David,
I agree with your statement in your last paragraph above, "... I am trying to provide a place for that kind of sanctification." It seems to me that your conversation is about creating spaces to dialogue honestly and safely with christians and non-christians. Your approach is like Nathan's in his conversation with David - creative, hospitable, and hopefully wise.

It seems to me that Dr Carter's response is about his calling and his desire to "stand firm in the faith.' and to uphold the truth against the "slippery slope" - a great calling. However, it's a different calling than creating "grace spaces" where sanctification can begin with relationships of trust - and Jamie's comment above alludes to that. This topic is really about sanctification, a process we are all involved in, through the power of Christ. I like to use another word for sanctification: recovery.

Regarding the "public statement" idea, I think that it is better to find points of common interest to publicly discuss first. I think it is helpful to become best friends, and then argue passionately our differences whether they be sexual, political, theological, philosophical or whatever.

This is a good banter between you and Craig. I trust the commonality of Christ is first and foremost in this dialogue. I am for both of you.

This subject causes me to ask, "What is freedom?" What is freedom within a small community, within a christian community, and within a country? Do I want to force my beliefs or values on others or do I want the beliefs or values of others forced upon me?

I love the idea of the constitution of the United States because it continues to wrestle with the questions of freedom. This subject on sexuality wrestles with what freedom is and ultimately with what freedom in Christ is.

Traditionally, the approach to resolving these issues of sexual freedom was through forcing or shaming others to behave "right' - a behavioral approach rather than a heart approach. I don't think LGBTQ needs to be an issue unless we are in close community and my sexuality impedes my relationship with others. For example, if I am a sexual addict, it will affect my relationships with my community. If I choose not to address my addiction then I am choosing to 'love" my addiction over God and my community. This applies to all sexual orientation. I hope what I am saying here makes sense.