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HOMOSEXUALITY--A BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE
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I wrote this book based on many of the personal experience I had in dealing with homosexuals during my years of drug use, and being involved with the drug scene. I have always acknowledged, that during these years, some of my closest friends were gay. Many of which, due to aides and drug abuse (I'm sad to say) are now dead. I realize that perhaps the only reason why I am not HIV positive is probably because I got saved before aides became prevalent. *(we shared needles together, and I was indiscriminate, regarding whom I had sex with) Many homosexual whom I counted as close friends, were warm, friendly and caring. I remember once when I was locked up, they even put the money together to get me out of jail. Although I totally disagree with the gay lifestyle (HOMOSEXUALITY IS A SIN) I will never forget or pretend that I don't know my close friends who have lived this lifestyle. There are a great number of people infected or affected by HIV, and in some areas it is continuing to increase. We should freely give of our resources to help those who are sick, it could have been you or I. It is important to prayerfully remember that HIV is an issue for all of us. Lets us not forget those who are sick, in the sight of God all life is precious, PLEASE REMEMBER.
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I have noticed that some who say they are Christians take a hateful attitude toward those who are gay. They express their contempt in very harsh words. A valid question for all Christians concerning the gay community, is how would God have us view and treat those who are gay. Is it alright for Christians to use harsh descriptive terms when describing the character and state of being of those who are gay? Should Christians view those of the gay community with disgust and contempt? In order to find the answer to this question, we should keep in mind what Jesus taught concerning how we are to relate to others. Jesus said we should treat others the way we want to be treated. When we, as Christians, totally disagree with the gay community (which we have the God given right to do) we should temper our disagreement with this question: IF THE HOMOSEXUAL OR LESBIAN IN QUESTION WAS MY SON OR MY DAUGHTER, HOW WOULD WE WANT THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY TO VIEW AND TREAT THEM? Those of us who are parents and love our children, may not expect the Christian community to agree with the choice our son or daughter made, but we would hope that mixed with their disagreement they would show love and compassion. We would expect Christians to not be hateful toward our child, or use harsh and brutal language in their description of our son or daughter. THUS IN OUR DEALINGS WITH THOSE OF THE GAY COMMUNITY, WE SHOULD TREAT THOSE WHO ARE GAY THE SAME WAY WE WOULD WANT OUR CHILD OR OTHER LOVED ONES TO BE TREATED IF THEY WERE GAY. It is not the will of God that we hate or despise those are conduct themselves, in ways which are contrary to God guidelines. But it is the will of God that we take a stand against sinful conduct. |
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The mid 60s and early 70s was a turbulent time in our history. I remember when president Kennedy was killed, then Martin Luther King Jr. The Vietnam war was raging and so was the protest against it. I caught the tail end of the hippie movement, which though it was faltering out in California, we were a little slow to realize this in the deep south. This was the time of both the hippie movement and the thug/pimp super fly era. It was a time of bell bottom pants psychedelic colored T-shirts and long leather coats, with the wide gangster brim. It was also during this time, that a word which had been around for a long time, was more and more being coined to define a certain group of individuals. This word was "gay" During the mid 60s when the drugs began to flow in torrents and the focus was on "make love not war", the term "gay seemed to be a fitting way, to show acceptance of individuals, who here to fore had been called all manner of derogatory names. During this time I went from one scene to the next, at times I could be seen with my hippie friends, wearing my headband, round dark shades, Indian moccasins and poncho (Clint Eastwood style). At other times I could be seen on the strip, with the thugs and pimps, wearing a long leather coat, and wide gangster brim. Perhaps it was the drug use which allowed me to flow in and out of these different setting so effortlessly. It was my involvement with drugs which also allowed me to gain access to what I call the secret world of homosexuality. Not everyone who is gay fits into any of the groups we class as militant. It is disingenuous to place everyone who is gay into one stereotypical setting. Perhaps we tend to do this because , those who make the most noise (the gay and militant) usually get the most attention. Even though we as Christians must totally disagree with homosexuality we must not allow our disagreement to turn into hatred against homosexuals. In fact The apostle Paul reminded many of the believers that they were once guilty of the same thing, (as was I). Therefore this is not a book on why we should hate homosexuality, but rather why believers must stand against this sin as also against all other types of sinful activity. The one thing every true believer must agree on is that we must love everybody, including those who are living the homosexual lifestyle. Looking back over my life, I admit that the lifestyle I lived prior to Christ saving me, was one of sinfulness and rebellion. Remembering where God has brought me from, and the depts. of sinfulness I descended into, is very humbling. Even though I take a bold stand against sin, I do so humbled by the fact that I have been the chief of sinners. I can truly relate to the apostle Paul who said the same thing about himself. 12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; 13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. 15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. 1st Tim 1:12-15. |
As we know there are some who are demanding that we as a society recognize, same gendered couples as legal and legitimate couples. The demand for the legalization of same sex unions has sparked a great deal of debate. The truth of the matter is that the vast majority of homosexual are not interested in a lifelong manganous relationship. For most gays it's more a matter of being able to openly practice homosexuality, without undo restraints, than being tied down to one partner. For those gays who are pushing for same sex marriage, their efforts, includes the demand, that they be allowed to set up families, with all the rights and privileges of those of a traditional family. Elton John, a talented and well known songwriter singer, musician and entertainer is one who pushes this issue. Elton was recently featured on the front cover of a national magazine. In this picture we see Elton, his same sex partner, (complete with wedding bands), and Elton's, newborn baby. Elton John also has came out publicly and said that he believes that Christ was a homosexual. In the words of Elton John, "I think Jesus was a compassionate, super-intelligent gay man who understood human problems." (COMPARE BELOW).
