I don't see this as an example of the ELCA trying to interpret scripture to fit American societal values. Homosexual relationships have been around for thousands of years. I do believe that the Bible states the ideal relationship for the bearing of children and glory to God as being a man and woman, but even that has changed. Old Testament marriage was something other than we celebrate as Christians today. The practice of poligamy in ancient times was not seen as contrary to the God of Abraham. We’ve always tried to interpret the Bible in its context with history, and must coninue to do so.

Churches that decide that they would better serve homosexuals in their community with an ordained minister that is of that orientation now have that option. What the Christian must decide is, how will I continue to serve Christ, love my neighbor, and serve God in light of the ELCA's decision. I see this time as a turning point; a paradigm shift, that will lead us into a greater understanding of the word of God, His will for us on earth, and an opportunity to delve deeper into scripture.

God's blessing,

I'm having a hard time understanding why what some define as sexual sin has become a barrier to rostered ministry? What about drinking, divorce, gambling, pride, jealousy, or lust? Do we ask ordained ministers to be free from sin? Do we need a social statement that allows for these to prevent someone from serving God as an ordained minister? We have to be careful that we're not placing unreal expectations on God's children who choose to live their lives in service to Christ. We have all sinned. Priests, pastors, and ministers sin. I understand that ministers want to teach repentance, and that some see living in a homosexual relationship as unrepentant sin, but believe it's not for us to judge.

I don’t think the ELCA has decided to be the authority over God’s word. This vote signifies that the ELCA will be accepting of people, no matter their sin, difference of opinions, or relationship choices. Martin Luther would understand that each person has the same access to God as the ELCA, synod, bishop, and pastor, and that we are each in charge of our own salvation.

Hi Justin - thanks for your post - I love hearing your thoughts on all this.
Our church is struggling to understand the implications for us now in relation to our synod and the ELCA.

I think what complicates the issue is the extent to which our membership looks at the Bible critically. To assume a majority of our congregation agrees/disagrees with the ELCA social statement is to assume they have an strong understanding of scripture to begin with. There's certainly a portion in our membership that might not have a good understanding of what the Bible says, or what theologians (fringe, or otherwise) have to say about the issue of sexuality in the Bible.

great points Alex - why does one sin exclude someone from ordained ministry and not another?

As happens every time this issue comes up, it raises more questions than answers.

Would it be okay to ordain a person who is not OPENLY gay? Are we to assume every ordained person who is not married is just a "confirmed bachelor"?

It seems to me that reasons not to ordain someone based on sexual identity are rooted in an interpretation of scripture that not everyone seems to agree upon.

I believe Jesus demonstrated the power and goodness of God in His miracles, and we accept that God is all knowing, but we don't always understand why things happen the way they do. So perhaps any hang-ups are a result of humanity NOT being all good, all powerful, or all-knowing.

How often do you give thanks for the things which you cannot see? I believe God intervenes in our lives every day, and we cannot fathom the full extent of God's goodness, power, or knowledge.

"All I know, it that I don't know nuthin'"

God is teaching me to lead and teach, in the church, home, and at work.