The church and homosexuality [July 12, 2006 {0516}; An e-Review Florida UMNS Commentary by Bishop Timothy W. Whitaker]

05-13-08

Although your article is well intentioned, I sense a clear avoidance of the subject of repentance from sin or at the very least a desire to repent of sin prior to being admitted to church membership. If a person states a desire to join the church, but admits to stealing and says I have no intention to repent because I think it is not sin, do we grant membership? If another says I want to join the church, but will have no intention of repenting of my sexual promiscuity, do we say ok? Persons wishing to join must acknowledge sin as sin, and the church's admitting them without repentance is tacit acceptance of their sin as not being sin. [more...]

Thank you, Bishop Whitaker, for your clear and carefully reasoned article on the church in addressing the issue of homosexuality. I appreciate the language "same sex attraction" and find myself in agreement with you throughout the article, but I would like to see more expansion/exploration in the para. re:church membership. I could see differentiating between those who were intent on openly rebelling against church discipline and those desiring to conform to Christ, even while struggling with church teaching. As sinners all, we confess our sins, and seek to repent, rather than thinking of these destructive behaviors as the norm for Christian practice, and so excusing them. [more...]

When I read Bishop Timothy W. Whitaker's Exposition on "the church and homosexuality," I was reminded of the passage of scripture found in the pastoral letter of James: "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does." (James 1:2-8, NIV) There is a "double-mindedness" in Bishop Whitaker's reasoning which has even led him to doubt himself in what he says is true. In one breath, he says "homosexuality" is sinful, and rightly so, as stated in God's Word and as affirmed throughout Christian tradition as being described as one of the sins of sexual immorality which will not enter the kingdom of God, and should not even be mentioned as being associated with us as the church body. For instant, Paul instructs the church by saying, "Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God's people. (Eph 5:3-4,NLT) [more...]

I applaud Bishop Whitaker on his stance on membership of homosexuals in The United Methodist Church. This is a church with a “Social Conscience.”  While I do not condone homosexuality, we, like Christ, are to love the individual, as God loves us and we love our children, at the same time not approving of the behavior. How can we reach this part of society and offer them Christ if we refuse them admission? This would be like the Pharisees and Scribes feeling about the People of the Land or the sinners of their day. It seemed more focused on the joy of the destruction of the sinner than the seeking of the sinner for salvation.

Brian Taylor
Lake City, Florida

Did Jesus set some standards for church membership or stop anyone from worship? Does church membership do anything for the body of Christ? Is church membership required to worship the Lord? I believe church membership is wholly a manmade institution with intentions of keeping track of numbers and was Not in God's written plan. I sometimes belittle the old church Discipline, which was thicker than the Bible. What was in it? These are a few (rules) — no dancing, smoking or drinking. Perhaps some of these habits/sins should disqualify someone from membership. Manmade rules, procedures and judgements have no place in a spirit-filled church.

Ken Coolidge
First United Methodist Church, Hobe Sound

I liked the article and I thought it was balanced, well thought out and very well written. Thank you. I have known “same-sex attracted” people most of my life and for the most part found them just as enjoyable as anyone else altho they were noticeably different. I also felt their pain of being different and some have confided they would give anything to be like everyone else. Observing their pain made me feel they would not continue this if there was an option to change. What seems to be missing is the church's acceptance of them and this is the sticking point for me. Our church is active in Kairos and I have friends who have no difficulty walking into a prison with every kind of felon possible and immediately accepting them as "children of God", but in the next breath tearing apart homosexuals. Our church has its share of adulterous members to which little if any criticism is raised, but homosexuality is attacked with passion. Jesus' ministry was unique in its inclusivity. Why have we lost this message when it comes to same-sex orientation? What is it about this "difference" among us, regardless of how it may have occurred that causes such anger and pain?

Michael Negley
Heritage United Methodist Church, Clearwater

I was leading a Sunday School study of the Social Principles. The class was mostly discussion, but Easter Sunday happened to be the Sunday we discussed the section that included the church's position on Homosexuality. I reserved a few minutes for myself and offered the following reflection: John 20: 10-15 Then the disciples went back to their homes, but Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. They asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?" "They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. "Woman," he said, "Why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?" Thinking he was the gardener, she said, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him." “You see He died day before yesterday… We placed him in a snug comfortable tomb. We put him where we could find him." [more...]

