Jesus, the Bible, and Homosexuality

Jesus, the Bible, and Homosexuality
Author: Jack Bartlett Rogers
Publisher: Westminster John Knox Press
Total Pages: 190
Release: 2006-01-01
Genre: Religion
ISBN: 9780664229399

In this sure-to-be controversial book, former seminary professor and church official Jack Rogers argues unequivocally for the ordination of homosexuals and for the extension of full and equal rights in society to all people who are homosexual. Christianity, he observes, has moved through history in the direction of ever-greater openness and inclusiveness. Today's church is led by many of those who were once cast out: people of color, women, and divorced and remarried people. It is inevitable, he believes, that gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people will one day walk in the same steps as other Christian leaders. Rogers, an evangelical, begins by discussing his own personal change of heart and mind on the issue, a change that has moved him into the middle of this controversy in his own church, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). He examines how the church misused the Bible to justify slavery and the denial of rights to women, and links these efforts to efforts today to use biblical texts to deny equal rights to gays and lesbians. He shows how neither the Bible nor the Confessions are opposed to homosexuality and debunks frequently used fundamentalist stereotypes and myths about gays and lesbians. Rogers concludes with his thoughts on how the church can heal itself and move forward.

Jesus, the Bible, and Homosexuality, Revised and Expanded Edition

Jesus, the Bible, and Homosexuality, Revised and Expanded Edition
Author: Jack Rogers
Publisher: Westminster John Knox Press
Total Pages: 256
Release: 2009-04-14
Genre: Religion
ISBN: 1611640504

In this revised and expanded best seller, Rogers argues for equal rights in both the church and society for lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgendered people. He describes how he moved away from opposition to support, charts the church's history of using biblical passages to oppress marginalized groups, argues for a Christ-centered reading of Scripture, debunks stereotypes about gays and lesbians, and explores texts used most frequently against homosexuals and gay ordination. In this newly revised edition, he maps the recent progress of major U.S. denominations toward full equality for LGBT persons, adds a new chapter that examines how Scripture is best interpreted by Jesus' redemptive life and ministry, and updates his own efforts and experiences. The book also includes a guide for group study or personal reflection.

The Bible, Christianity, & Homosexuality

The Bible, Christianity, & Homosexuality
Author: Justin R. Cannon
Publisher: Justin Cannon
Total Pages: 28
Release: 2008-07-14
Genre: Homosexuality
ISBN: 1438249616

There are many commendable books on the Bible and homosexuality which span anywhere from a hundred to several hundred pages in length. For the curious, such books can sometimes be inaccessible or more than they really want to read. "The Bible, Christianity, & Homosexuality" is a concise yet profound analysis of the Bible verses often misused to condemn gay and lesbian Christians. This study was written to be accessible to all, indeed, something family members and friends of gay and lesbian Christians might actually take the time to read. The Los Angeles Times describes this work as "an illuminating...analysis that argues the Bible doesn't condemn faithful gay relationships." (McGough, 7/18/05).

The Gay Faith

The Gay Faith
Author: M. W. Sphero
Publisher: Herms Press
Total Pages: 293
Release: 2011-05-23
Genre: Literary Criticism
ISBN: 0955944074

Sphero explains that the Old Testament does not prohibit homosexuality, furthermore that Sodom and Gomorrah had nothing whatsoever to do with homosexuality, but rather with inhospitality, pride, and a society's blood-thirst for violence. Christ said that some people were meant to be born as gay or lesbian; he blessed a gay relationship between a Roman Centurion and his lover, and he spoke boldly against any form of homophobia.

God and the Gay Christian

God and the Gay Christian
Author: Matthew Vines
Publisher: Convergent
Total Pages: 226
Release: 2014
Genre: Christian gays
ISBN: 1601425163

Reinterpretations of key Bible texts related to sexual orientation, written by a Harvard student, present an accessible case for a modern Christian conservative acceptance of sexual diversity.

