I want to start by saying I’m sorry for the way that you’ve been treated by so many people over the years, especially those doing it in the name of Jesus.
Historically, the church has done everything but love you. It has called you horrible names and excluded you from its table. I’ve heard and seen firsthand some of the absolutely terrible stories that have come from people living in and out of the closet. Those who fear going to church every Sunday for fear of being judged and condemned simply for who they are. I’ve met and talked with people who find anything LGBTQ related to be the most disgusting thing they can think of and wouldn’t pass up any chance to say so.
For the way that you’ve been treated, for the words that were said, for the violence and bloodshed done to you because of who you are–and for those who somehow claim it was all done in God’s will–I am sorry. I realize that as one lone person, I do not represent all of the church with my apology and am probably not who you need to hear an apology from. I am also by no means excusing what has been done to you. But simply, as one human being, one person who I’ll contend truly sees you through the eyes of Christ, please know that I am sorry.
I have stood silent publicly on my opinions to how I feel about the LGBTQ for far too long. By being silent, by only talking to my close friends on how I feel, I am no better than the people who are doing and saying those horrible things.
I do not believe that being any part of the LGBTQ community is a sin and certainly not anything that you should be ashamed of. I will argue that the true sin surrounding the LGBTQ community is to deny, exclude or discriminate in allowing all into faith (or marriage) in God.
I know that probably 80% of my blog followers are going to disagree and possibly biting your tongue while reading all of this, especially that last bit. But before you leave any comment (any comments rooted in hate will be deleted) I pray that you click this link https://johnpavlovitz.com/2017/07/21/no-gay-lesbian-bisexual-transgender-not-sin/, pray about it and then comment.
