Why I Call Myself A Gay Christian

[Valin]

First Things:

 

Joshua Gonnerman

5/23/12

 

“Why would a Christian identify as gay?”

 

That was the question posed by many who read my previous piece for First Things, “Dan Savage Was Right.” Of course, there are many gay people who identify as Christian. But commenters were particularly confused because I am a gay man who accepts Christ’s teaching that sex is to be reserved for marriage, and that marriage is between a man and a woman.

 

This question has been addressed a few times, most recently by my friend Eve Tushnet. But identity questions are nuanced enough that every answer can only be to the question: Why do I identify as gay? Before I can touch on that, I will address some common objections—or rather, one objection that, on being answered, tends to shift its shape and come again.

 

(Snip)

[pollyannaish]

That is an excellent article.

 

I am not one to see issues as black and white at the expense of compassion. There are many things about this earth I do not understand and never will. This piece is nuanced, while staying true to Biblical teaching.

 

Thanks for posting it.