Dividing The United Methodist Church

The United Methodist Church remains officially opposed to homosexuality, same sex marriage, and self-avowed gay pastors. It's official rulebook - the book of discipline states - "The practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching." But not all United Methodist congregations agree with the church's view on the issue. The fight on this issue is testing the faith more than ever and Dividing the United Methodist Church.

[@truthbetold7170]

2 Timothy 4:3 3For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear

[@BatfoxBabe]

Amen!

[@hesedagape6122]

ACNA will say Amen. Come here UMC

[@nicholasregos]

"Don't you know that evil people will not receive God's kingdom? Don't be fooled. Those who commit sexual sins will not receive the kingdom. Neither will those who worship statues of gods or commit adultery. Neither will men who are prostitutes or who commit homosexual acts." 1 Corinthians 6:9 NIRV

[@rstevewarmorycom]

Paul was a despicable homophobe. The bible is garbage. Always has been.

[@ericholland3676]

I refused to follow Jesus, BECAUSE of the moral standard that the scriptures teach. I simply wasn't about to change. Later, I had to admit that I'd like to change, I just wasn't capable of doing so. Finally, I fell at the foot of the cross. Broken, I called out to Jesus Christ. Even though I knew I couldn't change, I was able to believe that the Lord could (and would) change me. He died for my freedom. Some people want to tell me that I wasn't in bondage. They're either ignorant...or liars. I've been set free, by the blood of Jesus. May everyone find this freedom.

[@lionofjudahlambofgod9132]

Praise Jesus.

[@wanda520]

Bless you and praise Almighty God .

[@ianalan4367]

"What one generation tolerates the next generation will accept." - John Wesley

[@macrent2]

+Gary Carpenter How are people "suffering from" the LGBTQ community having equal rights?

[@garykcarpenter]

I don't who the fuck is using my youtube account and this shit but you better sleep with one eye open if you continue!

[@gomphrena-beautifulflower-8043]

Ian Alan • The Wesleys knew how that old liar satan the devil works, and he’s still working today. At a fever pitch, I might add; he knows his time is short. Just look at the influence he’s had: got a sitting president to celebrate “marriage” ( a misnomer) of two people of the same sex, and then light up the White House in rainbow colors (which has even been hijacked by homosexuals because God said the rainbow is symbolic of and a reminder of His promise to never destroy the world by flood again); just last week Democrats celebrated blocking a bill to allow the life of a newborn baby at term to continue with life; our Constitution is under the most serious attacks ever in its history. I could go on and on with how pervasive demonic influences have gone from just gaining a foothold in our society to all-out war on the human race, but you know all that. Satan’s biggest lie is he’s convinced people he doesn’t even exist, while getting them to do his bidding. He’s smart and cunning but he still cringes at the glorious Name above all names, Jesus Christ. And one sweet day when all is said and done, He will bring His faithful Church home.

[@rapier1954]

@@macrent2 It seems like me it is fine for the LGBTQ community to have its rights in society but they do not have the right to force any church to change its beliefs.

[@carlaskidmore6354]

Your language threats to that person speaks volumes regarding what you do and act as a Christian. I gather that you do not want full inclusion for our LBGT sisters and brothers, why is that. How can it hurt you if two people of the same gender love each other and marry?

[@hesedagape6122]

Excommunication is a very important thing in any Church community. Unity in holiness is different from unity in sin.

[@gapfenix]

"But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." Matthew 15:9 KJV

[@ecrucible]

We welcome everyone in the church esp in UMC. We all need the Lord, the Lord’s design is to make everyone new, take away the old self(sin). The Scripture remains with its biblical truth. We are told to deny ourselves. Turn away from sins which are very very clearly stated in the Bible. The church is giving us the chance to know the truth and to become new creations.

[@silveriorebelo2920]

yeah, keep trying to convince yoursef of the lies you yourself invent

[@adriantostevin6487]

If the Church is being asked to authorise same sex marriage because it appeals to the sexual preference of a person, I hope the Church is also being asked to authorise churchgoers to have a spouse and one or more lovers if that is what appeals to their particular sexual preference and provided that all of those involved are in agreement with the arrangement and are above the age of consent. That would be fair as both are contrary to the word of God. What I am trying to highlight is that the sexual stuff that we may want to do may not be what God wants of mankind. So, within the bounds of consent and maturity of age, the only way the Church can endorse same sex marriage is to also endorse any other activity and lifestyle that a person chooses, rather than require the obedience that God requires of His followers as clearly stated in His book.

[@Interesting_Placebo]

At 9:07 Ginger Gaines-Cerelli says something that is incorrect. She insinuates the United Methodist Church is not welcoming to all people and that is absolutely not true. The UMC welcomes all sinners no matter what your sin may be. There's always a pew somewhere with an empty space. For true Christians this shouldn't even be a debate. I find it bizarre that church "leaders" would consider promoting sin from behind the pulpit . The Bible condemns homosexuality. Period. There is no argument to the contrary. If the UMC condoned homosexuality it would be approving of sin. People may change (progress), but God does not. He is the same now as He was 6000 years ago when He created our world. I usually don't cherry pick scripture to make a point, but every time I read on this topic I think of Malachi 3:6. "For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed". Open your Bible church leaders. Satan works tirelessly and so must you.

[@lionofjudahlambofgod9132]

Amen.

[@Skipbo000]

yeah, but being gay doesn't make me a "sinner."

[@Interesting_Placebo]

@@Skipbo000 Maybe not in "your bible". If you read the Bible you would find out otherwise.

[@Skipbo000]

@@Interesting_Placebo what, to poke my eye out, not cut my hair, not to sleep in the same bed with a woman on her cycle, wear mixed linens or eat shellfish? Is that what you're talking about? Oh, you're talking about the leviticus verses (the same section of the Bible that mentions the other things too) where men who are married to their wives are told not to lay down with a man as you would with your wife - a common problem back in those days that happened as a result of cultural and social issues during that time. Men would congregate in washing houses and over time and deep friendships were born and men would be out of sorts with their wives where they would no longer be having sex, would sometimes as a result of bathing together in the bathouse become intangled with other men. It's basically the Bible addressing the issue of homoeroticism or in today's language, "Bromance" a common phenomonon amoung heterosexual men who become too emotionally attached or obsessed with another man. Verses which have absolutely NOTHING to do with a committed relationship with a person of the same sex ending in a monogamus marriage as a result of being born homosexual, which of course i possible because none of choose who we are sexually attracted to. The men in Leviticus were heterosexual men.

[@Interesting_Placebo]

@@Skipbo000 the problem with people having a difficult time turning away from sin is that they have to choose. You can't love God with all of your heart, soul, and mind and continue living in sin. It's hard to give up whatever your sinful pleasure may be in life, but if you want to be with God you'll have to. Trying to "read in to" the Bible so it condones your sin is not the way. I have my own struggles and I've tried to justify things I've done by cherry picking scripture. Doesn't work. That gut feeling, conscience, or whatever people call it let's you know it's wrong. It will always come over you. That's God letting you know it's not right and time to change.

[@tomithompson4668]

John Wesley would "Turn over in his grave" so to speak of he heard of this revolting development. Homosexuals are loved by God, but their lifestyle isn't! They must repent!

