It’s very heartbreaking to realize the trauma caused by the teachings of the Church and its application of the Scriptures.
It’s sad how so many have nonchalantly prescribed a lifetime of singleness to a whole group of people, yet they refuse to see the adverse reactions, over and over again, against this prescription. There is so much shame and despair in those who are told that they are broken and can’t fully experience their humanity and have someone to journey with through life. So many constantly wonder where they stand with God and within the life of the Church.
Much of the Church would rather not examine the fruit…they would rather dismiss our stories so that they can protect their Idol Of Certainty from within their theological ivory towers.
It’s too messy to deal with real people. It’s too threatening. So, in the towers they remain, continuing to prescribe but refusing to see.
I would challenge the Church to step down from those lofty towers. I would challenge us to do theology beside real people. I believe that God is with the people at the margins, beside those who are hurting, challenging the Church to see the humanity and the beauty in each person. This is the place we are called to…this is how we are called to love others and this is where we will learn about and meet God. We must look at the fruit that is produced by our teachings and by our interactions with others and find truth by asking, “Is it love?”.
So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. (Matthew 7:17-18 ESV)
Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. (Romans 13:10 NIV)
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ROBERT LOFGREN is a gay Christian who wrestled with his faith and his sexuality and found peace. He strives to love Christ and to show His love for all people. Robert is an advocate for LGBT rights and building bridges between the two communities to which he belongs and is so passionate about — the LGBT community and the Church.
He lives in Orange County, CA with his boyfriend of seven years and two Boston Terriers. Robert blogs at The Gay Post-Evangelical.
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