Is Homosexuality Destroying America?

In a world filled with complex issues, discussions surrounding homosexuality often evoke strong opinions and emotions. Today, we delve into a critical question: Is homosexuality destroying America? However, as we explore this topic, it is essential to reframe the question itself, as the answer may lead us toward a more significant revelation about hope and faith in the power of the gospel.

The Power of the Gospel

One of the core arguments presented in this discourse is that the real issue plaguing America is not homosexuality itself but rather a lack of faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ. The sentiment echoed by many today is that our nation is facing irreparable damage, a view that can undermine the very essence of hope. When we proclaim that there is “no way back,” we inadvertently contribute to a pessimistic narrative that dismisses the transformative power of faith.

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Our doubts about the gospel’s ability to foster change reflect a broader concern about the future of our society. We cannot forget that history is replete with examples of redemption and transformation through faith. The notion that Jesus can turn things around is not merely an optimistic platitude; it is a fundamental belief that can inspire action and change.

The Role of the Church

As we navigate the complexities of contemporary issues, it becomes clear that the church holds a pivotal role in shaping the moral compass of society. Many Christians have expressed concerns about the moral decline of the nation, often attributing it to external factors. However, it is crucial to recognize that the church itself must also take responsibility for its role in this decline.

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In Matthew 11:23-24, Jesus states that Capernaum, a city that witnessed His miracles, would face harsher judgment than Sodom. This implies that the presence of righteousness and the ability to effect change lie within the church. If the church can awaken faith and promote positive transformation, it can indeed alter the trajectory of society.

Understanding Sodom

When considering the fate of Sodom, we must recognize that its destruction was not solely due to its wickedness but also due to the absence of righteousness. In Genesis 18:32, Abraham pleads with God, suggesting that if ten righteous individuals could be found, the city would be spared. This serves as a powerful reminder of the potential impact that a small number of faithful individuals can have on an entire community.

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The takeaway here is profound: America, too, can be transformed if the church embraces its calling to be a light in the darkness. This transformation requires active participation, prayer, and a commitment to fostering a culture of faith and love.

Judgment and Compassion

One of the most challenging aspects of discussing homosexuality within the church is striking a balance between truth and compassion. While it is essential to uphold biblical truths, it is equally important to approach conversations with love and understanding. The command in Romans 12:21 to “overcome evil with good” serves as a guiding principle in how we engage with those who may be struggling with sin.

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When addressing issues related to sexuality, it is vital to prioritize the well-being and dignity of individuals. The church must strive to create an environment where people feel safe to explore their faith and seek healing without fear of judgment. This approach aligns with the heart of Jesus, who demonstrated compassion and grace to those marginalized by society.

The Call to Maturity

As believers, our goal should extend beyond merely identifying sin; we must also seek to nurture maturity in Christ. The Apostle Paul emphasized the importance of presenting every individual perfect in Christ Jesus (Colossians 1:27-29). This vision compels us to engage in meaningful relationships and to invest in the spiritual growth of others.

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To foster maturity, we must discern the difference between life and death in our communities. This discernment is essential for understanding how our actions and words can either uplift or harm those around us. By promoting a culture of love, grace, and truth, we can inspire others to seek the transformative power of the gospel.

The Need for Dialogue

In a world that often seeks to divide, the church must champion dialogue that leads to understanding and healing. Engaging in open conversations about sexuality and faith can dismantle barriers and foster relationships that reflect Christ’s love. It is through these relationships that we can effectively communicate the hope found in the gospel.

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As we navigate these discussions, we must remember that the ultimate goal is to point others toward the love and redemption found in Jesus. By practicing empathy and compassion, we create opportunities for spiritual growth and transformation.

Conclusion: A Word of Hope

In conclusion, the question of whether homosexuality is destroying America may be misguided. Instead, we should focus on the role of the church in fostering faith, hope, and love in a world that desperately needs it. By embracing our calling to be salt and light, we can combat the darkness that threatens to engulf our society.

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Let us remember that the gospel has the power to transform lives and communities. As we seek to fulfill our mission, may we do so with love, understanding, and a commitment to presenting the truth of Christ to a world in need of redemption.

Is Homosexuality Destroying America?

