Created equal?
Just saying!31 total reviews
Comment from ThePaperThief
I commend you and appreciate such a well written piece that addresses what is , unjustly, still a volatile subject in society. It's writing like this, that so eloquently voices a sophisticated view, that will help further our evolution as humans. It's educational and supports its message beautifully. Thank you for writing and sharing it. Best Regards - Nicolette
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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I commend you and appreciate such a well written piece that addresses what is , unjustly, still a volatile subject in society. It's writing like this, that so eloquently voices a sophisticated view, that will help further our evolution as humans. It's educational and supports its message beautifully. Thank you for writing and sharing it. Best Regards - Nicolette
Comment Written 25-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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Hi you paper thief,
thank you so much for such a wonderful review, not only is it appreciated I am honored by your comments... it warms the soul, I hope that this topic does the rounds so we can all be involved in healthy dialog, maybe then, people may get off the fence.
Truly appreciate it Nicolette.
Kindest thoughts,
James xx
Comment from adewpearl
John Locke - there is an 'e' on the end of the name
You make convincing points for a point of view I totally agree with
Long-engrained beliefs are so hard to knock down - I have an elderly sister, 19 years older than I am, a very very nice lady. She is against same sex marriage, not that she does anything about it - she just says she is. I know it is because that is how she was raised, what she was taught by elders. I think the hope is in the generations coming along for such antiquated beliefs to eventually fade away. In the meantime, it is up to us to make sure the laws change to ensure equitable treatment for all. A thought-provoking and well-composed essay. Brooke :-)
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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John Locke - there is an 'e' on the end of the name
You make convincing points for a point of view I totally agree with
Long-engrained beliefs are so hard to knock down - I have an elderly sister, 19 years older than I am, a very very nice lady. She is against same sex marriage, not that she does anything about it - she just says she is. I know it is because that is how she was raised, what she was taught by elders. I think the hope is in the generations coming along for such antiquated beliefs to eventually fade away. In the meantime, it is up to us to make sure the laws change to ensure equitable treatment for all. A thought-provoking and well-composed essay. Brooke :-)
Comment Written 24-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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Hi Brooke,
i'm truly grateful on your response to this essay, as i am the for your understanding review. i did not want to point fingers, that helps no cause. neither did i even have any inclination to write about this subject until i read something on site that may have prompted me to react. but i am glad you enjoyed the read, i hold you in the highest of respect. i am hoping this topic expands with opinions written by other writers, that is the goal, healthy dialog.
kindest thoughts,
James xx
Comment from Introspection
Very well written, and absolutely in line with my own views. Live and let live. My biggest objection to religion is that it is often used as an excuse for mindless hatred.
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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Very well written, and absolutely in line with my own views. Live and let live. My biggest objection to religion is that it is often used as an excuse for mindless hatred.
Comment Written 24-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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Hi Introspection,
thank you for your fine review, it was most appreciated... spread the love, life;s too short for mindless games... take care.
kindest thoughts,
James
Comment from michaelcahill
You speak for me in every word of this. A most well thought out piece. I wonder if those that are not swayed by the sense of it have sense. The argument seems so basic and at the core of what should be our most basic beliefs. Anything else I could say would be repetition of what you have already said perfectly. I applaud you. A piece that every thinking and caring person should read. A piece that ones that don't fit that category must read. mikey
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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You speak for me in every word of this. A most well thought out piece. I wonder if those that are not swayed by the sense of it have sense. The argument seems so basic and at the core of what should be our most basic beliefs. Anything else I could say would be repetition of what you have already said perfectly. I applaud you. A piece that every thinking and caring person should read. A piece that ones that don't fit that category must read. mikey
Comment Written 24-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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Hi Michael,
yeah, you would think it is a no brainer,but that's in a Utopian world. I am truly honored for this superb review you bestow upon me, the six is a wonderful bonus and I thank you my friend, and apologize for not replying sooner. I'm not the fastest cab off the rank!
Be well, and thank you!
Kindest thoughts,
James
Comment from JM daSilva
The problem with religious books is that they fix thought in time, and say you can't change the letter, but at the same time they imply that morality doesn't evolve. Doesn't it? If you look at the context of the stories and the times you know why the Bible condemns homosexuality. I show several verses here. But morality has evolved, that's what Jesus meant when he said, 2 Corinthians 3:6 He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant--not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
He makes it clear there that people should think about morality and do what's right, not be slaves of the letter. I doubt many people have taken that into account when they read the verses below.
