Preserving Sound Doctrine

In the Summer of 2023, I found myself unsuspectingly embroiled in a number of discussions with several individuals responding and reacting to a Facebook reply to a post presented by a well-known female Christian musician. In the post, she described her recent experience of having gleefully taken part in the Gay Pride parade that June. That in itself was a bit unsettling to me. Then, she publicly suggested and encouraged other followers of Christ to do likewise. I took exception to this suggestion and felt the need to respond to her post and present the reasons why I could not support or promote such an event.

As a result, I received numerous replies from others regarding my initial reply. As you might suspect, some individuals were adamantly opposed to my post while others were both grateful and in agreement with me. In response to the many impassioned and reactive replies received, I have sought to provide a reasonable and biblical treatise of God’s teachings on the issue. Later, it occurred to me that my replies to the multi-varied comments I received could also be of interest and benefit to others who have also struggled with effectively articulating their own reply from a more conservative, evangelical viewpoint. Each of my responses have been painstakingly revised to provide the reader with, hopefully, an understandable and meaningful, biblical perspective to the comments I received from proponents of the LGBQT+ community. I have organized this information using a basic comment – reply format.

I want to emphasize that my purpose, goal and motivation in writing this article is NOT to personally attack anyone within the Gay movement. This is true, because I have both friends and family members who I love and care about, even though they are a part of the Gay community. Rather, my intent here is to provide the Christian community with a biblical response and rebuttal to some of the comments and arguments often given in support of LGBTQ+ beliefs and lifestyles.

These comments will be addressed in the order noted below:

·       Jesus never spoke against homosexuality

·       Christians are to love others and not judge their actions or lifestyle

·       One who opposes the gay community is guilty of Hate speech

·       Christians should not condemn homosexuality because other sins such as divorce, adultery and premarital sex are left unaddressed by the church

·       The Bible must be understood in light of today’s culture and societal values

·       The Bible doesn’t actually teach that homosexuality is wrong; it is simply a misunderstanding or mistranslation of the original text

·       Conservative Christians are guilty of using the Bible as a weapon

·       Everyone is entitled to have their own opinion respected

·       No group or individual should be marginalized because of their sexual orientation or beliefs

Comment: Jesus never spoke against homosexuality

Jesus may not have directly referenced the topic of homosexuality in his teachings, but he certainly did encourage his followers to heed the message of the Old Testament Prophets, especially Moses, who did. See Luke 24:25-27. God told Moses to warn the people to stay away from all forms of sexual immorality including homosexuality (Leviticus 18:1-29, particularly v. 22 and 20:7-23). In Matthew 5:17-22, Jesus reminded his followers and disciples that he had come not to do away with the Old Testament commands but to fulfill them. He argues that we cannot and must NOT set them aside. He also stated, “It is written, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4

The Apostle Paul, who was taught personally by Christ over a period of 3 years (Galatians 1:11-12, 15-18) also spoke directly and strongly against homosexuality and other forms of sexual immorality. He explained, “Therefore God gave them over in the lusts of their own hearts to [sexual] impurity, so that their bodies would be dishonored among them [abandoning them to the degrading power of sin], because [by choice] they exchanged the truth of God for a lie. For this reason, God gave them over to degrading and vile passions; for their women exchanged the natural function for that which is unnatural [a function contrary to nature], and in the same way also the men turned away from the natural function of the woman and were consumed with their desire toward one another, men with men committing shameful acts and in return receiving in their own bodies the inevitable and appropriate penalty for their wrongdoing. And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God or consider Him worth knowing [as their Creator], God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do things which are improper and repulsive, until they were filled (permeated, saturated) with every kind of unrighteousness, wickedness…Although they know God’s righteous decree and His judgment, that those who do such things deserve death, yet they not only do them, but they even [enthusiastically] approve and tolerate others who practice them.” Romans 1:24-29, 32 AMP

Certainly, the above passage depicts quite accurately the attitudes and demeanor of many in today’s culture and society. Unfortunately, there is a growing tolerance and acceptance of attitudes and actions of others which are diametrically opposed to the character and teachings of God, found in the Bible.