[@jondoes8222]

They will always be homosexuals but staying away from the sexual desires will be their biggest challenge. Some have it easier to become Christians than others.

[@clarkkent1672]

Wesley ministered to homosexuals in 18th century England that were imprisoned for being themselves. It has been proven that sexual orientation isn't a choice. Why would we choose to be gay knowing the discrimination that exists??

[@Amandadances1983]

I believed the gay agenda as a young child. I thought I was born the wrong gender. No. Nope. It's a deceptive lie that's freely preached in movies, tv, music, etc. It's sin. Just like adultery. Just like murder. Do not believe that people are born gay, they are not. Our culture is hypersexualized. If a murderer comes to church, thanks be to God! I pray that murderer never murders again and I pray they repent. If you cheat on your spouse and continue to cheat, you are living in sin. Having homosexual couples in church is the same as having a couple in church where the husband and wife commit adultery. I'm not anti-gay or homophobic, I am anti-sin. As much as I hate what they are doing to the church, I feel like I would be doing a bigger disservice to God by not continuing to go to church. I can help homosexuals with my testimony from childhood. So if people that identify as gay come to church, I might feel the need to tell them about my struggles. This could go one of two ways; apostasy and mass exodus of the church, OR a revival. Just my two cents.

[@pazstephen9779]

Thank you for being honest and open with your experience. I don’t agree that I can “change” and I believe there are those of us that are this way for a reason. I don’t know what reason yet, but I know humans are not the only living things that are sometimes attracted to their own sexual gender. Two males can bring up offspring in the animal world, even if (like some heterosexual couples) they cannot reproduce alone.

[@khappy1286]

Do you know that in the Psalms it says God HATES those who practice sin? It does not say he loves the sinner but hates sin. It says HE HATES those who practice ( openly practice a sin without trying to stop) God's words, not mine. Let's all read our Bibles and be clear about the mind and heart of the Father.

[@eenlow4655]

I stand firmly with the Book of discipline and I am Methodist, this should not be a topic! Marriage is one man and one woman period!

[@billa.2450]

Agreed, as it was in the beginning and forever shall be, according to God's Word.

[@pazstephen9779]

Except marriage simply is not one man and one woman, period. Not at all. The heterosexual population can marry one person of the opposite sex, then leave them and marry a different woman... contrary to specific teaching of Jesus. Some issues with your simplistic statement there! But I love you and it is okay we disagree. We are all wrong somehow and fall short.

[@gomphrena-beautifulflower-8043]

Paz Stephen • Paz, you’re calling right what you surely know is wrong. Because you’ve gone off the Way, you can’t just grab others and expect them to go down with you. Look, I love you man, what you’re doing though is rationalizing, and we all learned about that in seventh grade. Look. If you’re Christian-bashing, get in line! If you’re looking for hypocrisy, get in line! Make lots of lines! Remarrying is okay and Biblical in cases of death or adultery. But I shouldn’t have to explain that to you, you know better than the rest of us, sounds like! I’m not worthy to pick up the crumbs under my Lord’s table. And neither are you. So now. I’m not going to argue with you, so don’t bully others. Your calling out God as a liar won’t work, and no one, no one is going to listen to that. I love you. Yes I do and I want to see you as we’re going through the air in our new bodies! But it’s not about me, and it’s not about you. It’s about what Father God wants for His children, and you know full well He doesn’t want that lifestyle for you. No one said easy. No one said overnight. If you would just give it to Him and let Him make a new creature in you, He will. It’s all in there, it’s all true, and it never has and never will change. Until the last of His is awarded their crowns/rewards, or else judged. Edit: I lost the precious person I was directing this to. Maybe he’ll see it anyway.

[@JonathanDeLeon-em4px]

@@ohmusicsweetmusic You were not born gay but became homosexual through bad experiences in your early childhood. Jesus can heal you if you let Him - for there is nothing impossible with God's help. Let the Holy Spirit transform your life as He has done for other former LGBTQ people.

[@whitecrys1]

@@ohmusicsweetmusic "...if not kept in its rightful hierachy"??? Wow, just wow.

[@wilfredrabina6226]

"Shepherds leading their sheep astray."(Jeremiah 23:1). "Conforming to this world" (Romans 12:2). Jesus Christ is a prime example of "Radical Hospitality." They called Him, "Friend of sinners." He love sinners but not their sins. He told the woman caught in adultery, "Neither do I condemn you. Go, and SIN NO MORE." (John 8:11). We, as people of the United Methodist Church (not united in this issue), must maintain our "Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors" policy. Let us welcome all sinners... yes, "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23)... LGBTQ+ practice sexual immorality, a sin... and encourage them to change, and pray that the Holy Spirit might touch them, change their heart, and lead them to be righteous. I admire the boldness and radical move of the Western Jurisdiction of the UMC for being the first of appointing leaders who are considered minorities. But those instances did not violate the Bible nor our Book of Discipline. But they have gone too far. Bishops appointing openly gay/lesbian clergies, council of bishops appointing openly practicing lesbian as bishop based on her achievements/works/ability and disregarding her sexual lifestyle, completely violates the Book of Discipline. That's why the 2019 Special Called Session of the General Conference came about, hoping to clear out their mess. But the Global UMC has spoken and voted to keep the stand against gay clergies and same sex marriage. Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! Let us give our love and pray for all LGBTQ and their supporters. They are grieving about the decision and remain very vocal and somewhat condemning us, traditionalist (the silent majority), for not siding with their preferred sexual orientation. LORD IN YOUR MERCY, HEAR OUR PRAYER. I am writing this not with hatred but with love and concern. I also have close friends and family members in that community, not condemning them but continuing to pray for them.

[@hansmeisterschulz5941]

Dear Jesus, please forgive us! Open the eyes of the lost, deceived and confused! They are following the lusts of the flesh which is in opposition to the living in the Spirit! Shame on the sham! Saw this coming years ago and left the UM church then! Watch for the Lords return and get your house in order!

[@ohmusicsweetmusic]

"Dear Child, you must first open thine own eyes before you open another." - Jesus.

[@twalya1]

I am a methodist since birth. Now Im thinking to look for new church who is firm that homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching.

[@hoozdis]

All believers battle with sin but this sin is celebrated as a gift from God, these people (not born of God) are called reprobates...from such turn away

[@marywhaley4675]

In the name of "tolerance" people are loving their homosexual friends right into an early grave.

[@timlangdon6448]

But we are not to justify anyting... because we're not worthy to justify anyting only Jesus Christ is worthy to justify anything. Everything is based on what does the Holy Bible say about the matter.. not once us human beings decide about it.. What does the Holy Bible say about the matter... because all we are messengers.

[@sallyward6596]

If that is how she feels, why did she become a minister in the UMC?

[@carlaskidmore6354]

To try to change what is wrong

[@Sv0126]

This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. (Matthew 15:8 KJV)

[@jacobbrownfield5753]

These are the " I never knew you" people. Real scary. As Paul said "it's a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living GOD."

[@lionofjudahlambofgod9132]

Amen

[@cliffordishii3738]

Biblical Christians do not need a denomination to follow Jesus.

