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In a recent article in World, Lynn Vincent argues that “While the American Psychological Association and establishment gay-rights groups still deny that people can change from gay to straight, several faith-based and secular programs for struggling homosexuals are reporting the same phenomenon—that by normalizing homosexuality in the culture, gay activists have de-stigmatized their lifestyle, and in doing so, have freed those fighting same-sex attraction to seek help without shame.”
For example, Exodus International, a Christian outreach to gays and lesbians seeking change, has seen a dramatic shift in the types of people interested in their ministry. Since it formed its Exodus Church Network in 2006, Exodus has seen more than 70 churches planted. The purpose of these churches is to give local support to those seeking freedom from homosexuality.
The new openness is helping not only those looking to leave homosexuality, but also Christians who are battling homosexual urges but have never acted on them. It is okay to struggle with such issues and allow God’s Word to penetrate one’s life and bring the victory over this type of sexual sin. Indeed, I believe it is time for the church to develop a strategy on how to minister to homosexuals in this increasingly open and inclusive culture,
In 1985 Don Baker published a book, Beyond Rejection, which chronicles the story of Jerry, who struggled with homosexuality from his childhood, through seminary and into marriage. It provides a needed window into the extreme difficulties of this struggle and yet the hope provided by Jesus Christ. It is must reading for the church, for it provides the balance of truth and compassion so needed on this issue. Based on the balance brought by this book, let me suggest several action points for dealing with the reality of homosexuality in our culture:
- Remember that to the homosexual subculture, evangelicals are the enemy! Because the Bible speaks so clearly on this issue and evangelicals reflect that truth, there is no room for compromise or discussion. Patience, love and compassion are needed as relationships are developed.
- Remember that homosexuality is a sin. But it is not the “worst” sin. God’s grace is completely sufficient to deal with this bondage but, although scandalous, it is not singularly worse than others.
- Unconditional love is an absolute requirement in ministry with those in bondage to this sin. Compassion, empathy, patience and commitment for the long haul are necessary prerequisites. The reality is that many will fall back into the lifestyle, even after conversion to Jesus Christ. That is why organizations like “Exodus International” are so critical. A ready-made support group of encouragers and accountability are central to this organization’s ministry.
- Repentance must always be the goal. There must be the complete break with the past and with the lifestyle. There is no compromise or middle-ground available. Here again, “Exodus International” is so central to ministering to the homosexual.
There is no sign that the homosexual issue will subside in the culture war raging in Western Civilization. Somehow the church of Jesus Christ must be able with one hand to declare that this lifestyle is morally and ethically wrong, while with the other reach out with the hand of love, acceptance, and compassion. Only God, working through His Spirit to enable the church, can accomplish this most difficult and seemingly impossible task.
See World (9, 16 February 2008), pp. 50-51 and James P. Eckman, Christian Ethics in a Postmodern World, pp. 49-50.
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