By Garrick D. Augustus

April 21, 1997 

This rebuttal is being written in response to a recent editorial appearing in the North American Adventist Review, of April 1997, pp. 26-29, entitled: Are Homosexuals God's Children? After having read that article along with its accompanying supportive commentary, I was filled with astonishment and amazement. Astonishment, because the pseudonym author, Kate McLaughlin, gave no Scriptural support for her aberrant view on the subject of homosexuality, and amazement, that Seventh-day Adventists are now being called upon to "include homosexuals as warmly loved and appreciated members of our Church family." When did the sin of homosexuality become an acceptable standard of righteousness, worthy of Church membership? To accept this notion, is equivalent to accepting into fellowship the Devil, dressed up as a Christian, and baptizing him into Christian fellowship. And maybe for him, we might be asked that he be admitted into fellowship based up profession of faith! It is only lamentable to note, that while the world was showing off its homosexual professionals in the person of Ellen Degeneres, Seventh-day Adventists were at the same time being asked to do the same. Is there any difference between the Church and the world in this regard? Please read Time Magazine for the week of April 14, 1997, and you will see the shocking similarity.

In addressing this subject of homosexuality, I must admit that it is an emotionally troubling one for many, especially when families, children, and close friends are involved in its debasing proclivities. This in no wise, however, should abate our disdain for sin, nor should it cheapen God's power over our natural sinful tendencies. Jesus is able to save to the uttermost, all that will surrender themselves to be washed in the blood of Calvary's Lamb.

There is a real crisis confronting Christians in general and Seventh-day Adventists in particular, especially in these last days. In as much as we have a message declaring that "the hour of [God's] judgement is come" (Rev. 14:7), we are also called to be compassionate, and to exercise love for the sinner, while sin it its wretchedness must be exposed. Our love for the erring ones, however familiar they are to us, ought not to force us to compromise even one line of Holy Writ, because our home in the kingdom of Glory will forever be forfeited. (Matt. 5:19).

As a World Wide Church with a global mission, we are oft times brought into narrow straits with our unique message. In this complex world of changing morals, ethics and values, we sometimes wonder if to be Biblical is normal anymore. I want to submit to all that homosexuality, fornication, adultery, lying, stealing, among other forbidden practices and lifestyles are as abominable before our Lord Jesus Christ today, as they were when He uttered His laws in awful grandeur from Sinai's thunderous mountain, and yea even before. So while we want to be compassionate, let us not be trivializing the holiness of God, and compromising with sin and sinners in any way, shape or form.

In dealing with the subject of homosexuality, we need to ask ourselves a few questions, namely: Was homosexuality a sin in the days of Sodom? Will any practicing homosexual enter the pearly gates of Heaven? Should we squarely call sin by its right name even though close friends and family members are involved in its unholy practice? Is homosexuality a sin today? The answer to all these questions will be self-evident as we develop this subject. In reading the article, I gathered from both Kate and Barbara, the following:

These lines of reasoning have the premise that takes the responsibility, and accountability of sin away from us individually as sinners, and places it squarely in the face of God. While there may be a grain of truth in the notion that we do not "choose" to be homosexuals, it is most definitely true that homosexuality is not the only "condition" that we have no choice or control over. We have no choice or control over being born "in sin' and shaped "in iniquity" form our mother's womb (Ps. 51:5). We have no choice over that; However, we do have the choice to overcome the law of sin that reigns within our flesh. We do have the choice of overcoming every "hereditary and cultivated tendencies" to sin. The sin of homosexuality is no different. It is one of the hereditary and or cultivated tendencies to sin that we must overcome, if we would have a home with Christ for eternity.

It is ironic to note that while our first parents had control over yielding to sin, they voluntarily chose the path of disobedience to God. Now that we are immersed in sin, we are being told through the article in question, that we have no control over our choice of choosing the way of sin, that homosexuality is an involuntary and automatic response form our pituitary, and gonad glands, respectively. We have been admonished though, that temptation however strong will not taint or condemn us as sinners. Jesus was tempted too. However, when we give into the power of our temptations then and only then have we sinned.

To say that homosexuality "is not something a person chooses", is to give justification to all manner of sins. For example, the prostitute reading the article herein discussed, will and can conclude that the sin of prostitution is not something a person chooses, rather it is a condition! And those who practice bestiality (people who have sexual intercourse with animals) might also conclude that theirs is a hereditary condition, instead of a willful choice on their part. Also, the sin of pedophilia (people having sexual intercourse with children) might be justifiably argued to be not something a person chooses, but that it is a condition, a state of being. And those who imbibe these vain philosophies, and science falsely so called, are drinking deep from the fountain of sin.

Let us hear the Word of the Lord: "The strongest temptation cannot excuse sin. However great the pressure brought to bear upon the soul, transgression is our own act. It is not in the power of earth or hell to compel any one to do evil. Satan attacks us at our weak pints, but we need not be overcome. However severe or unexpected the assault, God has provided help for us, and in His strength we may conquer." Messages to Young people, p. 62.

