Couldn’t have said it better myself! This ridiculous show has boldly proclaimed to be about idolatry and has definitely followed it up! The church ought to take a note from them and get bolder about who we are and what we are going to do. Other than the obvious choice of lesbian Ellen Degenerate for a new place on the judges panel (coming this new season) there is something that has greatly offended my spirit and grieved the Holy Spirit in our nation. The open display of Adam Lambert’s homosexual kissing and other insinuations (that I will not even mention, Paul said not to even speak of what the wicked do Eph. 5:12) on national television. Upon being asked about his open display of abominable wickedness he stated, “It’s time for America to quit being so homophobic and get over it!”
Im going to say right here and now that i will NEVER get over it! There will never be point where i accept men kissing men or women kissing each other. I didn’t accept it when Madonna and Brittany Spears did it and there will never be a tolerant bone in my body for the sin that angers God the most. Yes, the most! He hates murder but He is pushed to rage and violent destruction over sodomy (just look for the town and see how God felt). I think it is prophetic that Sodom is buried under the Dead Sea where no life can exist because those who persist in homosexuality without repentance will end up buried by God’s eternal wrath and will never see the light of His glory.
Today is a day of mourning and grief for me to see the state of our nation as it makes great strides to degradation and the exaltation of wickedness. For you young people reading this (the audience i am writing to) please know that no matter how cool, funny, or “gay” the media and Hollywood would try to make homosexuality it is abominable! God despises it. Read Gen. 19 and see the wickedness of the men of Sodom toward the angels of God. There was total disrespect of all divine authority and the result was the total judgment of all involved.
Many of you who read this blog would definitely agree with me but the sad thing is that many of the “men of God” today are so busy trying to kiss up to everyone in order to get a bigger ministry or church that they refuse to speak out on this most dangerous sin in our nation. Any man of God who refuses to stand up for righteousness and even kowtows to the forces of darkness for sake of relevance and tolerance should be completely ignored and disregarded as sent by God (even if they say, “its not my ministry or its not my place to judge”). It is our place to judge sin as sin according to the Word of God. It is ultimately a sign of the pagan agenda the enemy has been sowing in the minds of our youth since 1967. I reject it! I refute it! I stand on the Word of God and boldly declare that as long as there is breath in this body I will oppose the spirit of sodomy and any other spirit of the enemy that would try and destroy the Church of Jesus Christ. Oh, and preachers, don’t think that the gay agenda will stop with rights. Once they get their way with their so-called rights they will turn their full attention to destroying anyone and everyone who opposes their lifestyle. They do not want tolerance! They want approval and applause and will stop at nothing to get it. They know God despises their lifestyle so they demand the approval of man.
I close this blog by saying that every prophet in the OT had one message, RETURN to GOD! This is my heart today. We cannot just point out the bad but must continue to preach the message of Jesus, REPENT, for the Kingdom of God is at hand! Mark 1:15
Hosea 9:8 The prophet is a watchmen over Israel for my God, yet traps are laid for him wherever he goes. He faces hostility even in the house of God.
Pastor Joel thank you for always telling the truth, IN LOVE. Sadly, for the many reading this blog getting so upset, they are decieve by the enemy in thinking that all that you say is out of your opinion but the truth is, it is out of your love for people’s souls, your desire for the truth to be proclaimed and your passion for our Risen Savior that propels you to say and do all that you say and do.
To Sam, Pat, Brandon and Amber, I started writing this comment in utter anger towards each of you and your hostile comments towards our pastor. however, now my heart has turned to compassion because I realized that you just do not know. YOu do not know the sacrifice and passion that is in pastor Joel to see the lost saved. He has given up his WHOLE life for this. and it is with that same passion that he gets upset at the lies of the enemy on this generation. if only u could not look and hear through wounds and offense but hear with your spirit. The Holy Spirit is beckoning each and everyone of you to hear the truth and accept it.
We are not against any one person, but against every lie of the enemy. And yes, homosexuality is a lie! If you don’t want to take our word, go read THE Word for yourselves. and to Pat, I would like to say that Pastor Joel is in no way promoting the hate crimes against homosexuality. A person who could take the life of another human being, has nothing to do with Jesus. So i will stand and say that I know it was never a christian who took upon themselves to kill someone who was homosexual. even if they said they were a christian, that was a lie because murder is not promoted by the Spirit of Jesus Christ so your issue, in these cases, are not with us.
Wellllllllllllll anyway…. this blog….BLOG -not politically correct,people pleasing, or super grammatically correct- is AWESOME!
I love it Pastor Joel!!! Absolutely love it!!!! “Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.” John 8:47 Now I didn’t say that, but Jesus did! Take that Scripture however you want.
First off, if you are defending homosexuality, chances are you’re probably dealing with sexual perversion yourself. We are not “targeting” homosexuals, as if we are attacking the person themselves. We are coming against the spirit of homosexuality and perversion that is trying to shut the mouths of Christians and take over our nation! And we will not stand for that! Thank God for a Pastor who is bold and will call that perverted spirit out!! And I stand behind him 100%!!!! “Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong…” Rom 12:9 For you to defend homosexuality, is actually sending more people to hell by the thousands!!