(Sermon Outline)

1. I want to begin by asking the question, is homosexuality destroying America?
   1. I believe this question is the wrong questions, and I hope to show you why in this message and in the process we will hopefully discover the most important hope for the world grounded in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
   1. Last week I heard part of a message, and to be fair…, and it talked about “When you see laws to protect transgendered people… there is no way back. This is not reversible”
   1. Self-fulfilling prophesy
      1. Matthew 11:23–24 (NKJV) — 23 And you, Capernaum, who are exalted to heaven, will be brought down to Hades; for if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. 24 But I say to you that it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment than for you.”
      1. Genesis 18:32 (NKJV) — 32 Then he said, “Let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak but once more: Suppose ten should be found there?” And He said, “I will not destroy it for the sake of ten.”
   1. The apostolic gospel
   1. Romans 12:21 (NKJV) — 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. WE CAN OVERCOME!  WILL WE?
2. We need to present Jesus Christ to the world
   1. The street preachers in Belfast – the spirit of death vs. life – EXTERNALLY IT CAN LOOK THE SAME – BUT PEOPLE CAN DISCERN THE DIFFERENCE
   1. ONE OF THE THEMES I ALWAYS RETURN TO IS LIFE AND DEATH AT Lscc – Hebrews 5:14 (NKJV) — 14 But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
   1. Discerning Life
   1. THE PASSION THAT SHOULD DRIVE OUR LIVES – Colossians 1:27–29 (NKJV) — 27 To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. 29 To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily.
      1. There is much to say about presenting every man “perfect, complete, adult, mature”
   1. AN IMPORTANT PRINCIPLE TO NAVIGATE THESE DIFFICULT TIMES – Matthew 7:1–5 (NKJV) — 1 “Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. 3 And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me remove the speck from your eye’; and look, a plank is in your own eye? 5 Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
      1. Even God’s word can be twisted to bring death rather than life.
      1. The obvious and the subtle
   1. EXAMPLES OF SCRIPTURES THAT CAN BE MISREPRESENTED IN SPIRIT
      1. Acts 4:8–10 (NKJV) — 8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders of Israel: 9 If we this day are judged for a good deed done to a helpless man, by what means he has been made well, 10 let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole.
      1. Acts 7:51–53 (NKJV) — 51 “You stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit; as your fathers did, so do you. 52 Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute? And they killed those who foretold the coming of the Just One, of whom you now have become the betrayers and murderers, 53 who have received the law by the direction of angels and have not kept it.”
3. In addressing the issue of homosexuality we discover a significant weakness in the church of Jesus Christ – a weakness that is going to take a whole body to rectify.  I do not have the answer but just a general conviction.
   1. What is our motivation?
   1. 1 Corinthians 13:1 (NKJV) — 1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.
   1. My Presupposition – Everything that God commands is designed into creation.  It is not arbitrary either, because the moral law is an expression of God’s character and nature.  The goal is for us to be reconciled to God so that we can have fellowship with Him. All commandments are for our good and leads to human flourishing.  To live contrary to God’s design hurts people.
   1. The denigration of the “law” vs. as a misunderstanding of the covenants.
   1. The issue we have is that if our only recourse is “God Commands it” we seriously run the risk of ending up with a log in our eye.
   1. LAST TIME I PREACHED WE LOOKED AT Matthew 5:21–22 (NKJV) — 21 “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder, and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment.’ 22 But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in danger of hell fire.
   1. We need to pray, wrestle with God, study and ponder until we are able to have a motivation that is for people not against them and have “utterance” (Paul, pray for utterance, or Stephen with such wisdom) to explain it in a way that has a chance of making a difference.
   1. “Jesus Christ Whom You Crucified” – scriptures above
   1. For example, in the language of many Marxists and Secular Humanists, the two institutions that stand in the way of Communism (and we could rightly say some form of totalitarianism) is the church and the family.
      1. Future generations maybe
   1. We need to connect with something they value or understand
   1. (The scriptures above.)
   1. Help them without judgmentalism to judge that many of the things they hate are the fruit of their beliefs and values and to see that there is a God who loves and will forgive them.
   1. I heard a story this week of a homosexual who came to Christ…always more nuanced…
4. Is homosexuality destroying America?
   1. Leonard Ravenhill’s reversal
   1. Taking responsibility
   1. The only hope for America
   1. We need personal transformation and the love of God
   1. Someone wrestled with anger and contention and has been trying to change and feels frustrated.
      1. If you succeed in your own strength you only glorify you and your discipline
      1. Transformation (sanctification) must bear kingdom fruit.
   1. My personal testimony of how it has worked for me…though God often works different.
   1. We need the right heart and the right word granted through wrestling with God.
   1. We need to be a church where Life Springs Forth to a dying world.