But, let’s face it, in some way or another, we are all judges! It seems to be built in to our humanity. Somewhere along the line, our need to compare ourselves to others causes a judgement, and results in a divide. This judgement is almost subconcious. We don’t realise how often we do in fact judge others. I think it’s possibly less obvious in circumstances whereby the general population might agree with your view.

I have been reflecting about this a bit, because of the emotion I feel when others judge me. I immediately kick into “well, I may be ABC, but you XYZ!” kind of mode. Another common “Christian” response is quote passages such as, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” (John 8:7), and Matt 7:1-5 or Luke 6:37-42. It’s not so much retaliation as much as my silent mechanism for not feeling condemned by what is said to me. It’s a protection mechanism. I’m not actually confrontational, so I hardly ever actually verbalise such a response!

Then there are other situations.. where I have realised I have made judgments on others without realising it. They are not necessarily major things.. but I have started to notice. I feel this is an important lesson, and its encouraging to know that I am growing and learning every day. God truly is my rock! He sticks with me, even when I ignore Him! And He continues to teach me.. in the simplest ways.. how to be more like Him!

I for one… am no theologian. I will never learn the original Hebrew and Greek languages and culture of the time, and go try interpret these scriptures for myself. But I do read what others have researched and concluded. I can see the case for both sides. I say this because I continue to read both points of view. I believe everyone (gay AND straight) should with an open heart before God, research and study these scriptures and the commentary on them.

From there, I think there comes a time when one must stop re-reading the debate over and over (as I still find myself doing), because it is actually all the same. It’s not going to change. If you have read both sides, and are truly open to finding what God wants to say to you, then do that. Read, research, pray, and then leave it alone, and find peace with what you believe God has revealed to you by His Holy Spirit.

Once you have personally found peace for yourself.. understand that you have found your revelation (whatever that may be), and that quite possibly others find theirs, which may be different to yours. Whether you are gay or straight, or believe same-sex relationships are right or wrong, it is not for you to judge another. Only God is the judge.

On this note, and to ensure no misunderstanding, see this post by Kori Ashton. I am not saying take what you read and form a belief system that fits you. I am saying read both sides with your heart open to the one true God, to hear His voice, reveal to you His truth (not necessarily the truth that suits you best).

I personally don’t see any end to this debate. I think it will continue to be the most controversial topic in modern Christianity. I just hope and pray that people learn not to judge others, and that this “debate” never becomes a war. Too many people have already suffered, whether physically or emotionally, and it is the saddest thing.

I can guarantee you, that many many Christians who discover and begin to accept that they are gay, fight with this issue intensely. It takes a huge toll on us. We are Christians, and we are human beings. We want to serve God and please Him. We want to live our lives for eternity with Him. We love Him and worship Him. But we are also gay. We did not choose it. We know God loves us. We will live our earthly lives to the best of our ability. Don’t judge us or think we have not grappled with the Bible on this one.