The Queer Christian: Navigating Faith, Church and the Bible

The vibrant diversity of gender-fluid and non-binary individuals in Native American cultures; the tragic ban of same-sex marriages by the Navajo Nation Council; and the role of Christian churches in a cultural genocide, which attempted to erase the history of Two-Spirit individuals and their unique and respected roles in many tribes. Quoted or referenced in podcast: https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2023/10/23/navajo-gay-marriage-ban-lgbtq/ https://lgbtqhealth.ca/community/two-spirit.php https://www.ihs.gov/lgbt/health/twospirit/ https://www.theguardian.com/music/2010/oct/11/two-spirit-people-north-america https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%203%3A28&version=RSV Additional References https://www.theindigenousfoundation.org/articles/the-history-of-two-spirit-folks https://www.kqed.org/arts/13845330/5-two-spirit-heroes-who-paved-the-way-for-todays-native-lgbtq-community https://www.them.us/story/lgbtq-two-spirit-native-americans-changing-the-world https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Two-spirit Podcast produced by: ⁠⁠Elton Sherwin⁠⁠ Audio edited and enhanced with: ⁠⁠Descript Studio Sound ⁠⁠  #Bible #Christian #Affirming

We discuss the deeply flawed practice of trying to change someone's sexual orientation. Related Episodes: 8. Paul, Gay Marriage and Gender Pronouns 11. Why Young Christians Are Leaving the Church and Some Are Committing Suicide 12. The Problems with Purity 13. When Is Sex Between Two Unmarried People God Honoring? (Seven rules for sex between unmarried people) 21. A Trans Christian's Quest for Authenticity Movies Referenced: Boy Erased: https://www.netflix.com/title/80240538 Review quoted from The Jesuit Post: https://thejesuitpost.org/2018/11/boy-erased-conversion-therapy-and-the-catholic-church/ Pray Away: https://www.netflix.com/title/81040370 Review quoted from Conscience Magazine: https://www.catholicsforchoice.org/resource-library/netflixs-pray-away-exposes-conversion-therapy-fraud/ Articles and Websites Quoted: The American Psychological Association (APA): https://www.apa.org/pi/lgbt/resources/just-the-facts The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/21/us/group-that-promoted-curing-gays-ceases-operations.html Time magazine: https://time.com/3065495/9-ex-leaders-of-the-gay-conversion-therapy-movement-apologize/ The AMA calls for ban: https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/nbc-out/american-medical-association-backs-nationwide-conversion-therapy-ban-n1088731 Statistics quoted: Alan Chambers quote, “99.9% have not experienced a change in their orientation” from: https://wthrockmorton.com/2012/01/09/alan-chambers-99-9-have-not-experienced-a-change-in-their-orientation/ or https://www.npr.org/2013/06/20/193965227/group-that-claimed-to-cure-gays-disbands-leader-apologizes Post conversion therapy suicide ideation rate of 28% from Statista https://www.statista.com/statistics/1053024/lgbtq-youth-in-us-attempted-suicide-conversion-therapy-experience/ Trans children exposed to conversion therapy at a young age are four times more likely to report lifetime suicide attempts: https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/nbc-out/transgender-conversion-therapy-associated-severe-psychological-distress-n1052416 Finding Affirming, Sex-Positive Counselors Who Do NOT Believe in Conversion Therapy: https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/therapy-for-lgbt#organizations https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/california?category=gay (Find the LGBTQ Affirming pull-down or edit the URL and replace “California” with “Texas” or whatever state you’re in) https://www.choosingtherapy.com/finding-an-lgbtq-therapist/ https://allintherapyclinic.com/how-to-find-an-lgbt-affirming-therapist/ https://directory.choosingtherapy.com/ https://lgbtqhealthcaredirectory.org/ On-line therapy: https://www.choosingtherapy.com/best-lgbtq-online-therapy-options/ https://www.talkspace.com/online-therapy/lgbtqia Benefits of Church Attendance for Adults and Children: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/press-releases/regularly-attending-religious-services-associated-with-lower-risk-of-deaths-of-despair/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11302358/ https://academic.oup.com/ije/article/49/6/2030/5892419 Additional References and Resources https://www.huffpost.com/entry/queer-youth-religion-suicide-study_n_5ad4f7b3e4b077c89ceb9774 https://www.thetrevorproject.org/ending-conversion-therapy/ https://glaad.org/conversiontherapy/ https://www.hrc.org/resources/the-lies-and-dangers-of-reparative-therapy https://www.huffpost.com/entry/faith-leaders-lgbtq-conversion-therapy-ban_n_5fda6074c5b650b99ad93787 https://www.newportacademy.com/resources/mental-health/conversion-therapy-pray-away/ https://www.bbc.com/news/explainers-56496423 https://web.archive.org/web/20230405193059/https://exodusinternational.org/2013/06/i-am-sorry/ https://youtu.be/Ea10c6VXVx8?si=VebC4DTN9m37bkwD&t=197 https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Policy_Statements/2018/Conversion_Therapy.aspx https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conversion_therapy All quotes edited for clarity and brevity, and red by descript not the original authors.