[@rondavis6017]

Clifford Ishii AMEN brother

[@dianaparks5415]

We must stand on the Bible and the Bible alone!

[@nycnyc9921]

The devil is using this issue to try to distory the church from the inside out.

[@rapier1954]

What fellowship does darkness have with light? - NONE - I am not a United Methodist - but it is time for those who want to stand on the Word of God to break company with those who do not wish to do so.

[@robertbykowski1398]

As I was watching this, I was wondering why it is that people who regularly attend Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches (both of whom continue to remain anti-gay) yet agree with the pro-homosexual points of view presented here have not caused a split in those churches ? Is it because the ethnic identity ties keep them from leaving ? Or is it because that in both of those churches, you have a single leader who calls the shots as opposed to a board composed of both clergy and laity ? In any case, Catholic and Orthodox churches remain strong, yet a great number of their members would agree with the "full inclusion" demands of the people here who want to change the United Methodist church. Secondly, what is it that keeps the pro-gay individuals tied to the United Methodist church when they could belong to a denomination that openly welcomes them, such as the Episcopal church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA), the Presbyterian Church USA, the United Church of Christ or the Disciples of Christ ? My guess is that it is the United Methodist's church long history of fighting for social justice. However, causing a split in another Christian denomination is NOT the answer. The answer is finding a denomination that fits the closest (perhaps not entirely) to one's one beliefs in most areas, and proceeding to join that one. And the United Methodist church needs to continue to uphold the values and teachings it was founded on.

[@chuckrice8496]

It is the old debate: Progressives versus Conservatives. There is no compromise to this divide - as the theology is just different. John Wesley was a Conservative. So reason would have it that the Progressives should go do their "own thing" and leave the UMC and start the Homosexual Methodist Church. Seems simple to me. Again, it is all about the money, property and such.

[@cap6tee9]

the angeland church did not consider wesley a conservative. he broke the rules of accepted teachings and was not aloud to preach in many pulpits. i agree the issue is money and the progresives own most of it...the beautiful churches..colleges and lastly tge good saleries and penion plans.

[@foreverautumn7097]

They could just go to the Metropolitan Community Churches, which were designed to be nondenominational LGBT affirming churches and leave the UMC alone.

[@angelashadd-kittrell2102]

I agree. Furthermore, Conservatives and Progressives know that there is an economic challenge to what you have proposed. That is why both sides seem to want to work through this. But it is clear that there will never be authentic unity around this issue. Both sides are trying to create unity for the sake of unity, to preserve the economic integrity of the UMC. However, how can 2 walk together (agree) unless they agree (on a precept)? We will limp and crawl until Scripture becomes the chief thing and center of our belief.

[@JonathanDeLeon-em4px]

@@keithsexton7686 Yet, Christ said he brings a sword of division. He brings the sword of Truth to divide the true believers from the false believers.

[@barbwelch2527]

God does not allow the practice of homosexuality in the Bible. The book of discipline is not the Bible...it is man's opinion the Bible is the ultimate authority. There will be God's wrath to pay for churches turning away from the Bible.

[@bettyspaghetti4803]

Standing on the word of God is not fear. It is not phobia. It is courage. Christianity is not the popular thing. We aren't here to bring joy to ourselves on Earth.

[@anthonylewis62]

it does not matter really what the methodists think, its simply what God had to say on the subject and HE has not changed his mind, and will not, simply because people have

[@whitecrys1]

Amen

[@chuckrice8496]

This is a straightforward affair. The "splinter groups" should go establish their own church. That is essentially what the Wesley boys did back when. Start their own Church. It is all about the money. It is not about the Book of Discipline - if in fact these pastors are UMethodists then they should go by the Book of the UMC, the Book of Discipline. For these splinter groups to have joined the UMC and become pastors in the UMC having taken the oath to uphold the UMC doctrine and the book of discipline when in fact they became UM pastors knowingly that their objective was to undermine the UM Book of Discipline and the doctrine fo the church is Fraud from the get go and they should be ejected from the church leadership.

[@hesedagape6122]

When churches take a lax attitude to Church discipline they allow such schismatic pastors in because undisciplined church members eventually aspire to Church leadership if not clerical positions. I am Anglican and I feel your pain.

[@redshark9537]

A majority is not a splinter group.

[@christopheredgeworth9816]

The word doesn't change but people do. As we study the scriptures and actually delve into the history of the times of the writings we can learn that these verses people are "quoting" are not so cut and dry. I believe the Holy Spirit moves among us as we read scripture allowing us to grow spiritually. An interpretation of any part of it that we may have been fully invested in a t one time will most like change as our spirituality does. The scripture has not, but our understandings of it grows. Growing is a key element to our spirituality, not staying in one "locked in" spot. Remember these words have also been changed during translations and also meant totally different things in those times, region, and even who was doing the writing, which was hundreds of people over hundreds of years. So many comments here basically say "not in my home". Not very welcoming. I believe the true sin of Sodom and Gomorrah if you delve into the history. Not what you wanted to hear, I know. But if we are to love all people as Jesus has asked us I do not believe casting others aside is the way to do it. Let everybody live and worship United and then let God be the judge.

[@reagnew]

It's the one single point on which I agree with Rob Renfroe. A separation by design is better than a separation by default.

[@sarahhutton1095]

Someone tell me how many times the name of Jesus was spoken,,,,,,

[@transracialfamilycoaching4929]

As a life-long Methodist who spent years in church governance. I can testify to the fact that the UMC has no problem remarry divorced folks. No problem marrying couples already shacking up or engaged in pre-marital sex, which is now over 90% of unmarried Americans. No problem renting out our sanctuaries to non-believers, so that they can have a church wedding to make grandmother happy. Given the U.S., gay population is around 3.8% (sorry folks it has never been 10%), it seems somewhat silly to be signaling out gays people. Why not focus on the 112 million unmarried American. 91 million of which are having sex. Alternatively, what about the millions, millions, and millions of divorces. I mean if are charge is to make disciples then wouldn’t this be good place to start. After all if, gay people are going to hell. So are all of them.

[@mytwocents1693]

+Transracial Family Coaching Marrying divorcees, people who have engaged in premarital sex, renting out sanctuaries, etc. have no real bearing on the issue of same sex marriage, ordination of gay clergy, welcoming openly gay persons into the Church, etc. To condone ongoing, sinful behaviour without turning away from that behavior, is heresy. Adulterers repent. Those engaged in relations outside of marriage, confess and repent. Openly gay clergy, same sex marriage, continuing in a same sex relationship without repentance means that the person remains in sin, and not only that, takes pride in their sin. We do not have the authority to define sin, only God defines sin, and His word is has been revealed to us through the Patriarchs, the Prophets, and in the person of Jesus Christ. Nowhere in the scripture is same sex relations portrayed in a positive manner. 1. Admit your sin. We are all sinners and fall short of the Glory of God. 2. Understand that the consequence of sin is death eternal. 3. Believe that Jesus died on the cross to save us from sin and death. 4. Repent, by turning away from your old life of sin, to a new life in Christ. 5. Receive the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. You cannot skip any steps on the way to step 5. Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Continuing in sin, without even recognizing or confessing the sin, is not the path to salvation. "Intolerance" is not the problem; it is the sin itself that is the problem.

