Insight on Homosexuality and Christian Culture
I happen to see the headlines on the internet the other day...
Elton John Wants All Religion Banned
In fairness to Sir Elton John, here's the exact quote:
From my point of view I would ban religion completely, even though there are some wonderful things about it. I love the idea of the teachings of Jesus Christ and the beautiful stories about it, which I loved in Sunday school and I collected all the little stickers and put them in my book. But the reality is that organised religion doesn't seem to work. It turns people into hateful lemmings and it's not really compassionate. The Observer UK
I must say that I halfway agree with Elton John. His point in the article is that Christianity and religion in general has declared war on Homosexuals and Homosexuality.
As you may have picked up while reading my site that I am a Born-Again Evangelical Christian. My theological and moral view on homosexuality is quite clear. I believe what the Bible says. I'll leave the question of is Homosexuality a sin right here.
Where I agree with Elton John is that Christians have for some reason singled out homosexuality as the unpardonable sin. I hear on several occasions the saying "the downfall of every civilization has been the acceptance of homosexuality" and then they point out Rome and Roman orgies as an example.
From a personal standpoint, when I'm with other Christians and a person is pointed out as being a homosexual, the looks on their faces and the fear in their hearts are very clear. People who portray effeminent behaviors are treated with ridicule.
In my travels visiting evangelical churches, I have never met a homosexual. I have never seen a ministry to homosexuals. I have never heard a sermon and reaching out to the homosexual community. I have never heard a preacher stand at the pulpit and condemn homophobes who advocate violence against gays.
Would I ever bring a homosexual friend to church? No. Primarily, I know how the average Christian would react. Most I think would be afraid. The more brave folk would talk to my friend about how he's living in sin and needs to repent from his/her sins.
Tell me if I'm wrong, but if Jesus were walking the earth today, would he be judging a person by their behavior. No, the woman at the well was known for her sleeping around. He saw a child of God and spoke directly to her need. I can see Jesus walking down West Hollywood touching lives and never speaking a word of judgement.
We allow pastor who have been divorced speak in our pulpits. We let recovering drug addicts and alcoholics take roles of leadership in our ministries. Let me say it again. Since when did homosexuality become the unpardonable sin?
As Christians, we should have homosexual friends and we should not be a constant reminder of their sexual orientation. Just like any other person we know, we should be touching hearts.
Sir Elton John and all of my gay and lesbian friends, I want to apologize for my people and let you know that you are welcome at my church. You are safe and you are loved.