Aiden Yang's transformation as he liberates the good troublemaker within, explores the Beatitudes, and finds inspiration from rapper Bad Bunny. Aiden Yang, a Trans-Christian Asian American, describes the many challenges to living true to your authentic self: Challenges from your church; challenges from your family; and challenges from a capitalist society. Aiden takes you on a transformative journey to embrace your shadow self and live authentically. Aiden shares insights from his personal experience and draws parallels with the Beatitudes, challenging societal norms and finding inspiration from rapper Bad Bunny's countercultural journey. Aiden’s website: https://aidensyang.com About Aiden: https://aidensyang.com/about-aiden   https://youtu.be/1IVEFNLlC54 Aiden’s book, “The Spineless Porcupine: Why Our Differences Are Superpowers” https://aidensyang.com/book https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08PNJPS1H/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_93WYFb7ED3J6X Aiden’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love_n_cr8ivity/ Aiden’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sayme/ This sermon was originally delivered at Bethel Community Church in San Leandro, CA and has been edited for this podcast. https://bethelcommunitysl.org Podcast produced by: ⁠⁠Elton Sherwin⁠⁠ Audio edited and enhanced with: ⁠⁠Descript Studio Sound ⁠⁠  #Bible #Christian #Affirming

1946 About the movie: 1946 - THE MISTRANSLATION THAT SHIFTED CULTURE This is a feature documentary that follows the story of tireless researchers who trace the origins of the anti-gay movement among Christians to a grave mistranslation of the Bible in 1946. It chronicles the discovery of never-before-seen archives at Yale University which unveil astonishing new revelations, and casts significant doubt on any biblical basis for LGBTQIA+ prejudice. Movie Reviews “POSSIBLY THE MOST IMPORTANT FILM OF THE DECADE…” Steve Koplan, UNSEEN FILMS “…one of the most engaging and informative documentaries I've ever seen. Not only is it highly watchable, but it has the potential to be ONE OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL FILMS OF THE CENTURY as it seeks to prove that queerness and religion were never meant to be at odds. A must-watch for anyone trying to reconcile the two.” Matthew Huff, BUZZFEED Website: https://www.1946themovie.com Newsletter: https://www.1946themovie.com/subscribe GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/1946themovie Social media handle: @1946themovie on TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook The movie’s team:       Directed By: Sharon “Rocky” Roggio      Executive Produced By: Daniel Karslake          Produced By: Jena Serbu And Sharon “Rocky” Roggio        Original Music By: Mary Lambert Women Make Movies: https://www.wmm.com/sponsored-project/1946-the-mistranslation-that-shifted-culture Podcast produced by: ⁠⁠Elton Sherwin⁠⁠ Audio edited and enhanced with: ⁠⁠Descript Studio Sound ⁠⁠  Synthesized speech using: ⁠⁠Speechelo⁠⁠ #Bible #Christian #Affirming

7 Bible scriptures that are MISUSED to condemn the LGBTQIA+ Community. Janet sets the record straight. In this episode, the second half of Janet Edmonds new leaflet, we look at 7 Bible scriptures that are INCORRECTLY used to condemn sexual minorities. Links to Janet's writing: Janet's leaflet, read in this podcast: GOD LOVES YOU - God Loves All of the LGBTQIA+ Community!! https://www.slideshare.net/EltonSherwin/god-loves-you-leaflet-by-janet-edmondspdf More details and scholarly references can be found in Janet’s longer white paper which is published several places: https://tiny.cc/Janet1 https://serendipitydodah.wordpress.com/2017/02/27/the-clobber-verses In a PDF: https://elcvienna.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Booklet-about-Homosexuality-and-the-Bible-Sept.-2016.pdf Podcast written and produced by: ⁠⁠Elton Sherwin⁠⁠ Audio edited and enhanced with: ⁠⁠Descript Studio Sound ⁠⁠  Synthesized speech using: ⁠⁠Speechelo⁠⁠ #Bible #Christian #Affirming