In his letter to the church in Corinth, the Apostle Paul continued proclaiming his aversion to the rampant sexual promiscuity of his day. During the first century, Corinth, a busy seaside port in Greece, was known for its carnality and blatant sexual immorality, even at its centers of worship. He solemnly wrote, “So, do you not know that the unrighteous will not…have any share in the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor (perversely) effeminate, nor homosexuals, And such were some of you [before you believed]. But you were washed [by the atoning sacrifice of Christ], you were sanctified [set apart for God, and made holy], you were justified [declared free of guilt] in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the [Holy] Spirit of our God [the source of the believer’s new life and changed behavior]. 1 Cor. 6:9, 11 AMP

The above passages amply illustrate God’s displeasure towards those who willfully turn away from him and his truth in order to follow a life of lust and wicked passion. Nonetheless, it also emphasizes the power of choice and the potential for the personal transformation found in Christ. Note the phrase, “And such were some of you [before you believed].” Let’s be honest with ourselves, God has made it very clear what his desire and righteous standards are for mankind and what he expects of those who profess to be Christ followers.

Comment: Christians are to love others and not judge their actions or lifestyles

Indeed, it is true that Christians are to love others, for God loves everyone. Jesus spent time together with and loved people from all walks of life, the “good, the bad and the ugly” (Luke 15:1-2). But it is also true that God often in Scripture confronts others sinful and wicked lifestyles. God also hate’s lies and deception. Jesus even called Satan the “father of lies” as one who seeks to mislead mankind and steer all humanity away from believing and following God’s truth found in his written word, the Bible (John 8:42-47).

Let’s not follow suit by trying to excuse away or condone the sinful behavior which Jesus appropriately confronted. That is why on several occasions he told those he healed or forgave, “Go now and leave your life of sin” (John 8:9-11). Jesus also said, “I am the truth, the way and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). He spoke the truth and didn’t compromise his commands or make exceptions for others out of deference to, or toleration of, their views and beliefs. He had no inclination to try to be politically correct.

Confronting sexual immorality in all its ugly facets, including homosexuality, is NOT passing uncalled for judgment or displaying bigotry. Rather, it is a commitment to biblical purity. As followers of Christ, we are called to seek God’s desired purity in our lives. This motivation is far different from Christians who are often accused of bigotry. The Apostle Paul, who diligently and courageously confronted immorality and hypocrisy also gave us all this challenge, “Dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.” 2 Cor. 7:1

Yes, we are all sinners and in need of God’s grace and forgiveness. And yes, God can and will forgive those who have a sorrowful heart (2 Cor. 6:9-10) and turn back to him, regardless of what their sinful behavior has been (Proverbs 6:16-19). However, this does not justify anyone’s choice to perpetually live a life of sexual immorality or practice any other types of sinful activity. God hates all sin, and so should we. After-all, there are some very good reasons and Biblical precedents for those who seek to live a life of purity and are who are repulsed by the actions of those who applaud, parade and actively promote a perverse and illicit sexual lifestyle.

“The wicked strut about [in pompous self-importance] on every side, as vileness is exalted and baseness is prized among the human race.” Psalms 12:8 AMP

“You have wearied the LORD with your words.…by saying, all who do evil are good in the eyes of the LORD and he is pleased with them.” Malachi 2:17

“The fear of the LORD is hatred of evil. Pride and arrogance and the way of evil and perverted speech I hate” (Proverbs 8:13).

“O you who love the LORD, hate evil.” Psalm 97:10

“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil, hold fast to what is good.” As followers of Christ, we are commanded to seek purity in our lives. And we are called to tell others the truth; we are to tell them what they need to hear, not what they want to hear. Love confronts lies, error and evil in all of its deceptive forms. We must keep in mind that it is God’s word which rightfully defines what sin is, not the preferences and opinions of society.

