Evangelical Strategies

The other day I participated in an impromptu-blog-response-section-debate on Proposition 8 on. Here are a few of my thoughts...

The issue of homosexuality has become so political that it is almost impossible to speak to the morality of the issue without becoming entangled in rhetorical he-said-she-said.

Homosexuality is a sin, just like any other sin, and should be treated as such. The Church’s strategy for evangelization of homosexuals should be the same as those we ought to employ for sins such as lawlessness, rebellion, murder, immorality, liars, and perjurers; in other words, “The goal of our instruction,” should be “love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.”

Notice that some of the sins on previous list are moral issues punishable by state (murder, perjury, etc) but others are simply moral (immorality and telling lies)–but the Christian’s response is the same regardless. We simply do not care about State sanctioned distinctions, because we have one law (Christ’s) which calls us to love.

Christians should not attempt to legislate morality simply because it is a bad conversion strategy. Politics are wonderfully energizing, exciting, and inspiring (as long as you are firmly planted inside one party), but those on the other side of the issue are separated purposely by divisive language and political hyperbole.

The loser of a political debate, campaign, etc. is hardly likely to suddenly see the world through the other lens; they will merely be scarred and bitter about the overstatements and unnecessary insults that fly in the heat of the moment.

The question becomes, what the role of the church is in society? I believe that the overwhelming message of Jesus is for the church to be an agent of transformation and redemption in the world. Once that point is established, it is left to us to figure out the best ways for us, as the church, to achieve those goals.

So then, what is more effective in bringing homosexuals to Christ? Honest, humble, discourse with actual gays and lesbians, or Proposition 8? Respectful dialogue, or poling booths?