Dear Kate: I will say it kindly, do not be deceived by your son's "deep" spirituality. That does not absolve him from his sin of homosexuality before God. As a father who loves his children dearly, let me tell you dear sister, I am praying for you that God will give you His "eyesalve" so that you may see as never before, His wonderful plan of redemption from sin to righteousness, that you may see sin its real hideous sinfulness, and call it as such. I am also praying for your son that he will see the utter sinfulness of his "homosexual orientation", and that he will turn away from it with speed. Kate, none were more "spiritual" than the Rabbis and Pharisees of Christ's day, they paid "tithe of mint and anise and Cummin" (Matt. 23:23), yet Jesus would say unto them, "ye are like unto whited sepulchers, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity."Matt. 23:27,28. Let your son know from God's word that the continuance of a homosexual "lifestyle" and or "orientation" will cost him his salvation. If you love your son as much as you say you do, then God will give you the courage to lovingly rebuke the sin in him that he might be numbered among the redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. Against no other sin has God acted more decisively than the sin of sodomy (homosexuality). This hell born perversion brings in true focus the base depravity of the unnatural passions and appetites of the carnal mind. It displays all the animal-like propensities in the mind that is separated, or chooses to separate from the true worship of God. The Father seeketh those that worship Him, to worship Him in spirit and in truth. The perverted passion of homosexuality is a lie, and those who live this lie will not gain entrance through the portals of Heaven, for we have been warned that no "Liars" shall enter the Holy City, the New Jerusalem.

The Bible has clearly warned that this unholy affection will be on the upswing in the last days, just before Jesus returns. (See Luke 17: 28-30). It should awaken us to realize that we are on the very borders of the eternal world, as we see the prophecies of the end times meeting such striking fulfillment before our very eyes. Our zeal should be fired to work more intensely for the salvation of the homosexuals, rather than urging Christians to grant license to their sin. The Apostle warns, "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves (homosexuals)… without natural affection (homosexuals)… lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away." 2. Tim. 3:1-5.

Let your son know from God's Word that he cannot be saved while practicing this or any other sin that brings down the wrath of God. Let him know that you love him dearly, and you are interested in his salvation, not in his unnatural sexual gratification. You are duty bound before God, and "a Minister's wife," you and your husband should be foremost in denouncing this evil rather than campaigning for its ultimate triumph. I appeal to you and your husband in Jesus' name, to seek Divine counsel from God's Word, and to take your stand on the side of Truth. Jesus has changed the Leper's spots and molten the hearts of stone. Trust him to do this and more for your son, and for all the other homosexuals that you are actively campaigning to include as members of the Adventist Church family. The above passage of Scripture should help you to realize that those individuals who are ensnared in this "lifestyle" can appear to be very religious, they may display "a form of godliness, but deny the power thereof," and from such, we are admonished to turn away.

Let us heed the following inspired counsel: "The invitations of mercy are addressed to all; and because our fiends reject the Savior's pleading love, shall we also turn away? The redemption of the soul is precious. Christ has paid an infinite price for our salvation, and no one who appreciates the value of this great sacrifice or the worth of the soul will despise God's offered mercy because others chose to do so. The very fact that others are ignoring His just claims should arouse us to greater diligence, that we may honor God ourselves, and lead all whom we can influence, to accept His love." Patriarchs and Prophets, p.162.

In your article you appear to be the only parent that shares in the paternal relationship with your son. You talked much about the things you did for him, but there is an apparent lack of what you and your husband have conjointly done for your son. Where is our husband in all of this? This causes great concern to me, because from your writing it lends the idea that your husband is one in absentee. There is an evil of this generation; too many children are growing up without fatherly direction, and discipline. And especially for boys, when all they ever see is mom, they grow up with the idea of being like mom, or being themselves a mom! Husbands must be actively engaged in the rearing of all their children, that they may grow up being balanced human beings.

Finally, do not buckle under social pressures from the media, the movie and entertainment industry, or even from the professing evangelical Christian subculture. Go to God's Word and get your counsel there. Close your ears to counselors and Psychiatrists who would steer you in a way opposite that of the Bible's. Remember that the Words of Jesus change not, He is the same yesterday, today and forever. He loves the sinner but hates the sin that has cause the wounds in His hands, feet and side. He yearns to see righteousness flowing from the lives of his disciples, like a river. But this can never be when sin is fostered in our ranks. Sin in all its vindictive glory must be abhorred by all that desire a home in Heaven. Remember that God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah because they would not abstain from the sin of sodomy. Let us all learn the lesson, and be not foolish like Lot's wife who died on her way out of Sodom, because her thoughts were so much like those of the sodomites. Thus saith the Lord, "He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the Lord." Prov. 17:15. It behooves you therefore, in the fear of the Lord Jehovah, to not justify the evil deeds of those caught in the clutches of this abomination. Rather, you should rebuke the sin of homosexuality for the evil that it is, and love their (the sodomites') souls for Jesus' sake.

The subject of Righteousness, or Justification by Faith in the merits of the crucified and risen Lord gives the sinner power over sin, and the ability to live above sinning. But this reality will only be experienced when our eyes are directed to Christ who has demonstrated and consecrated a way that all who look to Him might be saved. He is willing to save, and He is able to save to the uttermost, all that come to God through Him. There is no sin too grievous over which Christ can not give us the victory, and the demon of homosexuality is just one of these mischievous devils that war within our members. When we come to Jesus we are changed, He changes us, and we no longer remain the same. When we allow Him to be the Lord of our appetites, passions and emotions, we shall have no defeat in the conquest of sin. When the apostle Paul visited the county of Corinth, he met many homosexuals there. He met many prostitutes there. He met many fornicators there, and he also met many adulterers there. But when they received the gospel of the lovely Jesus, their livers were changed; the drunkard became sober, the thieves became honest, the brutish became gentle, and the sodomites were made whole. They no longer remained the same; rather, they were transformed by the renewing of their mind in Christ Jesus.

"Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind [homosexuals], nor thieves, nor drunkard, nor revelers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you; but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God." 1Cor. 56:9-11. When we truly come to Jesus Christ, the record of our past lives will be thus chronicled, "such were some of you," never such are some of you! Why? Because we have been made new creatures in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The idea is advanced in the article that, "On rare occasions God may change a person's sexual orientation, just as God may occasionally heal a person of cancer. But this is not the way God usually works." This notion is unscriptural at its core. We cannot associate the sin of homosexuality with the sickness of cancer. While the victims of cancer may not be divinely healed, but die in their sickness and yet be saved, the victims of homosexuality cannot afford to die in their sin and expect to be saved, because they will not be saved, and herein lies the defining difference. The one is a logical choice on the part of the pleasure seeker, while the other, is from a combination of environmental, bacteriological, dietary and or viral infections over time, which manifests itself in malignant tissues within one's body. The apostle Paul died with his "thorn in the flesh" for which he prayed "three times" and asked the Lord to remove it from him, yet the loving Jesus in His divine wisdom chose not to relieve Paul of this "thorn in the flesh." Not withstanding Paul's importuning the throne of grace, he was not healed of this "thorn," but he died in the hope of the resurrection of the just. 2 Cor. 12: 7-10. He had fought the good fight, finished his course, and is now sleeping in the grave, awaiting the glorious presentation, when Jesus Christ will give unto him and all saints the resplendent crown of righteousness, which the Lord the great judge will give to them at His appearing. (2 Tim. 4:7, 8.)

If the idea that "a person's sexual orientation has nothing to do with whether or not a person is a Christian" is true; Why then did God destroy the sodomites (homosexuals) in Sodom and Gomorrah? Why are they excluded from the Holy city, the New Jerusalem? Why did God so vehemently denounce this "sexual orientation" when He declared: "Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination…for whosoever shall commit any of these abominations, even the souls that commit them shall be cut off from among their people?" Lev. 18: 23-19. God disdains the sin of homosexuality, let us not palliate it, lest we forfeit our rights to the City of God! Let the note be sounded with trumpet-like clarity, the sin of homosexuality is the Biblical definition of sodomy. So one can say they are "Gay," "Lesbian," or such the like, but the Bible calls them sodomites. Yet even for the sin of sodomy, Jesus has provided us the strength to gain complete and total victory over, but we can only obtain this strength as we are willing to be obedient to His commandments, His statutes and His laws. Remember that homosexuality, or sodomy, is the one sin that has brought down the wrath of God in brimstone and fire, and prophecy declares that this evil will again be repeated in the last days, just prior to the coming of the Son of Man.

While as Christians we are commissioned by Christ to show His "love" to the homosexuals, and those who revel in sin, I can find no biblical support to "include" them with their abominable lifestyle as "members of our Church family," as the article suggests. This idea is a diabolical plot in the great controversy with the powers of darkness, to overthrow pure Christianity. It is a tool of the devil in these last days, and must be denounced by the strongest terms possible, for the hellish farce that it is. The Lord calls upon us to "sigh and cry for all the abominations that be done in" His Church, and that we must do, if we would receive the mark of His sealing approval, and be numbered with the "redeemed" by the blood of the Lamb. (Ezek. 9: 4; Rev. 14: 1-5.)

"In our own strength it is impossible for us to deny the clamors of our fallen nature. Through this channel Satan will bring temptation upon us. Christ knew that the enemy would come to every human being, to take advantage of hereditary weakness, and by his false insinuations to ensnare all whose trust is not in God. And by passing over the ground which man must travel, our Lord has prepared the way for us to overcome. It is not His will that we should be placed at a disadvantage in the conflict with Satan. He would not have us intimidated and discouraged by the assaults of the serpent. 'Be of good cheer,' He says: 'I have overcome the world.' John 16:33."

"'The prince of this world cometh,' said Jesus, 'and hath nothing in Me.' John 14:30. There was in Him nothing that responded to Satan's sophistry. He did not consent to sin. Not even by a thought did He yield to temptation. So may it be with us. Christ's humanity was united with divinity; He was fitted for the conflict by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. And He came to make us partakers of that divine nature. So long as we are united to Him by faith, sin has no more dominion over us. God reached for the hand of faith in us to direct it to lay fast hold upon the divinity of Christ. That we may attain to perfection of character." The Desire of Ages, pp. 122-123.

The sin of homosexuality is not the only sin being practiced within our beloved Seventh-day Adventist Church, even by members in responsible positions. There is an alarming rate of fornication, adultery, stealing, abortions, incest, spiritualism (cultic devil worship) and outright paganism being practiced within our ranks; And these abominations are fostered because the pastors are not crying aloud, lifting up their "voice like a trumpet, [to show God's] people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins." Isa. 58:1. Most of what we are hearing today from many of the pulpits across the land is, "God loves the sinner, and He will save you in your sin." I submit to you today dear friends, the lovely Jesus. He does not save you IN your sins, rather, He saves you FROM your sins. Yes He gives you the victory over sin. But as long as love is taught in exclusion of the punishment of God toward sin and sinners, not only will the sin of homosexuality become normal for Church membership, but to also will prostitution, fornication, abortion on demand, incest and even sun worship, among other abominable practices!