As far as the “intellectual” debate that we should have regarding this issue, Amber, we simply don’t have time for that. “Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.” Col 2:8 I didn’t say it, but it’s in the Bible :-)
Now, I just want you all to know, those of you who have been speaking out negatively against a powerful man of God, that you are actually not fighting against Pastor Joel, but against God. You better be careful. “But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.” Acts 5:39
I love it Pastor Joel!!! Keep it coming!!!
Genny, you are right to say that I don’t know the sacrifice and passion that joel has given and I don’t care. What does one’s sacrifice and passion have to do with the argument? He has given up his whole life for this? What has he had to give up and for who? You guys follow this man so blindly for reasons that you don’t understand. Why would you put so much faith in one man? Wake up and start thinking for yourselves and you will begin to see the errors in this man’s teachings. You don’t have to live in this bondage. Be free!!!
To Brandon, its quite a shame that you think we’re the ones in bondage. No one is “blindly following” anyone except JESUS. And yes, i will “blindly follow” JESUS, TIL I GET TO HEAVEN. A scripture came to mind as soon as i read ur comment to me, 1 cor 11:1 ” Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” this is right out of the Bible, and this is Paul speaking to the Corinthian church. it is no different than then it is now for us who believe in and submit to spiritual authority.
We all follow JESUS first, and wherever JESUS leads us, is where we are submitted. JESUS is the head of pastor Joel thus JESUS is essentially who we are following.
If u are concerned that pastor Joel’s teachings are offensive than JESUS said, “And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.” matt 11:6. JESUS was not concerned about offending people or being politically correct. He was concerned about HIS KINGDOM. Thus, none of us, us meaning a true believer, is concerned about pleasing people, or being politically correct. Just because the media is trying to push their agenda and support homosexuality, we will never support it. The times of culture does not dictate our lives or our opinion, God’s Word does. I shall leave u with a scripture, “Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Gal 1:10 Brandon, if u are not a servant of Christ, I pray for ur soul, that u would get pass ur hurts, ur issues with men, and see JESUS. u think u have an issue with pastor Joel, but ur heart has an issue with JESUS. Come to Him, He is waiting for u.
How can anyone who claims to be a Christian ignore the plain Biblical teachings regarding homosexuality that are located from Genesis through Revelation? In fact, Scripture is so plain about this matter that in Revelation 22 those who practice it are called “dogs” because of their vile activities. You can’t get any plainer than verse 15: “But outside (the gates of the city of new Jerusalem) are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.” Those who practice homosexuality are believing a lie! If you don’t believe me, get in a good conversation with one and ask them if their activity will bring them lasting happiness.
Yes, those who practice homosexuality can be changed – IF THEY SO DESIRE!
1 Corinthians 6:9 – 11 reads: “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Do NOT be deceived! Neither fornicators (those having sex outside of marriage), nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor those giving themselves over to homosexuals, nor thieves, nor coveteous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the Kingdom of God. And such WERE some of you! (showing that those who wish to do any of these things in this list can change, if they so desire). But you WERE washed! But you WERE sanctified! But you WERE justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.”
Scripture is also very plain in how we approach and talk about those whom God has ordained to be His ministers. His ministers are those who stand up and tell the Word of God like it is and do not water it down to tickle the ears of those who wish to continue in sin. That’s what Pastor Joel has done in this matter! Praise the Lord for his stand against this perverted lifestyle – not my words, the the Word of Scripture.
Okay, I am definitely all for spiritual authority, but there is one claim someone made that I believe must be answered…Someone was asking how Pastor Joel can say that homosexuality is the sin that angers God the most…and I was searching the Scriptures on this, and I found that sexual sin does in fact anger God the most, because it is against one’s own body (1 corin. 6:18). However, I did not necessarily see homosexuality as being the top sexual sin…but in Leviticus 20, I noticed how God calls homosexuality ‘detestable’, while calling other sexual sins ‘wicked’ or ‘perverse’…So, that is probably one way to look at it. I’m not sure if my mind is completely made up, though. I sincerely want to know and desire for God to reveal this to me. But regardless of whether homosexuality is the ‘worst’ sin or not, it is still a sin (a ‘detestable’ sin) and Pastor Joel is right in speaking out about it. I also believe that those who speak by the Spirit of God are ultimately held responsible by God for what they say….our job is simply to “test the spirits”. (Remember, our struggle is not against flesh and blood!) Above all, we should rejoice that the cross is being preached (Phil. 1:18), even if we don’t always agree (or for some of you, don’t agree, period!) with who it is doing the preaching. And when we don’t agree, I believe the logical answer is always the word of God! search it out! find out if it’s true!
