|
|
|
In the past few years, it seems that every scientific study, which supports the idea of inborn homosexuality, has received widespread media attention.
|
When Simon LeVay, a biologist at San Diego’s Salk Institute for Biological Studies, found that one tiny region in the brain of homosexual men was more like that in women than in heterosexual men, Time Magazine announced that “new research offers evidence that there may indeed be a physiological basis for sexual orientation.” When a study from Northwestern University in Chicago claimed that homosexuality occurs among identical twins more than twice as often as among non-identical twins, co-author J. Michael Bailey said the study “suggests a genetic contribution to sexual orientation.”
But behind the sensational headlines, are these studies really conclusive? And what should my response be as a Christian?
First, when I read about a new study on homosexuality, I evaluate its findings in the light of what I already know to be true. What God’s Word says about homosexuality is more important to my life than the latest scientific finding’s. Even if these studies proved that homosexuality was generic, I would still know that homosexual activities are sin. And I know that all of humanity is born with many sinful tendencies – to violence, hate, selfishness – which we must resists through the power of Christ.
Second, I critically evaluate the study’s evidence. In Simon LeVay’s study, for example, he admits that the results are inconclusive for many reasons. There is a small study sample (41 men). All 19 homosexual men in the study had died of AIDS. Was their distinct brain structure a result of the disease process? The sexual habits of the 16 heterosexual men were assumed; researchers were not certain of there past sexual behavior. The study could not prove cause and effect, whether the brain structure affected sexual behavior, or whether sexual behavior altered the brain structure. Some studies have found that brain neurons change in response to one’s life experiences. Concluded one university professor: “ My freshman biology students know enough to sink this study.”
Here is one question no scientific study has ever answered: If homosexuality is genetic, why do most – if not all – homosexuals have heterosexual parents?
When a Friend says
"I'm GAY" A friend’s or family member’s admission of homosexuality can be devastating. How should you respond?
-
Don’t try to become an expert on human sexuality. Relax! None of us has the depth of understanding on such complex issues as homosexuality that we’d sometimes like. So don’t try to pretend you know everything. At the same time, read good Christian books on the subject and take advantage of any other materials that give understanding. But realize that ministering is much more than just having all the right answers. Your help will be most effective when you concentrate on knowing more about the solution – Jesus Christ – than on the problem.
-
Separate the person from the behavior. God hates sin, but loved of all of us “while we were still sinners” (Romans 5:8). He is not willing that any should perish (2 Peter 3): including those caught in homosexuality. The principle “love the sinner, but hate the sin” applies here. As you face this situation, remember that homosexuality is just one small part of who your friend is.
-
Be a sensitive friend who cares. Homosexuality is just a symptom. Finding out what hurts and emotional needs lie behind the “gay” label will take time and effort. Realize that you will have to “take down some walls” in your own life, too. Vulnerability works both ways. Talking about intimate sexual struggles may leave your friend feeling naked and sacred. Share some of your current spiritual “growing pains,” too.
-
Give hope for change. This is crucial. Overcoming homosexuality is a process – often slow, sometimes painful – of emotional and spiritual growth. A starting number of homosexuals have grown up in Christian homes and know the biblical perspective on homosexuality. But often they have never heard that change is possible (1 Corinthians 6:11). Let your friend know about ex-gay ministries and materials.
-
Take a spiritual check-up of your own life. Coming out of homosexuality is really tough, and requires a total surrender to Jesus Christ. If your own spiritual condition is shaky, now is the perfect time to strengthen your walk with God. And realize the importance of humility. Your friend is a hurting person, not a “reclamation project.” And you are not spiritually superior because your past sins haven’t included homosexual involvement.
-
Confront in love. The bible clearly condemns homosexual behavior. But Romans 2:1 says when you judge another, you condemn yourself “because you who pass judgment do the same things.” The underlying issues which pull someone into homosexuality – envy, fear, pride, rebellion – are common problems to us all. Homosexuals are not a different race. In fact, they face similar struggles to your own.
Source: Life is For Everyone, January-February 1998 issue
|
|
|
| JOIN MAILING LIST |
 |
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
| Letters to the Editor |
|
|
|
|
| Letters by Sr. Pilar |
|
|
|
|
| Love Life TV |
|
|
|
| MAGAZINE |
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
| HOT TOPICS |
|
|
|
|
|
| ANTI LIFE ISSUES |
|
|
| |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