Ellen White made the following observation: "This goody-goody religion that makes light of sin and that is forever dwelling upon the love of God to the sinner, encourages the sinner to believe that God will save him while he continues in sin and he knows it to be sin. This is the way that many are doing who profess to believe present truth. The truth is kept apart from their life, and this is the reason it has not more power to convict and convert the soul." Selected Messages, Book 3, p. 155.

The article seems to lend the idea that Jesus had to cast demons out of Mary Magdalene on seven different occasions, thus it says: "He cast out Mary's demons not just once, but seven times." May I simply suggest that this is not rightly dividing the Word of Truth! The Bible flatly says, "Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils." Luke 8:2. "He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils." Mark 16:9. These devils departed from Mary Magdalene at once, and never gained re-entrance, because she filled that void that the demons had so long occupied in her life, with the lovely Jesus, and He satisfied her soul. The same was done for the Demoniac in the country of the Gadarenes. Jesus cast out the demons of "Legion," the manifestation of "many" demons in one person, and they were cast out not many, but one time. So was it with Mary Magdalene, and so may it also be with you dear friend.

You may be a homosexual, and as you are reading these pages, you may be struggling with this tendency, and think there is no help for you, you are doomed for life. Friend, there is hope for your absolute and total recovery and healing form this and all other sins, in the precious Lamb of Calvary. Let Jesus fix it for you. In as much as He has fixed the life of Mary Magdalene, the demoniacs, and that of countless others. Let not theologians and evil counselors lull you into the thought that God accepts sodomy. He does not! For your soul's sake, and for Heaven's sake, rebuke the demon of homosexuality in your life and choose Christ as your strength over sin today. He is able to keep you from falling, and is willing to present you spotless before the throne of His eternal Majesty. Just trust Him with every fiber of your being today. He is willing to save you, He is able to save you if you surrender your will to Him right now.

"For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Heb. 4:15. Friend, are you tempted to sin? Jesus was? Do you sometimes feel rejected by friends and family? Jesus was too. He is acquainted with the circumstances of your struggle, and is willing to give you the victory, if only you ask Him. Keep these promises in memory's hall: "temptation, however strong, is never an excuse for sin. 'The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open unto their prayers.' Cry unto the Lord, tempted soul. Cast yourself, helpless, unworthy, upon Jesus, and claim His very promise. The Lord will hear. He knows how strong are the inclinations of the natural heart, and He will help in every time of temptation." Messages to Young People, p. 67.

Righteousness by faith then, not only gives us the idea that we can live above sin, but it gives us both the will, the ability, and the circumstance in which to live, and overcome sin in all its disguises. Many think that Christ was not tempted in "all points as we are," and so are led to believe that we have a battle to fight which He has never before engaged. Inspiration, however, has left the comforting thought that He is acquainted with all our circumstances and temptations. "From the time of Adam to that of Christ, self-indulgence had increased the power of the appetites and passions, until they had almost unlimited control. Thus men had become debased and diseased, and of themselves it was impossible for them to overcome. In man's behalf, Christ conquered by enduring the severest test. For our sake He exercised a self-control stronger than hunger or death. And in this first victory were involved other issues [such as homosexuality, murder, thievery etc] that enter into all our conflicts with the powers of darkness." The Desire of Ages, p. 117. (Brackets and italics were added.)

"Of all the lessons to be learned from our Lord's first great temptation none is more important than that bearing upon the control of the appetites and passions…Through intemperance, Satan works to destroy the mental and moral powers that God gave to man as a priceless endowment. Thus it becomes impossible for men to appreciate things of eternal worth. Through sensual indulgence, Satan seeks to blot from the soul every trace of likeness of God."

"The uncontrolled indulgence and consequent disease and degradation that existed at Christ's first advent will again exist, with intensity of evil, before His second coming. Christ declares that the condition of the world will be as in the days before the Flood, and as in Sodom and Gomorrah. Every imagination of the thoughts of the heart will be evil continually…His example declares that our only hope of eternal life is through bringing the appetites and passions into subjection to the will of God." The Desire of Ages, p. 122.

It is to be noted that our diet plays a very active role in our hormonal balance and or imbalance, as the case may be. The large consumption of hormone induced flesh foods is one of the engines that drives this beastly passion of homosexuality. It is worthy of notice that the city of Pompeii was destroyed at the height of its sexual perversion, so also were the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. I tell you the Truth in the fear of the Lord, that the cities of this present world will in like manner be destroyed because of their partaking of the spirit of this evil, sexual perversion. Just look on the bill boards and television screens of our day, and you will see the depth of the sexual degeneration of our time. Marriage is no longer honorable, and sex has lost its sacredness. All that seems to really matter anymore, is just how much we can gratify our passions and appetites, at the expense of health and righteousness.

While it is true that Jesus has continually reached out to sinners with "love and understanding," He in on wise condoned with their sin. He has ever borne one command to the sinner, "go thy way and sin no more." Within the first few moments of their contact with Him, the sinner will see sin in its real hideous sinfulness, and desire to be rid of it with speed. See John 4: 1-30. To say then that, "the Seventh-day Adventist Church teaches that God asks them [the homosexuals] to give up hope of fulfilling their desire for sexual expression, [and that] we need to surround them with loving support and acceptance," is to say that God is pleased with the homosexuals in their wretched sinful condition. And this, my friends, is not the voice of Jesus, but the voice of the dragon that speaks, beware!

