Dear Rowland

I am a pastor of a Vineyard Church and am presently doing some research into understanding homosexuality (ie. the differing opinions concerning the nature/nurture debate and exegeting Biblical material). I have had a look at the articles on your site (thank-you) and am just curious to know your own personal opinion on the following:

Good questions Mark

1) Is homosexual orientation innate

May be – jury’s still out. But what do we make of the significantly higher incidence of homosexuality between identical twins raised separately?

2) Is it immutable

No. I’ve conducted the (heterosexual) wedding of a homosexual, But they ‘can never live as if they never were’ (as with any formerly addictive behavior).

3) Does the Bible speak against homoerotic activity?

I think the Bible gives us a ‘creation (heterosexual) mandate’ as the norm. But homoerotic behavior between ‘lovers’ is unknown in the Bible, which condemns other forms of homosexual activity (religious, rape, sex-for-profit etc.)

4) What do you advise Christian homosexuals re. homogenital activity? abstinence? ok in a monogomous relationship?

I don’t advise, but encourage the person to seek God and his redeeming power with all their heart mind soul and strength and then respect the person’s behavioral outcome.

What got me started on this exploration almost a year ago was that I had two Christian friends confide in me re. their own struggle with the issue. Since then I have read over 40 articles on the topic (from various positions) and have begun to write an article outlining my findings. Anything you say in response to my questions are completely off the record (I am not interested in quoting you at all) I am just curious to know your stance.

And I’d be interested in publishing your article on the website – with or without your name…

I have heard many good things concerning your ministry, and trust God will continue to use you in the future.

Thanks (and I’m available for a teaching weekend at your church after July !!!

Bless you

(Pastor)

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