Let me begin this by saying that God’s love is unconditional. He loves the murderer and the pedophile as much as the saint. God has no favorites. Like us humans, just because our children do something bad doesn’t mean that we stop loving them or at least it shouldn’t. Nut because we love them doesn’t mean that we approve of their wrong doings or try to justify it. We don’t make excuses or change our views so that the murderer or pedophile feel included Instead we should love them and let God work on their heart.
When the murderer finds Jesus they stop murdering. When the pedophile finds Jesus the kids are safe. When the adulterer finds Jesus they stop cheating on their spouse. This is what true repentance is. We change. This is the evident throughout the bible. It is the basic tenant of our faith. Satan hates this.
The deceiver likes to twist things and has since the Garden of Eden. He will take God’s words and twist them to deceive. He will disguise himself as a child of light to mislead the lost. Things like “as long as you are a good person you will be ok” or “you don’t have to change what you do because God will forgive you” have always been some of his favorite ways of deceit. Now he is becoming more advanced and devious. Using the church and clergy itself to deceive the masses. Now the deceiver uses phrases like “we are all inclusive” or “that’s a misinterpretation or mistranslation”. The devil has changed disguises going from a serpent to “clergy” and the lost are paying the price.
The biggest trend right now is churches and clergy that say homosexuality is not a sin. This is evil by design. It leads homosexuals, that are truly seeking a relationship with God, away from the TRUE Jesus by telling them that they don’t have to change because their sin really isn’t a sin at all. They fill the seats and make money off leading people astray all in the name of inclusivity. It is a scam of biblical proportions designed to make people feel good while filling the church coffers. All while separating the sinner from the blood of Christ.
The United Methodist Church (UMC) is undergoing a significant split largely due to disagreements over the church’s stance on homosexuality. The conflict centers on whether to allow same-sex marriages and the ordination of LGBTQ+ clergy. Traditionalists, who oppose these changes, argue that they are inconsistent with biblical teachings. Progressives, on the other hand, advocate for full inclusion and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals.
In 2019, the UMC held a special General Conference where the Traditional Plan, which reinforced the church’s ban on same-sex marriages and LGBTQ+ clergy, was adopted. This decision intensified divisions within the denomination.
As a result, in 2020, a proposal called the “Protocol of Reconciliation and Grace through Separation” was introduced, suggesting an amicable separation. This protocol would allow traditionalist congregations to form a new denomination, the Global Methodist Church, while the remaining UMC would move towards a more inclusive stance.
The split has seen many congregations and conferences align with either the traditionalist or progressive side, leading to a reorganization of the denomination’s structure and governance. The formal separation process is ongoing, with significant implications for the future of the UMC and its members as well as other denominations where this evil doctrine has infiltrated.
While there are countless number of ways that these scammers try justify this deception I am only going to address the top 8 here which are:
1. Contextual Interpretation: They argue that the biblical passages traditionally used to condemn homosexuality are often taken out of context. For example, they might suggest that the story of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) is more about hospitality and violence than consensual same-sex relationships.
2. Original Language Analysis: Some argue that the original Hebrew and Greek words used in the Bible, often translated as referring to homosexuality, do not mean what modern translations suggest. For instance, the term “arsenokoitai” in 1 Corinthians 6:9 and 1 Timothy 1:10 is often debated, with some claiming it refers to exploitative practices rather than consensual same-sex relationships.
3. Historical-Cultural Context: They emphasize the cultural and historical context in which the Bible was written, suggesting that the biblical authors were addressing issues relevant to their time, such as idolatry, pederasty, or prostitution, rather than committed same-sex relationships as understood today.
4. Jesus’ Teachings: They note that Jesus himself did not explicitly address homosexuality, and they emphasize his teachings on love, acceptance, and refraining from judgment.
5. New Covenant Theology: Some argue that the Old Testament laws, including those in Leviticus that condemn homosexuality, were part of the old covenant, which was fulfilled and transformed by Jesus’ new covenant. They believe that Christians are no longer bound by these old laws.
