Overview
When the synod of the Anglican diocese of New Westminster authorized its bishop to produce a liturgical form for blessing same-sex unions, a number of synod members walked out of the meeting. Later they withdrew their financial support from the diocese to protest the decision. One of those who walked was J. I. Packer, theologian, author and executive editor of CHRISTIANITY TODAY. Packer said he and others decided to protest "because this decision, taken in its context, falsifies the gospel of Christ, abandons the authority of Scripture, jeopardizes the salvation of fellow human beings, and betrays the church in its God-appointed role as the bastion and bulwark of divine truth." Strong statements indeed—and Packer thoroughly and biblically supports each one of them throughout the article.
Table of Contents
SCRIPTURE: 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Genesis 19:5-7; Leviticus 18:22; Romans 1:26-27; Genesis 2:18-25; Matthew 19:4-6; Mark 10:6-9
LEADER'S GUIDE
• Identify the Current Issue
• Discover the Eternal Principles
—Teaching point one: What does the Bible says about same-sex orientation?
—Teaching point two: What does the Bible say about same-sex unions and marriages?
• Apply Your Findings
ARTICLE FROM CHRISTIANITY TODAY
• Why I Walked, by J.I. Packer (January, 2003. Vol. 47, No. 1, Page 46, 6 printed pages)
Total number of pages—12