Pertaining to the complaint that Christians are not to judge others, the Apostle Paul wrote this admonition, “Do you not know that the Lord’s people will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases? Do you know that we will judge angels, how much more the things of this life…do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived.” 1 Cor. 6:2-5

The point is, it is our responsibility to love others which also includes explaining to them God’s ways and truths instead of turning a blind eye to their ungodly lifestyle. See Ephesians 4:17-25, 5:3-10

Comment: One who opposes the gay community is guilty of Hate speech

Disagreement with ungodly values while having a commitment to Godly values and virtues does NOT equate to having hate or using hate speech towards the gay community. Rather, it is the opposite. It is having both a love for God’s truth and a tough love for others by speaking truth into their lives. Tolerating, appeasing and approving of the world’s ways is being disingenuous and it is also misleading to others who seek to understand and follow God’s clear teachings about sexual immorality. It is God’s word, not the world, that must be our guidepost and source of conviction.

“Do not love the world [of sin that opposes God and His precepts], nor the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust and sensual craving of the flesh and the lust and longing of the eyes and the boastful pride of life [pretentious confidence]—these do not come from the Father but are from the world. The world is passing away, and with it its lusts [the shameful pursuits and ungodly longings]; but the one who does the will of God, carries out His purposes… because no lie [nothing false, no deception] is of the truth.” 1 John 2:15-18, 21 AMP

Once again, let’s not be intimidated into thinking that confronting sin is the same as using hate speech. In fact, it would be most unloving not to tell someone the truth when they are headed for eternal danger and separation from a Holy God.

King Solomon wisely spoke these words: “Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy” (Proverbs 26:5-6). “He who rebukes a person will afterwards find more favor than he who flatters with the tongue.” Proverbs 28:23

Comment: Christians shouldn’t condemn homosexuality because other sins such as divorce, adultery and premarital sex are left unaddressed by the church

Certainly, divorce, adultery and pre-marital sex are no less sinful than homosexuality. Each of these sins should be abhorred and addressed by the church. It’s also true that all sinners will be saved only by God’s mercy and grace, not by one’s self-efforts and works (Ephesians 2:4-9) or one’s own sense of righteousness (Phil. 3:7-9). Everyone is given the same opportunity and responsibility to acknowledge personal sin, to repent and to experience God’s forgiveness (1 John 1:9-10).

Scripture clearly teaches that God hates divorce (Malachi 2:16) and adultery, whether it be sexual or spiritual (i.e., Book of Hosea). Most Christians recognize that each of these sins are repulsive to God and requires a spirit of penitence in their hearts regarding any such transgressions. However, this does not appear to be the mindset or heart attitude of most individuals in the gay community who embrace homosexuality as an acceptable lifestyle and a personal right.

Jesus did not and does not discriminate between types of sin. He spoke against, and died for, all types and manners of sin. Whether it be an exposed adulterous prostitute, the prideful religious leaders, or even his own brothers and disciples, Jesus confronted and challenged sin for what it was. One can’t help but see this truth when reading through the Gospels.

As imitators of Christ, we are not called to condemn anyone. We are to show love and extend grace to everyone, including those in the gay community. We have been rightly challenged to love our neighbors just as ourselves. But we must also love the truth and speak the truth, in love. Giving people the impression that any form of sexual immorality, including homosexuality, is fine with God, is simply NOT being truthful.

Also, citing the church’s failure to properly address certain other sins is no reason or basis for ignoring the sins inherent with homosexual behavior. To do so relegates it to a straw issue and false argument. For example, to argue that the sin of adultery, occurring as a result of divorce and remarriage, must first be addressed before confronting or condemning homosexuality, is not appropriate or practical. Accepting such a mindset would simply be considering the latter as being of no moral or spiritual importance. Inadvertently, it could then be taken as actually condoning such a lifestyle.

After all, the church, as an institution, is not to be held responsible and accountable for the actions and choices of individuals. We are each responsible to acknowledge and confess our own sin before God (Psalm 32). Then, and only then, can we expect to receive and experience God’s grace and forgiveness (1 John 1:8-10). Neither is it up to Christians to justify or pardon the sins of others; it is up to each person to confess their sins, first and foremost, to God.

