Bigots exploit Jesus

On March 9, I was confronted by five or six bigots who wanted to condemn me and my church because we do not exclude homosexuals. My pastor says to forgive them but, as an atheist, I do not feel compelled to follow this scriptural advice.

Instead, I want to point out two things: First, if Jesus said anything, either for or against homosexuality, it wasn’t recorded. But there were a lot of things he did condemn, such as the practice of divorce and remarriage (Matthew 5:31-32).

Next: While Paul condemned homosexuality (Romans 1:26-27), if you’ll complete the chapter you’ll find he condemned 22 other behaviors many consider acceptable today as worse than homosexuality (verses 28-32).

What’s the basis of my argument?

Paul said homosexuality comes from vile affections, while the other 22 come from a reprobate mind. Reprobate means beyond redemption.

So, with all these other things that can be condemned in the name of Jesus, why do they descend to the bottom of the list and choose homosexuality? Are they representing Jesus, or just using him as a sledgehammer to beat their own vile prejudices into our minds?

Art Seaton

Spokane