Homophobia: Irrational fear or hatred of homosexual practice, literally. In practice: negative attitudes towards gay people. The term is problematic for many Christians. It is not a term anyone would want to own. However if a Christian 'disapproves' of same sex sexual relationships then they are labelled thus.
The right wing columnist, Peter Hitchens refers to the term (paraphrased) 'as a type of name calling with pseudo psychological associations which censures any kind of criticism of gay people'.
If Christians take the verses in the bible which disapprove of homosexuality literally, then they are faced with a choice of accepting that the bible is homophobic or wrong.This seems virtually impossible for the evangelical to reconcile either position.
Whilst it may not be accurate or helpful for Christians to be labelled as fearing or hating of gay people: there is a more productive challenge to Christians.Why do some Christians elevate gay sex as being more of a problem than other areas that the bible appears equally clear on:
7 “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone.” (John 8)
(Romans 3:23)for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God
In a fallen world, much falls short of perfection: what about divorce, lust, fornication, masturbation, hatred, disrespect, greed, selfishness etc etc?
Jesus challenged: (Matthew 7:23) Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?
If we are honest, do we see enough of this?
And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. (Michah 6: 8)
Perhaps when we get the justice right and the mercy right and the humility our hearts may be in the right place to sort out other people's specks.
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