Why We Are Staying in the UMC | Rev. Adam Hamilton | May 17, 2022

Join Pastor Adam for his Tuesday night Vespers this week as he discusses the future of the UMC.
Tune in to Pastor Adam’s Vespers live every Tuesday at 7:30pm CT on Facebook Live!

[@comradeobedkefas7798]

That's good one. As a church of we are called to present Christ to sinners because He died to save them. We are never called to promote and endorse sin which God hates.

[@johne7345]

We are not promoting anything. We are tolerating those who are different from us. I have no problem with that whatsoever. Other than my mostly vegetarian diet, I am about as conservative as they come in my personal life, but I am not willing to judge others -- that is not my job. I do not have to approve of or understand the whole LGBTQ movement to accept and tolerate it and mind my own business.

[@BadWalmartCustomerServiceCom]

Its amazing how liberal the UMC is when it comes to interpreting text about homosexuality and how conservative they are when they are when it comes to interpreting text about the UMC keeping property.

[@jenniferhall6649]

Awe this is a home run !!!!!!

[@tendaichigariro6083]

I think being gracious with LGBT people and showing them love should include helping them get healed, teaching them the truth and not lying to them that it is OK to marry a person of the same sex. The UMC has lost it

[@EdnaSizemore-gh9nh]

Agree. God does not hate these people and they need the truth of the bible

[@kjmav10135]

This is a remarkably, shockingly patronizing remark. Christian supremacy at its worst.

[@johnbreitmeier3268]

@@EdnaSizemore-gh9nh God does absolutely hate their behavior and their rebellion. He even more hates the false teachers that lead the UMC now.

[@user-jn2qi6wx6g]

Rev. Hamilton it is wonderful to see your personal growth around the issue of LGBTQ Christians and their relationship to the UMC. I was present at the 2000 General Conference and witnessed how you and others helped to save the life of a lesbian woman who was so distraught at witnessing the legislative rejection of LGBTQ persons that she nearly fell from a balcony. I was deeply hurt at the time of the UMC’s 1972 rejection of LGBTQ persons, because I felt a sincere call to ministry as a gay man. I was 21 years old then. I didn’t believe I would live to see the change that occurred at the 2024 General Conference. Of course, I am now 73 years old and there is no chance a man my age will be licensed to preach- and so the change took too long in my case. But I will never regret the path God’s call led me on. I have been aware of and critical of your published views since before that General Conference in 2000. I deeply respect how you have grown over that time. Thank you, Reverend Adam for your faithfulness and your ministry!

[@alwinbratton3029]

Pastor Adam I just listened to your presentation and you have convinced me. You haver convinced me that it is time to take my church back to the Bible and theachings of the early church. Jesus was all about repentance and God's plan for forgivness. I hear no repentance but instead acceptance and continuing in sin. I can not as a Bible teacher for 25 years, accept that. Our church is a Bible believing, Bible teaching church; the second largest church in our confrence. We have started the process of leaving the UMC, and as the situtation stands, I will support the separation. I cannot lead people astray, teachinig the liberalism is God's way. Read Ezekiel Chapter 3. The blood those for teaching the accepting of what God has declared sin, will be on your heads.

[@malachi551]

Go in peace and my you learn the error of your departure.

[@awayfarer6813]

Yep, his answer to this issue in the midst of all that was said is @ 28:14-22. If he aligned himself otherwise, he would lose 3/4 of this congregation.

[@grace4peace]

Thank you for your clear words!

[@malachi551]

@@awayfarer6813 your view of the Bible is antithetical to the scriptures themselves, it is based on an addition made in the 1940s (which is expressly forbidden by the scriptures themselves.) and not on anything actually extant in the text themselves.

[@sandyhussey5023]

Our church is not disaffiliating because of the Human sexuality agenda. We simply believe the Bible is the Word of God as is and that Jesus is the ONLY way to God

[@jamesmellick7002]

Interesting how the UMC has evolved in line with the dominant cultural values...Babylonian Captivity? We are willing to compromise, hoping for the respect of the World that will never come.

[@davidhume5092]

So refreshing. We need tolerance and love for Christ. Living with diversity makes us better people. Fearing change limits our ability to grow

[@bkeevers6719]

Society does not get to determine our faith, we are to be in the world not of it.

[@vladtheinhaler8940]

So many churches have forgotten that.

[@pittschapelfarm2844]

In due respect, just as soon as the UMC gets their own universe they can make up their own rules. In the mean while I’ll follow God’s.

[@lynnshurtleff]

That is not at all what is happening.

[@percyhawkins716]

@@lynnshurtleff Yes it is.

[@cherylburnett2014]

Amen!!!

[@SZD.]

The KKK membership is wide and open for you.

[@cherylburnett2014]

If you are a follower of Christ, you won't say that to Pitts. He is not a racist and you are accusing him of that. the enemy is the accuser of the brethren.

[@jackiewakefield8802]

You are saying that unless you except homosexuality as being “ok” with God, you don’t really love them. Or, if you admonish these people to repent, then you are homophobic. At least this is what I’m understanding by your comments. Real love will tell people what they need to hear, not want they want you to affirm.