Instead, it is the responsibility of all believers to loving confront a brother or sister who is going spiritually astray. In humility, we are to point out their wrongdoing and point them back to God (Galatians 6:1-3), who is then able to forgive and restore them. Frankly, it’s not our place to suggest to anyone that living a sinful lifestyle is acceptable to God. Rather, it is open rebellion to his word and should not be ignored simply on the excuse that we all are sinners.

As followers of Christ, we have been instructed to encourage and admonish (Colossians 1:28) one another. Why? Lest anyone of us should fall away from God (Hebrews 3:12-13) and by so-doing insult the Spirit of grace. Deliberately and continually choosing to live in a life of sin is dishonoring to a holy God. Hebrews 10:26-29 provides a stark warning in this regard.

Comment: The Bible must be understood in light of today’s culture and societal values

I’m convinced that if Jesus was living today, he would be appalled and irate at how God’s commands and truths are being ignored, mutilated, distorted or falsely interpreted in a sad attempt to justify moral bankruptcy in our society today. Today’s enigmatic culture, with its constantly shifting societal values and beliefs, is not a reliable source for determining what is proper and good in God’s eyes. God alone has the capability to set the standards of what is right and wrong and has the culpability to address sin for what it actually is and has become.

Jesus Christ, who was himself completely sinless (2 Cor. 5:19-21; Heb. 4:14-15) would balk, not wink, at the the unquenchable thirst and drive of the Gay movement which seeks to persuade all members of society to accept its beliefs, promote its agenda and consider its actions as being wholesome and pleasing to God. Such individuals are quick to propagate their biased views, staid opinions and improbable justifications for engaging in what God deems to be a wicked and worldly lifestyle.

Jesus once told his disciples that some may try to justify their every inconsistency in following the teachings and commands of God’s word. “Jesus replied, you hypocrites! Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you, for he wrote, ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship is a farce, for they teach man-made ideas as commands from God.’ For you ignore God‘s law and substitute your own tradition.…You skillfully sidestep God’s law in order to hold onto your own tradition” (Mark 8:6-9). Although terribly unfortunate, this is exactly what is happening today within the Gay movement.

The Apostle Paul was very clear about not allowing the worldly culture of the day to dictate what one believes or how one should live. He contended, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for yourself, that which is good and pleasing and perfect” (Rom. 12:2). He also deliberated on this truth, “Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that comes from human thinking, and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.” Col. 2:8

Why did the Apostle feel so strongly about this point? It was because he knew how fickle and adaptable mankind can be. He wrote, “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron…If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, they are conceited and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels…people of corrupt mind who have been robbed of the truth.” 1 Timothy 4:1-2; 6:3-5

The Apostle Paul also spoke these alarming, but accurate words, “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and careful instruction. The time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.” 2 Timothy 4:2-4

As we will see below, the Scriptures make it quite clear that we are not to be swayed by the misconceptions of a few wayward teachers. Followers of Christ are called to believe and accept the clear and solid teachings found in God’s word, the Bible. Jesus himself said, when praying to the Father, “Sanctify (set apart) them by the truth, your word is Truth” (John 27:17). We dare not ignore God’s revealed truth or try to explain it away, so as to conform to the ungodly standards of today’s culture and worldly values (Romans 12:1-2).

The Bible doesn’t actually teach that homosexuality is wrong. It is simply a misunderstanding or mistranslation of the original text.

In addition to those who think that the Bible must be understood in light of today’s culture, there are also those who think that the Bible should be understood and retranslated so as to support and approve of homosexual behavior. Ironically, these individuals consider themselves wiser than all the Bible scholars who have preceded them down through the centuries. Without questioning their lack of integrity, they choose to disparage and refute any translation or interpretation which doesn’t comply to their self-proclaimed views. They would purport that, surely, such words or phrases must be a mistranslation or gross misinterpretation of the original (Hebrew and Greek) texts. How convenient.