Using the Bible to condemn all queer people is a MISINTERPRETATION of the original scriptures and the initial purpose of why they were written. In this episode, the first half of Janet Edmonds new leaflet, a look at two AMAZING Bible scriptures that are AFFIRMING and ENCOURAGING for the LGBTQIA+ Community. Links to Janet's writing: Janet's leaflet, read in this podcast: GOD LOVES YOU - God Loves All of the LGBTQIA+ Community!! https://www.slideshare.net/EltonSherwin/god-loves-you-leaflet-by-janet-edmondspdf More details and scholarly references can be found in Janet’s longer white paper which is published several places: https://tiny.cc/Janet1 https://serendipitydodah.wordpress.com/2017/02/27/the-clobber-verses In a PDF: https://elcvienna.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Booklet-about-Homosexuality-and-the-Bible-Sept.-2016.pdf Podcast written and produced by: ⁠⁠Elton Sherwin⁠⁠ Audio edited and enhanced with: ⁠⁠Descript Studio Sound ⁠⁠  Synthesized speech using: ⁠⁠Speechelo⁠⁠ #Bible #Christian #Affirming

Did God cancel Leviticus and its archaic and unjust laws? We look at Isaiah 56 and a conservative Bible commentary. The results are surprising. Three Scriptures used in this episode · Isaiah 56: 4-5 (ESV) · Leviticus 18: 22 (ESV) · Leviticus 21: 18-20 (NIV) Quoted in this Episode The Enduring Word Commentary by David Guzik About Isaiah 56: 4-5The Enduring Word Commentary says: “This also PROPHESIES THE PASSING OF THE DOMINANCE OF THE LEVITICAL ORDER. “Clearly, giving eunuchs a place and a name in God’s house CONTRADICTED the command of LEVITICUS 21:17-20. BUT UNDER A COMING NEW COVENANT, THERE IS A HIGHER PRINCIPLE AT WORK THAN THE SHADOWS OF THE LEVITICAL LAW.” Leviticus is describing who is EXCLUDED from the PRIESTHOOD Leviticus 21: 18-20 “No man who has any DEFECT may come near: no man who is BLIND or LAME, DISFIGURED or DEFORMED; no man with a CRIPPLED FOOT or hand, or who is a HUNCHBACK or a DWARF, or who has any EYE DEFECT, or who has festering or RUNNING SORES or DAMAGED TESTICLES.” #bible #biblestudy #affirming #gaychristian #queerchristian #Christian #exvangelical #pride #Lgbt #gay #ally #lgbtqia #trans

“For, there are some who have been gay from birth, so knit together in their mother's wombs and created in God's image.” This is a modern, amplified translation of Jesus' words from Matthew 19: 11-12 and the topic of this episode. Scripture quoted: · Matthew 19: 11-12 (ESV) · Matthew 19: 11-12 (King James Version) · Matthew 19: 12 (Multiple translations) · Matthew 19: 12 (original Greek) · Psalm 139: 13 · Genesis 1: 27 Quotes and URLs Dr. Jack Rogers quote: …"eunuchs who have been so from birth," is the closest biblical term we have for someone who today we refer to as homosexual. Reverend Jeff Miner quote:  www.wouldjesusdiscriminate.org/biblical_evidence/born_gay In the ancient world, including ancient Jewish culture as reflected in the Talmud, natural or born eunuchs… they were associated with stereotypically effeminate, characteristics and behavior… As we have also seen eunuchs were commonly associated with homosexual desire. Pastor Rick Brentlinger quote: Historical evidence beside what Jesus said, indicates that gay, lesbians and transgendered people were included in the group known as eunuchs. #bible #biblestudy #affirming #gaychristian #queerchristian #Christian #exvangelical #pride #Lgbt #gay #ally #lgbtqia #trans