[@malachi551]

I mean if the scriptures actually taught that you might have a point but that is literally homophobic rhetoric added to the scriptures in 1940z

[@littlelemon1783]

Real love is to love like Christ loves. That includes accepting all sexualities as okay, gay or straight. The teachings in Romans are not about homosexuality being a sin, but rather homosexual LUST being a sin. It’s about lust. Be sure to read wisely, and with love in your heart. Christ loves all and accepts all. Follow Him. That should be our main goal regardless of specific beliefs

[@littlelemon1783]

@@malachi551exactly !!! People who claim to live so closely by the Bible seem to have gaps in their historical understanding of how the Bible and other scriptures were created, and by whom (people wrote the Bible, not God) I try to take everything with a grain of salt aside from DIRECT quotes from Jesus. And Jesus never said anything about validating homophobia. Quite the opposite ❤

[@kristin.6763]

I really appreciate your level headed presentation of the issue. As someone who attended a UMC church for about a year, I have to admit that this denomination, generally speaking, will pick and choose what parts of the Bible to believe. For a church leader to imply that man has corrupted the word of God is wrong. For anyone doubting the Word, please look into the history of it. It is holy and never wrong. That said, it is complex and we must combine knowledge, wisdom, and discernment to understand it. It is not loving to tell someone that their sin is not a sin. It is not loving to shame someone who is growing in their faith either. We must approach this topic with truth in love. Paul made it clear that we should not indulge in any of these sins in 1 Corinthians. Jesus paid our price but he also said to go forth and sin no more. "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 nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. 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." 1 Corinthians 6:9‭-‬11 NIV

[@robynjackson3807]

Sexuality is not the only issue. Hamilton needs to present all issues so people can be informed. In my opinion, all this to water down the gospel and keep people in the pews.

[@victoraxten3761]

I find it amazing no one talks about celibacy or abstinence outside of marriage I guess that doctrine was Old testament also

[@elijah7454]

@@victoraxten3761 I’m astonished there are so many Christians that consider this pastor’s opinion to be legitimate and compelling. Some of what he said actually seemed to undermine the authority and reliability of the Bible. This presentation breaks my heart.

[@samdawson6469]

You're trying to use the scripture to convince us not to use the scriptures. What a dope. We ARE divided and I'm proud to move on.

[@samdawson6469]

You want to run a church by looking at poll numbers?

[@stevemcelyea4819]

The UMC has voted for decades and always affirmed the Book of Discipline as the doctrinal basis for the church. Many bishops and leaders disregard the Book of Discipline and no repercussions occur. The lack of following the agreed upon faith program is the reason the Methodist church is in decline. Time to split.

[@hexahexametermeter]

Interesting how the church discipline has gone the same way as government DOJ enforcement. Anything goes for the powers that be. Makes you wonder if infact the church by and large has been infiltrated by gov operatives.

[@annpippin6388]

Repercussions occuring is the big problem. Hopefully Adam Hamilton s Church is following not only the Bible but The UMC Discipline in all ways. Belief/Opinion

[@cowart73]

Christ says to love all people. Yes. And the loving thing is to say to our brothers and sisters with a same sex attraction to live a life of chastity, not encourage immoral sexual acts.

[@davidreitz5525]

Did Jesus say it was immoral? In all of humanity, God walked among us, teaching, for only 3 years. It never came up. He did preach against church leaders who thought themselves better than the sinners. He did speak against divorce. He did caution against looking for the splinter in our neighbor’s eye. Mostly he preached love. Read all the ‘Letters in Red’ to see what what most important to God.

[@cowart73]

@@davidreitz5525 Adultery is taking the sexual act and making it impure. He definitely spoke against that. God created man and woman for each other in a mutual self-gift. Having a same-sex attraction is one thing, but acting on those desires in a sexual way is not what God intended as evidenced in the Old Testament and the New Testament. Homosexual "sex" is not procreative. It gives no self-gift, but only pleasure. Paul speaks to homosexual acts in 1 Corinthians 6. The Didache (catechism of the Apostles) explicitly condemns the act. It is love itself to tell those with a same-sex attraction the truth...Jesus loves chastity. He lived it himself, as did His mother. Promote chastity, not sins of the flesh.

[@kimprather4121]

@David Reitz Jesus didn’t talk about it because it wasn’t an issue. It was covered in the existing Jewish laws at the time.

[@vladtheinhaler8940]

@@davidreitz5525 he preached love your God with all your heart and to love thy neighbor as you do yourself, this doesn't mean you accept the sins of the person as well. You can love someone else and oppose their sinful behavior, this isn't a hard concept to understand. You saying He did speak against divorce isn't being intellectually honest. Jesus didn't just prohibit it and leave it at that, he had quite a bit to say on the matter. 19 When Jesus had finished saying these things,(B) he left Galilee and went into the region of Judea to the other side of the Jordan. 2 Large crowds followed him, and he healed them(C) there. 3 Some Pharisees came to him to test him. They asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife(D) for any and every reason?” 4 “Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’[a](E) 5 and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’[b]?(F) 6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” 7 “Why then,” they asked, “did Moses command that a man give his wife a certificate of divorce and send her away?”(G) 8 Jesus replied, “Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning. 9 I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.”(H) 10 The disciples said to him, “If this is the situation between a husband and wife, it is better not to marry.” 11 Jesus replied, “Not everyone can accept this word, but only those to whom it has been given.(I) 12 For there are eunuchs who were born that way, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by others-and there are those who choose to live like eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.”

[@fit-bits6658]

It’s right there in Genesis, homosexually is a perversion of God’s sanctity of marriage. The sinner will always try to justify themselves, but the word of God separate’s the wheat from the chaff!

[@vegasgeorge]

A perfect example of compassion overwhelming righteous judgment. Sometimes the proper answer is “No,” regardless of how sorry you feel for the other person.

