Love and Marriage

The Supreme Court is hearing arguments this week in 2 landmark cases in regards to same sex "marriage," and all forms of media are in a frenzy about it.  I'll admit that there have been many times this week when I felt like my head was about to explode as I hear the "arguments" about why same sex couples should be allowed to "marry."  

And, as Kevin DeYoung says here, the arguments for same sex "marriage" sound persuasive because they appeal to our emotions.  But if you're a Christian, you've got to ask yourself some important questions before you jump on board with support for it and change your profile picture on Facebook.  Are the arguments Biblically faithful?  Are they LOGICALLY persuasive?  Are they really good for human society in the long run?

 And probably the most important question of all: Is same sex "marriage" really a picture of love?

1 John 3:16 tells us what love is: "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us." 

1 Corinthians 13:6 tells us what love does and doesn't do: "Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth."

Love is not blind consent to sin in the name of tolerance.  Love is not a mushy, sentimental feeling in the name of unity and equality. Love does not defy the righteous demands of God. Love is a consuming fire that brings purity and holiness to those that don't deserve it. Think deeply about the true nature and meaning of love this week. It's as important right now as it ever has been.

If you are a Christian that believes that marriage is between a man and a woman, stand strong in your convictions.  The Word of God is as authoritative today for all matters of life and faith as it was when it was written.  Believing in the truth of Scripture does not make you a bigot, homophobe or intolerant, despite what our culture would say about you.   

Rather than taking hours to write out some cogent thoughts on what's really at stake here, and why protecting the definition of marriage should matter to Christians, here are some links from other pastors and church leaders who tackle the issue from many different angles that I find to be very helpful for Christians trying to navigate the current cultural climate in regards to marriage.

Just a heads up if you try to link to these articles today - they are taking a little longer than normal to load because of the high volume of traffic towards them today.


Five Gay Marriage Myths 


Gay is Not the New Black 



When Did Idolatry Become Compatible With with Christianity?


What You Should Know About "Monogamish" Relationships