Nowhere in God's Word are we told to allow sinners to "give up hope of fulfilling" their God intended purpose for their lives! Let it be clear, God made Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve, nor Eve and Mauve! He made them "male and female," and not male and male, or female and female! Then to say that homosexuality is not something God wants the Gay's and Lesbians to "give up," is to say that God made them that way, it is to place the root of this abomination in the very face of God! And this, my friends, is just what our first parents did when they fell into sin. Instead of blaming themselves for the sin, they blamed God! Sin is indeed a mystery! Dear reader, whatever your sexual "orientation," the Lord of Glory wants you to fulfill His creative function for your life, and nothing short of that will He accept. Be assured though, that God never made, nor has He endorsed the sin of homosexuality. Neither, therefore, will He save those who are lauding themselves as highly spiritual, while partaking of this depraved perversion called homosexuality!

Thus saith the Word, "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed." Gen. 2:24, 25. Let it also be observed that Adam's wife was a "woman," it wan not a "same sex marriage" that God instituted, neither then will He perpetuate that which brought down his wrath in brimstone and fire in the vale of Siddim. Remember that from the beginning, He made them "male and female," then He looked on the holy pair and pronounced "it [is] very good." Gen. 1: 27, 31. That which God hath joined together, let not man through his perversion of sexual passions and appetites put asunder! The male-female gamete is still recognized by heaven as "very good" today, as when God placed the holy pair in Eden.

The proliferation of homosexuality in our day, should alarm the true believing child of God, that we are indeed living in the last day, because we are told that is it were in the days of Noah, before the flood, so shall it also be at the coming of the son of man; And as it were in the days of Lot, before the fires of Sodom, so shall it also be at the coming of the Son of man. Luke 17: 28-30. In Noah's and Lot's days, as Jesus looked down from heaven, He saw the continual evil of man's thoughts and practices. He saw the idol worshippers and the prostitutes, He saw the homosexuals and the vain philosophers, He saw the lovers of pleasure (passion) more than the lovers of God, all having a form of godliness but denying the power of the gospel. He saw the heady and high minded, He was the disobedient and incontinent, the profligate and the glutton, He saw them all. And inspite of His warnings to repentance, in the finality of their disobedience, only Noah's and Lot's families were saved in their respective generations.

The article in question concluded by saying: "I long to see our Church take the lead in demonstrating Christian love and compassion for homosexuals, neither condemning them for an orientation over which they have no control, nor encouraging them to accept something less than God's best for their lives, but supporting them with prayer and understanding as they seek to follow God's plan for their lives. I invite you to join me to helping to make this happen."

This sounds like the devil speaking to us, doesn't it? How can a Christian conscientiously say that the homosexual should not be encouraged "to accept something less than God's best for their lives," when the "best" means their perverted passions! Is this not suggesting that God's best for the life of the homosexuals is that they remain in their sin of sodomy? Also to be noted is the suggestive statement that the sin of homosexuality (sodomy) should not be condemned, because it is "an orientation over which they have no control." Is prostitution also an "orientation over which" the prostitutes "have no control?" I wonder!

We are told through the eye of prophecy that these conditions would prevail in the remnant Church of God, because the Dragon is wroth with the woman, he is angry with every one that names the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. " And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood. And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth. And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." REV 12:15-17.

In Scripture, the dragon symbolizes Satan (Rev. 12:9), a pure woman symbolizes the true Church (Jer. 6:2), and the water - the dragon's flood - represents people (Rev. 17:15). Together then, it means this: Satan is sending his converts (flood), into the remnant Church today to cause Her to be "carried away"-heathenized- by his emissaries, as though She were a ship on a stormy sea, without anchor and without sail. But the Lord Jesus, the One Who has given His life for the woman (Church), will not sit idly by and let the devil destroy His budding bride. He will cause "the earth to open her mouth, and swallow up" the Dragon's flood. That is to say, God will physically remove these evil ones from the congregation of the righteous (See Num. 16:26-33) as he did in the case of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram and their companions. He will do this cleansing, purifying work so that His Remnant Church of today can finish her God given task of preaching "the everlasting gospel" in all the world for a witness against sin, before the end comes. The Church could hardly be a "witness" against sin if she should give "loving support and acceptance" to those who are perpetuating a life of homosexuality, and other abominable practices. We are to lovingly rebuke the sin of homosexuality, that those who are trapped in its perversion, turned "sexual orientation," might quickly see the wickedness of their way before a holy God, and repent now, before its too late!

To those who are struggling with the homosexual tendency, the article offered no hope of their ever overcoming this sin, and be able to live a normal life as God created man and woman to live in sexual harmony. Infact, if I were a struggling homosexual, the article would have confirmed me to remain in my sinful life, because there is no hope for my change to experience the God-created sexual "orientation". It declares that "the hope that these [change] ministries offer to the homosexuals sets up most of them for disillusionment and despair." And again, "Change ministries, however, are unable to point to a convincing long-term success rate among those who are exclusively homosexual." Where does this school of thought leave the one trapped in sodomy? In the abyss of loneliness and despair, only to hear the Lord's stern rebuke on the day of final rewards, "Depart from me ye workers of iniquity, I never knew you!" Is it any wonder then to learn that "Sometimes their despair is so great that they commit suicide?"