[@tsharpton1]

Well said vegasgeorge. I heard a quote lately "The culture is in the free-fall that the culture is in not because pagans are being pagans but Christians arn't being Christians" What is right is not always popular and now days I see the church going with the popular culture more than with what the Word of God actually says about it. Scripture is over all. The quadrilateral (Bible, Tradition, Reason and Experience) in my opinion should not be LATERAL at all. The Bible should be the ultimate authority.

[@beverlygraham7135]

…..You can’t always get what you want.

[@ericjefferson9684]

It won't be long before a lot of churches believe Adultery is acceptable when enough people say they can love more than one person. As long as we can keep people happy so they keep tithing who cares.

[@jimweatherly5738]

“I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.” ‭‭Romans‬ ‭16‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭ Which one are you?

[@larryoliversr.4141]

God's word never Changes God does not have to change rather the sinner has to repent and change

[@bernlin2000]

Change to what?

[@ricknelson4721]

I have been a Methodist all my life. I was baptized in the United Methodist Church. Now there will be a split with many churches leaving the UMC. I am a traditionalist, as is my church. We will be leaving the UMC in 2023. I feel that the UMC is leaving us rather than the other way. I see many other so-called progressive ideas coming into the UMC that I simply cannot adhere to. Whether I will go to another denomination or another Methodist denomination has yet to be decided.

[@sheilasmith7779]

Rick: It's the right decision. Being a Methodist is unimportant, being a Christian that follows scripture does matter. I am a Cumberland Presbyterian, a group that broke from the ( calvinist) Westminister Confession of faith in 1880s. Doctrine matters. Most Christians that remain in "woke," churches are too attached to a denomination, or a pastor....or simply don't know scripture. Many have confused tolerance with compassion. To be Born again, means to repent of sin, not tolerate it by inviting it in to our church. Where is the boundary? Why not invite in the adulterer, the rapist or murderer? Why stop at homosexual sin? Righteous, means righteous.

[@ykben51]

So everyone does what is right in their own eyes...

[@malachi551]

Yes, that’s pretty much why the GMC is being created.they really don’t want to accept the teachings of scripture and repent of the harm their ideology does.

[@deanc2574]

So happy I left the UMC....listening to this re-affirmed my decision to be correct..

[@reapthewhirlwind4166]

He seems so out of touch. I left the Presbyterian Church because I knew that "inclusivity" did not apply to me or my views

[@dash9658]

Our church will be voting soon to leave the UMC and on so many levels it will be for the best. Can’t wait for our new chapter in the GMC ❤

[@mcneillmama50]

Praying for the gmc to sow good seed and grow. Each one reach one for Christ.

[@WTFWelcometoFlorida]

Then why is the GCM allowing women pastors? That's something in the culture that isn't allowed by the Bible. Make up your mind. How come you can't admit you just don't like gay people and leave it at that? You're just using the Bible to justify your hate.

[@diegojaramillo5063]

1 Timothy 4:3 For 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.

[@mattcarter4690]

*2 Timothy 4:3 😎

[@glennanderson7835]

Exactly….Today’s “Liberal” are NOT liberal. “Social doctrine”…or God’s doctrines. This “Pastor” is on dangerous ground. He pleases man….alone. Practicing unrepentant homosexuals in your church? Practicing and unrepentant adulterers in your church? Compassionate progressives vs compassionate conservatives? Compassion is truth; not the surrendering of truth. He believes the Bible is errant and of men…not inspired of God. Love people but don’t compromise Godly standards. Statistics applied to acceptance of evil should never drive a church. This pastor is “serving” the itching ears of man and not God. ..when evil is called good!………

[@BirdDogey1]

Preach law and gospel. Call for repentance and celebrate Christ's forgiveness. Don't celebrate sin.

[@theresabyars2264]

Yes, we want to teach the Good News and teach the Holiness of God and all that HE Is! If people don't agree with the doctrines and don't want to change for the Glory of God and be Holy and Righteous before God they need to move on. Churches are for those who want to Live their Lives for God, Trinity and to know the Word of God. If you don't understand the Word of God then learn from a Good Theologian, R C Sproul and others. One cannot change the doctrines, principles and concepts that God wrote for us so we can please God and not ourselves! We are nothing w/o God! I didn't understand some of the Old Testament, but God can lead me to understand! God Loves everyone but He didn't create sin! God can change lives to His Glory and Honor but one must repent and believe the Atonement of Christ! Have Faith and Trust Him. Peace and Blessings in Jesus's Name God changes lives, save souls,, and has a new Kingdom for us who believe and receive his gift!

[@jolongendyke3452]

Repent is your key word. As long as gays and lesbians are actively practicing their lifestyle, I do NOT want them to be pastors and leaders. And, God created Adam and Eve, Not Adam and Arthur or Eve and Elaine, to procreate.

[@grace4peace]

@@jolongendyke3452 I completely agree with you. For gays and lesbians it seems to be a bigger price to follow Christ, for they do not know if Christ sets them completely free from their feelings. Following Christ and not be set free means for them in order to be ordained, practice chastity and staying single as Jesus and Paul did.

[@derykdavid2849]

You mean to say that the Bible which was used to justify slavery and second class status for women is the justification for your hate towards Gays and Lesbians? Beating your children as discipline is also right then?

[@derykdavid2849]

And please don’t clobber me with the 6 clobber passages.