Leviticus 18:22
"Do not practice homosexuality, having sex with another man as with a woman. It is a detestable sin." (NLT)
Leviticus 20:13
"If a man practices homosexuality, having sex with another man as with a woman, both men have committed a detestable act. They must both be put to death, for they are guilty of a capital offense." (NLT)
Romans 1:18-32
That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other. And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved.
1 Corinthians 6:9-11
Don't you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don't fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people-none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God. Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. (NLT)
1 Timothy 1:8-10
Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it lawfully, understanding this, that the law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine ... (ESV)
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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The problem with religious books is that they fix thought in time, and say you can't change the letter, but at the same time they imply that morality doesn't evolve. Doesn't it? If you look at the context of the stories and the times you know why the Bible condemns homosexuality. I show several verses here. But morality has evolved, that's what Jesus meant when he said, 2 Corinthians 3:6 He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant--not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
He makes it clear there that people should think about morality and do what's right, not be slaves of the letter. I doubt many people have taken that into account when they read the verses below.
Leviticus 18:22
"Do not practice homosexuality, having sex with another man as with a woman. It is a detestable sin." (NLT)
Leviticus 20:13
"If a man practices homosexuality, having sex with another man as with a woman, both men have committed a detestable act. They must both be put to death, for they are guilty of a capital offense." (NLT)
Romans 1:18-32
That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other. And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved.
1 Corinthians 6:9-11
Don't you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don't fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people-none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God. Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. (NLT)
1 Timothy 1:8-10
Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it lawfully, understanding this, that the law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine ... (ESV)
Comment Written 24-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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Hi JM,
you are a walking encyclopaedia my friend, you never fail to bring out the appropriate verse that fits the bill. But to tell you the truth, even though the bible has some great values attached, it has been tainted by mans interpretations and translation, what are we meant to think, that God only chooses the righteous into the kingdom of heaven? Where's the learning in that?
I thank you greatly for being a true friend, and I apologize for not. You know how long it takes me to do anything, I'm like the snail going in reverse. My intent is there,but I am always so far behind, and it looks, so damn hard to try to catch up to a story,that I love... but don't count me out, I'm still hoping that time will become a non issue.
Thanks friend, I do appreciate your review and the character of the man behind these fine reviews... be well, and take care.
Kindest thoughts,
James
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I understand we all have a life besides fanstory. Don't worry about anything. I like your writing and it was a pleasure to write the review. Take care, my friend.
Comment from jmdg1954
James,
Same sex marriage will never cause the world to end. Only God has that power.
It was my commentary that you refer to in your piece, and I still stand by it. Who was in the The Garden of Eden? Adam and Eve. Not Adam & Joe, or Eve & Betty. A man and a woman. The Lord created the woman from a mans rib. He did not create another male partner from his rib, he created a female partner so they could have and raise children, populate the Earth. How are Adam & Benny or Eve & Nicole supposed to do that?
Its not natural. Do you ever see two male dogs humping? Or two female elephants make love? The world spins by a man and woman creating a family, having children.
When the Gay Rights Bill was passed in my state (New Jersey) in the newspaper the next day were photos taken one minute past midnight, one minute.. of two men exchanging vows. Really! If they were in "love" why couldn't they be happy and plan a ceremony and get married like you did, or I did? No, they want to make a spectacle. They want to be in the news. It's different!
Look, we are all entitled to our opinion. I respect yours, I just ask that you respect mine. Thank Bro, enjoy your Sunday. John
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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James,
Same sex marriage will never cause the world to end. Only God has that power.
It was my commentary that you refer to in your piece, and I still stand by it. Who was in the The Garden of Eden? Adam and Eve. Not Adam & Joe, or Eve & Betty. A man and a woman. The Lord created the woman from a mans rib. He did not create another male partner from his rib, he created a female partner so they could have and raise children, populate the Earth. How are Adam & Benny or Eve & Nicole supposed to do that?
Its not natural. Do you ever see two male dogs humping? Or two female elephants make love? The world spins by a man and woman creating a family, having children.
