The First Gay President

     That is the headline of Newsweek’s recent addition.  Though President Obama has historically been in opposition to gay marriage, he has recently stated that his views have evolved, and that the golden rule, “do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” has convinced him that equal rights should be granted to homosexual couples.  He says this while reiterating that he and his wife are practicing Christians (whatever that means).   Double speak isn’t anything new to politics.  It helps them curry favor with opposing viewpoints.  It amazes me how many politician think that works, that people are that gullible, but then again maybe we are easily manipulated.  Black pastors who are strongly against that Presidents position on this subject, will still vigorously support him in the fall because other social issues trump moral imperatives in the scripture.

     Conservatives do not see any inconstancy with the President’s admission, nor do they see it as a new revelation.  His liberal policies and openly hostile decisions against religious practices (Catholics and contraceptives) are well documented.  Christians should not be surprised about the movement away from a biblical ethic.  In a growing secular, pluralistic society a president who is not firmly rooted in biblical faith, caring more about God’s blessing then the blessing of society, will eventually move away from a biblical ethic to one that provides “freedom” for all beliefs and practices. 

As Christians we know that the happiest place is within the framework of God’s will and blessing.  But those who do not believe, who live lives of lawlessness, God’s will is restrictive, prudish, intolerant, hateful, exclusive, and oppressive.  One of two things will happen, people will either reject God, or form Him in their image.  It is difficult for Christians to argue from moral superiority because throughout history the church has used scripture as a club against anyone who defied, not biblical truth, but cultural Christian views; the Church vs. Science (the world is flat), The Church vs. Islam (the Crusades), The Church vs. Slavery (early American history), and so on.  The failing of God’s people, however, is not the failing of God. 

     There are two ways to accomplish God’s will in American culture, and both are crucial.  The first is the reformation of the heart.  Before true and permanent change can occur in our society, people need to become aware of their sin, that God desires a relationship with them, and has provided a way through His son, Jesus.  As one pastor recently said, “When we come to know Jesus, only then do we truly understand how sinful we are.”  Each of us has an unbelieving family member or friend who needs to hear the transforming message of salvation.  We need to talk to them.  Faith comes from hearing and hearing by the word of God.

     The second way is through political action.  As Christian citizens of the United States we have just as much right to argue our case before the court of public opinion and legislate a morality that we believe is the best for all people.  We will be labeled unloving and insensitive, but that is a manipulative tactic to make us feel guilty and pull back on what we believe.  However, our tone and behavior should exhibit God’s love, mercy, and forgiveness.  Posters declaring God’s eternal judgment on homosexuals may be true, but they shut down dialogue.  Maybe a sign that reads, “God loves homosexuals, and has a better plan for their lives.”  Unbelievers will still be offended, but the sentiment is more positive, the message just as true. 

     If you are a homosexual reading this blog, know that your behavior is of no greater or less offensive to God then an adulterer, a liar, a fornicator, a back biter, or a murderer.  All sin is offensive to God and is deserving of punishment, and I am among the greatest sinners of all.  The good news is that Christ’s death and resurrection has made away for our sins to be forgiven, and our hearts, minds, and behavior to be transformed!  Through faith we can become new creatures and restored to our loving heavenly Father, and then our culture will be renewed and transformed.  I’m just saying…..