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The Truth About Same-Sex Marriage: 6 Things You Must Know About What's Really at Stake
The headlines only tell part of the story. In this revised and updated version of his bestselling book, Dr. Erwin Lutzer clearly and accurately depicts the truth about what is at stake in the same-sex marriage debate. Dr. Lutzer expertly answers the questions that so many individuals, parents, friends, and families are asking, Let no one say that we have to choose between loving homosexuals and opposing same-sex marriage. Biblically, love is defined not as license to do whatever we want, but as leading people in the truth. Obviously, we must be as concerned about our own sins as we are about the sins of the homosexual community. We must be concerned enough to speak out about any action, heterosexual or homosexual, that violates God’s intended plan for marriage and the family.
This simple, straightforward look at the issue of same-sex marriage will equip you to know what is really happening and, most importantly, why it matters for you.
This simple, straightforward look at the issue of same-sex marriage will equip you to know what is really happening and, most importantly, why it matters for you.
144 pages, Paperback
First published May 27, 2004
20 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
About the author
Erwin W. Lutzer
165 books281 followersErwin W. Lutzer is senior pastor of The Moody Church in Chicago. A graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary and Loyola University, he is the author of numerous books, including the Gold Medallion Award winner "Hitler's Cross" and the best seller "One Minute After You Die". He is also a teacher on radio programs heard on more than 700 stations throughout the United States and the world, including "Songs in the Night," "The Moody Church Hour," and the daily feature "Running to Win." He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area and have three married children and seven grandchildren.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
November 4, 2013
Fear and loathing... in the Church!
I like Erwin Lutzer. I think he is a great speaker and writer. But he has acted shamefully in writing and publishing this book. In the few short years since its publication, it has been shown to be inaccurate and laughable.
First, he starts from the premise that homosexuality is a choice. I am so tired of hearing the term "sexual preference," as if people could choose their sexual orientation. I'm sorry, it just isn't true, no matter how much some people might like it to be.
He wastes a lot of time discussing whether homosexuals can change and become heterosexual. He points to several ministries (now abandoned and shown to be fraudulent) and "thousands of testimonies" from those who have had their desires transformed. I think recent history has shown that there is no "cure" and we don't need one. People often hounded sincere gay believers into attempting to change their sexuality. These unhappy folks ended up living in denial, but eventually discovered they are who they are.
The research overall is sloppy. Lutzer depends exclusively on sources who agree with him and ignores sources that might have a view that is different than his own. Worst of all, he attempts to incite panic and fear among evangelicals over the prospect of legalized gay marriage. He has no proof of the disaster he foretells. Lutzer does not provide documentation from countries in Europe (or Canada) where gay marriage has been legal for years with no ill effects to "traditional" marriage.
I know that this is a volatile issue and that feelings run strong on both sides of the debate. Unfortunately, this book cannot be seen as help for reasonable people who want to follow Jesus.
I like Erwin Lutzer. I think he is a great speaker and writer. But he has acted shamefully in writing and publishing this book. In the few short years since its publication, it has been shown to be inaccurate and laughable.
First, he starts from the premise that homosexuality is a choice. I am so tired of hearing the term "sexual preference," as if people could choose their sexual orientation. I'm sorry, it just isn't true, no matter how much some people might like it to be.
He wastes a lot of time discussing whether homosexuals can change and become heterosexual. He points to several ministries (now abandoned and shown to be fraudulent) and "thousands of testimonies" from those who have had their desires transformed. I think recent history has shown that there is no "cure" and we don't need one. People often hounded sincere gay believers into attempting to change their sexuality. These unhappy folks ended up living in denial, but eventually discovered they are who they are.
The research overall is sloppy. Lutzer depends exclusively on sources who agree with him and ignores sources that might have a view that is different than his own. Worst of all, he attempts to incite panic and fear among evangelicals over the prospect of legalized gay marriage. He has no proof of the disaster he foretells. Lutzer does not provide documentation from countries in Europe (or Canada) where gay marriage has been legal for years with no ill effects to "traditional" marriage.
I know that this is a volatile issue and that feelings run strong on both sides of the debate. Unfortunately, this book cannot be seen as help for reasonable people who want to follow Jesus.
