The Inclusive Church and the Good News of Jesus' Proclamation

image Art in the Christian Tradition: Copyright © 2024 Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries, Vanderbilt University

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 The Christian Church can be faithful to God and to the scripture and authorize or perform same sex weddings, and include LGBTQ+ Christians in leadership and membership without discrimination.  Furthermore this is the Biblical position from scriptures.  Take the example of the inclusiveness of Jesus' ministry.  He always reached out and include people of all genders, ethnicities, disabilities, and nationalities. He stressed unity and diversity.  John 17:21-23.  Look at the radical teaching of the early church in Acts 10 and Acts 15, Here we see the precedent and the rationale for welcoming LGBTQ+ Christians into the church without discrimination just as the early Christians debated the inclusion of the gentiles into their communities of faith.  

In the early church, Peter and Paul both argued that Gentile converts did not need to be circumcised or follow the Law of Moses to be saved or accepted into the church.  This is despite centuries old scriptural commands requiring circumcision for inclusions, the church recognized that the Holy Spirit was already active among outsiders. It was therefore essential for the unity of the church to acknowledge the work of the Spirit. 

Around the world, queer Christians have already been ministering, leading, working, teaching, officiating worship, and shepherding the church.  It's time that the church recognize their gifts, leadership, and contribution.  It is clear to many in the church today, at it was at Pentecost, that the Holy Spirit is at work in the lives of LGBTQ+ persons as they minister and work in the world for the gospel. 

If you are a pastor or church leader and have not considered becoming an affirming leader, let me encourage you to prayerfully consider making that decision today.  

An affirming church or pastor is a designation of person or organization that is affirming and accepting of the full inclusion of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and non binary persons in the life and ministry of the church. 

PCUSA position on LGBTQ+ persons