Dear Stephani Damato and Withheld:
Being a Christian today no doubt has its challenges. The Bible is the Christian’s moral compass; God’s message doesn’t change course and neither does his guidance. I have found an abundance of advice in the Bible for modern life situations (e.g. Proverbs). That is what makes the Bible the most published book in all the world; it’s relevant ALL OF THE TIME.
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Christians are called to not participate in sin or condone it in anyway. We are Christian all the time, not just on the days we sit through service. I’m very mindful of who I work for, where I spend my free time, invest my money and the decisions I make at the polls (and thank God we live in a country where we can openly make decisions that honor God)!
Yes, God has made very clear in the Bible that homosexuality is sinful; much like lying, greed, jealousy, premarital sex and drunkenness. In fact, the Bible was written for all sinners so we may correct ourselves and get on the right path (1 Tim 1:8-10). Just because these behaviors are becoming more accepted in our society doesn’t make them any less a sin.
God doesn’t need to address same-sex marriage since He’s already given us clear guidance on homosexuality. See Heb. 10:19-39 about how it’s not OK to purposefully sin and expect forgiveness afterward.
Becoming a Christian does not eliminate all sin and temptation from one’s life (see Rom. 7 about struggling with sin), but we are responsible for our actions and without Christ’s help we can’t stand up against temptation and sin. All sinners can be forgiven and their lives can be transformed if they let God (1 Cor. 6:9-11).
The facts have been laid out before us in the Bible; what you choose to do with it is between you and God. I encourage you to actively study the Bible. It is not to be picked up for light reading; it requires prayer, mediation and assistance of the Holy Spirit to discern the context each verse was written. It takes a little time to learn how to read it, but once you get the hang of it, it’s amazing how much you learn about the meaning of life and God.
I highly recommend reading “Knowing the Bible 101: A Guide to God’s Word in Plain Language” as a starting point. This will offer a great foundation for your journey as you seek to understand The Word.
– Rachel Collins
How do you suggest that Christians ‘correct’ the ‘sin’ of homosexuality? Conversion camp? Electroshock therapy? Should we pray the gay away?
The bible was written a LONG time ago, times have changed. God was about loving thy neighbor. God forgives. I’m not Christian whatsoever but I do know what he’s all about.
I find it interesting that she doesn’t quote any of the (mere 6) Bible verses that supposedly talk about homosexuality. Most likely because she realizes that each of the verses can be disputed by the Bible itself.
The Bible was written a long time ago, and yes, times change. But that’s like saying God only existed at the time the Bible was written and that’s simply not true. God inspired those to write the Bible, and since God still exists (and will forever exist), so does His word. God does love everyone (after all, He created all of us) and He does forgive us when we sin. But forgiveness comes only if we are truly sorry for our sins. I may not understand gays/lesbian relationships, but I won’t judge someone because of it–that’s between God and them. And as a Christian, I think this article is very good.
[…] Dear Rachel Collins, […]
Well written, Rachel!
Sometimes I’m embarrassed to say I go to this school.