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It is comments such as these, along with multiple efforts to prove that the Bible endorses homosexuality, which compelled me to put together a book which gives a Biblical perspective on homosexuality. The views held by Elton John and others with a similar view, coupled with their efforts to promote the gay lifestyle, demands that Christians take a stand. For those of us who totally disagree with the gay lifestyle and all that it stands for and promotes, we must be very careful to not allow our disagreement to turn into hatred or bitterness. Eventhough we totally disagree with the gay lifestyle, the Bible warns us against allowing our disagreement to turn into hatred. Therefore this is not a book on why we should hate those who are gay, but rather why believers must stand against all sin which includes the sin of homosexuality. Having come from a background, where closeness with those who were gay was a way of life, I encountered many warm and caring individual who were gay. There was a time when I actually thought that intelligent gay men was Gods plan for a ultra modern society, (this was back in the late 60s and early 70s). As I will explain later on, a one on one saving encounter with Christ in 1974, changed my whole view, and showed me the error of this way of thinking. Today there are many, (like Elton John), who have a "GAY VIEW" of the Bible. The reason why we call it a "gay view' is because their view transforms many well known biblical characters into homosexuals and lesbians. We just saw one example, which says that Christ was a homosexual. A few other examples are King David. and Ruth The gay view of the Bible claims that David and Jonathan were gay lovers. Some say that the biblical characters, Ruth and Naomi were lesbian lovers. In fact a popular love refrain - often used at lesbian weddings - comes from the book of Ruth, Chapter 1, verses 16 & 17. Here we see Ruth is speaking to Naomi: "Whither thou goes, I will go Where thou lodgest, I will lodge Thy people shall be my people Thy God my God Where thou diest, will I die And there I will be buried The Lord do so to me and more also If aught but death part thee and me." A gay ministers who performs same sex unions, pointed out the fact, that one of the main reasons many lesbians who enter into same sex marriages quote this passage from the book of Ruth during their ceremony, is because it best represents what lesbianism stands for. Another same sex marriage supporter proposes that the book of Ruth demonstrates that "biodiversity and sexual diversity (such as both gay and straight unions) are Gods created norms." |
TOTALLY LOVING THE PERSON WHILE TOTALLY DISAGREEING WITH THE LIFESTYLE
Some may assume that my strong emphasis on loving those who are homosexuals is a sign of nativity on my part. Having come from a background of being closely associated with gays, I understand the gay agenda and mindset (on the part of some, but not all) to promote and proselytize gayness. I am also aware of the agenda of some to undermine Christianity, in their fervent effort to promote gayness. But I also know, that if I cease to love all people, irregardless of their agenda, even if it's a hostie agenda, I have failed to keep the greatest commandment of all. As we have said not all gays fit into the same category, or take the same approach to their homosexuality. Some prefer to not promote or proselytize, choosing rather to practice homosexuality in privacy. I am well aware of the more radical and at times vicious side of the gay agenda. There are some homosexuals whose viciousness and deviance knows no bounds. Some in group this group lash at not only at Christians, but God himself. Many in this group are only concerned with two things: having sex their way and recruiting more into their fold. They do not care whom they hurt, it's all about making themselves look right. They will stoop to any means to push the gay agenda and attack anything which dares speak a word against their sexual choices. There is nothing God could have said in His Word which would turn them away from their mission or lifestyle. The number one concern for the homosexual/lesbians in this group, over and above honoring God and his guidelines, is promoting the righteousness of their sexuality. To them, though they may not verbalize it in this manner, their philosophy is "may God be dammed and anyone else be dammed, who opposes our sexual preferences and choices in life.