The Apostle Peter made it quite clear that interpreting the Scriptures is not up man’s own opinions or preferences. “Above all, you must understand that no…scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation. For prophecy never had his origins in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” 2 Peter 1: 20–21.

It should be readily understood that no one has the freedom to decide which passages in the Bible to acknowledge and which ones to ignore. All Scripture is from God and can lead us to salvation and give us instruction on how we should live (1 Timothy 3:15-16). In addition, Proverbs 30:5-6 explains, “Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar.” Only God, not man, gets to determine what is truth.

No individual, scholar or otherwise, has the right to ostentatiously throw out and do away with a large number of passages in the Bible on the shaky assumption that these passages can’t possibly be accurate since they condemn homosexuality and oppose today’s popular ideas of morality. There are numerous biblical passages which describe God’s abhorrence towards homosexuality. Some key texts include Genesis 1:26-27, Leviticus 18:1-30; Romans 1:18-32, Ephesians 5:1-15, and 1 Corinthians 6:1-20. 

It is erroneous to try to eradicate the teachings in these historically accepted passages on the grounds that the truths found within do not match up with the personal views or moral preferences of a minority group in today’s society. There is absolutely no credible basis for setting aside or modifying these passages which were approved in the canon of Scripture over many centuries ago. God’s truth is not up for debate; it is not open to personal opinion or self-interpretation. It is HIS word, not man’s.

Like Satan, false teachers have, in the past millennia, been masters of twisting the truth in order to deceive others to accept their way of thinking. Jesus once reprimanded those who professed to be wise sages of the Holy Scriptures by stating, “Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. From the beginning, he was a murder (of the truth – deceiver), not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lives. Yet, because I tell the truth, you do not believe me.” John 8:43-45

Jesus also declared, “I have many more things to say to you, but you cannot bear [to hear] them now. But when He, the Spirit of Truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth [full and complete truth]. John 16:12 AMP

The self-proclaimed “Queer Bible” translation of these passages should be called into question since it provides only inadequate and dubious explanations and interpretations. Academically, these interpretations are suspect because they do not incorporate proper hermeneutical principles necessary to achieve accurate Biblical interpretations. We should  not be fooled by a few who, undoubtedly, have an invested interest in trying to support their precarious views. Not surprisingly, these modified interpretations are themselves mistranslations. They are inappropriate and unnecessary since they seek to misconstrue and change God’s immutable word in order to correspond to a set of rainbow 🌈 colored predispositions and predilections.

A case in point is revealed by addressing a claim that the verses in Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13 are referring to pedophilia (a man having sex with a boy) rather than condemning same gender sex as stated. However, this convenient explanation is not consistent with the use of the same and similar words when cross-referenced with other comparable passages. The word for “man” in these two verses is also translated as “male” or “mankind”, not as boy. Exchanging the word man, male or mankind with the word “boy” is simply a distortion of the true meaning of the word and the inherent context of what the passages are stating. Again, these serendipitous translations merely qualify as mistranslations (missing the mark).

Another example is found in Genesis 19:1-13, where it is implied that the city of Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed by God not because the men who came to Lot’s house were seeking an immoral sexual encounter with his two male visitors. Rather, they were merely guilty of not offering appropriate Eastern hospitality. This errant explanation is simply ludicrous. The surrounding context and tone of the passage clearly indicates that this was an angry, out of control, mob which was intent on pursuing aggravated acts of homosexual rape. No mutual consent is mentioned or implied here.

It is quite apparent that these men had evil intentions. They openly stated their desire to have sex with Lot’s guests, regardless of the personal damage that would be done. They even threatened Lot’s own safety if he was unwilling to do what they demanded. In fact, Lot called what they planned to do “a wicked thing” (v. 7). By reading the whole chapter, it becomes crystal clear of the men’s devious motives and intentions; it is a huge stretch of the imagination to think that God would intervene, blind all the men, and then totally destroy the both cities, simply because its inhabitants were “inhospitable” and displayed bad manners.