Institutional Christianity today is fundamentally flawed. Evidence is found both in the tone and content of the debate on the issue of human sexuality that consumes the energy of the Christian Church today. And your article perpetuates this wasted energy. Why the Bible: In our Judeo-Christian society, the documents collectively known as the Bible serve as the primary guide on most issues. It is interesting that many Christians take literally the references to homosexual acts, while interpreting other text with great flexibility. Was it proper to close the Canon of scripture when the Church did and to suggest thereby that the revelation of God and God's purposes ended about 135 C.E. when II Peter, generally regarded as the last book of the New Testament, was written? Was there no new insight to come out of Christianity after it was recognized by Constantine in 313? When Augustine related Christianity to the thoughts of Plato in the 4th and 5th centuries, was none of that worthy of being incorporated into the Canon of Christian scripture? When Thomas Aquinas rethought Christianity in the 13th century in terms of the thoughts of Aristotle, was not some part of that work worthy of inclusion? [more...]

I am saddened and disappointed that some Methodist ministers have chosen to deny membership to practicing homosexuals based upon their "not practicing a Christian lifestyle." As a lifelong Methodist, I find it rather funny that anyone (especially a minister) would imply that all Methodists lead Christian lifestyles. Is it Christian to ignore or disobey basic tenets of Christianity and the words of Jesus Christ in the New Testament? If Christ is the example of a Christian lifestyle, did He exclude anyone for any reason? Is the Methodist Church living and leading a Christian lifestyle by ignoring or disobeying the words of Jesus Christ? What about His commandment to love each other as He has loved us? What about Paul's words in Roman's 8 stating that we are all dearly beloved children of God and co-heirs with Jesus Christ? Did Jesus or Paul exclude anyone, including homosexuals? NO! If the church is the body of Christ, how can anyone be denied membership in that body except by Christ? [more...]

First of all, the article was excellent. It gave a lot of information and background to both sides of the issue. I believe God is calling all Christians to stay firm to the Scriptures on sexual behavior. Homosexuality is no worse than sex outside of marriage in God's eyes. However, we can only change our view on homosexuality if we change our view on adultery. Are we willing to change the Ten Commandments for politcal correctness? Overall, I agree with the content of the article, but I must disagree with the need for continual discussion on the matter. God has already given his feelings on sin as they relate to homosexuality. It is time for the UMC to follow God and not the times!

Wade Boise
Brushwood United Methodist Church

Bishop Whitaker: In your thoughtful paper on The Church and Homosexuality, you say: “Another approach is to posit there can be 'new revelation' in the culture, such as scientific research projects that might indicate same-sex attraction is biologically constituted or a new consciousness in society that being homosexual is 'gay.' They assume this 'new revelation' should be given authority equal to, or more than, the authority of Scripture on the supposition that it comes ultimately from the Holy Spirit. The idea of a 'new revelation' is disturbing because it is language alien to the church that knows it has received divine revelation in the particular covenants God made in history with Israel and through Jesus Christ of which the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are witnesses.” When science tells us something we so not want to hear, the church’s reaction has often been to burn the messengers at the stake or fire them from their jobs. When that does not work, we take the Bush approach: we go out and find some different experts who will tell us what we think we already know. That stinks to high heaven. The almighty does not need to be defended by the likes of us! As we ponder the authority of Scripture, we need to render unto Darwin the things that are Darwin’s. [more...]

Bishop Whitaker: I appreciate that you are seeking to further the discussion of the church and homosexuality with dignity and civility. Your conclusion that Christian tradition can change through a new illumination of God’s complete revelation in Jesus Christ contained in scripture is more than sufficient to move us ever closer to the pure and simple light of God. I understand your effort to find a neutral word to describe what you call the ‘phenomenon’ of homosexuality. And I agree that words are very important as we attempt to resolve these complex issues. So much so that even the use of the word ‘phenomenon’ to describe the ‘experience’ of persons who identify as homosexual runs the risk of objectifying such persons and placing ‘them’ into a separate category, over against ‘the rest of us’ or ‘normal’ people. Objectifying and separating persons into ‘us’ and ‘them’ is not a helpful activity if our goal is to reach resolution or understanding or even live in harmony within community. Rather, such language is often the first step in dehumanizing the ‘enemy’ on the way to war, which is where the UMC appears to be in regard to homosexuality. Your ‘nature’ argument runs the same risk of valuing ‘normal’ people more than persons who fall outside the norm. This way of thinking has been demonstrated by both history and ethicists to be a slippery slope. [more...]

