There are many resources that guide Christians through pastoral theology, which help us include and love LGBTIQA+ people in our churches. However, the phrase “bad theology kills” is really central for me.
Questions for our church are:
- What beliefs about sexuality and gender have we taken from history and culture and put into our Christian beliefs?
- What is the place of same-sex relationships and gender diversity in the church?
- As we enter the new kingdom of Jesus, what is scripture saying about sex, sexuality and gender roles?
Below are a list of resources that explore reformed theological perspectives i.e. that God reveals blessing and gifts through the lives of LGBTIQA+ followers of Jesus. All of them are from people who take the Bible seriously. For those who have landed here with a willingness to explore alternative perspectives, I am both thankful and prayerful for you.
by David P. Gushee
This book is a really easy-to-read introduction to a Biblical framework that supports same-sex relationships. In Changing Our Mind, Gushee takes the reader along his personal and theological journey as he changes his mind about gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender inclusion in the Church.
A series on being transgender and Christian by Austen Hartke
Transforming: The Bible & the Lives of Transgender Christians
Austen’s book!
Are there really gender binaries in Genesis??
Exploring some traditional arguments that may not stand up anymore…
…and The Reformation Project’s
“A Brief Biblical Case for LGBTQ+ Inclusion”
by James V. Brownson
This one is a favourite! Although not encompassing of everything I believe now, it’s the most thorough, in-depth and positive theological framework for Biblical same-sex marriage (kinship) I have read or heard. Brownson, as an Old Testament Theologian, goes to the heart of Jewish cultures to uncover the moral logic behind the text. His exploration of Romans 1 is really eye-opening.
A book written by a good friend of mine… People on all sides of the discussion agree that so much is at stake, but how do we move forward? Into a confusing and often painful debate, A Place at His Table offers clarity, insight, and warmth. Holding firmly to the Bible, Joel Hollier leads us in a journey where we can re-examine traditional understandings, ask fresh questions, and enter a place of welcome for all people in God’s church. Whether you are a leader, pastor, or congregation member who is seeking to love well, this timely book will equip you to enter the discussion in faithful, informed, and nuanced ways.
And basically every video on The Reformation Project’s YouTube Channel…
A statement written by survivors of the LGBTQA+ Conversion movement and their allies, and endorsed by advocates, organisations and community groups that support, or are led by, LGBTIQ+ people of faith.
queervangelical 