Is it because we are living in a state of compromise due to rampant sexual immorality? Is it because many churches think there is no problem with “that issue” in their church? Is it a fear that by extending ministry to “those people” they will attract even more such people?

Here is my concern. By not offering a Biblical response to homosexuality and extending competent ministry to those with unwanted same-sex attraction, a message of – there is no problem with “that issue” in the church, and consequently, there is no help to be had for the brokenness of same-sex attraction.

Anyone that has developed an intimate relationship with God has the capability of being a key figure in the healing process of any sexually broken person. If we will avail ourselves to the sexually broken and believe that God has the willingness and the omnipotence to empower results, we will be witness to, “The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.” (1 John 3:8)

What does a church offering ministry to those with unwanted same-sex attraction look like?

First, the church will challenge the myth that homosexuals cannot change. Many homosexuals have changed their behavior. Many have overcome their desire to engage in homosexual behavior. While logic will not allow us to conclude that all homosexuals can change, logic dictates that many can and do change. Admittedly, pro-gay people will argue that changed homosexuals are only repressing their sexuality. It is important to recognize that repressing any number of sexual drives is healthy both for individuals and for society. The belief that change is impossible is a huge impediment to any man or woman struggling with same-sex attraction beginning the change process. Anything less leaves the individual without hope.

Secondly, the church offering ministry to those with unwanted same-sex attraction will promote hope for change through the Biblical understanding of homosexual practice as sin. It is monumentally important people understand that homosexual behavior is never isolated in the Bible from other sins. When it is mentioned, it is always mentioned with other sins. God tells us through the Bible that homosexuality is wrong, because homosexual behavior is bad for any man or woman. Understanding
this judgment as the action of a loving God who wants the best for us, allows us to surrender to God and begin the process of change. Therefore, rather than judgment, we find the concept of sin to be full of hope.

Thirdly, a church offering ministry to those with unwanted same-sex attraction will offer a warm and welcoming place for those struggling with same-sex attraction. It is hard for those struggling with same-sex attraction to advance in their healing and transformation without becoming a member of a congregation. For their healing and maturing in Christ, former homosexuals must come into a church. Therefore, this requires some understanding of their struggle on the part of other members of a congregation, since those who have struggled with same-sex attraction in the past need to be able to disclose their struggle when they fell the need to share. Also they need to have no fear that revealing their past behavior might jeopardize their standing in the congregation. If people do not know their past, it is possible former homosexuals will doubt their full acceptance in the congregation.

Ultimately, The Church should be a candle in the darkness by offering a place of refuge in the process of transformation.

Admittedly, I do not presume to have all the answers but there is much we know about the causes of same-sex attraction and we also know from Scripture that God has, is and will continue to set men and women free from the snare of same-sex attraction which is clearly presented to us in 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, “…and this is what some of you were.” The promises of God are true and unfailingly fruit-bearing “if” we extend them.

From All of Us at His Way Out Ministries…
His Way Out Ministries is proclaiming to, educating and impacting the world with the biblical truth that freedom from homosexuality is possible when Jesus Christ is Lord of your life. 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