[@twwt7004]

+My Two Cents Amen. Only in Faith, Charity/love (1st Cor 13), and having you will sign to God's will. These can be done.

[@wrinkle66]

Well said. Very well said!

[@davidlaurahay]

I guess we now know how many wrongs it takes to make a right

[@joew9392]

Perhaps the Church should focus on all sin which it's supposed to do...The people should repent of ALL their sins..

[@AlanHittverified]

When you say that you took a vow to support something knowing that what you were actually going to do was fight it, you have just admitted to lying and a lack of integrity. So lies and deceit are acceptable means for reform? You cannot follow Jesus by making yourself a liar and deceiver.

[@bradlord7241]

Why on earth would anybody be a Methodist if the teachings of Methodism refute the Bible? If the BOD were to suddenly be contrary to the Bible on this issue, Methodism dies. It has happened with every denomination that has "evolved" on this issue. Bottom line, society shouldn't be changing what the church believes. If it can do it in this issue, it can do it on any issue, and the church will look no different than the world. Exactly what scripture prophesies.

[@charlesvonhabsburg3107]

This isn't the teachings of Methodists. This is the influence of liberal "Christians in the church." I am a Methodist and I have been to three churches and had about 5 pastors and only one ever affirmed gay marriage.

[@angelashadd-kittrell2102]

@@charlesvonhabsburg3107 a small group is controlling the doctrinal conversation of the UMC. The majority must not be intimidated and speak up! Those who stand on Scripture must STAND on Scripture and not fear.

[@gomphrena-beautifulflower-8043]

Yes. I’m 62 and a lifelong Methodist but my heart started breaking for the church as I saw, and sadly saw in this video, how it was embracing apostasy and how easy it is for some clergy to poke God’s eye! Judgment is coming and I don’t know what has happened to the apostate Church, but it’s the worldly influences and satanic spiritualism downright invading her. The gay movement has also hijacked one of God’s sacred symbols , the rainbow. What else will the church buy that the devil is selling? Sacrificing the members of the church on the altar of the world is what they’re doing. And these clergy members who continue to provoke God are held at a higher standard. I feel for them. God have mercy on us for surely they know not what they do. How defiant they act in this video!

[@richardbowman2794]

Romans 1:26, Romans 6:12, Romans 8:5, Romans 13:14, 1Corinthians 6:9,18,19, Galations 5:16,22, Ephesians 2:10, 1Timothy 1:8-11, 2Timothy 3:16, 2Timothy 4:3, 2Peter 3:3

[@cap6tee9]

+Richard Bowman..... now give us the scriptures that mention your...sins

[@dodopod]

+Robert Tucker I'm sure he did. Most of those verses are very general.

[@cap6tee9]

He who says he has no sins is a liar and the truth is not in him..but if we confess our sins .he is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleansed us from all unrighteous....

[@richardbowman2794]

+Robert Tucker 1 John 3:9New Living Translation (NLT)9 Those who have been born into God’s family do not make a practice of sinning, because God’s life[a]is in them. So they can’t keep on sinning, because they are children of God.

[@ryanehlis426]

Get out of apostate churches!

[@michaelcaza-schonberger9282]

Messiah said "deny thyself, take up thy cross, and follow me", not remain as you are! Ginger׳s, and other "pastors" response need to be total submission to the Word of God, not twist it!

[@angelashadd-kittrell2102]

There are more who feel homosexuality is sin than those who do not. Unfortunately, because of unfounded fear, the voice of opposers has been muted.

[@carlaskidmore570]

@@angelashadd-kittrell2102 No, my dear only 30% of the people believe that being LBGTQAI is sinful, the other 70% of the people, most of whom are well educated, especially in the sciences, feel that being LBGTQAI is a matter of one's birth. It is chance, not choice.

[@carlaskidmore570]

Oh, BTW, that 30% who believe that being LBGT is sinful are the same 30% dim bulbs who support Trump.

[@JonathanDeLeon-em4px]

@@carlaskidmore570 Many of the well educated have been influenced by political correctness to reject science. They dismiss the work of Dr.Joseph Nicolosi, whose studies led him to the conclusion that the cause of homosexuality is found in early childhood. He found that adults who do not bond with their same sex parent in early childhood will continue to seek affirmation and love through other people of the same sex, in later life.

[@carlaskidmore6354]

@@JonathanDeLeon-em4px Dr. Nicolosi's "research" is suspect, and the university at which he teaches is far right wing, which is unusual for an institution of higher learning. Why must we always discriminate? It is still those whose skin is darker who continue to face discrimination. Now that being LBGTQAI is on the radar, it was not sixty years ago, we have to add our LBGTQAI sisters and brothers to the group that faces discrimination. If a person is kind, compassionate, generous to those who are in need is non-judgmental, loves God, and her or his neighbors, as they love themselves, why does it matter who they love and marry? If your next door neighbor has a spouse of the same gender, waves at you as he or she cuts their lawn, maybe even give you a ride to the doctor if you were ill, why would you care about his or her marriage? If people whom I mentioned were studying at a seminary and wished to be pastors, I would think that they would be the kind of pastors that someone would want in their church.

[@joangrattendick3183]

As a UMC member, I oppose the practice of homosexuality because it is against GOD's Word and it is against the UMC Discipline, that states that no UMC Pastor will marry same sex persons. Ministers are sworn to uphold I hope that we will separate, that way those who are against the changes will have their Covenant Church. I believe that there is no other answer.

[@P47ThunderboltJug]

"why would God make me this way, then immediately label me a sinner" ... All humans are born sinners

[@evanjin4872]

God's gift to you is your life. What you choose to do with it is your decision. What kind of gift are you giving back to god? Choose wisely. I spent 34 years as one of the most vile creatures on Earth. When I could not run away from myself and God anymore, I capitulated to Jesus. He picked me up, brushed me off, forgave me of ALL of my sins, and said walk with me, for I love you and will never forsake you. NO human can do for me what Jesus did. As for color, God's favorite color is RED, because that is the color of the blood that Jesus shed on the cross when he paid the price for everyone's sins, mine, yours and every person on this planet. It is not a sin to be tempted, but it IS a sin to give in to it. No God, no peace. Know God, know peace. Choose the light and shun the dark. Join me and the other nasty sinners whom have turned over a new leaf and their lives to Jesus. You will be glad that you did, for his yoke removes the burdens of the world from upon your shoulders.

[@wrinkle66]

I don't need to practice any more. I'm perfect at it :)

[@wrinkle66]

Heterosexual morales.... boy I lost count of the # of verses. Understanding of human sexuality has evolved and is far better understood. Science has shown that is not a choice - where as homophobia, hate and exclusions are. No-one would choose to be bullied, harassed and discriminated against all their lives. Sadly many young people commit suicide because some (getting fewer thank God) ignorant adults told them that they were sinners. I hope that is on their conscience.

[@historian252]

You are stating a lie as many scientist state it is a choice.

