meaning, we have a healthy awe and respect for God and we do not take God lightly.

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 Corinthians 6:16-18)

Considering God’s promises, every Christ-follower is to pursue godliness and holiness and abstain from anything and everything that seeks to contaminate body and spirit.

It is this call to holiness by God Himself when He said, “Be holy as I am holy,” (1 Peter 1:16) that must always be the deciding factor. Every Christian should desire to do what is good (Titus 2:14) and not yield to the evil desires of our heart – whether those desires are heterosexual or homosexual in nature.

In 1 Peter 1:22 we are called by God to purify ourselves by obeying the truth. Frankly, even desiring a person to fulfill any form or degree of sexual pleasure is sinful according to Jesus’ definition in His Sermon on the Mount:

“If you look upon a woman to lust after her, you have already committed sin in your heart.” (Matthew 5:28)

Far too many men and women have tragically bought into the lie that they can never be free from sexual and relational brokenness. That is not true. Every person in the throes of any addiction will say, “I feel this desire is so strong that I don’t believe I will ever be able to get rid of it.”

But the truth is The Scriptures say you can be free.

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm then and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1)

Without a doubt, Scripture provides overwhelming evidence that any man or woman that may have been practicing any number of unhealthy behaviors contrary to God’s Word and His Will can find forgiveness, freedom, and restoration. But, where does that man or woman in tremendous need of God’s mercy and grace begin?

Where does the journey to wholeness begin?

It begins by setting ourselves in agreement with God that all Scripture is for our well-being and was divinely given to the prophets of old without error in its original delivery. The Bible is not some collection of man-made myths or opinions. Yes, we do follow both the red and black print embracing the truth that since God is all-knowing; He is trying to protect us from unseen danger.

Therefore, what you and I think, what you and I feel, must always take a back seat to whom God is and what He has clearly stated.

Having a personal relationship with Christ Jesus and embracing Scripture in its entirety, enables us to fight from a position of victory and not defeat.

Pastor Phillip Lee
Executive Director
His Way Out Ministries

His Way Out has been faithfully ministering to men and women seeking a way out of sexually broken lifestyles since 1994. We could not do it without the support of Christians like you. Every dollar that you give to His Way Out Ministries helps to further this vital ministry. Won’t you take a minute to prayerfully consider a monthly donation to His Way Out? Please consider making a one-time donation or set up a secure monthly PayPal contribution on our donation page at https://www.hiswayout.com/donate/. Thank you, Pastor Phillip Lee

20160827

When our path crosses with a struggling youth, we need to be open to partnering with the Lord to help turn the tide in his or her life. During adolescence, most people determine the morals and personal identity they will embrace for the remainder of their life. Likewise, much confusion and challenges will take place before any semblance of clarity comes. This is all the more true for youth deciding their sexual identity. Studies have shown that vast numbers of youth entering adolescence are uncertain about their sexual orientation, but few exiting the teenage years remain ambiguous. Therefore, the teenage years are a crucial period for the Church of Jesus Christ to speak to youth tempted by homosexuality and educate each young person regarding the Truth of Scripture regarding the practice of homosexuality. Without a doubt, offering a right and true perspective will not only make a difference to a gay youth, it will distinguish Christians quite a bit from others he or she will encounter.

Homosexuality is a symptom of a spiritual and relational problem. Therefore, simply stopping the behavior is not really getting to the root of what is making the person “feel different.” For the Christian trying to minister to a gay youth, consider asking these questions: Does the young person experience a lot of rejection by others? Is the teen uncomfortable with his gender? Does he spurn others of the same-sex, refusing to hang out with anyone other than a gay friend? Is the youth afraid of meeting new people, attending social gatherings, etc.? Is she overly critical or fearful of men? Is the teen envious of certain characteristics which others of the same-sex have that he does not? For many trying to reach or reason with a youth struggling with same-gender attraction, the question of, “What if people think that I’m gay?” often surfaces. Three words, “Get over it!”

Be concerned more with character rather than reputation.

If a teen senses you are uncomfortable talking about homosexuality, you will lose credibility with them.

Today, a multitude struggling with various addictions, compulsive behaviors, and habits, are all asking the same question: How long will change take? For any individual, youth, or adult struggling with homosexuality, the good news is that homosexual activity may stop as soon as the decision is made to no longer participate. But since homosexual feelings have become closely associated with the youth’s unmet needs, whether real or perceived for emotional intimacy, God most likely will not take away the feelings because He does not take away our needs – instead He helps us meet our needs. The underlying issues that fuel same-gender attraction take time to work through. Herein lies, I believe, why so many youths have become influenced and bought into the notion that even homosexual feelings and desires cannot be resolved. Hence, “I’m just here for you to help me control and manage it,” is often the expectation and attitude of the struggling young person.