When considering the surrounding context of chapters 18-20 in Leviticus, one will note that they repeatedly depict dire concern over a number of distorted sexually immoral acts. God commanded Moses to declare his laws and regulations concerning improper human sexuality. In these passages, God describes a variety of sexually immoral acts. These acts include having sex with another’s husband or wife, other family members, prostitutes, animals and, notably, with same sex partners. The words used to describe God’s attitude towards such acts include, “wicked, profane, detestable, perversion, and defiled.” God also states in Leviticus 18:30, “Keep my requirements and do not follow any of the detestable customs that were practiced (by the nations) and do not defile yourselves with them. I am the Lord your God.”

The Apostle Paul gave this warning, “We know that the law (the commands of God) is good when used correctly. For the law was not intended for people who do what is right. It is for people who are lawless and rebellious, who are ungodly and sinful, who consider nothing sacred and defile what is holy…The law is for people who are sexually immoral, or who practice homosexuality, or for slave traders, liars, promise breakers, or who do anything else that contradicts the wholesome teaching that comes from the glorious Good News.”

1 Timothy 1:8-11

One’s understanding of Scripture must be consistent with the message of the “whole counsel” of God’s word as found throughout the whole Bible. To correctly understand and interpret the Bible, when reading Scripture, one must take into consideration the immediate, surrounding and wider contexts of the passage in question. An ample study must also include cross-referencing with other similar passages throughout Scripture – both Old and New Testaments. It also should involve checking to see how pertinent, key words are defined in the Hebrew and Greek lexicons (dictionaries) of the original languages. Such a comprehensive study and thorough examination of the Scriptures will provide a better and more accurate understanding of the passage. One’s personal findings and insights should then be compared with the plethora of teachings found in Bible commentaries written by qualified Bible scholars who have aptly searched out the meanings in a passage.

 As believers, we are not free to condone or be cajoled to accept the very acts that God states are detestable and dishonoring to him (Leviticus 20:16-22). Instead, we are also called to view these acts as God views them and to respond accordingly. “You must not live according to the customs of the nations…You are to be holy to me, because I, the LORD, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be my own.” Lev. 29:23, 26

In staunch opposition to the flippant and false assumptions of those who feverishly hold on to unfounded “Queer friendly” mistranslations of the Bible, there is this following admonition:

“Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior. This kind of talks spreads like cancer…They have left the path of truth… and turned some people away from the faith. But God‘s truth stands firm like a foundation with this inscription: the LORD knows those who are his, and all who belong to the LORD must turn away from evil.” 2 Timothy 2:15-19 NLT

One should understand that most modern Bible translations today (such as the NIV, ESV, NASB, NLT, AMP, and NKJV) are based on many years of scholarly work from a team of qualified and experienced Bible scholars who have thoroughly studied the original languages and have tirelessly worked together to ensure that the translation is both accurate from a literary standpoint, as well as being consistent with historical and conservative interpretations.

Unless it is an obvious use of figurative or symbolic language in the passage, the Bible can and should be taken literally and its teachings recognized and accepted as originally stated by experienced and qualified Bible scholars. Therefore, one can and should have an assured confidence that 20th and 21st Century translations of the Holy Scriptures. Both the Old and New Testaments are reliable and trustworthy their renderings which are from the original biblical languages.

It must be reiterated once again, that NO one is free to manipulate the natural meaning of a biblical text, modify and change the translated words, or ignore the scholarly and historically accepted interpretation in order to comply with one’s predetermined and heavily biased textual preferences.

Comment: Conservative Christians are guilty of using the Bible as a weapon

Nowadays it has become popular and prevalent to accuse conservative Christians of “weaponizing” the Bible by using it to attack the beliefs and values of the LBGQT+ community. In fact, the Bible is a weapon. So, I say Amen (so be it) to that accusation for the Bible is being used a weapon, and hogwash to the notion that it shouldn’t be used to fight against spiritual deception, error and false teaching.