[@rickygibson423]

Good morning I am a life long Methodist and I have used a few of your opinions in the past in the teachings I share. We all serve the one and only Creator in Heaven our God and uphold the Bible as law and obedience if we believe. I’m sad what’s happening to the UMC and how Satan has Slip his ways into the philosophy of god’s children in the churches. Let’s all work overtime to battle the devil and keep Gods word Holy and true

[@marieleemcgill5011]

I just don’t understand I’m heartbroken that a church and it’s not not just UMC it’s other denominations having drag queens one was dressed up as a demon come in and preach to the kids, other churches having drag queens come in and teach to their kids I’m sorry this is wrong wrong wrong, this is evil end in the last times it says even our churches will go astray. This breaks my heart

[@artqua811]

I’m excited about the future as well. I think additional clarity will help us in our efforts to grow more disciples of Jesus. Thank you, Rev. Hamilton.

[@marthadrake1652]

The real issue with the UMC has NOTHING TO DO WITH homosexuality! They are taking JESUS out of the bible or changing him to a prophet that was not resurrected!! This is evil and GOD will sort this out in the end! Praying for all of the souls you are all condemning to hell for all eternity!!

[@KT37915A]

In almost every church that I am part of, if a pastor is found in an adulterous relationship, they are immediately removed. Sexual immorality is spelled out clearly throughout the new testament. If a pastor is removed for adultery, why are we heralding LGBTQ pastors which is also a sexual sin? It should be treated the same way.

[@johne7345]

I would rather have a gay pastor who is in a committed and exclusive relationship than an adulterous gender-conforming pastor.

[@mattbochat3957]

Been a Unite Methodist for a long time. I welcome and love anyone that comes to our church and encourage all to come. What they do in a relationship, is their business. However, when they want to be married in the UMC, they are defiling the sacred covenant of marriage that is between a man and a woman. God will not and does not affirm those marriages. No where in the bible (to my knowledge) does God bless same sex marriage. That becomes the breaking point to me. The more we water down the Bible the slippery the slope becomes. We are all sinners and all in great need of God's grace. We don't need to invite sinfulness into the pulpit and defile the sacred covenant of marriage.

[@lizdeverill5829]

The Church should not change to fit in with modern society. The Bible is God’s word and doesn’t change. Loving people does not always mean that we shouldn’t speak the truth. God’s truth. I was lost before I became a Christian and Jesus helped me to repent of my past and I was born again and baptised. I am not perfect and need God’s help to live as I believe He wants me to according to his word. Every day. Promiscuity is a sin, both by heterosexuals, gay people, anyone. As is lying, stealing, selfishness, and failing to care for the poor etc.

[@alanaban3519]

It is wrong you do not endorse the wrong by marriage especially at that level in the premise of love

[@alanaban3519]

Totally agree the word must change us we do not change the word to suite lifestyle

[@davidreitz5525]

You heard Pastor bring up that scripture, if a man lies with a man. They are to be put to death. So are you holding to that verse?

[@smartwiseone]

@@davidreitz5525 ... are you holding to the idea "to go and keep on sinning" or didn't Jesus say "go and sin no more"?

[@jenniferkelley6746]

Thank you for so thoughtfully and graciously sharing your heart on this situation.

[@sylviafullerton7416]

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

[@davidrupert5285]

Unfortunately a lot of the UMC doesn't believe that.

[@jsharp3165]

@@davidrupert5285 No, they usually do. But they believe people can be saved by Jesus through whatever religion they are in as long as they are following the limited light they've been given, even if they aren't aware Jesus is doing it. It's called inclusivism.

[@rah1721]

@@jsharp3165 Awful and not the gospel.

[@kikkan7110]

@@jsharp3165 God does not give confusion, He is clearity.

[@johndoe-ln4oi]

@@jsharp3165 Most of the Methodists that do take Jesus at His word have left, or are leaving, the UMC. The UMC has now become the Unitarian Methodist Church.

[@carolinesanders5889]

Excellent Presentation. The main issue; however to me is NOT related to LGBTQ issues, but that the Bishops are not enforcing the discipline of the UMC that was voted on and remained as written. Numerous clergy (apparently not you from what you said, which I was glad to hear) are blatantly disregarding the Discipline because they did not like the the way the vote turned out. If a law is passed in the U.S. that you do not personally like, that does not give you the right to break that law and do anything you decide is better or more correct. Many clergy are disregarding the Discipline and are allowing clergy to be ordained that are practicing flagrant homosexuals (LGBTQ)/ UMC clergy are performing LGBTQ weddings in sanctuaries/ new clergy that are practicing LGBTQ individuals are being ordained. So the Discipline and the vote at General Conference by duly elected clergy and laity means nothing any longer. This is not the Methodist Church I joined, nor the UMC that I chose to continue to be an active participant in. In fact, I don't know what the UMC is anymore. The clergy more than laity knew what the organization structure was, how decisions were made, what the Discipline said before they were ordained and agreed to abide by it; yet many are being unfaithful to their promise. It seems to me choices for the clergy & laity should have been to abide by the Discipline and the vote duly taken or leave the UMC. Some more honorable in my estimation like you could have remained in UMC, but perhaps not agreeing with the decision worked to change the Discipline which could have been done or waited and prayed for perhaps another vote that might endorsed a change in the wording. Members of the clergy should be required to abide by the Discipline or essentially the whole process is broken and the Discipline is a sham. / Caroline Sanders/Munholland UMC/Metairie, LA

[@sheilasmith7779]

Caroline, I agree. BTW, there is no social gospel vs evangelism; there is but one gospel, andvbut one scripture. Unfortunately the Methodist have lost their way too. The scriptures are not ambiguous about sexually. Hurt feelings and "inclusiveness," today trumps biblical truth. The Methodists and other churches have decided to view the scripture as a religious buffet. So pastor, we have gone from stoning gays to affirming sexual sinners?