It is imperative that we inspire faith in those to whom we minister. In my experience, the ones I have known who have successfully left homosexuality are those who have relinquished control of their lives to the Holy Spirit. Clearly, there is a level of surrender required to resolve any form of sexual and relational brokenness, including homosexuality, that many are unwilling to offer. Only God can bring about the changes the youth desires.

While I have met and continue to meet with youth who are determined to resolve the issues of their sexuality, most feel too inadequate, lack motivation, and do not have an individual structured in their life to help them through the process of healing and wholeness. Any Christian can emphasize to the hurting that there is hidden need within the heart of everyone that an intimate relationship with God can fill. Reaching gay youth is something we all can do and must do to help searching youth understand God’s abundant plans for their lives and to counteract the pro-gay agenda that desires to ruin all hope for the youth. No one is doomed to be gay, and we may be the only person that will have the courage to share the Good News with a youth struggling with same-gender attraction.

While it is easy enough to become cynical about the times in which we live, remember when God is put in the equation of life, a hope that does not disappoint rises with us. It is true that the number of teens embracing homosexuality has become alarming, but we should trust God and reach out to gay youth with the message of salvation and sexual redemption available through the Lord Jesus Christ.

Consider the impact of one individual or one family mentoring one youth struggling with same-sex attraction for a year. Change starts by one person or by one family mentoring a youth. It starts with one person loving another.

If you know Jesus, you are a candidate to be a champion for change in the life of a youth and the world.

Pastor Phillip Lee
Executive Director
His Way Out Ministries

His Way Out has been faithfully ministering to men and women seeking a way out of sexually broken lifestyles since 1994. We could not do it without the support of Christians like you. Every dollar that you give to His Way Out Ministries helps to further this vital ministry. Won’t you take a minute to prayerfully consider a monthly donation to His Way Out? Please consider making a one-time donation or set up a secure monthly PayPal contribution on our donation page at https://www.hiswayout.com/donate/. Thank you, Pastor Phillip Lee

20160813

Today, much of American culture has been consumed by the grip of political correctness with regard to homosexuality and related issues. Any public expression of disagreement with any aspect of the homosexual movement, or with homosexuality itself, is met with accusations of homophobia and verbal gay-bashing. The relentless quest by gay activists is a non-stop crusade for acceptance and to gain society’s stamp of approval on homosexual behavior. Even within the Church, the right to withhold affirmation and the right to believe that homosexuality is not on a moral par with heterosexuality remains under constant bombardment.

The strategy of shifting the debate about homosexuality away from religious beliefs and psychology by pro-gay activists to the realms of human rights and social justice has been and continues to be nothing short of genius. Equally within the realm of genius has been the relentless pro-gay camp campaign and strategy of portraying homosexuality as a condition and not a problem. This component of the strategic pro-gay agenda has evolved to same-sex attraction not needing to be fixed but rather to the mode of acceptance and approval.

Tragically, much of the Church has become desensitized by the bombardment and constant flooding of homosexual imagery through homosexual-related messages, media, and people sharing their stories about ‘gay is good.’ It is an undeniable fact that homosexual imagery has influenced many into thinking that it is just another part of life.

We, the Church, are continuing to pay a very high price due to our reluctance, and sometimes fear, in not talking about and educating ourselves on the subject of homosexuality leaving the culture to teach our children and adults in terms of what to think and believe.

With far too many Christians having mostly ignored the extremely detailed and strategic pro-gay manifesto, how is it we are surprised by the effectiveness of their propaganda and relentless campaign? For far too long, we, the Church have been in the defense-mode, bobbing and weaving just to fend off the impact of the gay rights movement.

The gay-Christian movement is picking up momentum due to the reinventing of Scripture. It goes something like this: “Revising the Scriptures on homosexuality is appropriate and correct because in light of new scientific evidence, we now understand that people are born that way. Therefore, homosexual behavior and relationships should be endorsed.”

Frankly, both condemning and endorsing homosexuality miss the mark. A huge and significant shift needs to take place. The question is, “Are we, the Church, willing to turn that high-powered perception upon ourselves and ask ourselves some very hard questions?”

