This is in response to state Rep. Mike Fleck's coming out as a homosexual and referring to himself as a "religious man" and a "man of faith."
He may have the right to engage in unnatural sexual behavior, but he does not have the right to place God's stamp of approval on it.
It is true that homosexuals may be hardworking, caring people, but that is not the issue. The issue is that one must not misrepresent the God of the Bible, no matter how "authentic and honest" they think they are being.
Homosexual behavior, like any other sin, is a result of man's fall and corruption. It is not a "God-given sexual orientation," as Fleck is quoted as saying in the article.
The Bible has much to say about "love," but it also has very serious things to say about homosexuality. Under the Old Testament civil laws in Israel, it was given the death penalty along with adultery and bestiality. Under the New Testament, homosexuals are commanded to repent and turn to Jesus Christ. Those who continue in sexually deviant behavior of any type are warned that they will not inherit the kingdom of God.
As a pastor of a Christian church, I am not hesitant to offer the gospel of Christ and the love of God to anybody, including homosexuals.
I am also under obligation to tell them the truth regarding the consequences of their behavior should they not turn from it. This is true of any activity condemned by the Bible, not just homosexuality.
If someone insists on quoting or referring to the Bible, quote it in context and accurately. It does not justify sin.
Jeffrey B. Dollar
Ebensburg