[@philnaegely]

they are doing this because the general conference was taking up the issue etc; the judical branch has agreed.

[@xnlover]

@@sheilasmith7779 If "the scriptures are not ambiguous about sexually[sic]," then men can have babies by their wives' maids (Abraham and Hagar), men can have two wives and two concubines (Jacob), men can have multiple wives (David, Solomon), men can have children with their daughters (Lot), and the only limitation placed on what men can do with women is that deacons and elders must have only one wife. Interesting lack of ambiguity! (And, by the way, these could be considered "biblical truth," since God meted out no punishment to any of these men for what they did.)

[@sheilasmith7779]

@@xnlover Adultry was never sanctioned by God. No, scripture has never been ambiguous about sexuality. What God has permitted on some matters through time has changed but the scripture has never been ambiguous about those matters.

[@xnlover]

@@sheilasmith7779 Your comment about "what God has permitted on some matters through time" destroys your own argument against homosexuality. God may not have "permitted" homosexuality in biblical times, but God is permitting same-sex loving people to become married partners today. Sorry, Sheila, you're simply making excuses to hold on to your prejudices.

[@TheEmrickman]

Listening from Montgomery TX to get a different perspective. Thank you.

[@amcall]

My church is leaving because the UMC no longer accepts the authority of scripture, doesn't believe that Jesus is the only way to heaven, and the lack of accountability in leadership.

[@johne7345]

Jesus does not teach rejection of LGBT people.

[@amcall]

​@johne7345 I'm not sure he would teach "rejection" of anyone. He would object to the sin. I assume you're trying to say that homosexuality is not a sin because Jesus didn't mention it by name? He also didn't mention child molesters or beastiality. He came to die for us because we are sinners. We can accept His free gift or not. We can bend to the world or follow His commands. He gives us free will. I'm not sure why you brought this subject up to me specifically. My church didn't leave the UMC based on this subject. It didn't even come up. See my original comment.

[@Speachism]

"Where do we find ourselves today?" Believing in God but denying His power, being blinded by human compassion.

[@tracieh215]

Dr Hamilton, you make me want to return to church. You really, really make this cradle Methodist gone Wiccan gone Buddhist gone Stoic gone Episcopalian want to come back to my original tradition. You make me hungry for a church of love, compassion, encouragement, all of it.

[@kathrynbraun2073]

My local church is leaving the UMC and I’m glad

[@robertcarr7943]

God is unchangeable. He knew this was going to happen in 2010 up to know. He wants to know, as Christians, how are we going to handle this. God loves everyone but hates sin because we serve a Holy God. I have heard practicing homosexual say, "I can ask God to forgive me an He has too." No he doesn't because He knows your heart. He already knows your going to do it again and again. Our society, which has lost any meaningful idea of sin, Righteousness, holiness, and truth. That message is that all life-styles are not acceptable. Some life-styles such as alcoholism, or materialism or homosexuality are wrong; they are sinful. Those who engage in such behavior should come to God in confession and repentance and ask for His forgiveness and healing.

[@mypointofview6056]

We are not leaving the UMC, the UMC left us!

[@terrymeadows1827]

Repentance would be wonderful, but the UMC and its members haven't given a rip what the Bible says for decades. Like all leftist religious groups, they see themselves as wise and judge God's Word insufficient. Eden redux. They''ll end up joining with other leftist religious groups and die together. Good riddance.

[@sueswanson3072]

This is the first time I’ve heard this side of the issue snd I’m grateful for hearing it

[@williamnegron6779]

Yet no one is leaving the church over materialism or alcoholism, both which is prevalent and overlooked

[@cowart73]

Are they promoting alcoholism, too?

[@katelar57]

My father was a United Methodist minister for 40 years in the NW Ohio Conference. I was baptised in the Methodist church and have at times been a member of the Methodist/United Methodist Church and at other times, a Presbyterian (I am a church organist and go where I am needed or hired.) In my earlier comment, I suggested that we, members of the United Methodist Church, are not God and it is only for God to determine whether an individual has sinned. As a Christian, I believe that Christ came to earth and was resurrected to show God's forgiveness for my sins. The world had not lived according to the commandments he provided to the Israelites. Jesus said he came to tell humankind that we should love our neighbor. He did not say we should make judgements based on our own interpretation of the Bible. You can pick and choose your issue and find a Bible verse that fits with what you believe to be true. For example, in 1 Corinthians 11:6 "For if a wife will not cover her head, then she should cut her hair short. But since it is disgraceful for a wife to cut off her hair or shave her head, let her cover her head." In the United Methodist Church, we do not require women to cover their heads. In the New Testament, we are told women should not dress like men. Does this mean that, when I wear pants to church on a cold winter day, I am committing a sin? Another example, Paul has some interesting ideas about divorce. In our country, your spouse can divorce you whether you want it or not. Does this mean I am a sinner if I am divorced and I did not commit adultery? That I am condemned because the father of my children left our marriage? Fortunately, after my divorce I found a wonderful United Methodist church with a singles program. It was there that I met the man I have been married to for over 40 years. If that church had taken Paul's stance on divorce and condemned the separated and divorced, I would have never felt the love of God that I felt in that group. That church and its singles program was doing exactly what Jesus has commanded us to do. Again, for me, what is important here is Jesus' command that we love our neighbor. Think about that. None of us is without sin. It is when we start picking out our own version of the Bible to support what we think that we get ourselves into trouble. I am sad to see the United Methodist Church changing; the church I have known all my life, falling apart. Dad and I had several conversations about this issue and the issue of the abuse of women and children in the church. He correctly predicted 10 years ago that this issue of sexual preference would be the undoing of the United Methodist Church. We live in an area of Ohio where I suspect all of the UM churches within a 50-mile radius will disaffiliate. I'm not sure where I am supposed to worship if I do not agree with a pastor who preaches that, what I believe in my heart, what I feel Christ's message is - is wrong. We are probably going to drive 30 minutes to an Episcopalian church where all are welcomed and loved in the name of Jesus Christ our Savior. Romans 14:13