It is so good to know that we have a Bishop who is able to reflect and speak with an intellegent theological insight into a Christlike anthropology. He is to be respected for addressing a subject which is misunderstood by many ordained clergy who have a stringent fundamentalist approach to Scripture which is not only contrary to our Methodist tradition, but is causing a deep division in our faith communities. Although I am ordained in another denomination I belive that the foundation which unites all of us is the mandate of Christ to love one another as He loves us. Thank you, Bishop, for your commitment to being faithful to your role as Shepherd of our Church.

Anthony D'Angelo
Oxford United Methodist Church

Having come to the Florida Conference of the UMC five years ago from another denomination, I see things perhaps through different eyes than do the lifelong Methodists. I don't know how this debate (homosexuality) will be resolved, but I am both amazed and thankful for the freedom we Methodists have to debate and discuss the great issues of our day. I assure you that I do not take that freedom for granted! And I am grateful for the faith we share. It is possible for us to disagree without being disagreeable, and at the end of the day to love one another in Christ. I am thankful for all who have freely shared their ideas. God bless each one of you.

Nate Boles
Murray Hill United Methodist Church, Jacksonville

Bill Hinson spoke some words about the way the UMC is struggling with this issue few people wanted to hear, but may well be prophetic, at a UM Decision breakfast held during the 2004 General Conference: "Last Monday night when six of us met with fifteen persons who are of a different perspective (on the issue of same sex attraction), my sadness took on a new dimension. We took turns talking in that circle about the church and where we were coming from. At the end of more than two hours, my feelings had coalesced to the point that I was fully persuaded we cannot bridge the gap separating us. I was and am profoundly saddened by that conviction." Then near the end of his speech he said, "I believe the time has come when we must begin to explore an amicable and just separation that will free both sides from our cycle of pain and conflict." I don't think we're that far down the road yet; that is, when members in our congregations are ready to split over this issue. While the Bishop has written an excellent paper on same sex attraction and the response of the church, it does appear to me that we are heading in the direction of a church split. Will we find a way to prevent it?

Jamie Westlake
Cypress Lake United Methodist Church

I am grateful for the thoughtful and comprehensive article, by the Bishop, in regards to sexuality. The Bishop managed to bypass the political agendas, on both sides of the issue, and accurately get to the real issues. I do hope others find this article as helpful as I did in trying to articulate my own understandings.

Glenn Galtere
Retired

I speak only for myself. Awhile ago Methodism's Dilemma was what to do with the "colored" folks (among other names), as well other minorities, who just wanted only to be accepted as a part of the Methodist Episcopal Family. It took Affirmative Action, Consent Decree and threats of disallowing Tax Exemption Status before there was a little acceptance. I thank God for that even though it really was not and still is not embraced by the majority. There is still room for growth and love enough to believe that God created us all to be whomever we are. If the Word tells us that we would have diverse people and the world reveals that to be true, then why go another 30 or more years trying to deny anyone of an equitable life, just because they say that they are "Gay"? Who defines who is saved and who is not anyway? Please read Matthew 7:21 through 23 everybody who hollers LORD! LORD! will not enter the Kingdom. How do we justify contrariness between our words and our action? How many of you are privy to what goes on in a "gay" relationship versus what goes on in a "straight" relationship? Please read the NIV of the Bible as well as others.[more...]

I am grateful for Bishop Whitaker's thoughtful and well-reasoned articles on spiritual issues of the day. While I do not always agree with him, I am always led to think more deeply about the issues he addresses. It is good to have a spiritual leader as bishop, rather than a bureaucratic manager. Regarding his article, The church and homosexuality, I have a few comments regarding his "theology" section. First, the "pederasty in Greco-Roman society" argument by so-called revisionists is aimed not at Romans 1:26-27, but at 1 Corinthians 6:9 and 1 Timothy 1:10. According to biblical scholars Robin Scroggs and Victor Paul Furnish, both passages presuppose the Roman practice of older men "keeping" effeminate adolescent boys for sex. These passages do not address adult, commited, homosexual relationships. The Romans 1:26-27 passage, as the Bishop points out, deals with same sex intercourse by men and women. But Scroggs, Furnish and another biblical scholar, Walter Wink, point out that Paul assumes an un-natural, going against one's sexual nature, lusting. These scholars point out that Paul seems to have no concept of and thus no understanding of homosexual orientation. [more...]