Let me say it clearly to all the homosexuals in the audience, there is hope for your complete and total recovery from this unholy sexual "orientation." There is complete and total victory at your command, in the precious Lamb of Calvary, over this and all other sins, be they hereditary or cultivated. Just give your life to Him today, and He will come into your heart and give you the ability to live the life of victory over this and all other sin. Said the apostle Paul, "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." Gal. 2:20. "I can do all things [including overcoming homosexuality] through Christ which strengtheneth me." Phil. 4:14. "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure." Phil. 2: 12, 13. Yes friends, there is hope and victory in Christ for all sinners. He is able to save to the uttermost all who come to God through Him. "When Jesus speaks of the new heart, He means the mind, the life, the whole being. To have a change of heart is to withdraw the affections from the world, and fasten them upon Christ. O have a new heart is to have a new mind, new purposes, new motives. What is the sign of a new heart? - changed life. There is a daily, hourly dying to selfishness and pride." Messages to Young People, p. 72.

To the practicing homosexual I would say, you are treading on very dangerous grounds. The disease of A.I.D.S. can quickly snuff your life away, and you will be left without a shelter in the day of God's wrath. Therefore, for our soul's sake, seek Divine help now. Jesus specializes in helping those who think and now that they are beyond the reach of human help. The woman with the running issue, for twelve long years sought, without success, help from the physicians and all the medical practitioners (human aid) of that day, nevertheless she was not healed. But when she came in contact with Jesus, yes when she touched but the hem of His garments she was immediately made whole. So may it be with you too, dear friend.

You may save sought help from all the "change ministries," the world over, without success or hope, but I submit to you today the lovely Jesus. Just reach out and touch Him, so to speak, and He will heal your unnatural sexual desires, and all other things in your life that defile. I say to the homosexuals, there is help in the name of Jesus; There is victory in the name of Jesus; There is power in the name of Jesus; Yes, there is hope in the name of Jesus. He is willing to save you; He is able to cleanse you and make you whole. Imagine yourself to be a broken piece of pottery; the Master Potter is able to mold you and make you all over again. He will mold and fashion you after His divine similitude. Just give your life over to His right now.

"Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matt. 11: 28-30. "And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take of the water of life freely." Rev. 22: 17. "Ho everyone that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money: come ye, buy and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread: and your labor for that which satisfieth not? Hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness….Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. Isa. 55: 1-7.

If you would gain heaven, then you are admonished to treasure the above promises of God. If however, you persist in your sin, then be assured that your season of pleasure will come to its end, life itself will come to its close, and you will stand before the judgement seat of Christ, a condemned sinner, only to share your lot with the Devil and his angels. Please consider the following passages of Scripture: Romans 1: 21-32; Leviticus 18: 22, 29; 1 Corinthians 6: 9; 1 Timothy 1:10; 2 Timothy 3: 1-5; Rev 21: 8, 27; Genesis 18: 20 to chap. 19: 28; Luke 17: 18-30.

There is a new guilt trip being passed over on Christians in these last days. The opposition tries to silence us with psychological peer pressure. Today when believers are surrendering obedience to the Law of God, they are accused of being "legalists." Do you remember when you were cut a child, you were called names such as "mamma's boy," "a sissy," "chicken," "cry baby: or such the like, all because you chose not the way of disobedience? Well, that same spirit is at work in our churches of today, and when believers should denounce sin as sin, they are accused of being "judgmental," or are looked upon as "fanatics," and "evil" people. So as to appease the majority, most Christians are caving in to this kind of spiritual peer pressure, and are remaining silent on these openly abominable practices. Because in remaining silent, or joining with the majority-the rebels against God, these deluded Christians are no longer accused of being "judgmental," but are lauded as being "compassionate," "understanding," "loving," or some other species of spiritual flattery.

In place of the Bible's absolute disregard for sin, many professing Christians are today turning to Secular Humanism, and appealing to social relativism for their standards of right and wrong, all because they don’t want to be branded by the majority as "being judgmental." I plead with you dear friends, that your only safety is in a firm commitment to the Word of God, a clear "it is written." Let not people of unsanctified hearts and unnatural sexual desires squeeze you into their mold of calling sin righteousness, and righteousness sin.

The sin of homosexuality is becoming so rampant in our society that the line of demarcation between sin and righteousness is becoming almost indistinguishable in the minds of many professing Christians, and Christian organizations of our age. There are today many churches and religious organizations who are being pressured by the power of the all-mighty dollar (filthy lucre), to accept into fellowship, and into the ministry as well, those who are most defiant against God's word, especially in the area of human sexuality. The Bible warns that even those who "have pleasure in them [consent with them - margin] that " do these homosexual practices, will face the "judgement of God," and be accounted "worthy of death." See Rom. 1: 32. Let us take the warning before it is too late! Remember Lot's wife, and flee for thy life! To the homosexuals I say: we love you dearly, but are constrained by God to rebuke the sin that you find so pleasureful. So let me say it clearly, there is room at the cross for you, there is room in God's Church for you; but the conditions of repentance and obedience must be evidenced in your life. You are admonished by the Lord to "present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world [and its sinful lusts]: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God" in Christ Jesus concerning you. Rom. 12:1-2.

