27/04/2024
One Body One Faith - an ecumenical organisation advocating for LGBTQIA+ Christians of various denominations, says that a new book from Danny Brierly addresses the Evangelical Christian movement, arguing that those evangelicals who do not support LGBTQIA+ relationships and identities are mistaken and that some have not even studied what the Bible and scriptural sources actually say. Danny writes "Those who oppose LGBTQ+ inclusion appear to have changed their argument in recent times. They’ve had to. They used to claim they had direct evidence: the seven so-called ‘clobber’ verses in the Bible that directly reference sex between those of the same gender. Their case was built on, “The Bible clearly says…” That was until ‘the defence’ sufficiently demonstrated these verses are instead warnings against abuse: child abuse; gang rape; male rape; sex-trafficking/ temple prostitution; slave masters abuse of power over their slaves. It would be shocking if God didn't condemn such abuses.Now, no longer able to cite these verses as credible direct evidence, it seems ‘the prosecution’ has been forced to rely instead on circumstantial evidence – using verses in the Bible that make no mention of queer relationships as proof that God opposes queer relationships. They claim the Bible’s metanarrative, it’s ‘big story’, is that heterosexual God created a heterosexual world in which only heterosexual people can flourish. Surely the story of God, and the metanarrative of the Bible, is much bigger than this!!" Robert Beckford, Professor of Climate & Social Justice at University of Winchester and BAFTA-winning documentary maker and author of Jesus is Dread, says, "To Inclusion and Beyond" is a groundbreaking exploration that navigates the intricate intersections of ministry within diverse sexualities, providing a vital resource for progressive Christians. This book bridges gaps, fostering a deeper understanding of LGBTQ+ relationships and equal marriage, making it an indispensable guide for those committed to inclusive and affirming perspectives in the realm of faith." Danny's book, To Inclusion and Beyond: Evangelical and affirming LGBTQ+ relationships and equal marriage is available from all good bookstores now. Why not purchase your copy from a queer, radical, independent or community bookstore and keep money in the progressive economy.