"Mom, I'm Gay," Revised and Expanded Edition

Author: Susan Cottrell
Publisher: Westminster John Knox Press
Total Pages: 206
Release: 2016-05-01
Genre: Family & Relationships
ISBN: 1611646642

When your child reveals that he or she is attracted to the same sex, how you respond may have a lot to do with your faith. Doesn't the Bible say that's wrong? Will we have to leave our church? Worst of all, you may wonder, "Do I have to choose between my Christian faith and my child?" Susan Cottrell is a mom who has been there and wants you to know that loving and accepting your gay child does not mean abandoning or even compromising your faith. This is not a book about the politics or morality of homosexuality. This is a book about how to respond with love and support during this vulnerable time for your child. With practical advice and heartfelt encouragement, Cottrell guides readers through the fear and uncertainty Christian parents of LGBTQ children often feel.

Calling the Rainbow Nation Home

Calling the Rainbow Nation Home
Author: E. Sundby
Publisher: iUniverse
Total Pages: 218
Release: 2005-08
Genre: Biography & Autobiography
ISBN: 0595336299

"This book is a journey for truth."-Samuel Kader Sr., Pastor, Community Gospel Church, Dayton, Ohio, Openly Gay, Openly Christian, Leyland Publications. Am I going to hell because I am gay? Is homosexuality a sin? Should I remain celibate my entire life? If you or someone you love is struggling with these issues, this book is for you. Follow Reverend Elaine Sundby's journey as she takes us on her personal quest for truth and self-acceptance-a path that eventually led her to enter the ministry. Reverend Sundby was determined to discover God's plan for her and equally determined to do what was right in the eyes of God, without taking "the easy way out." Simple to understand, yet rooted in spiritual truth, Calling the Rainbow Nation Home has the potential to heal-to heal the battered soul of the Christians who are struggling to reconcile their homosexuality with their faith, and to heal their relationships with those who love them and want to understand. A new era is just beginning in the gay Christian community, as thousands begin to realize that God loves us all just as we are.

Torn

Torn
Author: Justin Lee
Publisher: Jericho Books
Total Pages: 277
Release: 2012-11-13
Genre: Religion
ISBN: 1455514322

An evangelical Christian examines the impact of sexuality, the LGBTQ+ movement, and the future of the church in this thoughtful, deeply researched guide to navigating and mending the social and political division in our families and churches. As a teenager and young man, Justin Lee felt deeply torn. Nicknamed "God Boy" by his peers, he knew that he was called to a life in the evangelical Christian ministry. But Lee harbored a secret: He also knew that he was gay. In this groundbreaking book, Lee recalls the events--his coming out to his parents, his experiences with the "ex-gay" movement, and his in-depth study of the Bible--that led him, eventually, to self-acceptance. But more than just a memoir, TORN provides insightful, practical guidance for all committed Christians who wonder how to relate to gay friends or family members--or who struggle with their own sexuality. Convinced that "in a culture that sees gays and Christians as enemies, gay Christians are in a unique position to bring peace," Lee demonstrates that people of faith on both sides of the debate can respect, learn from, and love one another.

The Bible's Yes to Same-Sex Marriage, New Edition with Study Guide

The Bible's Yes to Same-Sex Marriage, New Edition with Study Guide
Author: Mark Achtemeier
Publisher: Westminster John Knox Press
Total Pages: 184
Release: 2015-08-28
Genre: Religion
ISBN: 1611646480

In the early 2000's, Mark Achtemeier embarked on a personal journey with the Bible that led him from being a conservative, evangelical opponent of gay rights to an outspoken activist for gay marriage and a fully inclusive church. In The Bible's Yes to Same-Sex Marriage, Achtemeier shares what led to his change of heart: the problems with excluding groups of people and the insights into the Bible's message that led him to recognize the fullness of God's love and support for LGBT persons. Readers will discover how reading snippets of Scripture out of context has led to false and misleading interpretations of the Bible's message for gay people. Achtemeier shows how a careful reading of the whole Scripture reveals God's good news about love, marriage, and sexuality for gay and straight people alike. This new edition includes a study guide and a new introduction from the author that reflects on the U.S. Supreme Court ruling and changes within the church. Perfect for groups or self-reflection, the study guide directs readers over four sessions to explore both Achtemeier's book and the Bible.

The Children are Free

The Children are Free
Author: Jeff Miner
Publisher: Jesus Metropolitan Community Church
Total Pages: 114
Release: 2002
Genre: Religion
ISBN: 9780971929609

An affirming look at the Bible. Examines passages from the Old Testament that are used by fundamentalists to condemn homosexuality and also at affirming passages.