This has to be the reason why God moved me to Bethany. For such a time as this, we need bold, un-cut, biblical speaking, unashamed, & courageous pastors such as yourself to deliver the Word of God to a people perishing daily. “my people perish for lack of knowledge” Hosea 4:6
I say, bring the knowledge on, unfiltered!!!
God Bless you indeed.
Amen pastor!! I am very proud of you. keep on fighting the good fight. blessings from switzerland danny
I remember an old saying of Pastor Larry’s that I think appropriate in this discussion…”if something is rubbing you the wrong way, turn the cat around!” God’s word is true, whether people believe it or not. Also, just because you believe something doesn’t make it true. There are millions of deceived perishing souls in bondage to homosexuality and other perversions and sexual sins. No matter how they try to excuse it, it is against God’s word and it is sin. The enemy is a LIAR and has deceived these people into believing a lie as if it were true. Only Jesus can set us free. He died to take away that sin and every other sin. The hardest part is humbling ourselves and admitting our ugly sin before a holy God.Excusing and rationalizing the sin is much easier. We dont come to the cross all pretty and clean- we come wretched and full of sin. It’s ugly, and people dont want to face that ugliness. But the freedom that comes from Christ alone removes every spot and blemish–we are new creatures! We LOVE every sinner, no matter what the case may be. May we never become so complacent or politically correct as to stop speaking out against the sin. Thank you Pastor Joel for speaking the truth.
Why do you guys feel the need to love everybody. I can say honestly that i love my family and friends, but i would be lying if i said that i love somebody who i have never met. Wouldn’t that take away the value that love has if i feel the same way about strangers as i do about my family. I mourn when a family member dies not when i read the obituary. My point is that you do not truly love the sinner, or maybe you are just misrepresenting love. If we love everybody then we would love nobody, so love would not be relevant.
Brandon, that has to be by far the most retarded statement on love i have ever read (no offense :) If everyone really truly loved each other, then this world would be an incredible place. The act of loving everyone doesn’t diminish the quality or value of love in the least bit. People don’t have to be excluded from something to make it special. That’s what is so great about God’s love, everyone is included. I don’t care if God, or a friend, or a family member loves others as well as myself. I will still feel their love and benefit from it. It’s just like a mother and her children, she loves them all the same, and that doesn’t detract from love one bit or devalue it. You have some jacked up world/life views dude.
Well good brother brandon just write you a big, false, doctrinally off theory that makes no since. The bible clearly instructed us to love people. Maybe if you were a real christian and read your bible you would see that for yourself.
Amen! Little Brother!
You spoke my heart and what I believe is truth because it is based on God’s word. I am sure this sin of homosexuality makes God want to “puke.” (Excuse me, regurgitate.) It certainly does me and so many of our Christan brothers and sisters are sadly seeing some of their loved ones swept into this hideous, disgusting sin.
Keep it up, little Brother.. Never give in to public opinion.
Brandon, we’re talking about the supernatural ability to love those that are unloveable. We can’t love sinners apart from the love of God being inside of us. And even though it lives inside us, there are some I’d love to slap some wisdom into, but I don’t cuz that’s not the meaning of love. Love is when you accept the unacceptable person that is unloveable and has been rejected by so many but Jesus’ love inside you draws you to them for the sake of their soul……..
Thanks Pastor Joel for being the Prophetic voice of this generation! I say this next statement in LOVE. Now for the Pathetic voices that love to bash not only Pastor Joel but the WORD of GOD, We absolutely love you and we pray that the Holy Spirit reveals the Cross to you and that you can clearly see that your rebellion/disobedience to the WORD crucified Jesus. 2 Cor. 12:10 “That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” Because of your insults and your false doctrine, You have proven that the WORD of GOD is true. There was a false prophet and her name was Jezebel, and you breathed the same lies and manipulation as she did with your compromise with homosexuality. But she got thrown out of a window, and was trampled by the hooves of horses. Also her body was eaten by dogs. Now that is the same route that you are headed, but we have good news for you, Jesus Christ paid the prize for you to live and not die. It’s up to you to decide the path, Narrow or broad? I say this all with passion for Jesus!!
The sin of homosexuality is taking over by the masses. We must not give in and accept such lude behavior. I have two friends who are homosexuals and ask God to help me minister to them. It is a long process because they are so set in their ways. I sometimes find myself questioning their belefs. They confess that they are believers, but their actions are totally the opposite. Yes, we do backslide, but why continue to do something that you know is wrong in the eyes of God? I was too angry at the fact that they chose Ellen to sit in as a judge. Yet they appeared to be hiding the fact that Adam Lambert was gay while he was competing. It appears that someone or the masses whispered in the American Idol producers ears that they needed to win back the hearts of the gay americans that may not watch their show because they did not allow Adam to “come out” while the show was being aired. The world is a ticking time bomb waiting to go off! To not accept the sins that the media tries to feed us on a daily basis. Be a warrior in God’s army and flee the hands of the enemy.
