Addressing GLBTQ issues as a loving Christian.

Being a Christian is hard. And becoming one guarantees a hard life filled with struggles and conviction, especially with the loaded topic of: Sex. Because, without God, no moral rules would exist to limit or condone any sexual activity. Repeatedly, throughout the Bible, sexual immorality, adultery and homosexuality are deemed sinful, and those actively participating in such “will not inherit the Kingdom of God” (1 Corinth. 6:9-10). Sex, or even lust, whether gay or straight, should not be embraced outside of a one man/one woman marriage relationship. When building an alliance with “queer” organizations, as a university or individual, I believe we are sending a mixed message about what we believe to be right or wrong, acceptable or not.

People in general typically seek acceptance. But I can’t accept a sinful lifestyle for acceptance sake. I have friends and even relatives who have considered themselves homosexual. Did I stop loving them? Did I refuse to hug them? Of course not! But did I support their decisions, embrace their claimed identity, or encourage their sexual lifestyle? Absolutely not.

In the former letter, it was mentioned that “queer” individuals feel their identities are shameful, and that’s natural – because it is. The identity they are seeking acceptance for is wrong. Sin, of all sorts, is supposed to convict us, discourage recurrence, and expands our need and craving for Jesus. Our true identities and confidence can then be founded in Christ.

After much research, some involving genetics, I have come to the conclusion that homosexuals are not “born that way”. Many, not all, don’t intentionally choose to be attracted to the same sex, but nonetheless are. The majority of un-biased research accredits homosexual tendencies to a developmental physiological disorder, which can be corrected. Redemption is available for those who genuinely seek it.

I may be bold to say this, but when asking “WWJD?” I find myself picturing Jesus loving and socializing with sinners of all kinds: prostitutes, liars, thieves and homosexuals. Followed up by saying, “Go and sin no more.” Not, “Go embrace your sinful identity and do what feels right.”

Rebekah Leitner, senior nutrition major from Cincinnati