Following Jesus' Compassionate Response
We believe that Jesus responds to the homosexual with compassion, not rejection. Whether the expression of homosexuality is limited to attractions, expressed in behavior, or chosen as a life-style, Jesus' mercy is equally given. Therefore we want our first response to be one, not simply of tolerance but of honor. Each one of us is created in the image of God and it is from this place of value that Christ approaches and serves us all.
We believe that God's intended design is monogamous heterosexual marriage. Sexual and relational departure from that design (other than a special call to celibacy) is to fall short of God's intention. The causes for departure from design can be many, some the responsibility of the individual and some the responsibility of others. The work of Christ on the Cross is not only able to be the payment for our sin but is also able to transform us. Thus we are able to move away from deviation and toward design. In plain terms, we believe that change is possible. This is true for the adulterer, sexual addict, emotionally dependent person, and homosexual. Orientation shift, through faith in Jesus, is possible for those that desire to seek after it.
Restoration in both homosexuality and heterosexuality require the cooperation of the individual with God. We also acknowledge that it is complex and emotionally tasking. Although God has worked and does work miraculous changes, we do not demand or advocate that as the only or preferred path of change. In fact we believe most change is a process over time. With this in mind, we extend the grace for those that have not chosen to pursue change and those that are in the process of change. We are committed to avoid condemnation.
Why are people homosexual?
Human sexuality is a complex weaving of emotional, rational, spiritual, and physiological elements. In addition it involves a complex interaction of self with others. These relational elements are just as powerful in one's sexuality as the individual elements. Because of these complexities it is an over simplification to say that someone can just choose to be gay or straight. As well, it is an over simplification to say that someone is just born that way. To reduce homosexuality to such a minimal understanding is to dishonor the person dealing with it.
Both the right and the left have tried to use science to make their case morally and politically. Even a very open minded look at the science is inconclusive of any single “absolute” cause. It is fair to say that there are both developmental and biological contributors to homosexuality. Many of the developmental contributors have been identified. The biological contributors have not. There are no repeatable studies that give conclusive proof of specific biological contributors. But it is reasonable to believe that there are biological contributors of some kind, even if only to make one susceptible to homosexual attraction. Please keep in mind that the finding of biological contributors would neither validate homosexual attraction and homosexual behavior or medical treatment for such.
In short homosexuality is caused by an eroticization of the same gender in childhood, adolescence, or adulthood. It is important to understand that those that experience same sex attraction early in life have not chosen it. In fact, they feel it has chosen them.
Is homosexuality a sin?
All sexual behavior is morally evaluated, not biologically or emotionally evaluated. Just because you can do something sexually and it might feel good doesn't mean it is good or right. Sexual behavior is physical interaction between people. And should be driven by moral standards that express:What is the change process like?
The are four major legs of the journey of orientation shift.Printer Friendly Format