Chris Broussard, a Christian, responds to the news of Jason Collins, an NBA player, coming out as gay.
Forward to 7:30 to get to the meat of the discussion.
What do you think? What is the right way to respond? Are we ready to have the uncomfortable conversations?
Uncomfortable conversations are fine…. it’s how the message is delivered that is at issue… Here is part of Broussard’s Quote:
“If you’re openly living that type of lifestyle, then the Bible says you know them by their fruits. It says that, you know, that’s a sin. If you’re openly living in unrepentant sin, whatever it may be, not just homos-xuality, adultery, fornication…whatever it maybe, I believe that’s walking in open rebellion to God and to Jesus Christ. So I would not characterize that person as a Christian because I don’t think the bible would characterize them as a Christian.”
Interesting because “Christian” is only mentioned 3 times in the New Testament and each time as a slur for followers of Christ. Followers of Christ called themselves something far scarier… DISCIPLE. And I read the words of Jesus and question the theology of Brossard’s statement. But even putting that aside, while you can differ with him on small points, I don’t see grace, mercy, or forgiveness in his comments. I see the law. And the law is important… but we live in an America where the law is already used to beat people over the head… so much that they run FROM the church and not to it; it would have been nice to see a little grace here too… Jesus was 100% of both Law and Grace. We should strive as his DISCIPLES to be the same.
Good thoughts Jason. I know for me it is easy to agree on the principles, and harder to get the actuals. What does a statement that is 100% law and grace sound like? How do we state the truth, and still have grace? That is the wrestling that Christians will have to do if we are to stay true to God and relevant in the world.
I don’t know either Scott, but I can’t imagine Jesus treating LGBT people the way that some people proclaiming the name of Christ treat them today… Broussard didn’t do badly for being on a live broadcast and having not prepared remarks, but perhaps mentioning something regarding seeking and finding forgiveness and acceptance in Christ would have been more… graceful…
I agree. Tough to do well and not be misunderstood. Thanks for the comments and thoughts.