We look at the traditional view of Isaiah’s blessing, which is surprisingly affirming of sexual minorities. Join me as we look at the great blessing in Isaiah 56: 4-5. Scripture quoted: · Isaiah 56: 4-5 · Matthew 19: 11-12 · Galatians 3: 28 (NASB) · Leviticus 21: 18-20 References and URLs: Quote from Janet Edmond “It is difficult to overstate the significance of this story about the Ethiopian eunuch to our modern quest for Biblical insights into homosexuality. The Holy Spirit could have chosen anyone to be the first Gentile Christian, but the Holy Spirit chose an African, sexual minority who showed faith. “The Bible’s unmistakable message here is one of inclusiveness and of God’s love for all people, regardless of their sexual preferences.” Bridgeway Bible Commentary by Don Fleming: “When the Jews returned to Jerusalem, some Gentile converts returned with them. Among these were several eunuchs, possibly people who were previously connected with the palaces in Babylon and Persia. The law of Moses made it plain that eunuchs were to be excluded from the tabernacle worship, probably to discourage the Israelites from making their own people eunuchs (Deuteronomy 23:1). But in the new Jerusalem all foreigners, eunuchs or otherwise, who honour God and keep his law should be allowed to worship in the temple along with godly Israelites” “Love and obedience towards God, not physical or national characteristics, are the important things in God’s sight. The temple is for the use of all people, not just Jews, because God’s mercy is for all people” Barn's Bible Commentary: “For thus saith the Lord unto the eunuchs - Even the eunuchs, who have hitherto been excluded from the privileges of the people of God, and who have been regarded as a separated and degraded people, shall be admitted to the same privileges as others.” Enduring Word Commentary: “This also prophesies the passing of the dominance of the Levitical order.” #bible #biblestudy #affirming #affirmingchurch #gaychristian #queerchristian #Christian #affirmingyouthministries #exchristian #exmormon #belovedarise #youarebloved

In this episode: I discuss with Grandma Clair three things that predict successful relationships and marriages. From The Gottman Institute: https://www.gottman.com/ · The Magic Relationship Ratio (used in Podcast) https://youtu.be/Xw9SE315GtA · Four horsemen https://youtu.be/1o30Ps-_8is · “Bids” https://www.gottman.com/blog/turn-toward-instead-of-away/ · Singles newsletter https://www.gottman.com/singles-newsletter/ 12 Year Study of same-sex relationships: · https://www.gottman.com/blog/the-12-year-study/ · https://www.gottman.com/blog/what-makes-same-sex-relationships-succeed-or-fail/ Smiling · https://marriagecounselingblog.com/marriage-counseling/6-of-the-most-interesting-research-studies-about-love-and-marriage/ · https://youtu.be/jp42DM0x1Fc · http://tiny.cc/Smile2 · http://tiny.cc/Smile3 · http://tiny.cc/Smile4 · http://tiny.cc/Smile5 First date questions: https://www.scienceofpeople.com/first-date-questions/ Marriages from online dating: https://www.science.org/content/article/online-dating-really-can-lead-love Psychopathy (Don’t Marry) · https://www.mha-em.org/im-looking-for/mental-health-knowledge-base/conditions/127-psychopathy-vs-sociopathy · https://www.bikellaw.com/blog/37/is-your-husband-a-psychopath/ Gratitude · http://tiny.cc/Thanks1 · http://tiny.cc/Thanks2 The Power of saying: “thank you” in marriages · https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/10/151021170814.htm · https://www.chicagotribune.com/columns/heidi-stevens/ct-gratitude-marital-happiness-balancing-act-heidi-stevens-20151028-column.html Top things couples fight about https://www.inc.com/melanie-curtin/the-10-things-every-couple-will-fight-about-at-some-point.html Scripture used in this episode · Proverbs 15: 30 · Galatians 5: 22-23 · Matthew 25: 40 · Ephesians 4: 29 · 1 Peter 3: 10 · 1 Thessalonians 5: 11 #Marriage #Dating #Christian #Research #Love