As a man whose openly gay brother felt as though no church on the face of this earth would ever lovingly and non-judgmentally accept him, this item resonates with me. However, I take issue with the following text: "If The United Methodist Church changes its basic position on homosexuality, then it will be making a move toward modern Western culture, but against a historic and global ecumenical consensus. Some would justify this move as the prophetic action of a church in the vanguard of enlightenment. However, the fact is that such a move would change the way The United Methodist Church would be viewed by the rest of the ecumenical Christian community, which, by a vast majority, adheres to the traditional teaching of Christianity." That smacks of old-fashioned Southern parenting where Mom also teaches the kids to worry about what the neighbors think. More and more science is pointing to the fact that people are born with what Bishop Whitaker calls same-sex attraction. Of course, I thoroughly dislike this verbiage because it is lingo used by such hurtful groups as Exodus and other so-called ex-gay ministries who believe they can change what someone desires sexually. It's pretty simple to me; my brother was born the way he was born. There have been gay people on this earth since time began. Ancient friezes unearthed in ancient Rome prove this as sexual acts were depicted in art form. The fact I cling to is that there aren't any words of our Savior documented in scripture where he castigates homosexuals. Jesus would be in the gay bars today loving on all of them.

Anonymous

To me, the main issue is whether or not to ordain gay clergy, not whether or not to accept gay members. I found no references to gay clergy ordination in the article.

David Murdock
Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church

The article helps to clear up many points on the subject, and we could use it to guide our stand on the issue. Many of these same-sex attraction peoples want to be Christians but they are denied the opportunity, are driven from the church and ostracised. We should reach out to them because they need help the most. Jesus would not turn them away. First we accept them, then we nurture them and God will do the rest.

Anonymous

Bishop Whitaker, I have always been of the opinion that it is our role to love each other and God's role to judge us all. Even with that being said, I am not in favor of the ordination of those with 'same-sex attractions'. I agree with everything you said. I have strong feelings about this issue, but I could not have given sound basis for my opinions. The article has given me an understanding of the reasoning behind my own views. Thank You!

Darlene Johnson
Union Street United Methodist Church

Bishop Whitaker has produced a respectful and profoundly significant summary of differing perspectives regarding “Same sex attraction.” He says: “I believe it is important for the church to take a pastoral approach toward homosexuals.” I heartily agree. However, I sincerely hope we do not assume that a person must be a member of the church in order to receive pastoral ministry. Church membership is not a prerequisite in order to experience “the environment of grace.” My twenty-five weekends in Kairos prison ministry convince me even a state prison can be an “environment of grace.” Prisoners with no church background become awakened to the fact that they need the transforming grace of God. When that need is acknowledged with genuine repentance, the grace of God brings authentic transformation. Even among those who are often regarded as hopeless, the day of miracles is not over. Redemptive ministry can actually be hindered if persons are received into church membership pre-maturely. Pastors should not be compelled to violate their own conscience in this, their most sacred pastoral responsibility. It is time for the Council of Bishops to break their silence regarding this very crucial issue.

William Roughton
First United Methodist Church, Lakeland

I very much appreciate the bishops taking a stand on an issue that could only cause them trouble. I believe it was an act of courage in the best Methodist tradition. Regardless of the position taken by the Church on the acceptability of homosexuality, I believe we should make homosexuals welcome.

Drew Sappington
First United Methodist Church, St. Augustine

Extremely well-done essay, Bishop Whitaker! Now — every district should provide pastoral and lay leadership gatherings, using this essay as the "text" for study and comfortable open discussion. Our people need informed leaders.

Dee Lindsey
Riverview United Methodist Church

I believe the church should be opened to all, but membership should be limited to those who have taken a stand to try to live a sin free life. While this is most likely not possible ... we all have weaknesses ... it should be the lofty goal of each church member. I start each day asking for strength to avoid sin. A person who starts off the day knowing his/her activities are sinful and with no intent of modifying that lifestyle, needs church but not membership. One does not have to be a member to attend church. Without a doubt homosexuality is a sin and those practicing homosexuality need a lifestyle change before membership is offered.

