This morning a friend and I were talking about what I had planned (more correctly, what I had not planned) for preaching in the coming months. He mentioned the topic of homosexuality and that got our discussion moving in a range of directions. We began to brainstorm about an array of topics that most people must confront in one way or another in the course of life in this world, but don't like to discuss because they are such volatile issues. What does the Bible have to say about these issues? What do followers of Jesus Christ need to know about these issues? And, just as important, with what attitude should followers of Jesus Christ approach others about these issues?
I am considering the Fall of 2008 for this series, but would like your input on some of these issues. Since we don't often talk about these, let's start to talk about them now. My focus will be driven by two principles:
- I will say no more and no less than the Bible says about these issues. Most of these issues do not have a "Thus says the Lord" passage to back them up, so any implications must be solidly based on Biblical truth/principle. If the Bible allows for diverging opinions on the issue, this must be admitted and allowed. Even this is difficult at times, but I seek to be as Scripturally honest as possible.
- The truth only sets us free as we live in accordance with it. Therefore, as we discover the truth about each issue, I/we must always ask two questions, "How will this affect my lifestyle?" and "How should I engage with others who do not agree with or live according to the Biblical truth?" We are called to imitate Jesus Christ Who came "full of grace and truth." (John 1:14b)
So here are the issues thus far. Keep in mind that this is so fresh that changes in topics and the organization of the topics is bound to occur.
- Sexual Beings - homosexuality, bisexuality, heterosexual promiscuity, transgender lifestyles
- A Marriage Torn - divorce and remarriage
- A House Divided - living with an unbelieving spouse/parents, dealing with abuse (sexual, verbal, physical, emotional)
- Life Limits - abortion, euthanasia, genetic experimentation
- Force Limits - war, violence, capital punishment
- The Good Life - materialism, debt, gambling, workaholism
- Mind-Bending - alcohol, drugs, mind-altering substances
- Caesar vs. Jesus - is the Christian Right, right? / how political should I be?
- Another World - escapism, entertainment/sports obsession, pornography, Internet addiction
- Created Equal - roles of male & female in home/church/government
- Ivory Towers - how far does the "unequally yoked" principle apply? (see 2 Corinthians 6:14) - romantic relationships, business, friendships, etc.
Even as I put together these thoughts I recognize that each one of these bullet points is huge in terms of related issues. At best, we can offer some general Scriptural principles that guide our thinking and actions in each realm. Please share your thoughts on these issues from a Scripture viewpoint and in relation to your experiences in a world seeking truth. Also, feel free to suggest other topics.
1 comment:
Dave, you are seriously my hero. And while you are delivering the sermon series that might possibly get any good pastor fired, you could always throw in something about money. If you are going to go after the big guns, try the rich young ruler. That could get you a really good place on monster.com...
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