[@todharris6635]

Why would God make a pedophiles and then label those persons as sinners. You can add all kinds of sinful things to the list that comes naturally to people and ask the same question.

[@blessingyap3867]

S-T-E-R, SCRIPTURE, Tradition, Experience and Reason. The primacy of the Scripture is where I'm coming from. There's no way, any of your plans can fit to the teachings of the Holy Scripture. It's a split! If the UMC clergy will not allow God to be sovereign in His Church, then "split it shall be." From the beginning the clergy is accountable to this conflict. The NWO one world religion shall not destroy the Church. "God created humans in His own image, He created them male and female." It shall be so to the end. "Come quickly Lord Jesus!"

[@whitecrys1]

Amen

[@beasheerhan4482]

Pastor Cirelli may successfully 'work' to change what the Methodist Book of Disciplines says about homosexuality, but, that still does not change what the Bible says about it.

[@atestring100]

If the UMC is concerned about loosing members, the people of the UMC needs to look at the loss of membership of other groups that ordain homosexuals and think again about the concern about loosing members.

[@carlaskidmore570]

Who are the "loose members?" Those who are judgmental, arrogant and insist on their own way.

[@MattheMatthew]

These pastors should never have chosen to be ordained if they didn't agree with the rules.

[@KnightxxArrow]

I hope the United Methodist Church does not split. I grew up a Methodist (UMC North Texas) and I love the church and the people.

[@joew9392]

I have attended a UMC Church for a year or so but have decided to not become a member as long as the Church willingly goes against God's word on several issues. We're having a woman pastor speak this week and I have chosen not to attend, probably will eventually find another church that wants to obey God...

[@acortes7771]

Light of the Fatherland, I hope they do split. Its better to split then to continue in the path of apostasy. The Bible is very explicit in Matthew 18:8-9 "8 And if your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life crippled or lame than with two hands or two feet to be thrown into the eternal fire. 9 And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into the hell of fire".

[@billa.2450]

Even if it does split, mine and hundreds of other UMC congregatons will NEVER go against God's Word. Never.

[@carlaskidmore570]

@@joew9392 The UMC will not miss you. Women have had pastorates for decades, where have you been? Oh, do you still think that the Sun revolves around the Earth, or that seizures are caused by "demons?"

[@joew9392]

A lot of things have been done for decades, doesn't mean it's approved of God...

[@AF-tv6uf]

I was raised in the UMC but not in it now. I'm straight. I'm looking on this from the outside, and what I see is a divide over authority. Does moral authority spring from: 1. Personal feelings 2. Reason (the vanishingly small minority opinion) 3. Traditions considered infallible on pure faith. Option 1 and Option 3 are at war and it's become 'Bible verses' contra 'rage and pain.' Nobody is saying 'here's why gay marriage is OK but polygamy is not.' Heck, I dare you to find one person in this mess who is pro-gay but against abortion or vice versa. There seem to be no moderates. Its absurd. The UMC has *never* been a church based on Biblical literalism. So why *now* has gender become a hill to die on for conservatives especially?

[@borkborkx10]

That metaphor of the cage match is quite telling.

[@rickabisaihimler5948]

...and that's why I left to the calvinist church.

[@juanmanuelariasperea7092]

Bye !

[@wanda520]

Me too

[@emuelllemu5644]

IVE LEARNED LIFE , IVE BUILD MY FAITH, THE FOUNDATION OF ALL MY BELIEFS....THE TRUTH THATS IS SO SIMPLE TO UNDERSTAND, BUT BURDEN AND MISLEADING TO OTHERS....LIFE IS BEAUTIFULL...in HIS Name!

[@danielallen6032]

The Bible says "there is none that is righteous, not even one". That said, we must all recognize within ourselves that we have desires that are antithetical to the commandments of God. Same sex attractions may be real just as the desire to engage in heterosexual sex outside of marriage, but that does not give us license to engage in them and justify them because its what we want. God calls us to a higher standard: His standard. if we truly desire a right relationship with God we must come to the point where we recognize that it is impossible to please God with our actions. God says "all our works are as filthy rags". We all need a Savior. God so loved the world that He gave His only Son so that whoever believes in Him might not perish, but have everlasting life. When Christ died on the Cross, His blood covered our sins so that God could look upon Christ's perfect sacrifice and restore our relationship to Him. Not only did Christ conquer death, which was the legal payment for our sin, through His resurrection, He also sent His Holy Spirit to transform us and give us power to resist our sinful desires. If we continue to justify our sin, then it is evident that we have not truly accepted the payment that Jesus Christ paid for us, and we are continuing to live according to our own nature. We must continue to examine our lives to see if there is unrighteousness within us and confess it before God. It is our humility before God that allows us to be transformed and be molded into the person He wants us to be.

[@emuelllemu5644]

OUR SAVIOR WHO IS THE MOST HIGH IS LOVE......HE IS LOVE.....AMIEN

[@aloneranger3980]

Go and sin no more...

[@sofly7634]

Love includes judgement and right eousness

[@namasi7070]

The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” (Isa 40:8)," "Do not conform to the pattern of this world..." (Rom 12:2). As a Christian from the third world I am amazed at Christians in America and the West who blatantly twist the Word of God so they can conform to the pattern of this world. It's no wonder the church in the west is dying while it thrives everywhere else. 'He who marries the spirit of this age will find himself a widower in the next.'

[@storm7586]

I am leaving -- my choice

[@juanmanuelariasperea7092]

Bye bye ! Church is for all !

[@user-yn5nc7ob4d]

Bye then! 👋🏻

[@wanda520]

I left and joined a Reformed Presbyterian church.

[@ezekieltitusplaza3985]

Galatians 5: 19-21. "The Acts of the Sinful Nature are Obvious: Sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy,; drunkenness, orgies and the like. I warn you , as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God"

[@ohmusicsweetmusic]

I cannot change my sexual orientation anymore than you can change yours. I was born this way. The cruelty of how you speak can best be described with a person born with one arm - demanding that until he decides to grow another one he will be considered an "abomination." That's how cruel, stupid and ignorant you being.

[@jstasur]

The UMC was sunk long ago. They allow women to preach and teach (a mixed audience/men and women), thus having authority over men in clear violation of 1 Timothy 2:12. Once they caved on that issue and entered into error, it's no surprise that the homosexual marriage issue came charging up to bite them. Hey, if you're going to overlook the CLEAR directive of Paul in 1 Timothy, why not overlook everything else? Satan's thrilled ...

[@joer5627]

For over 2000 years this was clearly understood. Now in our infinite wisdom we know better than God. I think not.

[@ecrucible]

They do not want the separation so they are holding the traditionalist hostage by holding back the properties. If that’s the only reason, they can have it all.

[@deacondiannelowe7809]

I oppose any effort between the UMC and TEC signing any agreement on mutual ministry until and unless the UMC changes their policies.

[@JonathanDeLeon-em4px]

The TEC has already gone apostate. Why would the UMC embrace an apostate church?

[@thomashogan16]

Thank God I'm a Catholic boy!! Talk about insane insanity.