* Are we willing to take responsibility for harsh words or inappropriate actions and apologize for any wrongs we may have committed out of ignorance?

* Are we willing to share the Scriptural truths about homosexuality such as: No one is born with same-sex attraction and change is possible?

* Do we, the Church, truly see ourselves as God’s vehicle to reach wounded, broken, hurting humanity – which includes the sexually and relationally broken?

* Are, we, the Church, truly willing to educate ourselves on the complexities of same-sex attraction thereby dismantling the many lies and replacing them with the Scriptural truths about homosexuality?

In other words, might we, the Church, become much more proactive in educating and equipping ourselves regarding true Christian ministry to those with unwanted same-sex attraction? In doing so, we would move from the defense mode of the past several decades to reversing the current tide through understanding and education. I would submit that the real enemy we face today is ignorance and fear.

According to Scripture, there can never be any justification for treating homosexuality as morally equivalent to heterosexuality. That said, we, the Church, are being asked to lower the bar on the clarity of Scripture with regard to homosexual practice which ultimately means faithful followers of Christ Jesus are being asked to set themselves in direct opposition to moral values clearly outlined in God’s Word.

Today, as the saying goes, “The ball is squarely in our court.” We, the Church, cannot and we must not underestimate ourselves. We, the Church, hold the only answer there is to the crisis of homosexuality. In other words, “Are we willing to be the change we wish to see in the world?”

If we, the Church, truly desire to see current trends change regarding homosexuality and the many related issues, our response requires a combination of compassion and understanding. Scripture is abundantly clear in that homosexual practice is only one of the many types of behavior condemned in the Bible. Therefore, to condemn homosexuality really is an expression of compassion because it seeks to warn, if not rescue those snared by the brokenness of same-sex attraction.

I still believe in and have every confidence in the Church’s ability, through Christ, to lovingly communicate to the sexually broken that God’s mercy and grace are sufficient for transformation.

The key is education, education, education!

We are all in this work together through Christ!

May God help us on that day when we are asked to give an account of how we responded to the difficult issue of homosexuality so that we might hear Him, say,

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:21

Pastor Phillip Lee
Executive Director
His Way Out Ministries

His Way Out has been faithfully ministering to men and women seeking a way out of sexually broken lifestyles since 1994. We could not do it without the support of Christians like you. Every dollar that you give to His Way Out Ministries helps to further this vital ministry. Won’t you take a minute to prayerfully consider a monthly donation to His Way Out? Please consider making a one-time donation or set up a secure monthly PayPal contribution on our donation page at https://www.hiswayout.com/donate/. Thank you, Pastor Phillip Lee

20160721

When I originally offered the article titled, “You Won’t Blow Up!” which focused on the subject of “celibacy” and how the God-given mandate and calling for single men and women goes against the normal flow of our culture, a culture which promotes a love of pleasure and self-indulgence. The article caused quite a stir resulting in my hearing from many via email, Facebook and by phone.

For the most part, the majority of people that contacted me agreed with the content of the article but there was an element with some communicating, “Celibacy? Get real, Phillip!”

Admittedly, the complacency, the disbelief and the outright disregard of any possibility of any man or woman living within God’s holy boundary lines with regard to sexual expression deeply troubled and troubles me. Troubling because Jesus could not have been more clear in defining if a person is not married the only acceptable option with God is celibacy. For the single person, celibacy is a good thing and should be our only choice if we want to live according to God’s word and plan.

There is no doubt the winds of social change continue to blowing aimlessly and carelessly across America with emphasis being placed upon “tolerance” – which is to be extended to everyone and anyone without limitation and to any and all kinds of sexual expression.

I have a couple of questions, please.

Is there nothing wrong with sex as long as it is consensual?

And if there is something wrong, what is it?

Does it really come down to a matter of personal taste, of private sentiment and personal choice?

Have we become a nation that gains our sense of purpose and meaning primarily from our sexual desires and behavior?

The reality of an across-the-board crisis of sexual and relational brokenness in America and The Church clearly points to an increasing inability, as a society, to make healthy and moral distinctions. Even those who place a high premium on tolerance are obligated to recognize that matters of various sexual lifestyles now threatens the very values and institutions on which a solid and vital society is built and sustained.

What matters morally should and must be determined on the basis of our best understanding about what constitutes human well-being. Today, more than ever, responsible American citizens and faithful followers of Christ Jesus should place under the microscope, a moral gaze on their sexual behavior.