Bob Munsey Jr.
First United Methodist Church

Thank you for voicing your outlook on gay love. I feel that the Meth. Church should stay with its Biblical beliefs. If it should change its opinion to accepting gay love I will leave the church and go to one that preaches Biblical beliefs.

Robert Pierce
Riverview United Methodist Church

Dear Bishop Whitaker, This is a very interesting article. I recommend translating it to Spanish in order to have it available for our Hispanic/Latino brothers and sisters. I know that there this issue is being discussed in the Hispanic/Latino communities in Florida. I am agreeing with you that we have to approach this issue by the direction of the Holy Spirit creating and environment of acceptance and integration in the life of our local Churches. Thanks for opening this important discussion among us. May God Bless you. Rev. Cruz Edwin Santos, Director Leadership Formation Hispanic/Latino Ministries General Board of Discipleship

Cruz Edwin Santos
First United Methodist Church Hispanic Misssion, Kissimmee

THANK YOU Bishop Whitaker for your thoughtful, non-homophobic discourse on the subject of homosexuality and Christian life in 21st Century America, while maintaining that the traditional teachings still apply today. I don't agree with some of your conclusions in support of orthodoxy, but it is encouraging to me to hear this point of view articulated so rationally and with earnest desire that we discuss understandings and accept that, even with rational and respectful discussion, others will continue to hold differing points of view. I agree with you that the church has allowed our disagreements on the issues associated with homosexuality to become a distraction, directing our focus as Christians away from all that unifies us. Your words give me hope that we may yet find a way to disagree respectfully, and still honor one another as sincere believers and beloved sisters and brothers in Christ.

Jill Borden
Ordained Elder on voluntary leave of absence

The editorial was quite drawn out, with a lot of man's words and so few of God's Words. It seems that is the path that most churches are taking today. It seems people want to twist the scriptures to say what they want them to say. It doesn't work that way. Why can't we stick to the letter that God wrote us? It will never change, and we can't go wrong by following it. It is past time that we grew up and got into the Meat of God's word. And obey what He said.

Eagle Greene
Non-denominational

Bishop Whitaker: Thank you for a well written and thoughtful article on the problematic topic. I agree.

David Lee
Faith United Methodist Church

Thank you, Bishop Whitaker, for an enlightening and very helpful commentary. This article should be published by the conference for circulation and discussion. In our cluster group yesterday there were many appreciative comments and discussions.

Anonymous

With the enormous volume of material covering the subject in today's media, this article is concise and coherent. It was refreshing to read and insightful ... particularly the closing section dealing the with "the church and culture." Very thought provoking!!

William Mcloud
First United Methodist Church, Spring Hill

"There is the question of whether or not persons with same-sex attraction can be “changed” so they no longer experience this attraction. The testimonies of persons are mixed with some saying they have been changed and others vehemently refuting this possibility. Few of us understand the phenomenon of same-sex attraction well enough to give a definitive answer for all persons. At any rate, the church’s concern is to guide persons away from practicing homosexual behavior and encourage them to develop intimate friendships with persons of both sexes. It should be left to their own personal freedom whether or not to follow the pastoral direction of the church because God does not coerce anyone to obey the divine will." I have to comment on this one paragraph of this thoughtfully written essay. As a hospice chaplain, I encounter people from all walks of life. I recall one experience in which I met a married couple ... married 68 years. The dying gentleman "confessed" to his homosexual behavior throughout his marriage, and was unloading incredible shame and guilt, and his internal struggle of [more...]

Upon reading Bishop Whitaker’s thoughtful contribution to the issue of participation by gays and lesbians in the life of Christian community I feel compelled to make a response. One thing that makes this issue so complex and muddled is that homosexual behavior can take so many forms. In some instances it can be an expression of an immature sexuality — something a person will “grow out of.” In other instances it can be the mark of indiscriminate lust. There are many other possibilities, but homosexual behavior can also be a loving expression of a fundamental sexual orientation. Too often all forms of homosexuality or, as Bishop Whitaker prefers, “same-sex attraction,” are considered one and the same. I think this lack of differentiation between different forms of homosexual experience and expression keeps the issue confused. For me the most compelling thing is this: I believe Bishop [more...]

