While concluding my series on homosexuality and the Bible, I would like to emphasize that this is not the end of the discussion on homosexuality and the Church. In fact, a mere focus on the Bible does not reckon the complexity and the relevance of the homosexuality debate in the Church. Bible interpretation is only one factor in a Christian's opinion of homosexuality. Indeed, I think the discussion focuses too much on the Bible, and too little on the people concerned. It seems we like to talk about homosexuals, but not with them.Some people have criticized me for interpreting the Bible to suit my private preferences. I do not agree, however I cannot deny that my understanding of the Bible - or any text - is based upon my perception of reality. Relating textual inspiration with real world experiences is the only way not to lapse into mere rule-following, traditionalism, and hollow religiosity.
In the same way, I would like to challenge my brothers and sisters to engage with gay Christians, and perhaps the gay community at large. Engagement with people goes beyond theological bickering and Bible interpretations. Engagement means reckoning people in their struggles; and not adding to their struggles by demanding change for love.
Links to this series:
Part 1: Sodom and Gomorra
Part 2: Leviticus I
Part 3: Leviticus II
Part 4: Leviticus III
Part 5: Romans I
Part 6: Romans II
Part 7: Romans III
Part 8: Corinthians and Timothy
Part 9: Creation Order
gay,homosexuality,Christianity,Bible,
4 Comments:
Many of the points in your series on homosexuality and the Bible are quite interesting. Some points are similar to those in the “Gay and Christian” website at www.gaysandslaves.com. You, and interested readers, may wish to check out rhe site.
Good conclusion to the series! I can't completely agree with some of the ways that you chose to interpret the Biblical texts; but I wholeheartedly agree that we need to talk person-to-person, life-to-life -- and not just intellectual/theological theory-to-intellectual/theological theory.
It's good to keep up with your life in China, Sander. I hope you'll keep posting. I wish you all the best.
Raycol, thank you for the link. It's good to see that more viewpoints and resources are available online.
Eric,
Thanks! I hope the renovation went well. I'm quite settled now, turning my attention to learning Mandarin. Having a good time here.
Best,
Sander
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