Clearly, not every American or Christian is willing or responsive enough to such an obligation. What’s more, they do not want anyone to hold them responsible. Those who have the self-respect to recognize that a person is not reducible to his or her desires or behavior truly exhibit a concern for social justice, personal responsibility, a care and concern for a healthy and holy Church, and a true love for this nation which seeks nothing higher than the welfare of people.

How is it in choosing to dismiss and disregard a moral compass, we are shocked by the state of our culture? 
Even so, shocked at what has happened and continues to spread in the Church?

Speaking as someone that was trapped for many years in a behavior and lifestyle, thinking there was no way out, I completely understand how anyone might have difficulty in believing in and receiving God’s forgiveness, restoration, and the holding on to “God does have a much, much better way!”

“But Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)

God remains rich in mercy and remains willing to deliver anyone.

“He is forever our great Sin-bearer and the God who forgives.” (Psalm 99:8)

Jesus Christ is the only Alternative, Solution and Answer.

He addresses the problem – man limited to self – and provides the way through which we can find fulfillment in Him.

America is in need of huge and immediate change. I believe the Church should be out front by showing the way to bring it about. If things continue in this wonderful nation as they have, America and the Church will remain adrift without a moral compass.

There was a time when the Church set societal standards. We cannot and we must not apologize for moral and ethical “holy boundary lines” for living. All faithful followers of Christ Jesus are called to a higher standard.

It is absolutely essential we return to pinning our faith to, and subject “all” our thinking to and doing to, 
what we read in the Bible.

The 138th Psalm says, “I will praise your name for your loving kindness and your truth, for you have magnified your word about your name.”

Obviously, God thinks highly of His name – but He has magnified His Word even about His name – and so should we all.

If America and the Church continues, in so many ways, to disregard, downplay and dismiss “the spiritual with regard to God’s divine intent for human sexuality,” sexuality will rule and reign supreme.

When the moral question has been offered, considered and answered, then, and only then, can we truly deal with the moral decay that exists in American society, the Church and the world. Until then, we are adrift without a moral compass.

Pastor Phillip Lee
Executive Director
His Way Out Ministries

His Way Out has been faithfully ministering to men and women seeking a way out of sexually broken lifestyles since 1994. We could not do it without the support of Christians like you. Every dollar that you give to His Way Out Ministries helps to further this vital ministry. Won’t you take a minute to prayerfully consider a monthly donation to His Way Out? Please consider making a one-time donation or set up a secure monthly PayPal contribution on our donation page at https://www.hiswayout.com/donate/. Thank you, Pastor Phillip Lee

20160728

Celibacy.
Ok, there. I said it!

I suppose I should pause right here and apologize for not giving more advance warning knowing many are in immediate need of an endless supply of oxygen for resuscitation purposes.

While many continue to preach, “If it feels good do it!” and “Since everyone is doing it and doing it behind closed doors (well, some anyway), Go for it!” let me begin by stating that if you choose not to have sex “You won’t blow up!”

You will be OK. Life will go on.

Today, more than ever, single men and women (straight or gay) face a relentless onslaught of pressure and challenges daily. Ultimately, we are all in a battle to stay pure in a very impure world. The music industry, news media, educational system, TV and the Internet are keeping all of us completely saturated in a lust-filled atmosphere. Frankly, many today are far more interested and concerned with pleasing themselves outside of God’s will, plan and purpose and simply do not trust Him enough to supply all of their needs. In America, especially, “feeling good” has become a narcotic – a drug of choice.

You know, I have accepted the fact that as long as I am on this earth – single or not – I will be engaged in combating something. The undeniable truth is that my flesh will always be at war with the Spirit of God in me. “For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things you wish.” (Galatians 5:17)

As a single man, called to a life that involves going against the normal flow of our culture, a culture which promotes a love of pleasure and self-indulgence, I remain a man called and commanded by Christ Jesus to strive for purity. Now, if that sounds like too much of a tall order, remember Jesus will never ask anything of us that is impossible for us to obey.

I’ll give that just a moment to sink in.

When anyone, gay or straight, makes the conscious choice to stray beyond God’s holy boundary lines in terms of sexual expression, we bring terrible consequences upon ourselves by our rebellion and disobedience. Sexual sin of any type or any degree causes an immediate dividing wall between our spirit and God’s. God doesn’t create the dividing wall, our sinful behavior does. With so many today exclaiming their desire to be delivered from a considerable list of habits, addictions and compulsive behaviors, I just can’t help but believe the reason God does not deliver us from particular sins that are a concern to us is that we remain unwilling to cooperate with Him in delivering us from other sins that He has already made known to us.

