Originally Posted by
dverna
The Untied Methodist Church is about to split over the issue of gay pastors and marriages. A post from Ickisrulz on another thread was very helpful to my understanding of the how homosexuality is viewed in the Bible.
I am curious to understand the other side of the issue. What are the scriptures that support homosexuality in the Bible?
I know at least three gay men. They are good people and well above average in intelligence. I enjoy their company even though I do not understand or support their lifestyle. They harm no one. One fellow is in his twenties and the son of a couple we have become friends with....but he is in a bad place. He is one of the smartest people I have ever met but is suicidal. Coming from an Evangelical home has not made things easy for him or his parents.
My way of dealing with this issue is laissez-faire. They are adults and have the right to live as they choose. They are sinners as I am too.
I have an issue with accepting their sins as equal to mine. I do not accept their lifestyle as "normal". Yet, I would rather have my gay friends at our home with our grandchildren than some of the drunkards, drug users, etc that we also know.
I have committed adultery...it seems to be regarded just as badly as homosexuality in the Bible. Am I just as "bad"? I am not proud of what I have done and repentant.
Lastly, and to the point. If homosexuality is a sin, how can a church that believes in the word of God, accept leaders that openly commit sin without repentance? I am not suggesting churches should exclude homosexuals, as they need God as much as all of us do, but I cannot wrap my head around how they can serve as role models and teachers.
So please, if the Bible finds homosexuality acceptable, share those thoughts. If you do not wish to do so publicly, PM me.
Thank you.