Pastors, you are called to be faithful watchmen on the walls of Zion, you are to dispense the Word of God in clarity without regard for any who would condemn you as being "judgmental." God has called you to be watchmen on Zion's walls, to give the trumpet a certain sound. Do not betray the sacred trust that has been accorded you. Sin cannot be too fashionable that you can not rebuke it. God will hold you responsible for the demise of sinners, because you were too timid to cast the searching light of Truth on their cherished and fashionable sins. Where are the Nehemiahs of today? Where are the Ezras of today? Where are the Joshuas of today? Where are the John the Baptists of today? Where are the Elijahs of today? Where are the Ezekiels of today? O pastors, Where are the true Reformers of today? Can Jesus have such a witness in you as he had in the preachers of yester years? Pastors, will you be God's voice during this sin-cursed, perverted and darkened age?

"The greatest want of the world is the want of men-men who will not be bought or sold, men who in their innermost souls are true and honest, men who do not fear to call sin by its right name, men whose conscience is as true to duty as the needle to the pole, men who will stand for the right thought the heavens fall. Education, p. 57.

"Christian life is more than many take it to be. It does not consist wholly in gentleness, patience, meekness, and kindliness. These graces are essential; but there is need also of courage, force, energy and perseverance. The path that Christ marks out is a narrow, self-denying path. To enter that path and press on through difficulties and discouragements requires men who are more than weaklings."

"Men of stamina are wanted, men who will not wait to have their way smoothed and every obstacle removed, men who will inspire with fresh zeal the flagging efforts of dispirited workers, men whose hearts are warm with Christian love and whose hands are strong to do their Master's work. The Ministry of Healing, p. 497.

"I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts (evil passions) shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables (such as teaching that practicing homosexuals can be saved in their sin.)" 2 Tim. 4: 1-4. See also Ezek. 3: 17-21; Isa 58:1; Joel 1: 13-20; Joel 2: 1, 15-17, 5-Test. P. 211; 3-Test. P. 253.

Parents and guardians, we are living in a most depraved and blighted age, one in which error is exalted as Truth, and Truth is denounced as error. The age in which we live calls for prayer and fasting, diligence in the things of God, and a close study of His Word. Mothers, stay close to your children and listen to their questions carefully. You might change a sprouting homosexual into a believing child of God. Fathers, be close to your children, listen to the throbbings of their hart, and be ready to give them godly advice that will enable them to make the right decisions in life. Take up your office of high priest of the family. Have regular Bible centered devotions with your family, and give room to all your children's questions. It is a known fact that parents have felt quite uncomfortable to discuss with their children, even at an early age, the truth about human sexuality. Thus their children are left to the mercy of school teachers, and friends on the street; most of whom are not God fearing, to be educated in this most important phase of their lives. I challenge all parents and guardians to act their role as educators to the children in their care, and instruct them with the Word of God, and through nature, the truth of human sexual expression. This will save you many a tear in the future, when you no longer have control over directing their lives.

The Bible tells us that in the last days it shall come to pass that "seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel; only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach." Isa. 4:1. In Scripture, the number "seven" speaks of completeness or perfection, and the symbol of a woman represents a Church. Thus, the seven women represent manifestly, all the Churches in the world, while the "One Man" represents the Lord Jesus Christ himself. The truth becomes clear then, that in these last days, all the Churches and religious organizations of our day will seek to take hold of this "one man", even the Lord of Glory, saying, "we will eat our own bread," i.e., have their own doctrines, "wear our own apparel," i.e., have their own standards of righteousness for acceptance before God. The only thing they desire from this "man" is His name, that they might conceal their "reproach." They all want to bear His name as "Christians," but they reject His Truth and His righteousness in exchange for their own, which is naught but "filthy rags." Take the warning dear parents, and let's be God's real representatives on earth in this evil and adulterous generation, just before the coming of the son of man.

Parents, be careful of the Television (Helle-visoin). To a greater or lesser extent, this agency of the devil (TV) will shape the life of your child or children in a way that militates against the Word of God. Therefore, for your sake and theirs, monitor what your children see on the television and on the World Wide Web, (the Internet)! Give your children rich exposure to the things of God. Also, you should teach them the difference in these confusing social relationships, such as the Gay and Lesbian social agendas. Tell them what defines a homosexual, and drive this home with the thought that from the beginning, God made them "male and female," then he looked on the holy pair and pronounce that "it was good." He did not make Adam and Steve, or Eve and Ellen, but male and female created He them, and commissioned them to be fruitful and multiply and replenish the earth. There is no procreation provided for in a homosexual marriage, and or homosexual conjugal relationship. Let your child know from God's Word, that the sin of homosexuality will cause children not to be born. Let them know that this perverse evil would be the most widespread act of genocide to the human race, equivalent to, and exceeding the detonation of all the atomic bombs in the world, combined! For while there will be survivors of an atomic bomb, there will be none from a homosexual bond.

Dear youth, when you have questions an d conflicting sexual and emotional urges, seek not your friends, but the counsel of your parents, and especially so if they are God fearing. More importantly however, you should seek direction from the Bible. And if you are counseled contrary to the explicit teachings of the Bible, yield obedience to It, and dismiss the suggestions of false counselors. If you do this, you will secure your home in heaven, and prevent a multitude of sins. Find a Pastor who believes in, and practices the teachings of God's Word, and ask for his godly advice.