[@edmonddantes3640]

Oh y'all got your homophile priests and bishops, attempting to water down the truth

[@MrGoldarr]

Edmond Dantes “The Gates of Hell will not prevail against it” Matthew 16:18.There are molesters in every sect. You are a hypocrite! Yes Devils are all around and in The Catholic Church trying to destroy it from within. But Jesus already said it will not be brought down. God has Spoken! Repent before it’s too late.

[@tevye55]

General Conference occurs again this year. This topic will be headlined. It will come to another vote. I wonder how the church will respond.

[@macrent2]

+David Springstead It better respond with things other than bigotry. Tje UMC is loosing her youth.

[@larryisall]

Referred to a called General Conference that was held in St. Louis in the Spring of 2019. Three plans presented along with others brought forth. Traditional plan prevailed with added Book of Discipline strictures pertaining to any clergy who violated the prohibitions. Goes into effect in January 2020. And still, the progressives seek to defy or overturn the 2019 called General conference at the upcoming regular 2020 General Conference. Adam Hamilton and others convened an invitation only "UMC Next" meeting at his Church of the Resurrection in May 2019 to set out plans for the 2020 General Conference, opposing and dealing with the results of the 2019 St. Louis vote. Traditional Plan enacted in 2019 envisions an amicable separation and division of property for those who cannot abide by the Book of Discipline. As Rob Renfro and others have suggested here (both in the video and in comments to it) the "cage match" will not be abandoned by the progressives.

[@chuckrice8496]

Ordination Vows are just that, a vow.vow [vou] NOUN a solemn promise. synonyms: oath · pledge · promise · bond · covenant · commitment · [more]VERB solemnly promise to do a specified thing: "he vowed that his government would not tolerate a repeat of the disorder" · [more] synonyms: swear · pledge · promise · avow · undertake · engage · [more] archaic dedicate to someone or something, especially a deity: "I vowed myself to this enterprise"

[@etruscan3426]

Ordination vows aren't necessarily good. Catholic priests take vows of obedience to their bishops...and we now know where that can lead: to the covering up of criminal behaviour, like child rape. Don't assume that 'vow' means 'from God'. That is not always the case.

[@nateriver4216]

Why is there a woman pastor? So they ordain women priests and support LGBT??? Ok whomever thinks they are Christian in this church needs to... think more

[@tomithompson4668]

Nate River: Women being ordained pastors is OK so long as they are not lezbian. ST. Paul didn't address the issue of women leaders with every church he organized. What was true in Paul's time is not necessarily true for today.. Please understand that women pastors are one thing and homosexuality is quite another. In one case you have a woman who attended seminary, trained and preaching the word correctly. In the other, you have an abominable practice. If anyone is trying to be clergy-man or woman-better not be living a double life by being homosexual.

[@rogermetzger7335]

Point # 1: I’m a Christian in the sense of believing that Jesus of Nazareth is the Messiah foretold by the Hebrew prophets of antiquity. Point # 2: I’m a protestant in the sense of subscribing to the doctrines of justification by grace alone through faith alone, the primacy of scripture and the priesthood of all believers. Point # 3: Nobody has ever accused me of being a methodist but I subscribe to the doctrine that sanctification is every bit as much a gift of God’s grace as justification is, i.e. sanctification (holiness) is not achieved, it is received. I think that doctrine was one of the (perhaps the) major theological contribution of the Wesley brothers to the Christian church. I also believe that to CLAIM entire sanctification is an expression of the sin of spiritual pride and thus proof positive that the person who claims it has not been entirely sanctified. Point # 4: There is a perspective that might not help some people at all but I think might help many people, namely, the perspective that NO organization of the church IS the church. THE church consists of all true believers regardless of our denominational affiliation. (And “true believers” includes people who have different religious beliefs and different religious practices than I do.) Point # 5: Christian denominations exist because the Lord has called some people to emphasize one or more aspects of the truth about himself and he has called other people to emphasize other aspects of the truth about himself. When people who have been called to a specific emphasis or emphases create organizations to promote those emphases, there is nothing wrong with that IF (and this is a very big IF) they can remember that the organization is not the church. (It is much easier to remember that if the name of the organization doesn’t include the word, “Church”, and if the members of the organization can remember to avoid using the phrase “the church” to refer to the organization.) Point # 6: I’m as sure as anybody that my understanding of the Bible is “correct” but other people read the same Bible I do (maybe even the same translation) and understand it differently than I do. Point # 7: It IS appropriate for a religious organization or denomination to have behavior and doctrinal criteria for VOTING membership Point # 6: If someone’s sins are less respectable than mine, that doesn’t necessarily mean he isn’t a Christian. (See point # 1.) It certainly doesn’t mean that I should insist that he isn’t a Christian. But that doesn’t mean that everyone--regardless of his lifestyle--should be a voting member of a denomination that was created to emphasize a specific emphasis or emphases. It certainly doesn’t mean that someone whose lifestyle is in violation of the behavior criteria of the organization should be eligible to hold an elected office in the organization. Point # 7: If God’s grace is available through faith alone, that means that no religious organization can “withhold” God’s grace by refusing to serve the emblems of the Lord’s body and blood to those whose lifestyles make them eligible for voting membership in the organization. That is only one argument in favor of religious organizations or denominations practicing “open communion”. If a particular organization chooses to invite only “baptized Christians” to the Lord’s table, that’s up to them but the whole concept falls apart if questions are raised about by whose “authority” the person was baptized, by which “mode”, etc. Point # 8: Spiritual authority (according to the way I read my Bible) is conferred directly by the Lord himself. The clergy have no more spiritual authority or any other kind of authority than the laity. Ordination is an affirmation by fellow believers that a candidate for a specific office in the organization has already received, directly from the Lord, spiritual authority and other gifts appropriate to the office for which he is a candidate Depending on the articles of incorporation or/and bylaws of an organization, ordination MAY convey certain kinds of administrative authority but that is another matter. If members of ANY denomination study these suggestions and decide that they aren’t biblical, there is no need to implement them. On the other hand, there are probably several denominations that would benefit from carefully considering them.

[@neutrodyne]

In St John chapter 3 Jesus teaches us that we must be born again. To those who say they were born as a homosexual needs to be reborn (or born again) and let the power of God change them and make them whole.

[@mountainboy1980]

Born and raised in the UMC and I long for it but I cannot and will not embrace something that will not embrace me. This is also why church membership is dropping in general. Judge not lest ye be judged.

[@kilionibrenda]

I don’t think it’s judging they are preaching.we’re quick to say judge but I see it as Love.loving their neighbors to point dat out. I can’t help to think it’s the $$$$ ouR homosexuals friends bringing in.now days hoi too confused with this topic

[@sofly7634]

Sounds like it's all about you That's totally incompatible with Christianity

[@BJWhitt-fc2zs]

You are asking mere men to change God's decision on this matter. It is not up to man at all!!!!!! Somehow you'll have to persuade God to change His mind. It's not a man made ruling! The Discipline of the church merely reflects what the Bible already says. If you respect God at all, you shouldn't be asking a church to change that ruling. So, what should you do? I have plenty of thoughts along this line......but tell me what you think you can do to make this right with God? And remember you are dealing with God here!

[@kbanghart]

God loves us all.