[@greenftechn]

It is interesting that you describe your personal experience so eloquently and describe the grace and freedom you found in the singles ministry of your church. Think about that from the perspective of those whom you would presume to judge much like many would judge you. I am no one of them.

[@cherylburnett2014]

I say this in love. God delivered me from 29 years of homosexuality. You do have to love gays and lesbians. You love them to the gospel. AND, you teach the COMPLETE gospel which is that the gospel transforms. My life was transformed by Jesus Christ. The Word is like a spiritual scouring pad-it cleans out our desires and makes them align with the desires of God. The flesh is thinking, but the Spirit is the Word. WE deal with God on the basis of faith, not on the basis of reason or logic. We don’t deny His authority. There are those in the body that are willing to capitulate to the pressures of the world, society and culture places on us because it’s not popular to stand true to what God has said. If we take a stand for what God says, we’re going to be labeled a lot of things. He put us here to uphold, to take a stand for the things that are true, pure, holy and righteous (those things that God established as boundaries), to fight the good fight of faith, not for what’s easy and expedient. In Revelation 3, John was witnessing the church of Philadelphia, that was obviously having to go through those kinds of struggles, and it costs them a lot. The church of Philadelephia had kept His Word, they didn’t deny His authority, and they didn’t deny His name.1 John 2:16 says “For all that is in the world-the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life-is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.” Homosexuality is rooted in lust, the lust of the flesh. Mankind has invented a different God. They invented a God whose morality they define, and they think it’s superior to Jesus. They think everything is good. They think all paths lead to the same place. God’s Word is no longer the basis for people’s morality. Instead, they have cast aside God’s Word for morality that includes everyone, everything, and every type of behavior, where tolerance is a new religion (God did not tolerate sin), and nothing is deemed wrong. Man no longer has the discernment to know the difference between right and wrong or absolute morality. People are deceived. Jesus said “Will the Son of Man find faith when He returns to earth?” He said “straight and narrow is the way that leads to life, and few there be that find it. Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many I say will seek to enter, and not be able.” Satan has convinced people that homosexuality is redeemable. THE ENEMY INCITES FEAR AND DIVIDES SOCIETY AND THE CHURCH! He is telling lies to divide society! The church is arguing, debating fighting just like the culture. We can avoid being deceived by focusing on God’s word and God’s methods-godly methods are always truth, love and freedom. We’re not intimidated or afraid to have our position questioned. Truth loses nothing by close investigation and questioning. Corinth was known for its sexual immorality. In 1 Cor 6:9-10 Paul says “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. And such WERE some of you, but you are washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.” THERE WERE PEOPLE IN THE CHURCH OF CORINTH WHO GOD DELIVERED FROM HOMOSEXUALITY!!!!!! THIS PROVES THAT GOD CAN DELIVER PEOPLE FROM HOMOSEXUALITY!!!!! GOD CAN CHANGE YOU!!! In the 1st century, there were people who used to be gay, and God delivered them!!! By the life-changing grace of God, they received a new nature and new desires!!!! In vs 18, Paul says “Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body.” (homosexuality is sexually immoral), 19-20. Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit? You are not your own. You were bought with a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” Homosexuality is an abomination. You can’t honor God with your bodies if you’re engaging in homosexuality. Paul told the Corinthians that the unrighteous wouldn’t inherit the kingdom of God because he didn’t want them to do anything that was unrighteous.

[@comradeobedkefas7798]

That's quite biblical and godly!

[@joycekramer4710]

Thank you Rev Hamilton for your position on this matter. As Jesus is our example, he did not exclude anyone or turn his back on anyone. I appreciate you for following his example.

[@robertmontgomery5959]

True but He did say "Go and sin no more."

[@joycekramer4710]

@@robertmontgomery5959 He also told us not to judge each other. When a person sins or misses the mark, and WE ALL do, God will handle it with the individual. Its not for us to do the judging of each other.

[@robertmontgomery5959]

@@joycekramer4710 Galatians 6:1 KJV Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. John 7:24 KJV Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment. Sounds like we have a part with one who is called a brother or sister falls into sin.

[@teresabostick3276]

@@robertmontgomery5959 your right

[@sheilasmith7779]

JOYCE K: What scripture are you reading. Did Jesus accept the woman at the well as an adulterer? No. Did He accept the Pharacees when He called them vipers and hypocrites? No. So while his tone and approach was different, His message of sin was the same. He did not preach acceptance of sin. Ever. We invite Christians to join our community and repentant sinners, but never, ever do we invite others living IN SIN to join us and continue in sin. Never. But Satan does welcome and encourage sin. Corruption of the church, a great victory for Satan.