November 2, 2019
Parts of this book are unfortunately dated, but I believe it is still a valuable resource. It was written before gay marriage was legalized. Lutzer calls the church to biblical action in the face of a disintegrating culture. He calls us to stand, in love, for the truth of Biblical marriage. He calls us to stand, with respect for every individual, on the authority of Scripture.
This book discusses the many societal problems that would, and now have, followed the legalization of gay marriage. He quotes numerous secular and Christian scholars to support his points. But the majority of the book is a call to return to and defense of the Biblical definition of marriage. He realizes just how far our society has fallen from that standard and longs for us to follow God’s perfect plan for our lives.
He also takes the time to answer the different arguments in favor of gay marriage. He carefully addresses the underlying fallacies of each argument and redirects us toward God’s Word to correct it. The final section calls on us to reach out in love to all those around us and show them Christ. It was very encouraging and challenging.
I would recommend this book to everyone.
This book discusses the many societal problems that would, and now have, followed the legalization of gay marriage. He quotes numerous secular and Christian scholars to support his points. But the majority of the book is a call to return to and defense of the Biblical definition of marriage. He realizes just how far our society has fallen from that standard and longs for us to follow God’s perfect plan for our lives.
He also takes the time to answer the different arguments in favor of gay marriage. He carefully addresses the underlying fallacies of each argument and redirects us toward God’s Word to correct it. The final section calls on us to reach out in love to all those around us and show them Christ. It was very encouraging and challenging.
I would recommend this book to everyone.
September 17, 2012
This book was written to show what is at stake in the debate of redefining marriage. It does go on to say how God designed marriage and where we have failed as Christians. Our marriages determine if we are different from the world by the way God designed it. So many marriages are not because it is not an easy task and it is not our nature to serve each other in marriage. Many times we are the most selfish in our marriages and then when you have one that abuses the other, how do you respond without being a doormat. Only in Christ with transformed hearts, can we even begin. Marriage is a covenant. A promise to be commited to one person. Many straight and gay couples do not want the covenant of marriage but an easy way out or a anything goes relationship. Which always leads bitterness and mistrust. I appreciated the book because it cautioned about using a broad brush when dealing the gay issues. In some ways, when one is opposed to gay marriage, a broad brush is used as well. Most people think of the Westboro Baptist church which many do not consider a church but more of a cult. That being said, we need to think of the ramifications of this issue. Do we want to go as far as redefining marriage? What will come next. 20 years ago, I don't think the majority of people would have ever believed this would have been issue. Why do we want to redefine marriage? Is it to eliminate all morals of the Judeo-Christian. What about our children? Is this going to lead to children being sexualized at an earlier age and then what age is it permissible for adult to have sex with a child. Hopefully, if you read this book, you will answer these questions with the common good in mind. There is much to consider.
November 1, 2024
Audible Plus 2 hours 48 min. Narrated by Lloyd James (A)
Published 20 years ago, before same sex marriage was made legitimate by the courts, this book holds its value today. Every book I've read by Erwin W. Lutzer, now pastor emeritus of Moody Church, has been written with compassion, concern, and convictions based solely on the Word of God.
Twenty years ago, the church faced the acceptance of gay marriages. Now, the church faces gender identity and DEI.
I remember a statement by Francis Schaffer in which he commented on how sins acceptable in the world will in seven (?) years be accepted in the church. Wish I could find that quotation!
The authority of God's Word never changes.
Published 20 years ago, before same sex marriage was made legitimate by the courts, this book holds its value today. Every book I've read by Erwin W. Lutzer, now pastor emeritus of Moody Church, has been written with compassion, concern, and convictions based solely on the Word of God.
Twenty years ago, the church faced the acceptance of gay marriages. Now, the church faces gender identity and DEI.
I remember a statement by Francis Schaffer in which he commented on how sins acceptable in the world will in seven (?) years be accepted in the church. Wish I could find that quotation!
The authority of God's Word never changes.
January 4, 2017
Over the past several years, I have realized how imperative it is for me to have a working theology about same-sex relationships. The reasons are vast and include political pressure, various churches pushing to become "welcoming, affirming, and inclusive," gay clergy trying to find acceptance within their conference, and some of my own friends coming out of the closet in recent years (many of whom are in ministry themselves). We have come to a place in time in which we are challenged to discern what it means to be faithful to Scripture and navigate truth and justice, while also not merely consenting to cultural pressures. Thus, in my attempt to be scholarly, I am looking at a number of books on both sides of the debate. Lutzer's book falls in the category of those strongly opposed to same-sex marriage and holds a more "traditionalist" worldview.