Okay, I’ve been following this lead for like….2wks now (??), and people continue to write in, so I felt compelled to finally add my 2cents. I just find it funny that people have suddenly become so galvanized against what Joel has claimed is the “worst sin of all” (according to him, of course), and now everyone has jumped on the bandwagon, as well. I won’t deny that it can be found in the Bible (btw, I’m gay), and I won’t pretend to be an authority when it comes to the contents found within, but I remember having a conversation some time back with someone who was, and he told me that in God’s eyes, ALL sin is the same. There is no top 10 list, with HOMOSEXUALITY in bold, PINK letters at #1. But that’s not even my point here; you all say that your hearts ache for these lost souls, and I hope you are truly being sincere, but what about those other lost souls….the heterosexuals?? Do they not engage in “immoral”, “perverse” acts also? Does their behavior not make God want to PUKE (sorry, Sarah, but that was the first word out of your mouth….) at times, as well?? Here’s my challenge to the Christian masses: if you truly want to wave your flags of righteousness, then fight sexual sin indiscriminately (gays and straights), don’t just target one group, and the best place to begin is with yourself because we ALL harbor some form of sexual sin. Otherwise, your humanitarian efforts are nothing more than a veiled form of BIGOTRY….
Jesse, you are basically saying “hey look that guy over there is sinning so that makes my sin ok!” Great logic.
I love how most of the comments are debating whether homosexuality is the number 1 sin. Sure just completely ignore the rest of the post. lets zero in on the most unimportant part of it.
you people kill me.
Who is “you people” Timmy? Everyone is allowed to express their opinion. Sounds discriminatory and inhumane to me.
Timmy, just where did I imply that one sin cancels out the other?? It seems it is YOU have ignored my post, and decided to formulate your own conclusion!!
Jesse,
Ultimately, sin is sin. Your sin of homosexuality (and it is sin) is no greater than heterosexual sin (fornication, adultery, or pornography). This is why I personally preach the gospel to ALL people. So I would ask you Jesse, if you were to die tonight…where would you go? Feel free to email me at
raincheck3003@yahoo.com
I don’t know you Jesse but I care about you and where you will spend eternity.
Mark
Mark,
I’d just like to say that I appreciate your honest and straight forward answer. Thank you for not injecting it with sarcasm. I will be emailing you this evening.
jesse
I just have some simple questions to pose to those of you who believe that the bible is definitively clear regarding the immorality of homosexuality. The bible is the word of God, so it makes sense to follow what it commands. The bible states that homosexuality is immoral so we shouldnt practice it right. Right after this revelation, the bible is clear on how we should handle people like jesse, we put them to death. Now, I dont think that anyone reading this blog (I certainly dont) would want for jesse to be stoned because of his sexual preference, so the church chooses not to obey this command, although they will follow, and follow it with pride they do, the command of homo’s immorality. That doesnt seem like a sound approach, picking and choosing what to follow from God’s commands, and its not just homo, its also the sabbath, shaving beards and cutting hair, stoning rebellious children and a few more. Jesus enjoyed speaking about controversial issues but he never specifically mentions homo. He had the forsight to know about people like jessie and what a complicated problem his kind would give the church but he never mentions it. Paul does but who is to say that he wasnt influenced by the OT. With science being able to give us evidence of chromosomal factors regarding Jesse and the bible not being totally clear about it dont you think that we should pause and reflect a little before our judgement. Anyway thats my argument.
Jesse,
You are welcome Jesse and Merry Christmas. I look forward to your email.
Mark
The sin that angers Him the most: w/o speaking for anyone else, i’d like to add some thoughts to that. When a parent has a close relationship with their child, but that child is drawn to someone the parents know is building a life filled with turmoil of some kind, that parent is going to resent that one friend more than any other friend. Normal agitatation can turn to all-consuming heartache & rage when the child’s (of any age) heart is so involved w/ the person that he/she breaks away from or lies to the parents who gave life to & raised him/her. This happens all the time with drugs, crime, gambling, porn & other craziness, but these are all associated w/ things of the world, man’s creations, and have effects that are seen in the world (jail, poverty,ect). Homosexuality is a spirit that is tied only to God’s creation. When you believe God created us, it is easier to see why homosexuality would enrage Him so. The Bible doesn’t speak of God having a spouse; He is an entity & created man to be an enity with woman – in His image. When same sex couples get together, they can’t look like God, no matter how good natured, kind, & sensitive they are. The whole concept of homosexuality denies God as our Creator with an eternal plan. Has anyone ever scoffed at or taken credit for something you hold dear to you? On top of that, Jesus is God’s precious son, & denying God as Creator eliminates the need for forgiveness & totally neglects the sacrifice that was made thru Jesus.
God bless you for communicating your feelings about this. Most of us wait way too long before addressing the sin in our lives. The fear is that people will wait too long & miss their chance. Please don’t let linguistics & verbiage keep you from the eternal life Jesus, Mark, & Pastor Joel want you to have.
