“…be ready always to give an answer to every man who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” 1 Peter 3:15
There’s one topic in our confusing, modern culture that most Christians would rather ignore than address in any meaningful way. And that is the issue of LGBTQ, or homosexuality. For most of us, it’s a taboo subject, to say the least. As if ignoring it will make it just go away.
At some point in our lives, however, our neighbor, friend, or even a close family member is likely to trustingly reach out to us for our honest opinion about this sensitive, personal matter. Do we have a definitive stance we can comfortably share that won’t terminate our relationship, or worse yet, their relationship with God? In addition, we don’t want to risk spreading misinformation about something we probably know very little about on a firsthand basis.
I think there are some Christian talking points, based on Scripture, that would provide a safe and factual reply for these kinds of inquiries. Sharing these points will help ensure that we rightly represent a loving God and promote Christian standards at the same time.
Show Humility, Not Judgment
First of all, with all humility, admit that you know very little to nothing about the homosexual experience. There are, no doubt, many factors at play when someone is dealing with their gender identity. We shouldn’t assume the worst about anyone. After all, 1 Samuel 16:7 says that “man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” This is why we can be thankful that God is our Judge, and we are told to leave the judging up to Him (Matthew 7:1, 2).
Pray for Guidance
Then, encourage prayer as an avenue for help. We could offer to pray about it with them, if that seems appropriate. But by all means, even while you’re listening and speaking with them, pray that God will guide you, and them, into the path He wants us to follow, whatever that is. Ask Him to give you the right words that will draw them closer to God, and not farther away.
Show God’s Love
And finally, let them know that we are called to love that person who struggles with sexual differences. Show them that we really care. In other words, we should refrain from belittling, joking, teasing, threatening, or in any way making someone feel that they are less than we are. In other words, treat them as Jesus would–with kindness and respect. Let them know you firmly believe God understands any difficulty of this kind, and that we are all human, male or female, and are of great worth to our Creator.
Be ready to show humility and love, and remember to listen and pray. These uplifting tools are essential in any life situation where God would have us be a holy influence.