Firstly, what I appreciate about Lutzer is his candid openness. I appreciate that you immediately know where he stands without him dancing around in circles. I appreciate many of his arguments towards a more traditional family view (and his working idea that even many gay rights proponents still see the value in at least having a fair number of "typical" family structures). Furthermore, I appreciate Lutzer's understanding of grace. Although Lutzer believes homosexuality is a sin, he is quick to mention that it is not any worse than any other sin. He disparages the fact that the church oftentimes totes it as an "unforgiveable" sin and how this excludes and marginalizes those in the LGBTQ community. He advocates for churches to be more willing to engage in the discussion without judgement and also laments the various ways "typical" families within the church have messed up. I also appreciate some of what Lutzer shared on the role of sexuality and his discussion surrounding celibacy as being a viable option for both heterosexuals and homosexuals alike.
Where I differ from Lutzer is in his mentality to think everything is so "cut and dry." Although he often states that it is unfair to use the same brushstroke for everyone (and he tries his best to differentiate between "radicals" and "average homosexuals"), his language can still be quite polarizing at times. Lutzer takes into consideration the many reasons why people can practice homosexuality (for example abuse or male prostitution as a child), but he does not address the heartache that many many LGBTQ youth often wrestle with themselves.
Nevertheless, although Lutzer's style is far from flawless, I do think his research and presentation of this topic is helpful in providing a practical framework of understanding for Christians to wrestle with. I appreciate Lutzer's reverence for the Biblical model of family and his realization that because of cultural sin this is sometimes flawed. Yet, just like Lutzer ends his book, we are all called to do what we can to promote places of healing, hope, and repentance, while challenging our next generation to do the same.
Firstly, what I appreciate about Lutzer is his candid openness. I appreciate that you immediately know where he stands without him dancing around in circles. I appreciate many of his arguments towards a more traditional family view (and his working idea that even many gay rights proponents still see the value in at least having a fair number of "typical" family structures). Furthermore, I appreciate Lutzer's understanding of grace. Although Lutzer believes homosexuality is a sin, he is quick to mention that it is not any worse than any other sin. He disparages the fact that the church oftentimes totes it as an "unforgiveable" sin and how this excludes and marginalizes those in the LGBTQ community. He advocates for churches to be more willing to engage in the discussion without judgement and also laments the various ways "typical" families within the church have messed up. I also appreciate some of what Lutzer shared on the role of sexuality and his discussion surrounding celibacy as being a viable option for both heterosexuals and homosexuals alike.
Where I differ from Lutzer is in his mentality to think everything is so "cut and dry." Although he often states that it is unfair to use the same brushstroke for everyone (and he tries his best to differentiate between "radicals" and "average homosexuals"), his language can still be quite polarizing at times. Lutzer takes into consideration the many reasons why people can practice homosexuality (for example abuse or male prostitution as a child), but he does not address the heartache that many many LGBTQ youth often wrestle with themselves.
Nevertheless, although Lutzer's style is far from flawless, I do think his research and presentation of this topic is helpful in providing a practical framework of understanding for Christians to wrestle with. I appreciate Lutzer's reverence for the Biblical model of family and his realization that because of cultural sin this is sometimes flawed. Yet, just like Lutzer ends his book, we are all called to do what we can to promote places of healing, hope, and repentance, while challenging our next generation to do the same.
July 24, 2015
I am Christian but in the "what's the big deal about same -sex marriage " and"if it's not hurting anyone, why oppose it " camp. My pastor suggested reading this book. I thought Lutzer's book was very straight forward, easy to read (which most theological books aren't ) and addresses all the arguments of people who are pro same sex marriage. I don't know that it completely changed my mind about same sex marriage, but now I at least know the reasons behind the arguments which originally seemed like straight Christians taking an issue with a particular sin that they doesn't even effect them.
The two things I don't agree with in this book are the opening argument that homosexual marriage is going to ruin Christianity in the US. He sites how persecuted and bad things in Canada are for Christians, but I asked a friend from Canada and she said it the argument was really exaggerated. I don't deny that the "homosexual agenda" is probably against the church as religion is the main opponent in disagreement, but I don't think homosexual marriage is going to destroy Christianity. Call me optimistic or naive -whatever. Guess we'll see what happens in the next couple of years.
