Are these going to be saved?

[Rhoni]

Originally Posted by Sherri

We do teach against homosexuality, but we also love the ones who come. They are not allowed to minister in any way in our church, and can't sign membership papers, because the paper says that they agree with our statement of faith - and it definitely says we believe marriage is between one woman and one man. That is discussed in our first membership class.

However, we don't treat them any differently than we treat couples who come and are "shacking up" without marriage. Eddie preaches against that too, but they continue to come and usually end up married. At any given time, we will have 4 or 5 couples attending that we know are living in sin. They also are welcome to attend, but they can't be involved as long as they are in willful sin.

Sin is sin, no matter what it is.

Originally Posted by Sherri

No, the ultimate goal would be for homosexual people to serve God and live a celebate lifestyle. I've seen it happen. Some will not turn to heterosexual feelings (EVER), but they can live an overcoming lifestyle by not giving in to sinful desires. Just as a single person who struggles with heterosexual lust has to learn to live an overcoming life before God.

Originally Posted by Sherri

I'm not sure what you mean by "loose" churches, but you would probably put us in that category.

Yes, there is sin that goes on among our people. But there is sin that goes on down the road at the conservative Pentecostal churches too. I've known several of those pastors who ended up in adultery. I've know several pastor's kids who ended up pregnant in their teens. I think you're wrong in saying it's more prevalent in one church than in another. People are people no matter where they are.

Originally Posted by Aquila

Very good post Sam. I believe that believers who struggle with this are “saved” by grace. Their sin is no worse than the sin I struggle with. I know that some may continue on in the lifestyle, I believe God will deal with them as he chooses… and I trust him. I’d never run anyone out of a church or a bible study over this. I’d share the Word of God with them and talk about the healing and changing power of Jesus. Some who are in bondage to this condition need much mercy and prayer. I firmly believe that they can’t change by sheer will power. I believe they need a supernatural touch from Jesus.

I believe that sin is like a disease that we have all contracted. There are times when the infection lies dormant and the condition is asymptomatic. But then there are periods of time when the symptoms of this condition flare up and are obvious for all to see. Our churches are spiritual hospitals. We need to minister to all who desire to know more about Jesus.

Originally Posted by Aquila

Often those who are wrapped up in legalistic churches find their focus on obeying the standards for the pastor's approval. It's a sad form of spiritual bondage that dries the soul and ultimately alienates from Christ.

Sherri has the same opinion that I do. Aquila...this is so true. I do not believe in categorizing churches as "loose" because of a dress standard difference of opinion.

Blessings, Rhoni