The Gospel & Sexual Orientation

In 2010, a committee was appointed by the Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America to study “one of the most important cultural issues of our day.” Synod saw the need to provide guidance for congregations on the subject of homosexual orientation, not simply about the scriptural, scientific and moral issues, but also guidance for care and counsel to someone who believes their identity is homosexual. The result is a rare paper worthy of a book and worthy of a readership beyond a small church denomination and even beyond the realm of conservative presbyterianism. The work not only interacts with contemporary scholarship and holds the Scriptures in high esteem, but also presents a model of how to care for and walk alongside a person who is struggling with his or her sexual identity. In a demonstration of overwhelming acceptance for this compassionate scholarship, the paper was received and adopted unanimously in the RP Synod of 2011. We hope you will read this book, test it against what the Bible says, encourage discussion in your local church and share it with others.

Publisher: Crown & Covenant Publications
Type: Paperback
ISBN: 9781884527371

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Michael LeFebvre is pastor of Christ Church Reformed Presbyterian Church in the western suburbs of Indianapolis. He previously studied Old Testament Law at PhD Level at Aberdeen University. He is married to Heather and they have four children.

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The subject of sexual orientation is very controversial in our day, when it really shouldn't be. The book first sets down what the Scriptures say in regards to this topic (and rejects the garbage that says "Jesus wants you to be true to who you are"). The book then goes on to say that essentially, Christians often treat sexual sins as more heinous than others, when in fact they are sin, and should be dealt with gently. Many people become trapped in lifestyles that they feel impossible to ever break out of, and need to be dealt with in love. Others need to be instructed in what the Bible actually says on the matter, and told what sin is before it can be dealt with, and how many times this type of behavior is the judgement or result of past sin. In an age where lots of writing is wishy-washy, this book takes a firm but gentle stance, encouraging all Christians to love their neighbor yet still take a stand against sin. We are all wicked in the sight of God and all in need of His love and mercy. Logan