The second point I really wasn't convinced about was Lutzer's claim that "you can choose not to be homosexual." Most studies I have read say that people who have tried therapy to change their sexual orientation, it doesn't work. They still report homosexual feelings and urges and pretty much it comes down to making the choice not to act on those feelings if the person wants to "be straight." The book was published in 2010 so some of the information is dated. Exodus International and their success stories were Lutzer's big proof toward the theory that you can choose not to be homosexual. However, the organization is no longer in business and issued an apology to the people that sought it's services. So his argument for "choosing to be gay" is flawed.
However, the rest of the arguments, I thought were pretty rational. I liked that he did cite where in the Bible the opposition to same sex marriage comes from and why. He also addressed sexuality in general and why the Gods is so adement about sex only being for marriage which I did always wonder about. I thought the last chapter about how the church should handle their opposition to same sex marriage was good. Lutzer is very respectful yet resolute in his suggestions. He doesn't advocate holding up awful signs or telling off homosexual people.
Overall, great book of you are really interested in understanding the Christian opposition to same sex marriage.
The two things I don't agree with in this book are the opening argument that homosexual marriage is going to ruin Christianity in the US. He sites how persecuted and bad things in Canada are for Christians, but I asked a friend from Canada and she said it the argument was really exaggerated. I don't deny that the "homosexual agenda" is probably against the church as religion is the main opponent in disagreement, but I don't think homosexual marriage is going to destroy Christianity. Call me optimistic or naive -whatever. Guess we'll see what happens in the next couple of years.
The second point I really wasn't convinced about was Lutzer's claim that "you can choose not to be homosexual." Most studies I have read say that people who have tried therapy to change their sexual orientation, it doesn't work. They still report homosexual feelings and urges and pretty much it comes down to making the choice not to act on those feelings if the person wants to "be straight." The book was published in 2010 so some of the information is dated. Exodus International and their success stories were Lutzer's big proof toward the theory that you can choose not to be homosexual. However, the organization is no longer in business and issued an apology to the people that sought it's services. So his argument for "choosing to be gay" is flawed.
However, the rest of the arguments, I thought were pretty rational. I liked that he did cite where in the Bible the opposition to same sex marriage comes from and why. He also addressed sexuality in general and why the Gods is so adement about sex only being for marriage which I did always wonder about. I thought the last chapter about how the church should handle their opposition to same sex marriage was good. Lutzer is very respectful yet resolute in his suggestions. He doesn't advocate holding up awful signs or telling off homosexual people.
Overall, great book of you are really interested in understanding the Christian opposition to same sex marriage.
August 3, 2017
Excellent presentation promoting Christian activism against same-sex marriage. Excellent because it has a gracious approach to homosexuals, while being clear about the harm they do to themselves spiritually and the harm their activists do to society.
It is a call to getting our (Christians) moral act together before we can honestly address the sin of homosexuality and the danger to society posed by their activists' demand for affirmation.
It outlines the reason we should be alarmed at the attempt to introduce same-sex marriage. The destruction of family meaning that flows from same-sex parenting is also addressed.
...'We can no longer expect to call this nation back to God by public outcries. We cannot appeal to a "moral majority" when, in fact, none exists.
There is, in my opinion, only one answer: Every single Christian must become an activist, assuming the delicate task of taking a firm but loving stand on the issues and yet presenting the spiritual healing of Christ to a society afflicted with a disease called sin. John Q. Citizen will never be convinced about the credibility of the Christian faith until he becomes personally acquainted with someone who lives out the Christian life, applying its values to every situation.'
It is a call to getting our (Christians) moral act together before we can honestly address the sin of homosexuality and the danger to society posed by their activists' demand for affirmation.
It outlines the reason we should be alarmed at the attempt to introduce same-sex marriage. The destruction of family meaning that flows from same-sex parenting is also addressed.
...'We can no longer expect to call this nation back to God by public outcries. We cannot appeal to a "moral majority" when, in fact, none exists.