This is directed to Jesse and anyone else who is gay. If you are gay, you don’t have to stay that way, if you don’t want to. Dozens have found freedom from homosexuality through the Christian, non-condemning website http://www.settingcaptivesfree.com. Once you have accessed the website, click on the Door of Hope site and follow the directions. It is administered by ex-gays who’ve been set free by the power of the Word of God.
Exodus International is also a good source for coming out of the gay lifestyle and into the glorious freedom by which Christ sets the “prisoner” free.
We have the promise of John 8:34, 36 – “Whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. . . . Therefore, if the Son makes you free, you are free indeed!” Satan is the one who brings us into bondage, but Christ is the One who sets us free.
Romans 6:16 says: “Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey? This who chapter talks about the slavery of sin and ends with verse 23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” This death that is spoken of has two meanings: often caused by AIDS/HIV and eternal separation from God because of our sins.
The choice is ours! Jesus died to set us free! I pray that you will find true freedom in Christ.
Hi Jesse:
I know that you are trapped in a way of life, in your heart of hearts you know isn’t right. Why don’t you let Jesus come in to your heart, its the first start. Let Him in, He’ll change your life around. We all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. BUT we all made to Choice to CHANGE. You can change. Don’t follow your heart and stay the same, follow the pulling in your heart to change. God is drawing you unto himself, you have a purpose bigger that yourself. ASk JESUS TO COME INTO YOUR HEART….
Brenda
Brenda,
I am not being sarcastic but please show me the verse that says we need to ask Jesus to come into our heart? Becoming a Christian is not about making a choice to change. Becoming a Christian is a supernatural work of God when a man or woman hears the Gospel preached rightly and that man or woman responds in repentance and faith.
In Christ Alone,
Mark
John 14:6
To Mark
Romans 10:9-10
Thats the scripture Ms.Brenda is referring to
Homosexuality? Not good.
Joe’s harsh twist of Ellen’s last name? Also not good.
I couldn’t agree more!!! This has been on my heart. It really is disgusting and despicable to me. If it saddens us so greatly I can’t imagine how it saddens the Lord God almighty who created us to worship Him, to praise Him and exalt and applause Him for His goodness. I’m a college student at a very liberal college and just walking from one class to the next; it’s so hard not to scream and not to say anything. How is it that we are so persecuted for striving to do what’s right in God’s sight but they are exalted when they do wickedness? My only explanation is that wickedness is what surrounds them as well. I was just reading the story of sodom and in all truth I despise what our country is becoming. The things that are taught in schools and broadcasted on tv. Nowadays you can’t watch anything with the family without it having something sinful (to be blunt) involved. That’s why my parents have been changing things around and focusing on the word; which in all honesty is the greatest blessing. Thank you for this blog I appreciate it.
I had no intention of posting anymore, but I just couldn’t ignore your comments, Denise. What right do you have calling us (gays) wicked? I can assure you we are not. Many of us are sensitive and caring individuals who show love and compassion to a World that doesn’t always reciprocate that love. Are we sinners? Yes, we are; just like you, just like everyone. And while some homosexuals engage in promiscuity, others form life long commitments out of love. And while this love may be unnatural, it is not wicked. I would never judge you, Denise, regardless of how imperfect you are. Please do not judge me.
Jesse, you are a precious soul. Yet if you were to die tonight, do you know where you’d spend eternity? I don’t want to see any soul perish. You are too valuable. If you presently are in a relationship with someone whether you are committed till death do you part, it’s still not a marriage and it’s sin. I truly don’t think Denise called you wicked. What you do in secret with another is what the Bible calls wicked. Go to Dennis Jernigan’s website. He tells an amazing story, Jesse. He struggled just as you do dear one. He knew it would take him to an eternity without Christ and he passionately pursued God until He touched him one day and delivered him completely. He is now married with 9 children and writes praise and worship songs. Wouldn’t it be beautiful if you had a story like that happen to you. I’m truly praying for you Jesse. You sound as if you have a tender, receptive heart.
Jesse I was not judging you, not in my wildest dreams I wouldn’t ever judge you. It’s the sin Jesse. The sin is a wicked one, as described in the Bible. That’s what I was referring to and I never said that those ppl are wicked, I specifically said their wickedness in the sense that they deliberately sin and go against the Word of God. The Word of God is truth and in my opinion when we deliberately go against His word we will face grave consequences. I should know I’ve been through my share of consequences but I wouldn’t want to be punished by God, my parent’s wisdom and punishments are much more bearable. I am a sinner, we all are, but I strive to not sin and to follow the Lord. That’s just me. I know that we must ask God for forgiveness and repent. God gave His only son, His precious and greatest love for us; the ones who are unworthy.