And, while I am defining “holy boundary lines,” let me be thorough and fair. Any perversion beyond God’s original divine intent for human sexuality which includes adultery, prostitution, promiscuity, homosexuality, and more, is thoroughly and repeatedly condemned in Scripture (1 Corinthians 6:9; Romans 13:13; Galatians 5:19-21). Therefore, in terms of the single man or woman, Jesus could not have been more clear in defining if a person is not married the only acceptable option with God is celibacy. For the single person, celibacy is a good thing and should be our only choice if we want to live according to God’s word and plan.

While the world continues to encourage every and any type of sexual expression under the sun, I wonder, has remaining celibate become so obsolete because we have become so enlightened in our understanding of human sexuality? I think not.

May I be frank? A little over 30 years ago, I made a real commitment to follow Jesus. Have I had to face my share of intense temptation? Duh? But, I made a promise. Rather than caving in to complete despair because of the battle or desires of my flesh, I have always held on to the fact there was strength (overcoming strength) and hope because Jesus promised me that I would never, ever be forsaken or snatched from His hand (John 10:28).

I assure you the Lord Jesus Christ will keep anyone who wants to be kept.

“Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37)

We have become far too impatient with things that take time. Today, we even want our own personal deliverance to be micro waved. Relax and enjoy the journey! I guarantee you every faithful follower of Christ Jesus is “continuing to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling.” (Philippians 2:12)

Yes, in the midst of such a decadent culture, you have hope. Psalm 119:9-11 tells us, “How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your Word. With all my heart I have sought You; do not let me wander from Your commandments. Your Word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You.”

May you have the courage, conviction and commitment to do what is right in His sight.

Given the fact you have completed reading this and have not blown up!

Pastor Phillip Lee
Executive Director
His Way Out Ministries

His Way Out has been faithfully ministering to men and women seeking a way out of sexually broken lifestyles since 1994. We could not do it without the support of Christians like you. Every dollar that you give to His Way Out Ministries helps to further this vital ministry. Won’t you take a minute to prayerfully consider a monthly donation to His Way Out? Please consider making a one-time donation or set up a secure monthly PayPal contribution on our donation page at https://www.hiswayout.com/donate/. Thank you, Pastor Phillip Lee

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The Bible teaches that God not only takes care of our past, He transforms our present and assures our future. Scripture clearly shows us that at the Cross God smashed the iron doors which Satan had used to imprison us. Therefore, God Himself literally entered our dark cell of any and all forms of brokenness, held out His Hand to us and encouraged and extended a walk with Him into freedom and change.

Those who suppose that Jesus only lived and died and rose again in order to provide forgiveness of sins for His people, are making Him only half a Savior.

C.H. Spurgeon once said, “the fact is, that believers are in a state of conflict, but not in a state of condemnation; and that at the very time when the conflict is the hottest, the believer is still justified.”

In life, in death, in time, in eternity, there is no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus.

Generally speaking, the Church has not been there for the man or woman seeking a way out of the brokenness of same-sex attraction. Without hearing a message of love, encouragement and support from the Church and/or a testimony from someone who has been there and has been changed, the person attempting change on their own will usually give up, thinking it is impossible like “they say.”

At His Way Out Ministries, we remain purposed and dedicated to bring the message that it is not helpful to the person struggling with same-sex attraction to either endorse his sin or reject him as a person, rather, the Church must provide the new way and the new lifestyle that will replace and push out the old sinful patterns of life.

This is Biblical discipleship with regard to “change” and requires that a person learn new ways of thinking and acting, and new responses to old temptations.

The power to change is not in knowledge of works, the power is all in our relationship with God.

“But seek first His Kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be given you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)

I would submit that each man and each woman is not fighting for future victory, but to embrace more fully Christ’s accomplished victory already won for them at the Cross.

Thank you, Lord Jesus, that You have already smashed the power of homosexuality at the Cross!

Pastor Phillip Lee
Executive Director
His Way Out Ministries

His Way Out has been faithfully ministering to men and women seeking a way out of sexually broken lifestyles since 1994. We could not do it without the support of Christians like you. Every dollar that you give to His Way Out Ministries helps to further this vital ministry. Won’t you take a minute to prayerfully consider a monthly donation to His Way Out? Please consider making a one-time donation or set up a secure monthly PayPal contribution on our donation page at https://www.hiswayout.com/donate/. Thank you, Pastor Phillip Lee

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