[@janiefox3458]

Watching this long after the fact. I live in West Virginia and attend church in PA. I have absorbed so much of what you've said - - and like so many I am worried about inclusiveness. I was raised in a Quaker family, became an Episcopalian in my early teens - and only have been attending UMC for about 8 years. I am truly heartbroken that again a denomination is splitting for this reason. I do feel that there is more behind it, but for now I will take it at face value. I hope it is all settled for the good of the Lord.

[@jolongendyke3452]

I too am heartbroken about it and must speak out against the acceptance of the LGBTQ? movement, siting James 4:17 as my final reference.

[@brownro214]

I think it's pretty simple, if you don't agree with the denomination's rules you should go elsewhere. In the case of the UMC, the senior leadership doesn't want to enforce the rules so the congregations that want to follow the rules feel they have to leave.

[@randyorr9443]

you would turn your back on your own gay child??? You would have to be a monster! @@jolongendyke3452

[@bernlin2000]

I do believe we are in the midst of another "Great Awakening" and those who deny the "personhood" of the LGBQ community members are turning away from Christ, and embracing an "Anti-Christ" theology...I know the Anti-Christ by name (he's a popular figure in American culture today, it's not hard to see). But this is the process of the Rapture, this is how God told Christian He would sort out the sinners from the saints: a battle of ideas. A battle for the hearts and minds of Christians. Only God gets to judge us in the end: it is not up to individual Christians (or individual churches) to decide if someone is "in sin". Far too many Methodist seem to have adopted Baptist notions of "holiness", and Christ will put a stop to that, in time. The split in the UMC is part of that process, it's just a shame that so many churches (from the right AND the left) have chosen to leave rather than maintain a dialog within the sect. As a former Lutheran, it's disappointing to see that "faith is enough" is, in fact, NOT enough for so many Methodists. It's a faith-based sect that clearly is in need of another "Great Awakening".

[@LL-wz7je]

Meditate on these verses: 1 Timothy 4:1-2 (NLT): Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons. 2 These people are hypocrites and liars, and their consciences are dead. 2 Timothy 4:3-4 (NLT): 3 For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will reject the truth and chase after myths. 2 Timothy 3:16 (NLT): All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.

[@lindamascioli4518]

Thank you for your presentation of this time of trouble in the UMC. You are a true reformer and your congregation is fortunate to have you to lead them through this very complicated era in the UMC. There are a lot of 'if only's of missed opportunities because of the deafening silence from and the prolonged cancellation of General Conference...that have lead to a lot of misunderstandings top down in the UMC. I believe it to be a genuinely held lack of trust for those congregations who have chosen to leave...because there was no clear and concise voice from those in leadership as to the intentions and course corrections with these thorny issues within the book of discipline and how that would play out. They felt squeezed and unheard and misunderstood. Time passed and distrust grew and there were more examples in the meantime within some conferences where the book of discipline was ignored...and pastors and bishops fueled by their passion to do what they thought was gracious and loving...broke from the book of discipline as currently written and were seemingly not subject to consequences. People witnessed that. Disorder, distrust and decades of over emphasis on modernism and social justice theology along with confusing leadership stances.have fueled more fear that the UMC had lost its theological moorings. You, sir, are honoring the book of discipline, working within your conference for concordance so that this issue can find reconciliation and resolution. Prayers for the GC of the UMC in 2024 and a clear eyed vision for the way forward for the UMC and this time of brokenness. As for me, as a past member of the UMC...I left after 2017 because I grew weary of it...too much drama...too much dragging of feet...too many changes of clergy within my congregation and a slow march into a watered down theology from the pulpit. The politics of appropriations, capricious rulings from Bishops, and a paternalist yet vacuous and at times purely political leaning at the top levels, left the people in the pews...literally...left behind and shaking our heads. This is why your church should call themselves blessed because of your strong leadership. Prayers for clergy such as yourself to bring clarity and common sense to the conversation...a breath of fresh air for certain! In the meantime...I have heard the U in UMC referred to as Untied rather than United...confused and without moorings...and although you are a Voice in the Wilderness...for many other people in other UMC congregations...and for those who unfortunately left because they felt they had been left...the Untied word fits...as for me...I chose the roots from which Wesley's movement sprouted...Anglican. Be blessed in your good works...all Christians should be praying for the state of our witness to the world...through the churches.

[@bobbrooke6426]

Some questions concerning the nature of Scripture for those staying in the UMC: 1) Did Jesus understand Scriptures as the primary basis for one's faith and practice? 2) Is God's love for sinners greater than the Scriptures indicate? 3)Some say that since the word of God was written by humans, their words don't adequately capture the timeless word of God. Do we come, thereby, to understand that particular teachings of Scripture are not God's word? And are we, then, to set these teachings aside as no longer applicable? 4) Is it the goal of Christians to understand the Bible's teaching in light of Jesus' teaching to the exclusion of the specific historical circumstances and the understanding of the Bible's authors, who were shaped by their own times and cultures? 5) Does it sound right to say that God is doing something new the Bible doesn't cover, so we ought to follow God and not the Bible. 6) Are God's perspectives different from what we read in the Bible? 7) Do Jesus and the Bible characterize God differently?

[@grdama]

I would have to ask: is two people of the same sex having sexual relations an activity that GOD looks fondly towards and does have HIS approval? If not, shouldn't the activity be labeled a sin? If it is a sin: when accepting, encouraging and permitting such practices, is the UMC encouraging "Same Sex" couples a direct path to hell? Would GOD bless the UMC for being SOO open and understanding? Would the UMC have any responsibilities (especially clergy and administration) for deluding the Couples? Just wondering????