Are the rules for gay sex different than straight sex? GRANDMA CLAIR’S: SEVEN RULES FOR SAFE SEX: 1) If you can become pregnant get a LARC. 2) When dating go slowly, start with your hands and wait awhile before you move to oral or intercourse. 3) Only have intercourse inside of a monogamous and romantic relationship. 4) ALWAYS use condoms, to protect against STIs. 5) Avoid hook-up sex. And if you do have hook-up sex use only your hands. 6) Wait on oral sex until you are in a long-term, monogamous relationship and have both been tested for STIs. 7) Try to wait until you are 19 to have intercourse. REPORTS USED: (Capitalization in tiny URLs matters) Hook-up Sex Flunks Out, But Romance Rocks: http://tiny.cc/RomanceRocks Romantic Sex Lowers Teen Delinquency http://tiny.cc/SexAndDelinquency Queer Youth and School Engagement https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2835305/ LARCs Success: http://tiny.cc/NYTLARCS http://tiny.cc/LARCSgraduate http://tiny.cc/OBGYNAdvice http://tiny.cc/YesLARCS STIs risks: Oral and Anal Sex verses using hands (fingering) http://tiny.cc/sti1 http://tiny.cc/sti2 http://tiny.cc/sti3 Kissing and STIs http://tiny.cc/KissingRisks http://tiny.cc/Kiss4Gonorrhoea Percent of Americans Having Premarital Sex https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nsfg/key_statistics/p.htm http://tiny.cc/Guttmacher2006 http://tiny.cc/TeenSexStats Teens and STIs https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5002249/ Late Bloomers Rock: Delaying First Intercourse Beyond High School Is Beneficial http://tiny.cc/DoesTrueLoveWait http://tiny.cc/HeritageTeenSex http://tiny.cc/57studiesonTeenSex A Book of Charts http://tiny.cc/HeritageCharts Early Sex in El Salvador and Peru Has Poor Outcomes http://tiny.cc/TeenSexPeru Children of Teen Moms https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK219236/ https://voxeu.org/article/why-children-teen-mothers-do-worse-life Graduation Rates for Teen Moms: http://tiny.cc/TeenMomsInSchool #premaritalsex #teensex #Christiansex #gaysex #safesex

From Apple Podcast reviews: A young man wrote: “I really don’t know how to say this, but thank you. Your podcasts helped me stop my suicidal thoughts. You saved my life…” A gay mom wrote: “You put some scriptures that have been used to harm people into perspective. In my gut, I knew those scriptures didn’t apply to me, but I lacked the ability to articulate that for others. I have shared your Podcast with dozens of people. I wonder how many gays will not seek suicide because they feel loved and accepted. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for showing love in this world.” If you’ve been one of our thousands of longtime listeners in over 100 countries– thank you. Remember, God created you. He knit you together in your mother’s womb, exactly the way you are, for a purpose, because He wanted someone with precisely your gifts and talents. God loves you. You are not a mistake! You were created by God for a reason! Stay safe, stay strong, and God bless. Elton Sherwin.

Millions of Christian’s feel guilt or shame about premarital sex. But should they? What do the Gospels and the 10 Commandments actually say about premarital sex? This episode is also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MYsj67BTnkY References and URLs Terry Gross Fresh Air interview of Linda Kay Klein: Transcript and audio: https://www.npr.org/transcripts/648737143 Linda Kay Klein’s book, PURE: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DQV274T “Inside the Purity Movement and Its Effect on Evangelical Women” by Julie Ingersoll University of North Florida http://tiny.cc/Purity1 Charts used from part 1: The benefits of church attendance for women (Harvard study): https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2521827 https://ifstudies.org/blog/religious-service-attendance-marriage-and-health/ The association of religiosity and suicide in queer youth: http://tiny.cc/Queersuicide http://www.ajpmonline.org/article/S0749-3797(18)30050-3/fulltext Falling church attendance – Pew research: http://www.pewforum.org/2019/10/17/in-u-s-decline-of-christianity-continues-at-rapid-pace/ President Carter quote: https://youtu.be/znTO949aPNg?t=155 http://tiny.cc/Carter2015 More than 1 in 2 Americans will get STD in lifetime http://tiny.cc/sti4 HPV and Cancer: “HPV is a group of more than 200 related viruses, some of which are spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex… https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/infectious-agents/hpv-and-cancer There is a vaccine for many sexually transmitted cancers: www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/infectious-agents/hpv-vaccine-fact-sheet https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/hpv/statistics/cases.htm #safesex #purity #premaritalsex #teensex #Christiansex #gaysex Voices: Descript.com #descript