The concept of the Bible as a weapon actually goes back thousands of years. The Apostle Paul wrote, “Put on the full armor of God [for His precepts are like the splendid armor of a heavily-armed soldier], so that you may be able to [successfully] stand up against all the schemes and the strategies and the deceits of the devil. “Above all, lift up the [protective] shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.” Ephesians 6:11, 16-17 AMP

The author of the Book of Hebrews also underscores the truth that the word of God should be used by all believers who, as soldiers of the cross, are in battle against evil and error. “Let us therefore make every effort…that no one will fall by following the same example of disobedience…For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Hebrews 4:11-12 AMP

King David stated that the Holy Scriptures were for him, as they can be for us today, a source of spiritual protection. “Arise, O Lord…Save my soul from the wicked with Your sword” (Psalms 17:13). “Renew and strengthen me according to [the promises of] Your word.” Psalms 119:28 AMP

As believers in God’s word, we need not apologize for seeing the Bible as a spiritual weapon and using it against the “strategies of the devil.” It is there to aid us in our fight against evil and false teachings. However, we are first to use it on ourselves (Psalm 134:23-24) and then use it with others accordingly, and as needed (Galatians 6:1-2).

Comment: Everyone is entitled to have their own opinion respected

Yes, of course, everyone is welcome to have their own personal beliefs. That’s a part of our God-given makeup with a free will and mind of our own. God reluctantly allowed fallen mankind to go their own way and make choices for themselves, even if those choices are self-destructive (Romans 1:18-25).

It is imperative that we recognize that respecting the rights of others is far different from relenting to questionable opinions and immoral activities of a small minority. Nor does it mean embracing values, attitudes and actions which are in direct contradiction to the principles and teachings of God. We dare not allow the deceptive notion of tolerance for all, regardless of lifestyle patterns and beliefs. Tolerance towards others should not equate to a mindless acceptance of those who widely promulgate and promote a wicked lifestyle, even among children and adults alike. Besides, disrespect and having a legitimate and healthy disagreement are two entirely different scenarios.

Again, in spite of opposition, it is only God’s word that must always remain one’s true source of, and standard for, morality. The Bible itself exclaims that each of us have been “entrusted with the whole revelation of God. True, some have been unfaithful; but…does that mean that God is unfaithful? Of course not! Even if everyone is a liar, God is true. As the Scriptures say of him, ‘You will be proved right in what you say.” Rom. 3:2-4

We must stand firm on the unchanging and unadulterated teachings of God’s word. His written word, as found in the Bible, is to be accepted and followed by all committed disciples of Christ. His precepts, statues, decrees and commands (Psalm 119:29-33) are to be held high above the views of man. His word is to be valued and treasured over any person’s opinion, especially those that are shady, shaky and unsubstantiated. It is not about what we think, what truly matters is what God declares.

Let’s not fool ourselves into thinking that everyone is entitled to their own opinion in spite of its questionable nature. The concept of compromise, in the name of universal tolerance and acceptance should never permit the denigration of God’s teachings and values. The idea of blindly tolerating the ungodly views and actions of others is equivalent to abandoning one’s personal responsibility to know, follow and share the truth of God’s word with others. God has already declared what His opinions and intentions are concerning how we are to live our lives before him.

Let’s heed the words of James, Jesus’s own earthly brother, who rightly challenged us all with these words: “But prove yourselves doers of the word [actively and continually obeying God’s precepts], and not merely listeners [who hear the word but fail to internalize its meaning], deluding yourselves” [by unsound reasoning contrary to the truth]. James 1:22 AMP

Comment: No group or individual should be marginalized because of their sexual orientation or beliefs

Such comments suggest the need to better understand what is meant by the term “marginalized.” One should consider if it is being rightfully understood and applied when used in the context of individuals or groups purporting the acceptance of overt and questionable practices of human sexuality? Should prostitutes, adulterers, pedophiles and those committing incest or practicing bestiality be seen as individuals who have been and are still being “marginalized” and ostracized by the ultra-conservative, misguided and unloving members of our society? Most everyone would cringe at the thought. This type of abhorrent behavior is certainly not advocated in the Bible. So, why then should those who practice homosexuality fall into the category of being marginalized when it is also condemned in Scripture (see Leviticus 20:6-19).