6. Principle of Love and Justice: They emphasize the broader biblical principles of love, justice, and mercy. They argue that loving, consensual same-sex relationships are consistent with these principles and that discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals contradicts the core message of the gospel.
7. Hermeneutics of Inclusion: They adopt a hermeneutic approach that prioritizes inclusion and the dignity of all individuals, arguing that the overall trajectory of Scripture supports the inclusion and affirmation of LGBTQ+ people.
8. Modern Understanding of Sexuality: They assert that our modern understanding of human sexuality was not available to the biblical writers and that interpretations of biblical texts should evolve as our understanding of sexuality evolves.
Now let’s take each of these points one by one and see if they stand up to biblical teaching and fact.
1. Contextual Interpretation: Genesis 19’s account of Sodom and Gomorrah is traditionally understood to include condemnation of homosexual acts. While some argue that the primary sin was inhospitality or violence, Jude 1:7 reinforces the idea that sexual immorality, including pursuing “strange flesh,” was a key issue.
“just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire,[a] serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.” (Jude 1:7 ESV)
2. Original Language Analysis: The term “arsenokoitai” combines “arsen” (male) and “koite” (bed), suggesting male same-sex relations. This term, found in 1 Corinthians 6:9 and 1 Timothy 1:10, is consistently interpreted by traditional scholars as referring to homosexual behavior. Historical usage by early church fathers supports this interpretation.
“Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality (arsenokoitai),” (1 Corinthians 6:9)
“understanding this, that the law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality (arsenokoitai), enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine, in accordance with the gospel of the glory of the blessed God with which I have been entrusted.” (1 Timothy 1:9-11 ESV for context)
3. Historical-Cultural Context: While the historical context is important, the consistent prohibition of same-sex relations across both the Old and New Testaments suggests a moral principle rather than a culturally specific rule. Leviticus 18:22 “You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination” and Leviticus 20:13 “If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination; they shall surely be put to death; their blood is upon them” (It must be noted here that the part of Leviticus 20:13 that did change after Christ dying on the cross is that homosexuals are no longer to be put to death since there is now hope of their redemption through Christ Jesus.) explicitly prohibit male same-sex acts, and these prohibitions are reaffirmed in New Testament writings.
Romans 1:26-27 ESV
– “For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error.”
1 Corinthians 6:9-10 ESV
– “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”
1 Timothy 1:9-10 ESV
– “Understanding this, that the law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine.”
I will be the first to admit that culture has shifted but for the worse. During biblical times the Jews and early Christians were closer to God. Todays culture has grown further and further from God due in large part to technology allowing a faster and broader spread of all kinds of perversions.
4. Jesus’ Teachings: While Jesus did not directly address homosexuality, he reaffirmed the sexual ethics of the Old Testament in Matthew 5:17-19 and upheld the Genesis model of heterosexual marriage in Matthew 19:4-6.
“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:17-19 ESV)
“He answered, ‘Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? 6 So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.’” (Matthew 19:4-6 ESV)
The absence of explicit mention does not equate to endorsement. Jesus did not explicitly mention pedophilia in the bible but that doesn’t mean that he endorsed it. There were many things that there were zero question about during His ministry so there was no need to mention it.
5. New Covenant Theology: The moral laws of the Old Testament, including those regarding sexual behavior, are seen by the majority of Christians as still relevant. Jesus’ fulfillment of the law does not nullify its moral teachings nor does abolish the laws. Paul’s writings in the New Testament continue to affirm prohibitions against homosexual acts in Romans 1:26-27, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 as shown above.
6. Principle of Love and Justice: Biblical love and justice are rooted in adherence to God’s commands. We are taught, in both James 5:19-20 and Galatians 6:1, that love involves correcting sin. Therefore, upholding biblical sexual ethics is seen as an act of true love and justice.
“My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, 20 let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.” (James 5:19-20)
“Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1 ESV)
7. Hermeneutics of Inclusion: Inclusion in the Bible is based on repentance and adherence to God’s commands. Jesus extended forgiveness to sinners but also called them to “go and sin no more” (John 8:10-11). Inclusion in the church does not negate the need for moral transformation.