There is, in my opinion, only one answer: Every single Christian must become an activist, assuming the delicate task of taking a firm but loving stand on the issues and yet presenting the spiritual healing of Christ to a society afflicted with a disease called sin. John Q. Citizen will never be convinced about the credibility of the Christian faith until he becomes personally acquainted with someone who lives out the Christian life, applying its values to every situation.'
November 5, 2016
This is a great book and introduction to the topic. I love the way Mr. Lutzer writes. I would almost encourage him to come out with a revised and expanded book since this was written before the SCOTUS redefined marriage. Still this is a great read that will help you better understand this issue of same sex marriage, it's history, where the church has gone wrong and how it can be on the right track biblically and more. I encourage every believer to study this issue, this book would be a great first start.
May 13, 2014
Short book worth reading. Written in 2005, it lays out the "homosexual agenda" and how Christians should respond in love. I doubt the book would change anyone's mind who already has a position on same-sex marriages.
July 11, 2016
Outstanding!!!
This book shows that we can fight against same sex marriage while at the same time show compassion to the individual. Wonderfully written. Definitely a thumbs up for this book and the author.
This book shows that we can fight against same sex marriage while at the same time show compassion to the individual. Wonderfully written. Definitely a thumbs up for this book and the author.
August 4, 2009
This offered good advice on how the Church should deal with this pressing issue: We must admit our brokenness before God to be able to fight before men--a paraphrase of the last sentence.
November 10, 2015
Good analysis of the issues involved around this subject. Slightly dated because it was written before the latest Supreme Court ruling and looked towards the possibility of same sex marriage.
May 17, 2024
A CAUTION OF THE IMPLICATIONS OF SAME-SEX MARRIAGE FOR OUR COUNTRY
Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church (where he served as the Senior Pastor for 36 years).
He wrote in the introductory section of this 2004 book, “[This book is] a reflection of both my love for the homosexual community as well as my deep concern for our nation if same-sex marriages are legalized… I quickly learned that many believers simply did not know where they stood on this issue… Others thought that since the divorce rate among heterosexuals was so high, we simply did not have the right to sit in judgment upon the gay community. As I began to study the implications of hat same-sex marriages would mean for the wider society, I realized that we were on the verge of the destruction of marriage as we know it…
“Most of all, I thought of the young people in our churches who are growing up sexually confused as they are daily exposed to the pro-homosexual pressure of our cultures… I knew I had to speak to this issue. Finally, I had to ask: What does God think? Of course we know that the Bible condemns homosexuality, but I was wondering what God was saying to us as a church through the possibility of this frightening reordering of society… Let no one say that we have to choose between loving homosexuals and opposing same-sex marriages…”
Later, he adds, “this is a book written primarily for the church---that is, those of us who, because of our allegiance to Jesus Christ, oppose same-sex unions, but struggle with the question of how that opposition is best experienced. The task at hand is to … understand the basis for our convictions and what should be done with what we believe.” (Pg. 16)
He argues, “The argument here is that since Jesus did not mention homosexuality, evidently He did not think it was wrong. More to the point, He would have emphasized love between human beings at all times, no matter where is was found dan no matter what kind of relationship. First, Jesus upheld the Old Testament of obviously would not have disagreed with its teachings about such moral behavior… if anything, the New Testament challenges us to a higher standard of conduct. We do not believe that Jesus’ words have more authority than those of the apostle Paul who wrote the book of Romans. Second, it is unthinkable that Jesus, who said, ‘…anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart’ (Mt 5:28)---it is unthinkable that this same Jesus would approve of the sexual sin that is so strongly condemned in the Old Testament. Third in point of fact, Jesus did indirectly comment on homosexuality; when asked about divorce, He took his disciples back to Genesis 2… This He returns us to the Creator and emphasizes His original intention and design.” (Pg. 80-81)
He concludes, “Please understand that God does not owe us such a deliverance. No nation has turned away from so much light in order to choose darkness. NO nation has squandered as many opportunities as we have… We certainly cannot expect a revival simply because we do not want to face the harassment that well might come to us all. But if we humble ourselves… God may yet intervene and restore decency to this crazed world.” (Pg. 109)
Same-Sex marriage is now the law, of course...
Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church (where he served as the Senior Pastor for 36 years).
