Dear Parents,
I’m just going to get right to the point. Wednesday night we are talking about homosexuality.
I wanted to let you know this in advance because I wanted to give you the option for your child to “opt out” or “opt in” to this discussion. I hope you will “opt in.” There is no one who is immune from this issue and no one that hasn’t been impacted by it in some way.
One of my goals is to equip your son or daughter to be able to engage the culture around them from a Biblical viewpoint; a culture that is increasingly favorable to same-sex relationships. By equipping your child to engage culture, we are creating opportunities to share the Gospel through a viewpoint of homosexuality that is based out of love and the truth of God’s Word.
A few things you might want to know:
- We will frame the discussion from the aspect of “Same Sex Attraction” as opposed to “Being Gay.” I think this is an important differentiation of the issue, one that speaks to where we find our identity and what we call sin.
- We will call homosexual activity a sin.
- All main points will be taken directly from God’s Word. I will not be sharing my opinion on the subject, but rather communicate what I see clearly from God’s Word.
- The Main Points are:
- Homosexual desire is not what God originally intended.
- Our distorted desires are a sign that we have turned away from God.
- Homosexual sin is serious.
- Homosexual sin is not unique.
- Homosexual sin is not inescapable.
- Homosexuality is contrary to biblical teaching and the Gospel
- There will be an emphasis on grace and love for those struggling with this issue and an encouragement for Christians to approach the issue with the same sensitivity. Often times it’s not just what is said, but also how it’s said.
In an ever changing culture, it is important to be able to give a defense to the hope we have in Christ. As Peter states in 1 Peter 3:15-16,
“Always be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. 16 However, do this with gentleness and respect, keeping your conscience clear, so that when you are accused, those who denounce your Christian life will be put to shame.”
It is our desire to present this hope and this message with gentleness and respect, ultimately pointing people toward Jesus and away from their sin.
If you have further questions or would like to talk with me personally, feel free to contact me at pgreer@loneoakfbc.org.
In Him,
Patrick Greer
Minister of High School Students
Lone Oak FBC