21% of Gen Z identifies as LGBT according to a 2022 Gallup Poll. Both parents and churches are failing to keep them safe. Research tells us there are surprisingly large benefits to health and wellbeing associated with church attendance. Unfortunately, there is a dark side to religion, particularly for some young Christians and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. This episode is also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/I8oHv9tNAM4 References and URLs 21% of Gen Z identifies as LGBT according to a 2022 Gallup Poll: https://news.gallup.com/poll/389792/lgbt-identification-ticks-up.aspx “Homosexual acts are intrinsically disordered" Catechism of the Catholic Church: http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/para/2357.htm Franklin Graham quote: https://christiansforsocialaction.org/resource/what-are-christians-to-do-with-those-pesky-gay-children/ The benefits of church attendance for women (Harvard study): https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2521827 https://ifstudies.org/blog/religious-service-attendance-marriage-and-health/ Benefits of church attendance for young adults (2ndHarvard study): http://tiny.cc/Harvardstudy1 https://academic.oup.com/aje/article/187/11/2355/5094534 The association of religiosity and suicide in queer youth: http://tiny.cc/Queersuicide http://www.ajpmonline.org/article/S0749-3797(18)30050-3/fulltext Falling church attendance – Barna Group research: http://www.barna.com/research/changing-state-of-the-church/ Falling church attendance – Pew research: http://www.pewforum.org/2019/10/17/in-u-s-decline-of-christianity-continues-at-rapid-pace/ Friendly and Welcoming Is Not Affirming: http://www.advocate.com/commentary/2018/4/03/difference-between-welcoming-church-and-affirming-one-huge Trans godparents forbidden in the Catholic Church: http://www.hrc.org/resources/stances-of-faiths-on-lgbt-issues-roman-catholic-church http://www.newwaysministry.org/2015/09/13/did-the-vatican-really-ban-transgender-godparents/ #churchtoo #affirmingchurch #gaychristian #FaithfullyLGBT #gay #LGBT

In this famous—but often misinterpreted—story we see God emphasizing that the Gospel message is inclusive and open to all. And that the kingdom of heaven does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender or sexual orientation. From the Book of Acts, chapter 8 verses 26 to 40. References and URLs: Quotes from Janet Edmonds: https://serendipitydodah.wordpress.com/2017/02/27/the-clobber-verses Quote from Rev. Jeff Miner and John Tyler Connoley in The Children Are Free: Reexamining the Biblical Evidence on Same-sex Relationships: https://books.google.com/books?id=c3uCTACZ46sC&pg=PA42 See the last full paragraph on page 42, then read the surrounding pages Additional Reverend Jeff Miner resources: www.wouldjesusdiscriminate.org/biblical_evidence/born_gay and books: www.amazon.com/s?i=stripbooks&rh=p_27%3ARev.+Jeff+Miner Recent article from InMenlo on the origins of this series: https://inmenlo.com/2022/01/31/elton-sherwin-offers-podcasts-on-the-bible-and-the-lgbtqia-community-here-he-explains-why/ For more from my research about eunuchs in antiquity, see the notes in episode 6. #affirmingchurch #gaychristian #lgbtpride #FaithfullyLGBT #affirming #lgbtchristian #gay #LGBT #pride #biblestudy #dobetteryounglife #EltonsPodcasts #gaychristian #queerchristian #affirming #queerparenting #christianparenting #queerkids #queerteen #queerteens #transchristian #lgbtchristian #affirmingchristian #lgbtpride #pride #trans #Lgbt #gay #ally #allies #affirmingchurch #FaithfullyLGBT #queerallies #Christian #belovedarise #queer #lgbtyouth #queerpride #lgbtqpride #progressivechristian #lgbtqteens #lesbian #comingout #youth #jesus #god #qeerpride #religioustrauma #progressivechristianity #exchristian #exmormon

We continue our LGBTQIA+ positive and affirming look at the Bible. In this episode we look at same-sex marriage and gender-neutral pronouns in light of Paul's writings (in Galatians 3.28 and 1 Corinthians 7.8). Having authored three of the infamous clobber verses, the apostle Paul is generally considered hostile to the LGBTQIA+ community. But in this episode, we see one of the most controversial of the biblical authors in a different light. We will examine Paul’s clobber verses in a future episode Poem: Would the Apostle Paul Approve of Gay Marriage? Would the apostle Paul approve of gay marriage? I think you would. On most topics involving women sex or marriage. Paul's writings are a bit confusing. In several instances, his meaning is obscured. The exact translation of old Greek words lost to antiquity. And in at least one instance, he seems to have made up a word. Nevertheless: Paul—who never married—has become the Bible's authority on marriage. And on the topic of marriage. Paul's clearest easiest to understand guidance is in his first letter to the new believers in the Greek city of Corinth “Now to the unmarried and the widows I say it is good for them to stay unmarried as I do, but if they cannot control themselves, they should marry For it is better to marry than to burn with passion.” 1 Corinthians 7: 8-9. Doesn't this perfectly describe some gay couples? “…If they cannot control themselves, they should marry for it is better to marry than to burn with passion. I can see this becoming quite popular in gay weddings. Jonathan, and David, stand here today, obedient to the Apostle Paul, who said: It is good to stay unmarried. But if you cannot control yourselves, you should marry. So, today, we celebrate the uniting of Jonathan and David I look forward to the YouTube videos of weddings using this scripture. And I will celebrate the day when all churches will heed Paul’s words and marry couples regardless of their sexual orientation or gender Postscript: One of my early reviewers noted that some believe Paul may, at one time, have been married. I had never heard this. You can read about this controversy at: https://www.gotquestions.org/apostle-Paul-married.html #BibleStudy #affirmingchurch #gaychristian #lgbtpride #FaithfullyLGBT #affirming #lgbtchristian #pride #dobetteryounglife