"I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake. I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father. I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever." 1JO 2:12-17.

Eli was a priest (Minister/Preacher) of the Lord God of Heaven, and his children became very wayward. Inspite of their rebellion against God however, Pastor Eli did not clearly point out the sin of his sons to them. He spoke to them without conviction and condemnation against their evil sinful practice, which eventually led to their brutal death, and the capturing of the ark of the covenant. This experience of Pastor Eli, in sympathizing with the abominable lifestyle of his children, led to the wailing lamentation throughout Israel, "Ichabod, …the glory is departed from Israel." (1 Sam. 4: 15-22.) All because one pastor's children's sin, the entire nation of Israel (the Church then) suffered the pangs of God's retributive judgements directed against the wickedness being fostered by those in responsible positions. The lesson is clear, no matter by whom sin is being practiced in the Church of God, we should at no time countenance it, nor should we accept into fellowship (church membership) those who are perpetuating a lifestyle of open sin against a holy God.

"Now the sons of Eli [were] sons of Belial; they knew not the LORD. And the priests' custom with the people [was, that], when any man offered sacrifice, the priest's servant came, while the flesh was in seething, with a flesh hook of three teeth in his hand; And he struck [it] into the pan, or kettle, or caldron, or pot; all that the flesh hook brought up the priest took for himself. So they did in Shiloh, unto all the Israelites that came thither. Also before they burnt the fat, the priest's servant came, and said to the man that sacrificed, Give flesh to roast for the priest; for he will not have sodden flesh of thee, but raw. And [if] any man said unto him, Let them not fail to burn the fat presently, and [then] take [as much] as thy soul desireth; then he would answer him, [Nay]; but thou shalt give [it me] now: and if not, I will take [it] by force. Wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD: for men abhorred the offering of the LORD." 1 Sam. 2: 12-17.

"Now Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel; and how they lay with the women that assembled [at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. And he said unto them, Why do ye such things? for I hear of your evil dealings by all this people. Nay, my sons; for [it is] no good report that I hear: ye make the Lord's people to transgress. If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall entreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the LORD would slay them… And there came a man of God unto Eli, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Did I plainly appear unto the house of thy father, when they were in Egypt in Pharaoh's house? And did I choose him out of all the tribes of Israel [to be] my priest, to offer upon mine altar, to burn incense, to wear an ephod before me? and did I give unto the house of thy father all the offerings made by fire of the children of Israel? Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifice and at mine offering, which I have commanded [in my] habitation; and honourest thy sons above me, to make yourselves fat with the chiefest of all the offerings of Israel my people? Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed [that] thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed." 1 Sam. 2: 22-30.

From the lesson of Eli and his sons, it is clear that Eli was compromising the standards of righteousness in order to accommodate the lifestyle of his wayward sons. For thus he said, "Why do ye such things? For I hear of your evil dealings by all this people." Inspite of this gentle "slap on the wrist, " however, the Divine rebuke to Eli was, thou "honourest they sons above me." And this friends, is the case at hand today. When their children turn to the abomination, or the abominable lifestyle, instead of rebuking them in the fear of the Lord, many parents are today finding themselves justifying the sin of their children, until the wrath of God is kindled against them. I hereby appeal to Parents, Pastors, School Teachers, Church Leaders, and such as bear direct influence on the lives of our youth, Let us learn the lesson from Eli's failure, and not make the same mistakes as he did. "Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples (types): and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come." 1 Cor. 10:11.

There are many parents today, who like Isaac of old, inspite of being told by the Lord that "the elder shall serve the younger," (Gen. 25:23) insist on including their beloved children who are openly rebelling against God, as members of the royal family, although Jesus has said otherwise. You see, Isaac loved Esau and tried every earthly thing possible to allow Esau to be the progenitor of our Lord Jesus Christ, despite the angel's prophetic utterance regarding the priesthood of the family. Isaac needed to have accepted the Lord's clear utterance on the life of Esau, and worked with the same zeal for his salvation, as he did for his damnation. However, as history would record it, "Esau despised his birthright" (Gen. 25:24), and God rejected him!

Fellow Christians, we are the children of Abraham (Gal. 3:29), and there is a birthright to be secured. Let us not, like Esau of old, barter it on the auction block of sin, or worldly and sensual pleasure, only to search for it "carefully with tears" (Heb. 12:17) and not find it. Let me say it clearly, salvation has been purchased at too high a price, for us to think even for a moment, that Christ's desire for the Seventh-day Adventist Church today, is that she accepts into membership, those who are practicing homosexuals. No indeed! It is not the voice of Christ that thus speaks, rather it is the voice of the Dragon; let us beware!

"God's ideal for His children is higher than the highest human thought can reach. 'Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.' This command is a promise. The plan of redemption contemplates our complete recovery from the power of Satan. Christ always separates the contrite soul from sin. He came to destroy the works of the devil, and He has made provision that the Holy Spirit shall be imparted to every repentant soul, to keep him from sinning."

"The tempter's agency is not to be accounted an excuse for one wrong act. Satan is jubilant when he hears the professed followers of Christ making excuses for their deformity of character. It is these excuses that lead to sin. There is no excuse for sinning. A holy temper, a Christlike life, is accessible to every repenting, believing child of God. "