When the Gay Rights Bill was passed in my state (New Jersey) in the newspaper the next day were photos taken one minute past midnight, one minute.. of two men exchanging vows. Really! If they were in "love" why couldn't they be happy and plan a ceremony and get married like you did, or I did? No, they want to make a spectacle. They want to be in the news. It's different!
Look, we are all entitled to our opinion. I respect yours, I just ask that you respect mine. Thank Bro, enjoy your Sunday. John
Comment Written 24-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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Hey John,
yeah, of course it was your commentary that encouraged the write... but also the reviews to it.
But in no way was it a slur on your write, I respect you too much as a writer and a friend for that... rather just another opinion on this subject. As I said, I hope this does the rounds, and a lot more people write what they think about it... we're all adults here, aren't we?
So anyway my friend, I hope you didn't take offense, that was not my intention... I can see your side of the fence, we don't have to all think the same way to get along, just have the respect to respect that there will always be varying opinions, no harm in that... and know, I do respect your opinion, and I do value your friendship, if only through words.
Thanks so much for the review my brother, it was respected and appreciated.
Take care my friend
kindest thoughts,
James
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1000% in agreement. No harm, no foul, lets keep writing, reviewing and conversing. That's why we are all here my friend.
It's Thanksgiving here in the U.S. on Thursday. I'm thankful to be here, have the ability to do the things we are allowed to do and to make friends is a blessing.
Be well... John
Comment from Maureen's Pen
Dear James,
A thought provoking work with such deep internal questions posed for all of us to consider.
Judgement itself is the "disease" and it spreads like wild fire. I loved reading this - it shares your deepest knowing of all love is. Too many say that word and perhaps never truly know its depth and its healing both given and received.
Love has no limits and no structure, it is powerful, freely given and cradled within us. Superficial love has beauty and can last a life time. We all have that capacity.
But for those that live with a keen knowing of all love is -this is more rare. This happens when we can love all, no judgements, no strings, no hate or anger.
It is perhaps why I can stay focused on love- it holds my own guideposts in this life - much the same as yours.
Compassion, love and forgiveness. In that knowing life is always filled with them for they are as deeply ingrained into who I am. I read the same in your words.
I often wonder how man can survive such darkness within themselves. For we cannot share what we do not understand - and for many that is truly the greatest obstacle in their journey.
I taught my children that the spirit is genderless - thus love is all encompassing for all. Male and female are human qualities - and die with the flesh.
When we can love all freely including ourselves - then we begin to grow and learn as all students of life.
Thanks for sharing this impressive post both in writing and in wisdom.
Sorry I rambled a wee bit:)
Much love
Maureen
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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Dear James,
A thought provoking work with such deep internal questions posed for all of us to consider.
Judgement itself is the "disease" and it spreads like wild fire. I loved reading this - it shares your deepest knowing of all love is. Too many say that word and perhaps never truly know its depth and its healing both given and received.
Love has no limits and no structure, it is powerful, freely given and cradled within us. Superficial love has beauty and can last a life time. We all have that capacity.
But for those that live with a keen knowing of all love is -this is more rare. This happens when we can love all, no judgements, no strings, no hate or anger.
It is perhaps why I can stay focused on love- it holds my own guideposts in this life - much the same as yours.
Compassion, love and forgiveness. In that knowing life is always filled with them for they are as deeply ingrained into who I am. I read the same in your words.
I often wonder how man can survive such darkness within themselves. For we cannot share what we do not understand - and for many that is truly the greatest obstacle in their journey.
I taught my children that the spirit is genderless - thus love is all encompassing for all. Male and female are human qualities - and die with the flesh.
When we can love all freely including ourselves - then we begin to grow and learn as all students of life.
Thanks for sharing this impressive post both in writing and in wisdom.
Sorry I rambled a wee bit:)
Much love
Maureen
Comment Written 24-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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Hi Maureen,
as you know, I also grew up in a pretty loveless family, well at least in the way there was no physical contact or the mention of anyone loving anyone else... and we know how that plays out.
A loveless life is a stunted life, there is no substitute for what it does for you when you find it... and if treated with respect, it expands exponentially.
As you also probably know, I used hate as a replacement,
and it was a powerful tool, no doubt about it... the difference, one grows and the other shrivels your being.
So I suppose now it is I who needs to apologize for banging on, but I always love your reviews and your interpretations, but most of all the wisdom of your soul, that I Cherish.