Today, being marginalized means something quite different than how it has commonly been understood in previous years. Take for example the following definition provided by Cultureally.com:

“Today the term marginalize refers to the act of treating a person or group as if though they are insignificant by isolating and/or disempowering them. The term describes a person who is treated insignificantly, pushed to the margins of society, and rendered powerless. Marginalization is the result of discrimination. Discrimination exists in many forms, such as racism, sexism, ableism, ageism, homophobia and xenophobia.”

It’s my abiding conviction and contention that it is a false and misleading notion to say that the members of the LGBTQ+ community are being marginalized. Particularly, when it is advocated that its beliefs, practices and agenda should not only to be protected but also lauded and promoted. I believe that such a drastic view of marginalization is being improperly applied to the gay movement. And as a result, shame and pressure are being applied to evangelical Christians and other conservative individuals or groups who are not beholden to their slanted views. Instead we are all expected to offer unbridled support and unrestricted freedom to this limited community so it can further propagate and promote its chosen lifestyle. These minority and outlying groups not only desire but also demand that all others in society allow them full sway in propagating their ungodly beliefs and activities both on a national and global level.

In actuality, rather than being marginalized, the LBGTQ + community has been placed front and center in our news and public life. It is even applauded and paraded throughout the whole world. This movement, rather than being marginalized, is actually being magnified within our culture and society today.

Realistically, today it is the more conservative or biblically-minded groups and individuals who are being marginalized. The evangelical Christian community is being considered insignificant and is being pushed to the edges of society. Christianity is deemed as b ing filled with intolerant, bigots, hypocrites, and people haters. It is the views and values of conservative Christians that are no longer being tolerated, accepted or recognized as being proper and upright in the eyes of man or god.

Unfortunately, the world’s moral landscape and evaluative grid has greatly changed over the past 60+ years. Those conservative values and morals which used to be regularly considered as ethical and socially proper,m, are no longer considered as such. The Golden Rule has now been substituted with the golden calf; the Ten Commandments are seen as the 10 suggestions and the Holy Bible is merely seen as an ancient and impotent artifact of an era gone by and, there, to be considered irrelevant.

With the Bible’s lack of receptivity among many of the “more liberated” members of society, even its teachings are no longer embraced as God’s overarching truth for today. Nonetheless, God’s character and his proclaimed word remains steadfast and true and it is the same yesterday, today and forever (Matthew 5:18).

Regardless of what the world’s values and beliefs may be, the true basis for TRUTH can only be found in God’s Holy Scriptures. As Christ’s followers and representatives in the world (2 Cor. 5:21), we are under no obligation to look elsewhere for our source of truth and direction in life (2 Timothy 3:15).

Romans 12:1-2 emphatically states, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:2 NIV). A different translation puts it this way, “Stop imitating the ideals and opinions of the culture around you, but be inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit through a total reformation of how you think. This will empower you to discern God’s will as you live a beautiful life, satisfying and perfect in his eyes.” TPT

In Conclusion

There is no need for the church, the members of the body of Christ, to apologize for seeking to faithfully follow Christ and live in a way that is pleasing to him. In spite of what others may think or do, as believers in Christ, we are called to live our lives to the glory and obedience of One, God Almighty. We are not to follow the moral (often immoral) preferences of this world. Rather, we are all called to follow his written instructions in the Bible and the sinless example of Christ.

It is my sincere hope that this compilation of comments and personal responses will aid you in garnering an increased understanding as well as an enhanced confidence and appreciation for maintaining a conservative, evangelical and Biblical viewpoint concerning our human sexuality. Even in the midst of many competing views and polarizing issues inherent in our society and the world today, we are called to stand up, not stand down. We must never give up on others, but we also must never give in to those whose values and lifestyle are a repudiation of God’s statues and regulations for mankind.

“Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then.” Ephesians 6:13-15 NIV