Diversity is good for America but sadly our nation is growing more and more divisive. If conflict continues to deepen, I fear that “a house divided against itself…cannot stand” (Mark 3:25; A. Lincoln quoted as well). So let me add to the brouhaha.
In answer to Mr. Murray – I did not see the out-of-state ad mentioned by Mr. Murray, which is irrelevant to my reply anyway. I assume that Murray also agrees that the Bible is a Christian’s primary guide to understanding God’s statutes and ways we ought to live. (I know these arguments will not satisfy human secularists and other nonbelievers. That’s another letter…)
Murray does a fine job of outlining the fact that all persons possess a sinful nature; fall short of the glory of God; require Jesus’ love, forgiveness and grace. It is admirable and godly that all people are welcome at his ELCA church, however, does that mean that other churches in the vicinity foster an unwelcoming spirit?
Murray fails to mention that the Lord requires repentance as a natural sequence in his forgiving sins (Luke 5:32).
And let’s not confuse judging others with the need to discern right from wrong. On one hand, the Christian is directed to stay away from judging others, or you will be judged, Matt 7:1-2. The other side of the coin points to our discerning the ways of the Lord for ourselves, our families, and others, Luke 8:16.
From Genesis to Revelation, the Word of God likewise talks about the companionship of Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve; the oneness of the marriage union; and its sanctity. It is the cornerstone of human life and has been for over 5,000 years.
Last, the Lord does indeed state his prohibition of same gender sex and labels it “detestable,” “defiling,” (Lev. 18: 22,24) and “shameful lusts” and “indecent acts” (Rom.1:26-27). Is a Christian to disregard these references?
My advice to Murray is to tread lightly on whatever the Lord calls an abomination. For him to consider this primary concern “a personal political issue” and not a Christian moral issue is incredible.
Tom Perusse
Schroeder
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