Love, light and healing,
my Queen,
James xxxxx
Comment from RGstar
James, I have deleted my original answer to this, as i am going to put it in as an entry. It takes much more explaining than I could here.
You have written a great piece with much emphasis on adults.
Mine is more from the angle of a child, and choice.
Best wishes, bud
A good write.
Read my entry so you can see the angle I am coming from.
Best wishes,
RG.
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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James, I have deleted my original answer to this, as i am going to put it in as an entry. It takes much more explaining than I could here.
You have written a great piece with much emphasis on adults.
Mine is more from the angle of a child, and choice.
Best wishes, bud
A good write.
Read my entry so you can see the angle I am coming from.
Best wishes,
RG.
Comment Written 24-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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Hi RG,
classic my friend, I was all ready to go back and read that extensive review you wrote and look! All gone... I can't wait to see what you do, and believe me its great that this subject morphs as much as possible.
There is a great cross section of conscious thinking people on this site, that come from different backgrounds and have varying opinions on this subject, so I think the more varying the better.
So, as you've probably gathered I'm behind again and trying hard to claw my way back, so I apologize for my delay in the reply to your first and second wonderful review.
Can't wait to see what you have created to throw into the mix.
Thanks mate! I do appreciate you and your amazing mind.
Kindest thoughts,
James
Comment from MM lives on :)
James, you truly spoke to me on this poem my brother. The state you speak of is where I reside and I echo your same sentiments about this. Who are we to judge as a human being and what moral code states this is not beyond their genetic makeup...if God created these children would not everyone accept them...I agree as Jesus would have embraced them and Moses as you said did not have homosexuality as an ultimate sin...I can go on about separation of Church and state but that would fill up the page and beyond...
Bravo...truthful and a fantastic story!@ 777777777 stars!
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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James, you truly spoke to me on this poem my brother. The state you speak of is where I reside and I echo your same sentiments about this. Who are we to judge as a human being and what moral code states this is not beyond their genetic makeup...if God created these children would not everyone accept them...I agree as Jesus would have embraced them and Moses as you said did not have homosexuality as an ultimate sin...I can go on about separation of Church and state but that would fill up the page and beyond...
Bravo...truthful and a fantastic story!@ 777777777 stars!
Comment Written 24-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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Hi Christopher,
you know how I feel about you and your family, so it's always a bonus when you read, something I wrote and are on the same page about it... yeah, I know it seems to be a reoccurring pleasure, but the work you post my brother speaks loud and jumps off the page at me... you are a star... love to you and the woman that lights your soul.
Kindest thoughts,
James
Comment from Dean Kuch
What does the Bible say about homosexuality, Jumbo? Does scripture condone or denounce the behavior? Is the scripture clear? There are varying opinions on what the Bible says about homosexuality and same-sex relationships, and the best way to understand where the conflict comes from is to learn more about the specific aspects being debated.
Will Homosexuals Inherit the Kingdom of God?
One of the most greatly debated scriptures regarding homosexuality is 1 Corinthians 6:9-10:
1 Corinthians 6:9-10 - "Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God." (NIV).
While the scripture may sound clear, the debate actually surrounds the use of the Greek word that this particular version of the Bible translates as "homosexual offenders." The term is "arsenokoite." Some say that it is a reference to male prostitutes rather than to two committed homosexuals. Yet, others argue that Paul, who wrote the passage, would not have repeated "male prostitutes" twice. Even others argue that the two root words in arsenokoite are the same terms used to prohibit any premarital or extramarital sexual relations, so they may not refer to homosexual relations alone.
However, even if a person believes that homosexuality is a sin based upon this scripture, the next verse does say that homosexuals can inherit the kingdom if they come to the Lord, Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 6:11 - "And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God." (NIV)
What About Sodom and Gomorrah?
In Genesis 19 God destroys Sodom and Gomorrah due to the extensive amount of sin and debauchery going on in the city. Some add homosexuality in with the sins being committed. Others say that it was not just blanket homosexuality being condemned but homosexual rape, meaning it is different from homosexual behavior in loving relationships.
Cultic Homosexual Behavior?
Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13 are also debated among denominations and scholars.
