i can't help but wonder what the world might look like if we devoted as much energy to eradicating poverty and hunger as we do to eradicating homosexuality…

I am in agreement with you; especially concerning the civility thing. There is no room for people who go around hurting people in many different ways with the 'truth'. I am wondering though how we are to approach those who feel as you mentioned: a,b , and c. The conservative side of this argument chooses to point out that people who say they believe one thing yet do not act upon those specific beliefs are foolishly lying to themselves and others. For instance, if a politician is personally pro-life yet gives credence to those who support abortion, there is a disconnect for many…

I guess what I personally am dealing with these days is what you've called 'gray'. Why is it gray? Are we calling it gray because we realize there are those who don't agree with us; or is it possible that epistemologically there is no gray – there are just different ways we choose to relate to others in an empathetic way?

I want to be bold in witnessing to the truth of things; and I am aware that there are fewer absolute truths than many conservatives are willing to admit. Yet at the same time, what does compassion look like even though relating with those who are in opposition to these truths look like?

As you know, I am pretty jolly all around relationally speaking. Yet recently there have been some people who have challenged this because they are in opposition to pretty much everything you and I would say is true. It has been challenging to remain compassionate yet unwavering…

Ray

Churches that decide that they would better serve homosexuals in their community with an ordained minister that is of that orientation now have that option. What the Christian must decide is, how will I continue to serve Christ, love my neighbor, and serve God in light of the ELCA's decision. I see this time as a turning point; a paradigm shift, that will lead us into a greater understanding of the word of God, His will for us on earth, and an opportunity to delve deeper into scripture.

God's blessing,

I don’t think the ELCA has decided to be the authority over God’s word. This vote signifies that the ELCA will be accepting of people, no matter their sin, difference of opinions, or relationship choices. Martin Luther would understand that each person has the same access to God as the ELCA, synod, bishop, and pastor, and that we are each in charge of our own salvation.

I think what complicates the issue is the extent to which our membership looks at the Bible critically. To assume a majority of our congregation agrees/disagrees with the ELCA social statement is to assume they have an strong understanding of scripture to begin with. There's certainly a portion in our membership that might not have a good understanding of what the Bible says, or what theologians (fringe, or otherwise) have to say about the issue of sexuality in the Bible.

As far as the black and white, I am under the conviction that Scripture speaks to the ideal for human sexual relationships; that being man and woman.

Now, in light of that, the Christian needs to realize that not everyone either A.) Sees the Bible as authoritative, B.) Cares what the Bible says, or C.) Sees homosexuality as a moral issue. We can hold a position on this issue–holding up the ideal put forth by Scripture–while still maintaining civility. While still respecting the fact that not everyone is on the same page with this.

I'm at the point now where it's like, "OK, this decision has been made in the ELCA, so what am I going to do with it?" Essentially, we live in the gray right now, so how am I going to respond?

I would love to hear what Dan Jass thinks about this. But those are my thoughts. What do you think?

And yes, this does feel strangely like Blackboard!

Great website and great discussion thread! This issue is something in Mass. that is a big deal for many small communities. Two of the scenarios that occur frequently here are 1) whether it [homosexuality] is a sin or not and 2) how to exist in relationship with either decision. I appreciate your statement that basically states that God loves the sinner and hates the sin. Yes, very true indeed. However, your thoughts about this 'ideal' situation breaks down a bit for me.

I know you are a fan of looking at things in relation to an ideal situation (remember the debate for a class we had regarding abortion?) but I think this is different. If you do, in fact, believe that there is a black and white decision regarding the status of homosexuality, then how is it possible to be 'less than ideal', or something other than clearly ok or not? Just wondering what your thoughts are about that.

Anyways, this is way too much like a discussion thread for school…. Im outa heeyah!

I agree. I would be more open to your opinion if we had some sort of history either in the real life or online.

Peace,
ECC