Friday, December 26, 2008

GGATHND: Part III - False Identities

I just read this most amazing book called "God's Grace and the Homosexual Next Door" by Alan Chambers and the Leadership Team at Exodus International. It's so wonderful I just have to share bits and pieces from it! It's written so graciously and humbly, yet uncompromising on the truth that ALL have sinned and that Jesus has died for ALL :).

On the one hand it recognises that there are practical tips and guidelines to follow when dealing with homosexuality, as it is a unique sin in some regards. On the other hand, it's written realizing on that homosexuality is like all other sin in God's eyes and therefore deserves no 'higher abomination' status than other sins. In that regard, it's been a really helpful reminder of who we are as Christians, how sin affects us, and how to minister to others.


The third post is on false identities:

Interestingly, just as the term 'gay' or 'homosexual' indicates a false identity, actually so does the term ex-gay. The desired change in identity should pull the focus from the sin or struggle with sin and onto the true, fully righteous, fully holy identity bestowed on them via the Cross of Jesus Christ. This concept is key for the people leaving homosexuality because it forces them to accept that who they are is not changed or altered by feelings or even actions. They begin to find freedom from untrue definitions of who they are and to accept who God says they are. They discover who they really are in Christ, and they experience true freedom (p.73).

By the way, this search for identity in Christ alone isn't unique to people leaving homosexuality. All people, at some level, are on a quest for true identity. People search for identity in heterosexual promiscuity, drugs, alcohol, work, money, and relationships. Coming to grips with our legitimate identities as men and women in Christ is essentially the same process for all Christians (p.71).

Healing comes when we adopt Christ's heart and attitude and learn to apply that to how we feel about ourselves (29).


[If every time you read the word 'homosexual' and don't feel that that sentence applies to you, just insert one of the many sins you struggle with].

*All extracts from Chambers, Alan. God's Grace and the Homosexual Next Door. USA: Harvest House Publishers, 2006.

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