This is a well written article, and I hope many will take the time to digest it. However, it takes so long to develop the framework and thoughts that many will move on rather than study it with intent. The affect - it will not be as effective as he would hope. I agree with most of the logic and hope the heart of his message will be heard by those who are fighting for other positions. Sexual Same-Sex relationships are clearly a sin and while we need to love the sinner we can never accept the sin. The issue to me is how to embrace the people without sending signs of accepting their sin. I pray the UMC would be a world leader in setting a standard that clearly says our pastors and spiritual leaders never teach a message of acceptably of the sin; and as a Body of believers in Christ – we never tolerate this sinful behavior from our spiritual leaders, pastors, deacons, elders, teachers or lay leaders of our Body.

Ric Dugger
Killearn United Methodist Church, Tallahassee

I am certainly glad that I am a heterosexual Christian. What a heartache gay people are subjected to by the church! When my dear United Methodist Minister husband was alive, I was free to love him physically as well as spiritually. But the church debates the "issue," of my homosexual friends' love for one another and judges their love (in a loving way, of course). I understand that the church is slow to act and debates issues for centuries sometimes, as it did concerning both slavery and the ordination of women. What passionate defense of the scriptures occurred during those years! But homosexual people are living now. Must they really sublimate their true feelings while we do not ask the same of heterosexuals, unless they choose to? And do we really want to say that the church doesn't care if biology proves that some homosexuals are born that way? It reminds me of the church killing "heretics" [more...]

A thoughtful and brilliantly written summary of the real issues surrounding this debate. Ideally, scripture should help shape cultures. That doesn't seem to be happening in ours, but we can't simply cave. When this or any other mainline church allows contemporary culture to redefine scripture as a means to enable changes to basic doctrine and traditional discipline, that church is on its way to losing its relevance to society and its usefulness to God. The Methodist Church, as we know it, is a relatively young Christian organization. Its survival is not guaranteed by anything other than the determination of its members to stay true to God's Word as revealed and recorded thousands of years ago.

Robert Young
Boca Grande United Methodist Church

Dear Bishop Whitaker ... Thanks for your thoughtful comments on this subject. You wrote "Nor should those who disagree with the orthodox view consider those who accept it as bigots." I would agree with this admonition but find difficulty in the fact that, so often, outspoken opponents of homosexuality bundle this belief with other exclusionary or vindictive positions (i.e. opposing affirmative action based on race or gender, violence over peace as foreign policy, ethnic distrust, etc.). In addition, the fierce opposition to accepting homosexual practice based on scripture seems entirely selective and, as such, suggests bigotry. For example, Exodus 22:25 prohibits charging interest to the poor. Yet we live in a culture where the poor pay a much higher rate of interest that the well off. Failure to follow this scriptural guidance affects many more than homosexuality, and, I believe, has likely destroyed more families. Many members of the church work in the financial industry. When will we start calling them to repentance? Does scripture hold authority in one area but not others? It is hard to believe that those who are so constantly aggitated about homosexuality aren't trying to exorcize some evil spirit of their own.

Gary Broughman
Coronado Community United Methodist Church

Bishop Whitaker, thank you for a well-thought and well-written article on this subject that encompasses the entire scope of the Church. One question that continues to arise for me in the consideration of same-sex couples for membership stems from the baptismal covenant's questions, "Do you renounce the spiritual forces of wickedness, reject the evil powers of this world, and repent of your sin?"; and "Do you accept the freedom and power God gives you to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves?" How do those living in a same-sex sexual relationship answer these questions positively? What is the church's response for an answer in the negative? Another question I have is how can the church include persons in the life of the church, but not in church membership when they are currently engaging in a known sin and have no desire to turn away from that sin and reject the grace of God to do so? (This is a much more general question and goes for everyone). Thank you.

Mason Dorsey
Azalea Park United Methodist Church

Thank you for this long consideration of the challenges facing us in the UMC. I will be sharing this with my pastor and with the UMM. It has been my understanding and attempted practice to love the individual but not the practice of "homosexuality." I believe that the acceptance of one attracted to the same sex, as with any sinner, is paramount. As you said, some will be lead away from the practice of same sex sex. Some will not be. I have little challenge with granting membership to same sex attrached persons in or out of a relationship as long as they acknowledge that they are sinning if in a continuing eros relationship. Who am I to start throwing stones? As you state, hopefully being in the love and fellowship with fellow Christians will change their practice and/or cause a celebacy. [more...]