What did Jesus mean when he said, “Some are born eunuchs? Is this common translation (of Matthew 19.11-12) correct? Homework Assignment from Episode 6 Who do you think Jesus is talking about in each of the three types of sexual minorities in Matthew 19: 11-12? Answers 1. “Those who have been so FROM BIRTH.” · Narrowest plausible answers: G or gay men; or Men who do not lie with women; or queer men. · Broadest plausible answers: LGBTQIA+; or sexual and gender minorities; or those born sexually different; or queer people. · Incorrect: Only those born without testicles. Jesus is saying SOME sexual minorities are formed in their mother’s wombs for something OTHER THAN a traditional, husband-wife marriage with traditional gender roles. 2. “Those who have been made so BY OTHERS” · Narrowest plausible answer: men who have been castrated by others. · Broadest plausible answers: LGBTQIA+; sexual and gender minorities; those born sexually different; or queer people. Jesus is saying SOME are sexual minorities for love. And, SOME are sexual minorities because of the influence of others (parents, friends, lovers, etc.) 3. “Those who have made themselves so FOR THE SAKE OF THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN” · Narrowest plausible answer: men who are celibate for life for spiritual reasons, e.g., Roman catholic priests. · Broadest plausible answer: all people who choose celibacy, even for one night when to have sex would be adulterous, or deceitful, or dishonest, etc. Jesus is saying there are times in everyone’s life when celibacy is the God-honoring way to live: It can be for one night; It can be for a season of life; and for a few, for a lifetime. Greek-English Translation · https://biblehub.com/greek/2135.htm · https://biblehub.com/psb/matthew/19.htm References and URLs: Reverend Jeff Miner quotes: www.wouldjesusdiscriminate.org/biblical_evidence/born_gay and books: www.amazon.com/s?i=stripbooks&rh=p_27%3ARev.+Jeff+Miner Janet Edmonds quotes: https://serendipitydodah.wordpress.com/2017/02/27/the-clobber-verses For more from my research about eunuchs in antiquity, see the notes in episode 6. Quotes voiced by Speechelo #affirmingchurch #gaychristian #lgbtpride #FaithfullyLGBT #affirming #lgbtchristian #pride #biblestudy #dobetteryounglife

We continue examining the two "clobber verses" in the book of Leviticus with an affirming, LGBTQIA+ positive view of Bible scripture. These two “clobber verses” (Leviticus 18.22 and Leviticus 20.13) have given many Christians great heartache. Do they really condemn all male homosexuality? An older version of this episode is also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/WSU-DOLNbmw References and URLs: 1. Janet Edmonds quotes and sources: http://tiny.cc/Janet1 And http://tiny.cc/Janet2 2. Dr. Ralph Blair quotes: https://ecinc.org/clobber-passages/leviticus-1822-2013/ Levitical clobber verses: 3. https://sophiedora.wordpress.com/2019/03/05/the-clobber-verses/#:~:text=Leviticus%2018:22 4. https://postbarthian.com/2017/10/11/clobber-verses-six-scriptures-cited-gays-lesbians-sex-relationships-lgbtq/#:~:text=Levitical%20Law%20says 5. https://www.religioustolerance.org/interpreting-Leviticus-18-22.htm 6. List of Levitical sins: https://hill-kleerup.org/blog/2012/06/13/76-things-banned-in-leviticus-and-their-penalties.html 7. https://www.religioustolerance.org/hombiblot.htm#:~:text=Leviticus%2018:22 8. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homosexuality_in_the_Hebrew_Bible#Leviticus_18_and_20 9. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bible_and_homosexuality#Leviticus_18_and_20 10. https://unclobber.mykajabi.com/unclobbering-leviticus#:~:text=Preview Travel safety for LQBTQIA+ individuals, families and employees: A. www.asherfergusson.com/lgbtq-travel-safety/ B. www.safehome.org/data/lgbtq-state-safety-rankings/ C. www.smartraveller.gov.au/before-you-go/who-you-are/LGBTI Quotes voiced by Speechelo #Biblestudy #Christian #gaychristian #lgbtpride #Affirming #lgbtchristian #Bible #QueerYouthOfaith #affirmingchurch #FaithfullyLGBT #queerallies #progressivechristian #affirmingchristian #trans #Lgbt  #gay #Homosexual #Homosexuality