It saddens the Lord so much though, I was reading the story in the Bible (Genesis end of 18 beginning of 19) and you can see and even feel how much compassion the Lord had for the ppl of Sodom, He was willing to spare them from destruction if only ten ppl, ten out of the whole city, were righteous in the sight of the Lord. Abraham asked Him many times… I encourage you to read that passage. :)
I apologize if I have offended you, I only responded to what Pastor Joel spoke and wasn’t aware of all the previous comments that were already going on. I noticed that another person named Denise wrote earlier but that wasn’t me. Every couple of months I read Joel’s blogs, he is an amazing man of God who addresses issues of our time. I just happened to read that in my Bible before reading his blogs and I felt compelled to write like no other time, but I still agree with him and I still was not aiming it at anyone specifically.
We all sin and we must all despise sin(that’s what the Bible teaches), I don’t think we should deliberately chose to sin but God gave us this choice and His mercies are outstanding (that’s the best word I can come up with).
Jesse the Lord loves you but I want you to realize that once you pass from this earth there is no turning back and correcting what you (or the rest of us) do wrong or any of your sins that are not forgiven. This is our ONLY chance. God is truly knocking on your door. The Lord is just and what He says goes, if even the earth obeys His every command we ought to obey Him the more. What makes us think He does not have greater plans for our life then what we see? The choices that we make for ourselves do not compare to the plans that God makes for us, we have to let Him mold us and work with us. Pastor Joel is a great example of this. Look at his life story, it has touched so many lives; he let God mold him and I can see God is still working with him.
May God bless you; I’ll keep you in my prayers. Peace be with you.
Thank you, Denise. May God bless you, as well.
You’re welcome. :)
I have been in church all my life. I have seen it all. I have been in the Assemblies of God/Pentecostal denomination for 19 years, seen many people get saved, gone on missions trips, etc. For the past year I have been struggling with this dilemma. I have many gay friends that I really and truly love and would do anything for. I find it hard that God would punish them just because they are attracted to the same sex. I have been researching this topic for many months over the past few years and have read many things.
Here is my question to anyone who is biblically intelligent. In Leviticus it states that a male lying with a male is an “abomination”. In Leviticus 20, it states this: “If a man lies with a male as he lies with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination. They shall surely be put to death. Their blood shall be upon them.” (Leviticus 20:13)
Yet within a few scriptures down it says, “For everyone who curses his father or his mother shall surely be put to death. He has cursed his father or his mother. His blood shall be upon him.” (Leviticus 20:9) Does this mean we should kill any child that curses his father? Doesn’t the Ten Commandments say, “Thou shalt not kill?” Do these laws still apply to now? Because if not, why would God say this here but then in other scriptures condemn homosexuality elsewhere?
There are many other scriptures in Leviticus that mention things being abominations such as eating seafood (Crawfish), touching pigskin (Football), so on and so forth. Can someone PLEASE explain this?! I can’t find any answers.
James,
I am a Bible newbie, but I’ve wrestled with some of the same questions you raised. I appreciate that you asked about these things in a sincere manner; when I did, I was then willing to be uncomfortable with my previously accepted ideas and dig deeper into the subject of eternity &, as a result, strengthen my relationship with the Lord. We don’t generally give our all to surface friendships or shallow acquaintances. The Lord wants us to know who He is, too.
I read a couple commentaries that might address your specific questions, & I have some other more general thoughts for you to consider regarding Old vs New. First, when it says “Should be killed”, we have to bear in mind in Moses’ day, there was no earthly King governing the Israelites. The Lord God Almighty conferred with Moses, the leaders that followed (Joshua), and the priests who were set apart by tribe. The New Testament tells us to obey the laws of our government and reminds us that the same God who puts us in our position put Pharaoh & Caesar in theirs. Regarding the scripture about those who “curse their mother or father”, the meaning in Hebrew & in those times maybe wasn’t a momentary wish of bad luck but more like a message that “your destruction is coming” with confidence that it was written into the plan and would undoubtedly happen. Also, the Lord God our heavenly father respects the role of parents more than the world does today with all the parental problems that lower the esteem associated with “mom” & “dad” for many people. That doesn’t excuse breaking the 5th commandment,”honor thy father & they mother”, but this can be enforced within the home. Jesus tells us not to curse anyone but to give to those who steal from us, forgive those who wrong us, and pray for those who hurt us. In this sense, we would be violating the teachings of Jesus by getting caught up in seeking punishment for harsh language. Jesus also says many times that he is following the will of his father which indicates the original commandments are still in effect. In Matthew 5, he says, “Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved.”
Regarding seafood and the like, I don’t know. I do know we all fall short of the glory of God, but I believe that because Jesus says “Go & sin no more,” we should not choose a lifestyle of sin – homosexuality or drug addiction (idolotry) or any such thing which defies the Word of the Lord. In Matthew 15, after the scribes and Pharisees asked Jesus why his disciples don’t wash their hands before eating bread as is their tradition, Jesus said to them, “Hear and understand: Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man.” Later the disciples asked Jesus to explain what he meant by that, & Jesus said, “Are you also still without understanding? Do you not yet understand that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and is eliminated? But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile a man.” Some versions of the Bible use the phrase “sexual immorality” instead of fornication, but I now just think of it as being out of covenant with the Lord. God created woman to be with man. I think if we were meant to be with same sex individuals, we wouldn’t need the opposite sex to reproduce as God directed us to do in Genesis.