Our bishop's well-chosen words are instructional without being overly dictatorial; comprehensive, yet clearly stated within a measured space. No one should misunderstand this timely lesson on history, theology and "same-sex attraction." Bishop Whitaker deserves our appreciation for saying what many of us struggle to say, either because we're afraid we'll say the wrong thing, or because we're limited by a stunted vocabulary.

Bruce Galloway
Ft. Caroline United Methodist Church

I learned during our Pastorates that we are all created the same way by our Heavenly Father. We are taught that to be different is radical. My husband and I served churches in which there were gays and we had some as neighbors. And you know what They were loving neighbors ready to help families in time of need, and assist their neighbors. Sure we are taught 1 man 1 woman makes a marriage, but who is to say this is correct in all cases.

Anonymous

In responding to the Bishop's discussion in this matter of same sex attraction, I appreciate deeply this forum and respect this method of discussion. And I understand his need to address the language issue because of the tone that can be taken regarding such a hot button issue. At the same time, however, language is precisely where those with a hidden political agenda began. Anyone who has studied the social sciences knows that when one changes the language one changes the culture; for example "homosexuality" moved from being an sin to being "gay" to being an "alternate lifestyle" and now, what was once considered a "heinous sin," has become someone's "civil right." Such implies that homosexual issues/struggles should be compared to those experienced by our brothers and sisters whose ancestors were once slaves and who themselves walked alongside of great men like Martin Luther King or great women life Rosa Parks. I think this is unacceptable and highly offensive. Lanaguage change has moved a sin to being a civil right. Yes fluid language changes the culture. It has indeed changed the American culture. I hope it does not impact negatively on The United Methodist Church. Regarding theology, I [more...] 

Thank you, Bishop, for helping me to consider all facets. It has helped me in affirmation of my own position, but it also added other dimensions for my understanding in the greater church.I am aware of changes needed within me, and I gladly open myself to more Grace.

Harold Busey
Palm Coast United Methodist Church

This is one of the best articles I have read on the issue of same-sex relationships and how the United Methodist Church should respond. I have been waiting for some kind of teaching from our leadership and this article means that my wait is over. I will use it when people ask for information about how our Chuch is responding to this issue. Thank you, Bishop Whitaker.

James Ulmer
Zellwood United Methodist Church

I want to affirm and applaud our bishop’s well-reasoned and orthodox approach to this vexing issue. Because of his keen understanding of Scripture, tradition and the social sciences, the bishop has cut to the heart of this issue. However, I would like to take issue with his “pastoral” approach to membership and Wesley’s order of salvation. Before Methodism became a church in 1784, if was a renewal movement. Arguably, it functioned like a church from a biblical perspective before it was organized into the Methodist Episcopal Church. Regardless, before a person could become a member of the society, the person had to be a member of a class. In order to be a member of a class, one had to desire to flee from the wrath to come and commit to using the Methodist discipline as a means of grace. The use of the discipline propelled a seeker forward in the order of salvation. In other words, it opened a person up to the transforming work of God’s Spirit. Wesley told his preachers that they should not preach in places where they did not have the means to form the “awakened” people into classes. Otherwise, the awakened people would fall away and become more resistant to the preaching [more...]

When Jesus gave his life for us, He said all who believe in Him as their savior will have life eternally. There were no "If you are not a murderer, an adulterer, or homosexexual." We are not to judge who has taken Jesus Christ as their Savior. Only God has that right.

Patricia Bear
First United Methodist Church, Seminole

This has been weighing on my mind for awhile now. I have a very dear friend that is "Gay". He did not ask to be born that way. He was thrown out of his church "Catholic" because of his sexual orientation. He believes in God and is a good man but he has no church to attend to help him with his walk with God. Not all homosexual people are what you see on TV, in movies, etc. There needs to be a place where those who want to can attend a church of their choice. This problem isn't going away and neither are the homosexuals. There are more of them out there than what any of us realize. Let's give them our love, not our condemnation. They are all children of God.

Shirley Wills
First United Methodist Church, Bunnell

Thank you for a concise and direct statement of the church's position. It will help me in dialogue with those who espouse positions on either side of the issue to advance their purposes rather than let flow the redemptive love of Jesus Christ. I look forward to dialogue during the Conference Table this year in a strong hope that we as a people can transcend this divisive issue and focus more clearly on the "salt and light" which God has called us to be to our culture.

Steve Potter
Faith United Methodist Church

A serious, well thought out piece.

Gary Loftis
Searching