Fallen Evangelical “pastor,” Ted Haggard, has been speaking out recently about the scandal involving homosexuality that brought him down and the reaction of the religious community to his sin, particularly the “Christian Right.” Notice the following article from the Christian Post about how he believes the “Christian Right” needs to change.
Haggard: Christian Right Off Course, Needs to Change
It’s a short article, and an interesting read. I just wanted to comment on three things Haggard says.
“Just as the church made a horrible mistake several centuries ago insisting that the earth is flat, I think the church may make a major mistake in our generation saying that sexuality should be this and nothing else.”
His comment reflects a common misconception in denominationalism. “The Church” does not get to say anything except what the Bible says. And what does the Bible say? “Marriage is to be held in honor among all… for fornicators and adulterers God will judge” (Hebrews 13:4). The practice of homosexuality is “contrary to sound teaching” (1 Timothy 1:10), and those who practice it, unless they repent, “will not inherit the kingdom of God” (1 Corinthians 6:9).
“The Church has to look at humanity realistically. We all got to humble ourselves and do everything we can to serve people in need. Not to dictate them; not to hate them; not to punish them.”
No, “The Church” needs to look at humanity the way God does. After all, He created us (Genesis 1:26-27). How do we look at humanity the way God does? By looking to the inspired word of God (cf. 2 Timothy 3:16). Whether Haggard likes it or not, we are under the divine obligation to “speak as the oracles of God” (1 Peter 4:11).
The writer of the article then comments, “Haggard has expressed bitterly that he expected the Christian community to be more forgiving of his sins then they have been.”
A Christian should be willing to forgive his brother. Jesus says he must forgive him “if he repents” (Luke 17:3). Has Haggard repented? Maybe he has of his actions, but what is he doing now? This article says he supports same-sex civil unions. So he supports sin. This puts him in the same boat as the one who commits the sinful act! Remember what Paul told the saints in Rome – “although they know the ordinance of God, that those who practice such things are worthy of death, they not only do the same, but also give hearty approval to those who practice them“ (Romans 1:32).
We need to remember that no matter what changes happen in society in general, in the denominational world, or even among our own brethren, the truth of God’s word does not change. If we want to be found faithful, we must not let ourselves be led along the way of tolerance and apathy toward sin.