[@pazstephen9779]

He’s our God. Yours AND the gays, lesbians etc. Once we get over the very simple fact that a young person (10 to 11 years old in my case) grows up not attracted to the opposite sex, and because we know God doesn’t make mistakes, then it becomes a small step to see how this group of people needs things that the heterosexual majority needs. Heterosexuals who cannot, for biological reasons, produce an offspring child... they still marry for love, companionship, and they make vows to honor each other. Those needs exist for the homosexual too. There’s nothing to be afraid of here. God has this in His hands. Peace, and love to you.

[@carlaskidmore570]

LMAO, no, the Bible and that BoD that has changed over the years, were both written by men.

[@whitecrys1]

@@kbanghart And if we love HIM, we are to keep HIS commandments.

[@kbanghart]

@@whitecrys1 absolutely. To love everybody.

[@patrickshea5391]

I see a lot of empty UM Churches. Gay people will just walk right by them.........................

[@dickmcpherson8246]

Time for UMC to dissolve, churches go their own way. Face it, the UMC isn't that relevant anymore. The population of the US is 300 million plus, only about 7 million are part of the UMC. Just as the Presbyterian and other denominations that have drastically declined in numbers after they accepted homosexual demands so will the UMC. Divide peacefully and stop the unnecessary madness.

[@ericholland3676]

Some of this is just sad. Pitiful, is probably too mild. These guys want the scriptures to be silent on the subject, or to be edited. It does neither.

[@aloneranger3980]

The Southern Methodist Church holds true to the Bible.

[@gomphrena-beautifulflower-8043]

Lord, forgive them for they know not what they do. The Bible does not change. There is no new revelation under the sun. Gays are proudly going against the very word of God, and their eyes are clouded and God will give these people over to their desires and abominations. These folks are spitting in and poking the very eye of God. Nothing about the Bible’s say on homosexuality has changed, but the world has and influences people whose hearts are not committed to upholding God’s precious word. Lord, we pray for our brothers and sisters who are snubbing their noses at You. Amen.

[@ohmusicsweetmusic]

I cannot change my sexual orientation anymore than you can change yours. I was born this way. The cruelty of how you speak can best be described with a person born with one arm - demanding that until he decides to grow another one he will be considered an "abomination." That's how cruel, stupid and ignorant you being.

[@gomphrena-beautifulflower-8043]

ohmusicsweetmusic • Sir, That is different and you KNOW it is. You are calling God a liar. How can you even close your eyes to sleep? Listen. I love you. I love you! I don’t want my sister who lives with her boyfriend and has not repented to be judged any more than I want you to. You can call me every name in the book, even some you made up! Jesus even said I would be hated! But please, time is ticking and soon it will be too late! I don’t even know you but if you, just you, will change your mind and feelings and I know and He knows it may take a long time!! But just START by repentance for this. He will take care of the rest. I’m in tears for you, son! We don’t have much time. Lay it at His feet. All of it. I have to every day! I’m 100% hetero (married 40 years this year) but I have a nagging problem with my weight and I can’t sit up here and blame it on inherited this or that. No it’s ME, I love food TOO much. You think I think your problem is worse, somehow, than mine!?! I’m very passionate and listen. Just listen. If no one else turns to Jesus today, and there was a little spark deep within you that ignited, to turn away from God’s creation of the very basic man and woman and what we’re intended to do and how we do it, if just you lay it at His precious feet today, it would be worth it. He goes looking for that one - that ONE - He does not want most, or many, no! He wants all to come to Himself. ALL!

[@ohmusicsweetmusic]

@@gomphrena-beautifulflower-8043 So you are hetero. Imagine for a moment you were told to change to homo or burn in hell. Could you do it? Do you know the difference between things about yourself that you can change and things you cannot change? If you are equating sexual attraction to weight loss, apparently you do not. You hell bent on believing that the particular sex one is attracted to is a choice and I am trying to tell you that it is not. And you telling me over and over again that the way God made me is wrong isn't going to change the fact that i CAN'T GET IT UP WITH A WOMAN. I AM AS DISGUSTED BY THAT AS YOU WOULD BE PUTTING A DICK IN YOUR MOUTH. OK?! GET IT??

[@gomphrena-beautifulflower-8043]

ohmusicsweetmusic • You didn’t have to spell it out in unnecessary and vile terms. I stand by what I said because I’m basing on Truth, music. Truth. I used the weight problem so as to establish a more common ground where you might understand that I understand the self, the flesh, prone to sin. You can be set free. You are spiritually blinded, and these “clergy” in the UMC have become willfully blinded. And you bought the lie, hook, line, and sinker. I’m much more upset with this apostasy going on in the church. That’s a lot more serious to Jesus, and they should be called out on it. I can only pray and hope for you. At the end of the day, there is xx and xy chromosomes (with the exception of an extremely rare ‘super male’ anomaly, not pertinent to this discussion). I can send a link or information on practicalities from those who have been saved and successfully left that lifestyle.

[@gomphrena-beautifulflower-8043]

ohmusicsweetmusic • I’m back after a few moments of quiet prayer and introspection. I wanted to apologize if I sounded bullying. Really, I’m sorry. I’m not changing the Truth, but my delivery may have been callous. I’m so passionate about this, I’ve cried out to God on this and other issues that the world (satan is its god) so cruelly takes and takes. Anyway I do love you and crying out for your sake, but I did not mean to come across as bullying.

[@truthbetold7170]

Its not just the book of disciple that is correct at the moment but it supports the bible, these people that are wanting to change it are not serving God but themselves.

[@pazstephen9779]

The Bible does not need “support” at all. It is quite capable of standing for itself lol What does need some help is our reading of it. I think that is why that British guy started a movement based on a quadrilateral!

[@evanjin4872]

Gay marriage is now a law passed by the US government. Now, please explain to Jesus, God and the human believers of Christ if this law supersedes what God has proclaimed regarding sin in the endtimes. I am very curious as to how you will convince God the creator of everything.

[@sofly7634]

Rendered to Cesar what is Cesars--God will have His way

[@patrickshea5391]

The best thing the gay people can do is just leave the church and go to one that is more accepting. The stiff necked people won't change. Don't let the church act like judge and jury. There are a lot of church's that are accepting and value everyone.

[@jasonsignor7237]

What is the worship song in the beginning of the video? :)

[@TheTfirebaugh]

It is "Draw the Circle Wide". One of my favorites. ❤️

[@horseman528]

Sex outside of marriage between a man and a woman is called fornication and it will send anyone who practices it and doesn't repent to hell. Read 1 Cor. 6:9-10, "Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, will inherit the kingdom of God." Why does the Methodist Church need a book of discipline when they have the New Testament of Jesus Christ? "In vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrine the commandments of men."

[@juanmanuelariasperea7092]

UMC is great ! Just Leave... all fundamentalists , bye bye ! We need a church for all !

[@allenmorgan4309]

The problem is they are going by their book of discipline and not going by the bible. The bible plainly teaches that sex between two people of the same gender is a sin. If you don't agree with what the bible teaches and are willing to conform your life to that then you aren't a Christian. It's very simple really. No one in our society says you have to be a Christian. We live in a free society people can live however they want within the law.

[@joe4lily]

Who's dignity are we not honoring? JESUS!!!