Maybe most importantly, Jesus directed all to repent of sin and turn to Him. When we do, we can also ask Him to open our eyes and hearts to any unknown sin in our lives. He will show believers. And remember, Jesus constantly prays for us as well. He says in John 17 while praying to the Father, “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you.”
I hope you continue to ask questions and seek the will of the Lord in your life. It may be that the Lord is stirring your spirit in order to bring your friends to salvation.
Adrianne,
Thank you for that wonderful answer. I am just still pressed on the issue…I will continue to seek God for more answers. It just really astonishes me when I read explanations of Bible scriptures on websites (that condone homosexuality) explaining how God loves homosexuals. When I read the explanations my flesh is telling me, “Believe that, it seems right. God won’t punish them. He couldn’t.” But then my mind is telling me, “No do not believe it, that is full of brainwashed lies.” As I have previously mentioned, I have been raised in church and taught to believe that living a life of homosexuality is sinful. I just wish that God would speak to me and let me witness to others through this situation.
Thank you for trying to respond to my questions, it is humbly appreciated.
got a bible read it you’ll find that this is a sin its not excused b/c its an”affair of the heart” for some reason when its “love” you can’t question it WHAT A LOAD! Romans1:21-32 Kudos to Paul I can only imagine the persecution he went through but he was fully convinced that it was Gods word so it phased him none as am I great example: if there is a chair sitting right before you you see it right I mean it right there but someone tries to say it isn’t there would you dare be swayed even if you were the only one I’d say NO! fully convinced !nothing! can sway you b/c of that. that’s how it is with this issue just as many other ones we know what God says we see it it right there b4 us in His Word so nothing should sway us if were fully convinced in the Faith. love em’ enough to offend
Alisha,
No one is seeking to amend the Bible, making Homosexuality permissible. We are simply looking for answers, and asking that “our” sin be treated no differently than everyone else’s. So, please get off your moral highhorse and correct that which needs correction within you!
Jesse,
my intent wasn’t to pin point this one sin you honestly think I’d say the rest were ok all sin is equal in His eyes I was pointing out that some people excuse this from the bible I’m full convinced of Gods ENTIRE word dnt be so quick to get in defense mode listen! for your sake listen stop fighting Gods word and listen to what was stated what you got out of that was I think I’m perfect who ever said anything or made any jester of me being perfect its not about me Him I Preach I dnt have to be perfect to state Gods word just except it myself allow it to continually change my life like awesomely teach it to change lives around me then they do the same.:) Reaching Teaching Mobilizing
Well James with all do respect youve been in church for 19 years and the holy spirit has giving you answers to that question first of all it seems like everybody wants answers fast but even if God were to give YOU answer people still dont believe. we as disciples of christ live by the Holy spirits conviction and the Holy spirit will lead us in to the truth If u believe in God (Jesus christ) then you need to have Faith and trust that the Holy spirit is able to speak to you But if one is confused about sciptures and different Sins, obvious issue on sin such as Homosexuelity Then YOU need to go in your room shut door everyday and seek God and read ur bible and you will be Tranforms but sometimes people think about all kinds of weird things of scriptures cause they dont seek God with all there Heart… MAN WITHOUT THE HOLYSPIRIT OUR LOST EVEN CHRISTIAN OUR LOST WITHOUT THE HOLY SPIRIT DIRECTION..
I thank God for Pastor Joel I believe He is without a doubt a prophet of God. when I read this Blog i felt the Authority of God and not only the Autority But the Holiness of God, God is so Holy. I was inspired By what pastor Joel said And when I read It was like if I saw the prophets of the OT Speaking to a Wicked Generation. John the Baptist Had a very HARSH message also. When i first heard pastor Joel speak and saw How God used him I never seen a man so filled with the Holy spirit like Him He Inspires me to Seek God deeper and deeper. God Bless you Pastor Joel
Dear Bro Joel, I thank God for a young man like you who still has convictions and you are not afraid to preach them, I know your Dad and Grand Dad men of God but we find ourselves in a bad situation in the church, we have lost the moral high ground with the Benny Hinn, Ray McCauley for the second time, Ted Haggard, Paula White, the list is endless, and yet these people show up in pulpits and conventions around the world taking in millions of dollars that should be going to local churches and mission and social efforts among hurting people.
I still believe in the transferring of spirits, Let’s close our pulpits to the disqualified people and get back the moral high ground, morals seem to mean nothing any more, it’s how much money you have or how much income you can bring in that matters in today’s apostate church.
Keep up the fight as you said they are watching us and praying for us, we are compassed about with a great crowd of witnesses.