He wrote in the introductory section of this 2004 book, “[This book is] a reflection of both my love for the homosexual community as well as my deep concern for our nation if same-sex marriages are legalized… I quickly learned that many believers simply did not know where they stood on this issue… Others thought that since the divorce rate among heterosexuals was so high, we simply did not have the right to sit in judgment upon the gay community. As I began to study the implications of hat same-sex marriages would mean for the wider society, I realized that we were on the verge of the destruction of marriage as we know it…
“Most of all, I thought of the young people in our churches who are growing up sexually confused as they are daily exposed to the pro-homosexual pressure of our cultures… I knew I had to speak to this issue. Finally, I had to ask: What does God think? Of course we know that the Bible condemns homosexuality, but I was wondering what God was saying to us as a church through the possibility of this frightening reordering of society… Let no one say that we have to choose between loving homosexuals and opposing same-sex marriages…”
Later, he adds, “this is a book written primarily for the church---that is, those of us who, because of our allegiance to Jesus Christ, oppose same-sex unions, but struggle with the question of how that opposition is best experienced. The task at hand is to … understand the basis for our convictions and what should be done with what we believe.” (Pg. 16)
He argues, “The argument here is that since Jesus did not mention homosexuality, evidently He did not think it was wrong. More to the point, He would have emphasized love between human beings at all times, no matter where is was found dan no matter what kind of relationship. First, Jesus upheld the Old Testament of obviously would not have disagreed with its teachings about such moral behavior… if anything, the New Testament challenges us to a higher standard of conduct. We do not believe that Jesus’ words have more authority than those of the apostle Paul who wrote the book of Romans. Second, it is unthinkable that Jesus, who said, ‘…anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart’ (Mt 5:28)---it is unthinkable that this same Jesus would approve of the sexual sin that is so strongly condemned in the Old Testament. Third in point of fact, Jesus did indirectly comment on homosexuality; when asked about divorce, He took his disciples back to Genesis 2… This He returns us to the Creator and emphasizes His original intention and design.” (Pg. 80-81)
He concludes, “Please understand that God does not owe us such a deliverance. No nation has turned away from so much light in order to choose darkness. NO nation has squandered as many opportunities as we have… We certainly cannot expect a revival simply because we do not want to face the harassment that well might come to us all. But if we humble ourselves… God may yet intervene and restore decency to this crazed world.” (Pg. 109)
Same-Sex marriage is now the law, of course...
January 17, 2025
This "I'm Not Homophobic, BUT" Bible is a prime example of the self-deluded paradox at the heart of all discrimination, bigotry and oppression. Namely, the fact that the bigoted oppressors always have to convince themselves (and everyone else) that they are still the good guys. And to that end, they always insist that:
a) Far from 'Hating' the group which they persecute and oppress, they're merely trying to protect and/or 'Save' them; both from themselves and from the Radical Leftist indoctrinators who are corrupting, manipulating and exploiting them.
b) They must also protect #TheChildren from these Radical Leftist #Groomers who seek to 'Recruit' them and or destroy society by destroying the next generation. And...
c) In spite of the fact that they have all of the power over the oppressed minority, it's actually they themselves who are the oppressed victims fighting against Tyranny and acting in self-defence.
Honestly, from the Nazis to the so-called 'Religious Right' who just elected Trump to his second term, name a single bigoted oppressor throughout history who hasn't ticked every one of these three boxes. So as ridiculous as it sounds, I actually recommend this book to everyone as a masterclass in how the bigoted oppressor always twists the facts and projects their own motives onto the group which their oppressing in order to present themselves as the heroic victims. And even more importantly, of how the cherry picked anecdotes, biased studies and other 'Evidence' which they present to back up their case is always entirely irrelevant. Since even if we debunk every single claim that they make, they'll simply find another icon with which to justify and rationalise their bigotry.
