Home Pastors Articles for Pastors Homosexuality and the Church: Is There a Better Way?

Homosexuality and the Church: Is There a Better Way?

2. Understand and distinguish with your leadership the difference between same-sex attraction and homosexual relationships and behavior.

Understand that like any temptation, same-sex attraction is not sin. Acting on it is.

While I believe (and experienced) that same-sex attraction can be overcome, it’s not the focus we need to have or an expectation we need to have of people. Healing is the children’s bread, but not everyone is cured of cancer.

In the same way, living in holiness despite an ongoing temptation is the true measure of devotion, and often it’s in that crucible where people find intimacy with Christ. Shame must be eradicated from those who struggle.

3. Foster an environment among Church staff that makes it safe for people to confess sin in general.

Instead of pressure, promises and performance, create a culture of honor and trust where people know they will be safe even if they fall.

Institute a culture that assumes the best of people and seeks true restoration by going deep with a person to understand the missing links between them and the Father’s love.

It’s in these missing links where moral missteps and failures occur, and your unconditional love really will cover a multitude of sins.

Prepare your leadership, not just core staff, but small group leaders as well, to respond in an educated way to the potential of someone’s confession.

4. After developing a grace-filled approach toward the topic among leadership, talk about it.

Spend sermons on it like you would any other sin. Equip your body to respond in accordance with this new culture you are establishing.