Leviticus 18:22 - "Do not lie with a man as one lies with a woman; that is detestable." (NIV)
Leviticus 20:13 - "If a man lies with a man as one lies with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable. They must be put to death; their blood will be on their own heads." (NIV)
While many Christian denominations and scholars believe these scriptures clearly condemn homosexuality, others believe that the Greek terms used were meant to describe the homosexual behavior present at Pagan temples.
Whether or not you believe homosexuality is a sin based upon your interpretations of the scripture, there are some issues surrounding the treatment of homosexuals of which Christians need to be aware. While the Old Testament focused on rules and consequences, the New Testament offers a message of love. There are some Christian homosexuals and there are those that desire deliverance from homosexuality. Rather than trying to be God and pass judgment on those individuals, a better option may be to offer prayers to those struggling with their homosexuality.
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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What does the Bible say about homosexuality, Jumbo? Does scripture condone or denounce the behavior? Is the scripture clear? There are varying opinions on what the Bible says about homosexuality and same-sex relationships, and the best way to understand where the conflict comes from is to learn more about the specific aspects being debated.
Will Homosexuals Inherit the Kingdom of God?
One of the most greatly debated scriptures regarding homosexuality is 1 Corinthians 6:9-10:
1 Corinthians 6:9-10 - "Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God." (NIV).
While the scripture may sound clear, the debate actually surrounds the use of the Greek word that this particular version of the Bible translates as "homosexual offenders." The term is "arsenokoite." Some say that it is a reference to male prostitutes rather than to two committed homosexuals. Yet, others argue that Paul, who wrote the passage, would not have repeated "male prostitutes" twice. Even others argue that the two root words in arsenokoite are the same terms used to prohibit any premarital or extramarital sexual relations, so they may not refer to homosexual relations alone.
However, even if a person believes that homosexuality is a sin based upon this scripture, the next verse does say that homosexuals can inherit the kingdom if they come to the Lord, Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 6:11 - "And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God." (NIV)
What About Sodom and Gomorrah?
In Genesis 19 God destroys Sodom and Gomorrah due to the extensive amount of sin and debauchery going on in the city. Some add homosexuality in with the sins being committed. Others say that it was not just blanket homosexuality being condemned but homosexual rape, meaning it is different from homosexual behavior in loving relationships.
Cultic Homosexual Behavior?
Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13 are also debated among denominations and scholars.
Leviticus 18:22 - "Do not lie with a man as one lies with a woman; that is detestable." (NIV)
Leviticus 20:13 - "If a man lies with a man as one lies with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable. They must be put to death; their blood will be on their own heads." (NIV)
While many Christian denominations and scholars believe these scriptures clearly condemn homosexuality, others believe that the Greek terms used were meant to describe the homosexual behavior present at Pagan temples.
Whether or not you believe homosexuality is a sin based upon your interpretations of the scripture, there are some issues surrounding the treatment of homosexuals of which Christians need to be aware. While the Old Testament focused on rules and consequences, the New Testament offers a message of love. There are some Christian homosexuals and there are those that desire deliverance from homosexuality. Rather than trying to be God and pass judgment on those individuals, a better option may be to offer prayers to those struggling with their homosexuality.
Comment Written 24-Nov-2013
reply by the author on 26-Nov-2013
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Hi Dean,
will homosexuals inherit the kingdom of God? Well my friend, I that was my point, I think we're all welcome.
Personally, I think the references to homosexuals were added into different versions of the bible, by man out of their own interpretations.
If you wanted to go in into the Jewish side of things, the book of Moses has 613 commandments and umpteen versions of homosexual blasphemies, and even they didn't have too much concern about women, only men... so what's that about?
And in there lies the problem of believing everything you read, when the bible and like have been translated so many times, to suit the religion.
I love the way your review sways back and forward as to confuse the issue even more, but as usual your research skills and knowledge of historical facts are mind boggling.
Thank you so much for this in depth review, it was both entertaining and informative, you are a gentleman and a scholar.
Kindest thoughts,
James
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Hah, yeah, I guess I was all over the place, Jumbo. My brother-in-law is gay, and I personally feel that what they do is between their God and themselves, it's not my place to judge him and his husband. I think a real church, one that truly cares about all people, regardless of sexual orientation, should keep it's doors open to anyone wanting to worship. As a matter of fact, if a church had a "gay lock-out", I wouldn't attend it. That's not what Jesus taught...
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Bravo my friend, love and compassion will lead us all to tolerance and acceptance, yeah even all of the churches.
James.