In its 2,000-year history, the church has never faced cultural questions quite like these. How should Christians respond to gay, lesbian, and transgender neighbors? What does it mean to be “welcoming and affirming”? Future generations will look back on how we responded to these challenges. Ignoring them is not an option.
Here are 10 biblical truths every Christian must keep in mind when engaging with LGBTQ neighbors.
1. God Loves Everyone
Christ died for all—without exception. Your LGBTQ neighbor is no less worthy of God’s love than you are.
2. We All Share the Same Illness
Sin has devastated us all, separating us from God. No one’s sin puts them “farther away” than another.
3. We All Need Repentance
Salvation comes only through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ—not heritage, social status, sexual orientation, or personal effort.
4. Ignoring Sin Is Not Loving
God takes all sin seriously. Pretending sin doesn’t matter keeps people from the remedy—Christ himself. Grace and truth must always go together.
5. The Church Should Welcome Everyone
The lost of all kinds should be deeply desired in the church. If sinners aren’t welcome in church, where should they go?
6. Scripture Must Be Taught Fully
We must preach the whole counsel of God—encouragement and conviction alike. Selective teaching leads to distortion.
7. The Holy Spirit Convicts of Sin
It is not our job to convict hearts. That work belongs to the Spirit, in his timing and power.
