A responsibility of the Levitical priesthood was to know the difference between the “holy and the common, and between the unclean and the clean” and teach the law (Lev. 10:10-11). As Christians we likewise have a duty to make this distinction and have no part of the unclean (1 Pet. 2:11). Sadly the movement to impose homosexual practices as a normal and mainstream part of our society has made gains over the course of several years and God’s people are not immune from falling prey to Satan’s ploys (2 Cor. 11:3). This article will focus on how this movement may impact us and what we must do.
Acceptance
The LGBT movement has had some of its greatest successes in the area of entertainment. Sitcoms and movies commonly depict homosexuals and transgenders as tolerant, welcoming and enlightening while those who oppose are portrayed as ignorant, close-minded and intolerant of other views. Those who in reality rebel against God labeling those who boldly stand against sin as troublemakers is nothing new (1 Kings 18:17-18).
We must never take the attitude of Judah in Jeremiah’s day: “‘Were they ashamed when they committed abomination? No, they were not at all ashamed; they did not know how to blush. Therefore they shall fall among those who fall; at the time that I punish them, they shall be overthrown,’ says the Lord.” (Jer. 6:15; 8:12). If we aren’t vigilant, we too will fall victim to accepting all manner of sin (1 Cor. 10:12).
Ignoring The Warnings
Certain things are recorded to serve as a warning to not repeat the mistakes of the past (Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:11). The consequences of practicing and accepting homosexuality are no exception. Advocates of the LGBT agenda dismiss biblical teachings by arguing that passages condemning homosexuality are taken out of context.
The most common is the fall of the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen. 19:1-29). They claim Sodom’s sin was a lack of hospitality rather than homosexual practices, when in reality they were guilty of many sins (Ez. 16:49-50). When compared to the Genesis account, it is abundantly clear homosexuality was a normal part of their heathen ways. The fact that two inspired New Testament writers give their fate as a warning to Christians is not something to be taken lightly (2 Pet. 2:6; Jude 7). Jude wrote, “Just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire” (Jude 7).
Fear Of Speaking Out
Yet another area where this wicked agenda has enjoyed success is instilling fear into those who speak against it. Sadly, some have given in to the intimidation. As God’s people, rather than hide our lights (Matt. 5:15) we should have the apostolic mentality: “And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness” (Acts 4:29).
Children of God are not to be fearful (2 Tim. 1:7). Some fear the IRS, loss of money (Acts 16:19) or the reactions of hearers (Is. 51:7; Ez. 3:9; Matt. 15:12) more than the living God (Heb. 10:31). Brethren, we must never lose or give up our convictions out of fear but rather continue despite the efforts of Satan to water down the truth of the matter. If we do, we’re people pleasers rather than God pleasers (Gal. 1:10).
Targeting Children
Children are one of God’s greatest blessings (Ps. 127:3-5). Yet sadly, the evil tentacles of this vile agenda has reached into the minds of these precious little ones. This has been done through television and literature; now some public libraries are inviting “drag queens” (men who dress and try to look like women) to read to children. The divine imperative to teach them becomes even more crucial for Christian parents (Deut. 6:6 -9). This is not something we can be passive about because souls depend on it.
When we look at the honesty and humility of a child, it is no wonder our Lord uses them to teach us and pronounces condemnation on those who seek to harm them (Matt. 18:1-6).
Redefining Terms
In a post-modern society where truth is viewed as subjective rather than objective & absolute comes putting new terms on what in times past many knew to be sin. Sadly this mindset is permeating in the minds of many who profess to be Christians. In many pulpits, homosexuality (and other sins) is rarely addressed. When it is addressed, the sin is watered down and referred to as “alternative lifestyles.” One may change the terminology but they do so to their own detriment (2 Thess. 2:11-12). Postmodernism leads to the redefining of terms and ultimately turns the truth of God into a lie (Rom. 1:25). We must be vigilant in our efforts to remain steadfast in guarding ourselves and the bride of Christ from blemish (Eph. 5:27). If we allow the philosophies of the world to enter our midst, we are guilty of spiritual adultery like some in Thyatira who permitted immorality in the church (Rev. 2:20-23). Rather, let us be like the faithful in Thyatira and not learn “the deep things of Satan” (Rev. 2:24).
Jesus Never Addressed It
Some elements of Christendom influenced by LGBT proponents are regarding homosexual actions as okay because scripture never records Jesus explicitly condemning it. The Lord also never specifically mentions spousal abuse yet no rationally thinking person will argue that’s okay because He never spoke about it. Those who advocate for this position are like those described by Peter: “But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction” (2 Pet. 2:1). Furthermore, they likewise twist scriptures (2 Pet. 3:16).
In reminding the Pharisees of God’s design for marriage Christ appeals to the creation of man (Matt. 19:3-9; Mark 10:1-9; Gen. 2:24). By showing who marriage is for it is evident that all other sexual relationships—including homosexual ones—are excluded.
What We Must Do
What can we do to ensure that even faithful brethren and entire congregations don’t succumb to the LGBT movement?
- Set an example by your actions (Jas. 1:27). It is easy to “amen” a sermon that admonishes us to not defile ourselves in the ways of the world, but we must put our agreement into action and live out our resolve.
- Be vigilant. Acceptance of sin in Christianity didn’t happen rapidly but rather over a span of time. Our Lord’s enemies are smooth (Rom. 16:18), subtle (Gal. 2:4), and ultimately empty (2 Pet. 2:17; Jude 12).
- Stay abreast of current events because whatever is in the world will manifest itself into the church. It is imperative that Christians be armed (Eph. 6:10-20).
- Remember there is “nothing new under the sun” (Eccl. 1:9). Whatever we face today has been dealt with in the past.
- Remember the gospel’s power. First century Corinth was a very wicked city but even there Paul proclaimed the gospel (Acts 18:8, 11). Among those who were converted there were homosexuals (1 Cor. 6:9-11).
- Be patient as you teach. “And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after having been captured by him to do his will” (2 Tim. 2:24-26, emp. mine).
Conclusion
There is no doubt we live in troubling times but despite this God’s people must press onward and endure so we can finish the race (Phil. 3:14; Heb. 12:1-2). Let us never fear to speak out but do so in a way that will be pleasing to God.
Adam preaches for the Midwest Church of Christ in Ferguson, MO.