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The way those who are gay respond to the Bible varies greatly. It ranges from a total rejection of the Bible in its entirety, to those who embrace the Bible claiming it endorses and blesses homosexuality. How Should We Respond? Joe Dallas states, "Here are some do's and don'ts about how you can respond to homosexuals and the gay church movement in a loving and Christ like manner. Members of the gay church movement are not our enemies. Although they have fallen for the strong delusion of pro-gay theology, they proudly claim Christ as their own. How we confront the movement and handle the issue is crucial. Do--- Know your pastor's and denomination's official position. If you are not sure what it is, write the denomination's headquarters to request a copy of the position statement. Ask your pastor for ideas on combating pro-gay theology in your denomination, if that is an issue, and offer to participate in the process. Discuss developing a counseling ministry or support group in your church. Invite speakers to address your church. There is a great need for education on the subject of homosexuality. If you do not know anyone in your area who teaches on it, contact Exodus International for a referral. Stick to verifiable facts. When confronting the issue in a discussion, statements such as "The Bible says..." or "Studies have shown..." are verifiable and tough to argue against. Read books on the subject, and brush up on current programs and studies. Understand the arguments of the gay church movement, and be sure you can articulate a response. Admit error. Don't blindly defend everything Christians have done in the past. We have made mistakes, and if we refuse to admit them, we cannot expect gays or society to take us seriously. Stay flexible when discussing theories but adamant when discussing the Bible. What the Bible says is absolute, but theories are all subject to question. We can't be certain, for example, what makes people homosexual (theory), but we can be certain it is wrong (Scripture).
Show Christ like love. By our lack of love, we have contributed to the growth and strength of the gay movement. When a gay person is brought out of delusion, who is waiting for him? Is the church a father to the prodigal, celebrating his return? Or are we better represented by the self-righteous older brother? Don't--- Do not attack people's character. Some Christians seem bent on "proving" that homosexuals are neurotic, sex-obsessed or hateful. I personally knew many lesbians and gay men who were responsible, likable, hardworking people. Keep the issues straight. The character of the person is not in question. The person's behavior is. Do not stereotype people. Extremists can be found in any group, Christian and non-Christian alike. To point out the extreme factions of the gay rights movement and hold them up as the norm is just as cheap and manipulative as picking out the "pro-lifers" who shoot abortionists and saying they are representative of the whole pro-life movement. We need to avoid such games. Do not use clichés. Clichés are grating and weaken the argument of the person using them. They make one sound as though he or she is relying on sayings rather than sound reasoning. Here are a few clichés to avoid: 1. "Gay lifestyle." There is no such thing. Homosexuals live their lives in many ways, just as heterosexual people do. Some are promiscuous; some are not. Some are moderate; some are conservative. Using this cliché will cast doubt on any other statements you make. 2. "Love the sinner but hate the sin." This is an appropriate recommendation, but we need to find another way to communicate it. This cliché is so overused and overly simplistic that it is sure to get a laugh. 3. "If you are gay, that's your choice." No one chooses to have homosexual feelings. People do choose, however, to act on their homosexual desires. Make the distinction and keep it clear. 4. "God made Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve." Avoid using this statement. It sounds sarcastic, as if the speaker is mocking homosexuals. Sarcasm is rude and never wins an argument. " Adapted from A Strong Delusion by Joe Dallas, copyright 1996 . |
HOMOSEXUALITY IN THE CHURCH, HOW CAN THIS BE ???
In my dealings with my gay friends, I learned much. As I have said, some of them were the most warm and caring friends I knew. They were also some of the most intelligent, talented and articulate individuals I knew. Some of my gay friends were very skilled, in the area of coercion and manipulation, (in a negative sense). I learned to not stereotypically place all who are gay into the same category. But I do know that there are some gays, who are in process are using their skills of persuasion and the fact that they are very personable, to further the gay agenda within the framework the church. Below we list a wildly circulated list of guidelines, for gays to follow, to better infiltrate their local church, and promote the gay agenda. Click on the next tab to advance slides.
When Christ saved me on May 21st 1974, at 11:30 pm, it was the greatest day of my life. I went to all my friends I had hung with, (including my gay friends) to tell them the good news. I reminded them all of the sinful lifestyle I had lived, and the many exploits we shared. I also told them there was a better way. Some of my gay friends actually got saved and never went back to homosexuality. Today when I share the same message of love, hope, and deliverance, I am now labeled as being both homophobic and prejudice. It greatly saddens me to be labeled as being prejudice and discriminatory, simply because I like so many others call homosexuality a sin. As an afro American growing up in the south, I vividly remember discrimination and segregation. I remember having to go to the bathroom with the sign "colored only" and having to go upstairs in the movie theater because blacks were not allowed to go downstairs, etc. I remember how my sisters had eggs thrown on them, as they walked through certain neighborhood, by some white kids who thought it was fun. When I compare matters such as this to the matter of a demand on the part of some that laws be enacted to endorse their choice of sexual partners, this is not the same. We all have sexual and other desires, which (if we are to honor God) must be suppressed. As I have said, it is God's will that we love those who are Gay. It is also God's will that we take a firm stand against homosexuality, even as we do with other sins.
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