Because when all is said and done, whether it's two people of the same sex getting married, a trans girl playing badminton or an interracial couple existing, admitting that they want people to stop doing what they want to do because it makes them feel icky inside automatically makes them the bad guys. So instead, from the Bible to B.S. claims about homosexuality being the product of child S.A, they cling to anything which allows them to pretend that their bigotry is righteous heroism. Meaning that just as Fascism's greatest advantage is that almost no one ever wants to admit that they're Fascists, (often literally accusing Anti-Fascists of being Fascist without the slightest hint of irony, since only 'Bad Guys' who we hate can be Fascists,) we magically live in a world in which the people who have all of the power and literally pass laws persecuting the powerless minority are actually the good guys protecting society from the *Real* bigoted oppressors.
a) Far from 'Hating' the group which they persecute and oppress, they're merely trying to protect and/or 'Save' them; both from themselves and from the Radical Leftist indoctrinators who are corrupting, manipulating and exploiting them.
b) They must also protect #TheChildren from these Radical Leftist #Groomers who seek to 'Recruit' them and or destroy society by destroying the next generation. And...
c) In spite of the fact that they have all of the power over the oppressed minority, it's actually they themselves who are the oppressed victims fighting against Tyranny and acting in self-defence.
Honestly, from the Nazis to the so-called 'Religious Right' who just elected Trump to his second term, name a single bigoted oppressor throughout history who hasn't ticked every one of these three boxes. So as ridiculous as it sounds, I actually recommend this book to everyone as a masterclass in how the bigoted oppressor always twists the facts and projects their own motives onto the group which their oppressing in order to present themselves as the heroic victims. And even more importantly, of how the cherry picked anecdotes, biased studies and other 'Evidence' which they present to back up their case is always entirely irrelevant. Since even if we debunk every single claim that they make, they'll simply find another icon with which to justify and rationalise their bigotry.
Because when all is said and done, whether it's two people of the same sex getting married, a trans girl playing badminton or an interracial couple existing, admitting that they want people to stop doing what they want to do because it makes them feel icky inside automatically makes them the bad guys. So instead, from the Bible to B.S. claims about homosexuality being the product of child S.A, they cling to anything which allows them to pretend that their bigotry is righteous heroism. Meaning that just as Fascism's greatest advantage is that almost no one ever wants to admit that they're Fascists, (often literally accusing Anti-Fascists of being Fascist without the slightest hint of irony, since only 'Bad Guys' who we hate can be Fascists,) we magically live in a world in which the people who have all of the power and literally pass laws persecuting the powerless minority are actually the good guys protecting society from the *Real* bigoted oppressors.
March 28, 2023
I have grown to greatly appreciate Erwin Lutzer's writings since reading one of his other books several months ago. He is a solid and faithful Bible teacher with great wisdom and insight. His balanced approach is a rare gem in today's polarized culture. Although many things have changed in our society since this book was written, its message is still relevant in that God's truths don't change with every whim of society. Well worth the read to recalibrate Godly perspective on this highly controversial subject.
March 15, 2021
Quick read. Good points. I read it in about two sittings, borrowing it off the shelf in the bedroom of the home where I stayed while “touring” as a new ringer for my church’s handbell choir. We rode in the camper of one of our members, several hours to the Adirondack Mountains, to a former member’s current church’s anniversary celebration luncheon. She joined us in our performances throughout the luncheon. Great fun! Beautiful, marvelous scenery! But serious reading.
September 8, 2018
Need of the Hour! (7th September, 2018) #Section377OfIndianPenalCode
July 11, 2019
Sus predicciones resultaron ciertas en USA y lo que se viene en Latinoamérica ... Muy útil para los que piensan "no pasa nada" y también para los que se sienten "superiores" a cualquier otro grupo.
December 29, 2024
Homophobic crap. Religion as hatred. Pure evil.
April 21, 2013
My interest in this topic was sparked by several incidents; discovering the gay community in Singapore, seeing yaoi fanfiction online, and so on. This book talks about what God thinks about same-sex marriages.
I liked the book because it presented a wholesome image of how Christians ought to love others, that we can love someone but disapprove of their behavior. That many times the sin in our lives corrupts us so much that we have no right to condescend on others. That we should stand up for the truth by first of all leading lives that show the message of God's incredible love and grace for sinners.
Here are some memorable quotes from the book that I ear-marked:
"But sex, separated from God's holy intention, is reduced to a biological experience that falls victim to the law of diminishing returns. Such relationships cannot represent the intimacy between Christ and the church, nor can they represent the real presence of God, but the presence of an alien, impure spirit."
"Of course, the only way to get that idea accepted is to condition people into accepting nihilism that forbids morality and judgment."
"Yet- since they do not have some overriding principle that takes them beyond relativistic thinking- when these become thinkable and acceptable... most people will not even remember that they were unthinkable in the seventies. They will slide into each new thinkable without a jolt."