When sin is delibertly commited there is no excuse. What more answers does one want? You want God to tell you it’s alright to do what you’re doing?!?!?!? HE SAID NOOOOOOO! and whoever goes against what He says is doing wrong there’s no doubt about it. Sin is SIN there’s no going around it. NEVER! and loving creatures? that’s HOW GOD CREATED US of course it’s that way. So STOP TRYING TO BEAT AROUND THE BUSH JUST DROP IT!! IT’S A SIN AND IF YOU CHOOSE TO SIN THAT’S YOUR CHOICE GOD GAVE US A CHOICE AND WE KNOW THE CONSEQUENCES. So don’t say you didn’t know! You know!?!?!?! whether it’s a lie or whatever other sin ITS A SIN the fact that you’re doing it delibertly is your problem SO STOP TRYING TO MAKE IT SEEM OKAY TO BE A “GAY” IT’S NOT OKAY IF YOU TRULY ARE OF THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. This saying of gays are accepted is a lie straight from the pit of hell. JUST DROP IT. If you can truly believe that what you’re doing is truly what God wants you to than there are sure strong powers against you. I’m sick of hearing that being gay is okay and it should be treated the same as any other sin. A Christian should strive to not sin. If you’re so deeply into the sin than ask God to help you out. It’s not going to be easy cuz Satan wants us for himself. He sinned against God and he is evil!!!!!! I don’t think things are going to get any easier for us Christians in fact it’ll get harder but if God says no it’s NO. So can we please stop the debate of where being gay should be treated as sin or not. IT IS SIN AND IT’S THE SAME THING. How can sin be different? and obviously the gay thing is such a big deal in the “Christian community” because it’s filled with lies and that God’ll accept you in the kingdom of heaven. It’s a lie!! and the fact that it’s encourage for children to try it only makes it the more crazy and it’s going to be accepted. That doesn’t mean we can’t stand for what the Lord has in store. If you are struggling with this sin ask God to deliever you! There’s is nothing that is impossible for God who is the creator of EVERYTHING!!!
Pastor Joel is an amazing example. Look to his life and if you’re not sure ask him for his help. If you’re anywhere near him you are bless. Good day.
As for Jesse and helping your friends I appreciate that. BUT there is a HUGE risk in doing that. Because most likely if you’re not strong in your faith it’ll question your faith and you might see it their way and turn in the direction they are headed. Let me say it is not a good direction. We shouldn’t associate ourselves with people who delibertly sin. We should be there to help but I personally don’t think it’s a good idea to go with them cuz chances are that you’ll be taken off the correct path. Just as Solomon was. He married wives that weren’t of the kingdom of heaven and he began to worship their gods and not the true GOD. So by all means I really appreciate what you’re doing but be VERY CAREFUL when dealing with such a “sly” “snake-like” sin. If you know what I mean. May the Lord bless you Jesse, I believe I already talked to you. I’m pentecostal as well. Let the Holy Spirit guide you, you never know God might just strenthen you and make you a strong pillar for his kingdom, you might even be able to save many gays and lesbians from their unforgived sin. I really see that God is going to use you, and I strongly feel it. So press onto the Lord Jesse press onto Him, let Him delived you, mold you, and use you for His purpose. I really feel that this is what God wants for you. To use you in his ministry. May the Lord bless you and keep you. Peace be unto you.
PS- sorry I get really fired up when it comes to this I know I should calm down and I will but I’ll never get used to it, I’m just so against it just as I am against other sin. I get really upset when I fail and I sin. It’s hard, life is really hard. But I beilive with God’s help we can make it through any struggle. Thank you though for the questions you presented and I believe Adrianne answered them very well. God bless you Jesse and strive and fight against evil.
I think God isn’t angered about it, but you are. Don’t get me wrong. God hates sin. But God handled his feelings and emotions differently before the perfect atonement came. When he had the Israelis take new land, he had them slaughter the entire cities. Sin is sin. Each sing brings on their own harvest or reward, if you will. They still need Jesus. Did it strike any of you that God loves Ellen and Adam Lambert? That their gifts and talents are simply perverted? I mean He loved you all when you were up to your noses in sin. Building up this “holy anger” doesn’t trigger anyone to pray harder for their lost souls or reach out to others like them to bring them into the kingdom. Make a difference by reaching others who are lost in this same sin. Statistically speaking, 97% of homosexuals have either no relationship with their father or a broken one. That speaks volumes. That means if we (christians) would get busy working on the christian marriages we wouldn’t see so many damaged children confused about who they are attracted to. Really, do you get this outraged at an abusive husband/father or a man who cheats? No. We need to get a better picture of God’s love. It’s available to all. God’s word says, .. it’s the GOODNESS of God that leads men to repentance. Not being pissed off on such a public level as to lead others to an emotional wrong.
Ellen Degenerate??? Really Pastor Joel, I love your work but, do you really feel you need to resort to name calling? Personally, I hope not. I hope it was just a slip on the keyboard. I think the question – WWJD – might provide some direction.