These two "clobber verses" in the book of Leviticus are among the Bibles most challenging scriptures. Join us as we continue with an affirming, LGBTQIA+ positive view of the Bible. Today: Leviticus 18 verse 22 and Leviticus 20 verse 13. Transcript: https://affirmingscripture.com/4 An older version of this episode is also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PrjcJpHK1yg  (although the audio is not quite as good as the podcast) References and URLs: Levitical clobber verses: 1. https://ecinc.org/clobber-passages/leviticus-1822-2013/ 2. https://sophiedora.wordpress.com/2019/03/05/the-clobber-verses/#:~:text=Leviticus%2018:22 3. https://postbarthian.com/2017/10/11/clobber-verses-six-scriptures-cited-gays-lesbians-sex-relationships-lgbtq/#:~:text=Levitical%20Law%20says 4. https://serendipitydodah.wordpress.com/2017/02/27/the-clobber-verses/#:~:text=Leviticus 5. https://www.religioustolerance.org/interpreting-Leviticus-18-22.htm 6. List of Levitical sins: https://hill-kleerup.org/blog/2012/06/13/76-things-banned-in-leviticus-and-their-penalties.html 7. https://www.religioustolerance.org/hombiblot.htm#:~:text=Leviticus%2018:22 8. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homosexuality_in_the_Hebrew_Bible#Leviticus_18_and_20 9. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bible_and_homosexuality#Leviticus_18_and_20 10. https://unclobber.mykajabi.com/unclobbering-leviticus#:~:text=Preview Travel safety for LQBTQIA+ individuals, families and employees: A. www.asherfergusson.com/lgbtq-travel-safety/ B. www.safehome.org/data/lgbtq-state-safety-rankings/ C. www.smartraveller.gov.au/before-you-go/who-you-are/LGBTI Quotes voiced by Speechelo #Biblestudy #Christian #gaychristian #lgbtpride #Affirming #lgbtchristian #Bible #QueerYouthOfaith #affirmingchurch #FaithfullyLGBT #queerallies #progressivechristian #affirmingchristian #trans #Lgbt #gay #Homosexual #Homosexuality

We dive deeper into these first two clobber verses: “Sodom and Gomorrah” in Genesis 19 and “The Murder of the Levite’s Concubine” in Judges 19-21. What is really going on in these two stories? Are these mobs of gay rapists…? And what should we learn from these stories? Transcript: https://affirmingscripture.com/3 A previous version of this episode called Mobs of Gay Rapists? is available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zsCqbh9rAGg  (the audio is not quite as good as the podcast) References and URLs: “ANGELS OF INDETERMINATE GENDER IN GENESIS 19” by Rev. Dave Barnhart (quoted in this episode– this URL loads slowly) http://tiny.cc/DaveB1 More on the gender of Angels: https://nonbinary.wiki/wiki/Gender_variance_in_Christianity#Angels_in_Christianity Rape in clobber verses #1 and #2 - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rape_in_the_Hebrew_Bible#Genesis_19 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rape_in_the_Hebrew_Bible#Judges And for more information on: Sodom and Gomorrah see episode 1 and its notes. And for more information on: The Murder of the Levite’s Concubine see episode 2 and its notes. Judges Chapters 19-21 parallels and foreshadows sexual violence against women, people of color, sexual minorities, slaves, prisoners and indigenous peoples. Here are a few references: History of sexual violence against sexual minorities: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5791869/ www.jstor.org/stable/i40206369 www.jstor.org/stable/40663407 www.rainn.org/articles/lgbtq-survivors-sexual-violence http://tiny.cc/Violence1 Sexual abuse of slaves in America: http://tiny.cc/slaveryref1 http://tiny.cc/slaveryref2 Rape during wars: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wartime_sexual_violence www.hrw.org/video-photos/interactive/2017/10/05/they-said-we-are-their-slaves Sexual violence throughout history: http://tiny.cc/Violence2 The rape of Indigenous peoples in America: www.jstor.org/stable/25605630 Rap of men during wars and conflicts: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wartime_sexual_violence#Rape_of_men