[@Wolfie254]

The UMCs are already split on this issue and not united contrary to their name. Why is a split so bad? If the Methodist churches were independent then they could set their own methods of worship, etc. That seems best expect for who control the building. Perhaps have a separate tithe to raise the funds to buy the buildings.

[@twalker191]

I mean just leave the church? If they don't want you why stay? Let them have their way....ohhhh wait! It's because you want to stay in the church but want it your way. IDC what a person believes...but if something like that upsets you so bad like being anti gay marriage...leave the church.

[@ecrucible]

Love God and love people. If you love people you will bring them to light.

[@scottpeterson7500]

Christianity will never be a light showing humanity the way forward. It's a religion based on ancient archaic ideas and beliefs, based on a Bible filled with just horrible ideas and falsehoods. That's why I'm an Atheist Humanist 🍕🍺❤️

[@Jamie-Russell-CME]

I am going to be bold and state a controversial opinion.... "The creeping in of accepting the sin of a gay lifestyle is a result of having women ordained as ministers. They're often more emotionally based in their logic and ideas of love as a feeling, and a matter of just being "accepting" to homosexuals has fundamentally hurried the false idea to the fore front. Because it's easy to be kind to seemingly harmless people practicing sin as if it weren't wrong. Love is not simply being nice. It is a commitment to truth and an uncompromising attitude to teach God's principles, understanding that, adherence to them is what is healthy for the entire body of believers in the long term or short term."

[@hisilkat]

I'm confused. For those of you claiming to be doing as the bible says by not welcoming God's children into all aspects of the life of the church, have you also refrained from eating shellfish, touching footballs, and allowing your children that talk back to live? The bible was very clear on those things. Why do you abandon those clear instructions and pick out one thing that you say must be followed irregardless of Christ saying he is the new law and let the children come unto me, not let certain children come unto me. IT IS NOT A CHOICE. When you face your maker and know that there was a choice to be made by you regarding His children, would you rather be held accountable for loving the wrong people or for damning the wrong people? The Bible is clear, we must love our neighbor as ourselves. The bible does not speak against loving, committed, monogamous relationships; it speaks against abusive, exploitive, and, what was common at the time, promiscuous sex.

[@abrahamsmith7336]

No abominable in the church it is a sin Jeremiah-23 woe be unto the pastors who leads the sheep astray

[@garymcdonough993]

interesting to me that the gay issue was represented as causing the decline of the United Methodist Church. What about the decline of the churches who are ordaining gay pastors? (I might add the decline is much more pronounced than the UM decline)

[@jenna2431]

"Think not that I come to bring peace to the world--but a sword." And quite frankly, we're not to even say "bye" to those who bring another gospel: Jn 1:9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 2Jn 1:10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: 2Jn 1:11 For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.

[@LMM42424]

Now I’m being told I’m a racist because I’m a white person!?!?!?!?? By the UMC, say it isn’t so.

[@charles952]

Love the person but hate the sin. Those who commit these sin eill not inherit the kingdom of God. No one can change the word of God

[@robfriedrich2822]

9:00 It makes no sense to add people to the church, that aren't willing to allow God anything and loves Jesus that much, to give up things, that aren't a blessing. Better I win 10 people, who are willing to accept Jesus and his standards and finally go to heaven, then 90 more, who calls the 10 homophobic and will later be judged by the own standards.

[@tsx_vision-aztec5679]

All same sex marriage need to go back and read the Holy Bible. Not just the parts that they feel like they can change the Bible. Hello people, The Bible is Holy. God is Holy. I don’t care you gay or not. Not Holy enough he will never take you. We all need more Jesus.

[@bobmngr]

See, here's the thing: When I first came to the Lord He put it in my heart to go out to the dark places in this world; to bring His light to the downtrodden, the dispossessed, the shunned, the outcast. So who do I first come upon but people who tell me my church, the United Methodist, are the ones who have cast them out; turned their back on them; refused them communion with the Holy Spirit simply because of who they were. This is a tough call, but at the end of the day either we are an all inclusive faith or we are not. If we are then joining two people who are willing to make a lifelong commitment to each other before God and the congregation should be no problem. If we are not then we must give up the name United Methodist and turn our backs on Wesley's teachings of "Social Holiness." I don't see a middle road.

[@charlesvonhabsburg3107]

The church hasn't cast anyone out or turned anyone away from communion. The church just doesn't allow gay ordination or gay marriage!

[@bobmngr]

+J Winx Gee, when you put it that way it sounds...pretty disingenuous at best. "You can come to the Temple but we won't let you in?" We'll take your tithe but don't expect to participate? And yeah, I've met more than a few of these good people who, because of this hypocrisy, have been shunned right out the front door-pushing them not only away from the church but away from Christ entirely; producing an enmity against us that's very hard, if not impossible, to overcome.

[@charlesvonhabsburg3107]

+Robert Monger they can participate in the church! They just can't be pastors. Someone who is actively participating in any sexual sin should be barred from being a pastor. It isn't just being gay.

[@bobmngr]

+J Winx Here's stone. See how far you can throw it.

[@charlesvonhabsburg3107]

Please explain. If you mean what I think you mean then it doesn't apply here. There are certain things that a pastor can and cannot do. he cannot be quick to anger, he has to be able to lead the church, he has to know the bible, He cannot be a fornicator, etc....

[@joycechafin4587]

God will not allow sin to enter into his heaven, God is holy and cannot look upon sin like this unless you repent you will not enter into the Kingdom of God!!

[@TyrekeCorrea]

The church knows better than to reject LGBT equality. The rationale for supporting it has always been in the church's doctrine.

[@aloneranger3980]

The true Church does reject LGBT equality.

[@johnphillips1858]

Sometimes separation is the only answer. Like Paul and Barnabas, stop fighting and manipulating to get the upper hand and just focus on the truth instead of everyone drinking the Koolaid and losing everything.

[@adamwalker2377]

2:11 you mean a female pastor isn't too keen on the Christian worldview's stance on gender? Mind blown...

[@lataimana]

1 Corinthians 6:9-11 New International Version (NIV) 9 Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men[a] 10 nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. Footnotes: 1 Corinthians 6:9 The words men who have sex with men translate two Greek words that refer to the passive and active participants in homosexual acts.

[@TheMrTTT]

This isn't complicated once the folks desiring division are understood. In fact its very simple.

[@melbarrera6507]

another reason why a true christian will follow a non-denominational church. a church that stresses the Bible has the full and only authority over its members. a church that doesn't pick and choose what scripture and verse they like or rearranges and or changes God's words around to better accommodate certain sins of its members and pastors. God's blessings and Holy Spirit are within a church that only promotes his will not the sins of the flesh. don't let satan lead u to damnation with his temptations and deceptions homosexuality is wrong and like other sins goes against the will of God and he will judge righteously. so please brothers and sister please read your Bible, pray, and fast to overcome the sin we all struggle with before his return.

[@nolpaulmino1626]

If you want to be in the UMC abide by this:"The practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching". And together we will thank and praise God for that. (We will rejoice in worshipping with you.) If you cannot, we're happy to let you go with our blessing, please leave.