Making the most of the month of June…
Today starts a month of celebration within our country that seeks to normalize a behavior that stands in complete opposition to the truth of Scripture. Without a doubt, you will see Gay Pride permeate most of our cultural institutions from social media, news outlets, streaming services, corporations, and even elements of our current American government. Recent studies have shown an alarming trend within American youth as this movement has continued to pick up steam and popularity within our culture. A recent study by the Public Religion Research Institute found that 28% of those 18-25 now identify with the LGBTQ moniker bringing the staggering reality that over 1 in 4 Gen Z adults hold to this identity. The numbers are up from 16% in the Millennial generation. The issue is not going away and the likelihood is only increasing that we will have it connect to our lives through someone we know. With something so widespread and expanding, it can often feel daunting as a Christian, or even perhaps hopeless for the next generation. However, we know the power of the Gospel; no one is too far away to be changed by the power of the cross! Yet, with this ever-increasing wave of support and approval, even by some claiming to be Christians, how do we stand for the Biblical truth that we know is crucial for our world to hear?
First, we recognize sinners are merely that: sinners. There is no extra sin that makes it impossible for someone to turn to Christ. Often, those within the LGBTQ community have an impression of Christianity that is filled with hate, bigotry, phobia, and condescension. We understand these perspectives are often attributed to things that don’t truly fit the criteria. Our culture often interprets a Biblical stance on a sexual ethic as being hateful and bigoted. Some Christians have not been helpful in assuaging this opinion through their hateful words and unchristlike spirit. We have all experienced the sidewalk evangelists telling those passing that all the gays are going to hell, often using far stronger language. This does not show the love and spirit of Christ. I am not saying to compromise on truth, not at all. However, I am challenging us with how we present the truth. We must recognize our own position as broken sinners saved by the grace of God and allow that spirit to work through us as we share that hope with a lost and broken generation.
Second, we must be honest and faithful in our approach to the topic. As Dr. Branch has said many times while with us, the phone has allowed a whole generation to be parented by people outside the home who have very little care for the well-being of the individual on the other end of the phone. As parents and Christian leaders within our church, we must have these conversations with our young people, because the world is certainly trying to do the same exact thing. When they have questions, be faithful and patient to answer them. Instead of yelling about the evils of our generation, seek to educate your young people about what the Bible says on the topic of sexual ethics. Give them the weapons and tools to fight against the arguments and pulls of our current culture. There are certainly things that we as parents should want to protect our children from, but the truth of Scripture and how it fits into our culture should not be one of those things. Especially our older teens preparing for their lives as followers of Christ in the surrounding culture. The likelihood that someone they work with, go to school with, or play sports with becoming a part of this ever-growing community is only increasing. So, help your young person know what God has to say on the topic. Teach them how to handle themselves in these types of conversations. Teach them to have the boldness to stand for what they believe, even when that may be the most unpopular and socially detrimental thing they could do because living for Christ matters.
During this month, consider taking some time and walking through as a family with your young people some age-appropriate ways to help them process where we stand as followers of Christ and how our mission as followers of Christ fits into this culture. Give them the tools that let them stand with grace and charity on the truth that God cares about our sexual ethics and how we live our lives.
Serving Together,
Derek Whitman