"From the statement of psychological fact, 'I have an impulse to do so and so' we cannot by any ingenuity derive the practical principle, 'I ought to obey this impulse...' Telling us to obey instinct is like telling us to obey 'people'. People say different things: so do instincts. Our instincts are at war.'
"It is one thing to say that we believe in civil rights for all regardless of one's skin color. It is quite another to say that we believe in civil rights for all regardless of one's behavior."
"no restriction God might place on how we should experience our sexuality is as incredible as the raw awareness of what a miraculous gift our sexuality is."
"The secrecy of it all not only plagues his conscience but fuels his desire."
"In Leadership journal Dobson replied, "If the church gets overrun with homosexuals, that will be terrific. They can take their place in the pews right next to the liars, gossips, materialists,and all the rest of us who entertain sin in our lives."
I liked the book because it presented a wholesome image of how Christians ought to love others, that we can love someone but disapprove of their behavior. That many times the sin in our lives corrupts us so much that we have no right to condescend on others. That we should stand up for the truth by first of all leading lives that show the message of God's incredible love and grace for sinners.
Here are some memorable quotes from the book that I ear-marked:
"But sex, separated from God's holy intention, is reduced to a biological experience that falls victim to the law of diminishing returns. Such relationships cannot represent the intimacy between Christ and the church, nor can they represent the real presence of God, but the presence of an alien, impure spirit."
"Of course, the only way to get that idea accepted is to condition people into accepting nihilism that forbids morality and judgment."
"Yet- since they do not have some overriding principle that takes them beyond relativistic thinking- when these become thinkable and acceptable... most people will not even remember that they were unthinkable in the seventies. They will slide into each new thinkable without a jolt."
"From the statement of psychological fact, 'I have an impulse to do so and so' we cannot by any ingenuity derive the practical principle, 'I ought to obey this impulse...' Telling us to obey instinct is like telling us to obey 'people'. People say different things: so do instincts. Our instincts are at war.'
"It is one thing to say that we believe in civil rights for all regardless of one's skin color. It is quite another to say that we believe in civil rights for all regardless of one's behavior."
"no restriction God might place on how we should experience our sexuality is as incredible as the raw awareness of what a miraculous gift our sexuality is."
"The secrecy of it all not only plagues his conscience but fuels his desire."
"In Leadership journal Dobson replied, "If the church gets overrun with homosexuals, that will be terrific. They can take their place in the pews right next to the liars, gossips, materialists,and all the rest of us who entertain sin in our lives."
August 27, 2013
Great book - well worth a read (or a listen to the audiobook).
As the 2013 Australia Federal election draws closer, it seems that a vote for Kevin Rudd is a vote for so called "Same Sex Marriage". If you are not sure of what you think of this, don't know why it is a big deal, or are interested in the Christian perspective - get this book.
The author is not down on "gays", but is often down on Christians and our responses to the gay community. He lays out the Biblical truth, and challenges us to lift our game. The end of the book is full of practical things that we can do to make a difference.
Get your own copy and make an informed decision.
The Truth About Same-Sex Marriage: 6 Things You Need to Know About What's Really at Stake [Kindle Edition]
The Truth About Same Sex Marriage: 6 Things You Need to Know About What's Really at Stake Paperback
Truth About Same Sex Marriage: 6 Things You Need to Know About What's Really At Stake MP3 Audiobook
As the 2013 Australia Federal election draws closer, it seems that a vote for Kevin Rudd is a vote for so called "Same Sex Marriage". If you are not sure of what you think of this, don't know why it is a big deal, or are interested in the Christian perspective - get this book.
The author is not down on "gays", but is often down on Christians and our responses to the gay community. He lays out the Biblical truth, and challenges us to lift our game. The end of the book is full of practical things that we can do to make a difference.
Get your own copy and make an informed decision.
The Truth About Same-Sex Marriage: 6 Things You Need to Know About What's Really at Stake [Kindle Edition]
The Truth About Same Sex Marriage: 6 Things You Need to Know About What's Really at Stake Paperback
Truth About Same Sex Marriage: 6 Things You Need to Know About What's Really At Stake MP3 Audiobook
June 7, 2016
What's really at stake is that you should look to your own crumbling hetero marriages that have been crumbling without ANY help from us gays.
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