The Way of Jesus: Week 4
Sexuality
As believers who want all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth (I Timothy 2:4), we find ourselves in the earthly tension between being loving and not affirming, particularly when addressing the complex issue of the LGBTQ+ conversation.
First, it must be stated that our heart grieves for anyone who has experienced hurt, discrimination, or misunderstanding from those who claim to represent Jesus. Such actions are not aligned with God’s heart. Historically, the church has acted out of fear, silence, and lack of clarity. We must know what the Bible says is right and true, and be confident in the power of God’s intention, regardless of the intensity of the earthly tension in which we live.
The laws of the Old Testament (in the book of Job) can be put into three categories: moral, ceremonial, and civil. The moral laws, reflecting God's holiness and righteousness, provide a standard for righteous living. Leviticus 18:22 is clear on the sinfulness of certain behaviors, including homosexuality. Civil laws (murder and stealing) were laws that governed a healthy society. Ceremonial laws, focusing on regaining right standing with God, were fulfilled in Jesus' sacrifice on the cross as we see in Matthew 5:17: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
Good theology is built on the back of an understanding of the narrative of scripture anchored with biblical consistency and clarity. To strengthen our biblical clarity, passages like 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 and 1 Timothy 1:8-10 underscore God's standards for righteous living. However, it is the very nature of the Gospel that our clarity should lead to compassion, not combat. Galatians 6:1 and Colossians 3:12 guide us to restore people gently and clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.
In Luke 7:36-50, we see Jesus' compassionate response to a woman caught in sin that teaches us that clarity should lead to compassion without compromising the truth. Let us be like Jesus who was both clear and compassionate, always walking the line of relationship, kindness, and truth.
To those struggling with same-sex attraction or questions about gender identity, remember that your fight is not your destiny. Jesus understands your struggles, and through Him, victory is possible. Confess your sins, lean on God's faithfulness, and remember that in Christ, you are a new creation.
RESOURCES
Week 5- Money
Family Resource: Financial Peace Kids Bundle
Adult Resource: Financial Peace University Virtual Course
Teen/College: The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn
Additional Resource: Budget Tool (YNAB)