In this modern society, people have different stands and views on the issue of homosexuality. We hope that all churches, at all times and under all circumstances, will respond to this issue with Christ’s love, truth and grace. We admit that the Church might not have done enough in pastoring and caring for the believers with same-sex orientation. We should be humble, seek to understand and learn more about the difficulties and needs of the believers with same-sex orientation, as well as continue to learn how we can better pastor them and put our belief into practice.
The causes of homosexuality are complex; and to claim it is wholly and entirely inborn is without scientific justification. Research, however, has shown that post-natal factors have significant influence though there is yet a conclusion for it is still underway. To some people, same-sex orientation is not their choice; and therefore the Church has to be more understanding towards them. However, it is the responsibility of the individual to decide how to respond to his/her orientation. Heterosexuals and homosexuals alike, we are all called to be obedient to God, not to any inappropriate sexual impulses that we might have. The Church should make differentiation between same-sex orientation (SSO)and same-sex activity (SSA); and clearly understand that having a desire for the same sex does not mean acting according to the desires. Of course, without relying on God’s grace and restraining with one’s own will, same-sex orientation will naturally develop into same-sex activity. However, there is still a difference between the two; and the Bible is basically against same-sex activity.
We should respect the wish of the people with same-sex orientation, and should not force them to seek counseling or to change. On the other hand, the Church must teach and pastor them with love, truth and grace; and encourage them to live a pure and holy life in which their growth in all areas adhere to the standard of God.
Pastoral Charter
The following Pastoral Charter is based on biblical principles and pastoral experiences; and we hope they will become the guidelines and reference of the Church:
1. We confess that God created male and female in His image. Sexual identity is created by God according to His plan and intention. Sexual relationship between a male and a female, in a marriage, is pleasing to and is blessed by God.
2. We confess that Christ Jesus loves every individual in this world, regardless of his/her sexual orientation. We confess that, in our weaknesses, all have sinned, and need to repent and to be born again. Regardless of sexual orientation, it is only through Christ that we can have new life.
3. We confess that even in a spirit-filled Christian life, there is still strife. In the sanctification process, no matter who we are, we still face all sorts of temptations, and we have the responsibility to rely on God so as to live a holy life. We should not reject anyone in the church just because of his/her same-sex attraction.
4. We encourage churches to care for and pastor those struggling with same-sex orientation, with gentleness and patience. The church must pastor closely with perseverance and care; understand and comprehend their needs and struggles; and encourage them to walk in God’s love and truth.
5. We encourage churches to establish a respectful atmosphere and a safe environment; teach brothers and sisters to be accepting to those struggling with same-sex orientation; walk with one another in love and faith; watch over and encourage each other as well as seek to grow and live a life which is pleasing to God.
6. We believe that believers who continue to engage in same-sex activity, and refuse to pursue a holy life, are not walking in truth. The Church has spiritual authority and responsibility to follow up with care, in order to regain them in love, enabling them to grow in love.
7. We hope that there will be more churches and organizations who will accept and pastor believers with same-sex orientation in truth and love. Having realized that their condition conflicts with their faith, they are willing to seek help. From past examples, we can see that appropriate pastoring can lead them to experience personal growth and transformation.
8. We hope that churches will care about the spiritual needs of people with same-sex orientation. They are also loved by God, and intended for salvation. For those who seek to know more, but have not understood biblical truths, the church should not reject them, but rather accept them with love, let them know the gospel, and wait patiently while they gradually experience God’s renewing power in His love.
If there is any inconsistency or ambiguity between the Chinese version and the English version, the Chinese version shall prevail.
