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Approaching homosexuality
February 3, 2009So I haven’t been able to shake this note I received on Facebook. The note is from a sophomore at a Christian College in the pacific northwest. His major is of course Psychology.
Doug….I got some questions for you:
1. What would you say to someone, a Christian psychologist, who states that you should approach “treatment” with homosexuals by trying to make them heterosexual, trying to show them their wrong, and altering their sexual perceptions to an accurate sexual drive.
Answer: I would say that the approach to all of our sins is not to focus on our sins, but to direct our gaze and hearts toward Christ. The second thing I would say is that if we as Christians believe that Homosexuality is not a issue of nature but nurture. I would seek uncover the hurt, pain and issues that might be the triggers for the sexual sin. (Although Jesus said to go and sin no more, He brought healing first.) Lastly I would point out that we should be teaching that those of us that struggle and stumble the most are the one that God calls to come boldly to the throne of grace, to receive His grace and mercy.
2. How is homosexuality different than other sins?
Answer: It isn’t necessarily, however it is sexual, physical and cultural. Which gives it a stronger hook than many types of sin. One other thing, we have all heard the expression that every believable lie is mixed with a little truth. Homosexuality although it is a sin that doesn’t mean that there cannot be very authentic genuine feelings tied into the relationships. No different than adultery.
Answer: It isn’t necessarily, however it is sexual, physical and cultural. Which gives it a stronger hook than many types of sin. One other thing, we have all heard the expression that every believable lie is mixed with a little truth. Homosexuality although it is a sin that doesn’t mean that there cannot be very authentic genuine feelings tied into the relationships. No different than adultery.
3. How do you treat/counsel someone who is homosexual (as a Christian)
Answer: The same as any other sin; love them, encourage them in their walk, Exhort them to good works, direct them in their giftedness
4. Do you, and if so, when you bring up the whole, “your lifestyle is a sin, and let’s work on changing it?”
Answer: If they are a non believer, not until they come to a place of tasting and seeing that the Lord is good. (that is a whole question in itself.) If they are believer, I always ask why they are at the office and allow conversation to unfold naturally. Maybe we could all need to relearn the age old lesson; people don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care. Or just to be quick to listen and slow to speak…
The Battle of Moving Toward Mission
November 25, 2008So I have to ask, am I alone in my frustration?
I have recently started a “Moving Toward Mission” series at theSalem House of Prayer
The amazing thing is that there are tons of college kids in the area that are serious about making a difference in the Salem, Oregon area.
The frustration is the response that I am getting from the “religious community”. I have received numerous complaints from local churches in the area. The complaint is that we are gathering a large group of college students on a Saturday night which is apparently appearing disruptive to the local churches efforts in trying to create effective college ministries.
Am I wrong in being bothered by this? There isn’t an offering being taken and we are encouraging these kids to integrate into their local bodies and be an influence of movement. Am I wrong in thinking that being on mission is more important than who is leading the charge where the people are gathering? I haven’t had complaints about doctrine or style, but, territory…
I would love your thoughts.
Alan Hirsch Video
October 18, 2008I feel that Alan is one of the most profound thinkers in the Church today. He is definately challenging my thinking.
