In light of the recent suicide of Tyler Clementi, Reverend William E. Flippin, Jr. discusses homosexuality and the idea of "hate the sin, love the sinner." Christians who condemn homosexuality as a sin explain that they still unconditionally love everyone with the statement: "hate the sin, love the sinner." Though Christians claim they love homosexuals (just not their sexual orientation), homosexuals feel separated from churches that condemn their sexual orientation and from their parents who've been taught to hate homosexuality. Flippin wonders if these Christians are truly following in Jesus' footsteps, when Jesus showed compassion towards everyone, even an adulterer who was to be stoned. In Flippin's mind, turning away homosexuals and condemning their behavior is far from compassionate, and it's not what Jesus would do. In new York, Pastor Heidi Neumark created a shelter specifically for homeless LGBTQ youth/young adults. The goal of this shelter is to help people transition out of the shelters and become independent, productive adults. I think Neumark, her shelter, and churches who are open and affirming allow homosexuals to feel safe and loved, and offer shelter from the onslaught of hatred towards homosexuals. In my opinion, the issue of homosexuality and Christianity boils down to whether you think Jesus' compassion and love for everyone outweighs the evidence that Jesus believed homosexuality to be a sin.
Article:http://www.huffingtonpost.com/reverend-william-e-flippin-jr/hate-the-sin-love-the-sin_b_1364510.html
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