“Jesus stood up and said to her, ‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She said, ‘No one, Lord.’ And Jesus said, ‘Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.’” (John 8:10-11 ESV)
Salvation is not a license to keep sinning. It is the catalyst to change your life and Jesus clearly says that once you are saved you are to sin no more.
8. Modern Understanding of Sexuality: The biblical view of sexuality is timeless and divinely ordained. While human understanding evolves, God’s moral standards do not change. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Romans 1:26-27 explicitly condemns same-sex acts as contrary to nature, suggesting an enduring principle.
“For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; 27 and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error.” (Romans 1:26-27 ESV)
These refutations are consistent with traditional Christian interpretations of Scripture, emphasizing the continuity and coherence of biblical teaching on sexual ethics. They are only heretical to the church leaders and churches like the United Methodist Church who preach an evil distortion of biblical teachings.
As Christians how should we address these false teachings? Christians should handle the topic of false teachings about homosexuality by adhering to several key principles:
1. Always Maintain a Christlike Witness: Throughout these interactions, it is crucial to maintain a Christlike witness. This means embodying the love, grace, and truth of Jesus. John 1:14 describes Jesus as “full of grace and truth,” which is a balance that Christians should strive to emulate. It is possible to share the truth in love and not hate. Remember we are to love everyone as Christ loves us.
2. Loving Correction: When engaging with individuals who hold or promote the view that homosexuality is not a sin, Christians should approach the conversation with love and respect. Galatians 6:1 advises, “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness.”
3. Grounding in Scripture: Christians should base their understanding on a careful and thorough study of the Bible. Familiarity with relevant passages, such as Romans 1:26-27, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, and 1 Timothy 1:9-10, is crucial. They should also be able to articulate the broader biblical teachings on sexual ethics and marriage.
4. Prayer and Dependence on the Holy Spirit: Prayer for wisdom, discernment, and compassion is essential. Christians should seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in addressing and correcting false teachings, aiming to reflect Christ’s love and truth.
5. Clear Teaching and Preaching: Church leaders and teachers should clearly and faithfully teach what the Bible says about sexual ethics, including homosexuality. This includes addressing misconceptions and providing sound biblical explanation.
6. Education and Discipleship: Educating and discipling believers about biblical sexual ethics and why these teachings matter is important. This can be done through Bible studies, sermons, and small group discussions.
7. Providing Pastoral Care: Offering compassionate pastoral care to individuals struggling with same-sex attraction or those who are impacted by the false teaching is essential. This includes providing support, counseling, and helping individuals find their identity in Christ.
8. Engaging with Cultural and Theological Contexts: Christians should understand the cultural and theological arguments being made in support of homosexuality not being a sin. This allows for more informed and effective dialogue. Understanding the historical and linguistic context of key biblical passages can help refute these arguments.
9. Supporting and Upholding Church Discipline: In cases where individuals or leaders within the church persistently promote false teachings, appropriate steps in church discipline may be necessary, following the guidelines laid out in passages like Matthew 18:15-17.
“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.” (Matthew 18:15-17 ESV)
10. Advocating for Biblical Truth in Public Discourse: When opportunities arise, Christians can participate in public discourse, writing articles, engaging in debates, and using media platforms to advocate for biblical truth about sexuality. Remember that it must always be done for a place of love.
It is essential for Christians to navigate the topic of homosexuality with grace, love, and truth, firmly grounded in biblical teachings. God’s love is unconditional and extends to everyone, but this love also calls for true repentance and transformation. The deceptive teachings that condone sin, including homosexuality, must be countered with sound biblical explanation and compassionate pastoral care. As the UMC split highlights, adhering to biblical sexual ethics is not just about upholding tradition but ensuring the spiritual well-being of all believers. Through prayer, clear teaching, and loving correction, Christians can stand firm in the truth, reflecting Christ’s love and guiding others towards genuine repentance and a deeper relationship with God.