[@johne7345]

"Direct path to hell," something that does not even exist?

[@hyungyongchoi1718]

The problem is that most local church members do not even know what is going on. My Bishop and DS were basically telling us that you have no right to know, speak, and vote.

[@victoraxten3761]

We found out by accident . Then ask our pastor about it and told us he and our leadership team made the decision for the congregation they figured there was not enough people to disaffiliate if we would or not they never presented us the issue

[@hyungyongchoi1718]

@@victoraxten3761 I send my prayer to you. 6250 churches are now disaffiliated from the UMC. I am now a Global Methodist Church clergy. There will be more. Jesus was not a queer!

[@dash9658]

GMC is putting its power in each individual church unlike the bloated UMC who puts financial burdens onto their churches. The GMC will thrive. The UMC is losing on so many levels.

[@elainegilbert628]

Thank you! As a 81 year old preachers kid, the UMC has been my community all my life. I can only see loving each and every person that I come in contact with makes God pleased. Love one another. Period.

[@Warfeist]

It is not love to allow someone to misrepresent God's word.

[@marthadrake1652]

The end of times is near. This was ALL foretold and they are all doomed to tribulation!

[@fit-bits6658]

Love sinners but hate the sin!

[@lynnshurtleff]

True and we see this happening more and more with evangelicals and the hate they are spreading. God doesn’t say only love certain people. Jesus speaks out against adultery many times but that has become an accepted sin.

[@Logiconfire]

If you love someone you tell them the truth.

[@shawnstoll8798]

Thank you for this kind and balanced approach to a complex topic. You have given us language to share in grace and truth, and I think it is in that wrestle that Jesus can be seen most clearly. Many blessings as we move forward together as a community of faith.

[@wediglearning9964]

Thank you for your words and thoughts.

[@BryanBrainer]

John 16:13 "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come" We cant look at the bible and pick it apart and force it to say what we want. When We follow Christ the spirit is with us ….the bible is "living" and the spirit of Truth Convicts us on right and wrong. We cant rely on just the word or just his spirit. We need the spirit to helps us understand what is written. Thank you God for your Spirit and Strong convictions. Let your SPIRIT guide us to the heart of the FATHER.

[@francanarsie]

I left the Methodist church as a youth. I had a spiritual experience that my pastor could not explain. To me, my Methodist congregation was about good manners, covered dishes and choir specials, nothing supernatural, nothing about the Holy Spirit, nothing.

[@benjaminfprincejr.7083]

A sermon I needed to hear. I am deeply concerned about the consequences of separation if my church (FUMC of Sylacauga, AL) chooses to leave. Thank you, sir.

[@benjaminfprincejr.7083]

Update: By the grace of God FUMC of Sylacauga, AL is remaining United Methodist. Please pray for us as we seek to mend hurt feelings and move forward in this great denomination.

[@brownro214]

@@benjaminfprincejr.7083 More correctly, in defiance of the Word of God your congregation has decided to stay in the failing denomination.

[@Brenda-kr8ds]

Brenda - Lake Charles LA. Thank you for addressing this subject.

[@renatawalker9897]

I believe you have found the answer to resolve the current conflict in our church, Rev.Hamilton! By removing that troubling clause from the Book of Discipline would give each congregation the choice to decide which way is right for them. Then we would hopefully concentrate on our other existing Methodist doctrines.

[@shihyuchu6753]

THE FAITH was once delivered...and is not according to whim and designed to fit the culture. Jesus is GOD...he was RAISED from the DEAD...and offers eternal life as a GIFT receive by FAITH. All other religiosity is just cheap counterfeit

[@brucehoyt3771]

Thank you for your insight into this issue. I belong to a church that seems to be leaning towards the GMC. I personally do not want to see our church divide. I do, however, want to see the church uphold the discipline as you said your church does. Our denomination has done nothing in regards to Bishop Oliveto who should never have accepted her position as it is in direct conflict with the discipline. I wish you had also addressed how a lack of action by our church leadership has created much of this fracture that now seems inevitable. I think the real problem here is that we have become so consumed by this one issue and have forgot that loving God and people is job one.

[@leslietomlinson9038]

I agree that there are significant issues that are motivating the move to the GMC that Rev Hamilton did not acknowledge. The broken state of our denomination’s governance is key. I hear Rev Hamilton say he feels misunderstood. I think he equally misunderstands those moving to the GMC.

[@pwcorgi2000]

Yes, God wants us to love Him, and others. But that doesn't mean negating Sin.

[@fit-bits6658]

Love the sinner but hate the Sin. Gods word & Gods church are his.. not ours to misrepresent. Remember: 24Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, 25because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen. 26For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; 27and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error.

[@fareshajjar1208]

It's not one issue. A majority of the leadership of the UMC as it stands now does not believe in in the resurrection, the scripture as the word of God, most of the writings of Paul, is the atonement of the blood of Christ, or that Jesus is the way, truth, and light and no one comes to the Father but through HIm. Sexuality is only a small part of the divide.

[@MaxLaw843]

Start the GMC about some people's projection of what MIGHT happen? That is not what I would ever do. Instead, I dowhatbI can to follow Jesus' direction to help and support the "least of these.". Also, the Gospel of Luke plainly shows that Jesus came for the poor, the sinners, the outcasts. To me, the GMC says one thing but to me ignores so very, very much and cherry picks truth and even the Bible.

[@robertjones7605]

Human logic is not divine. It is a path that has led many people away from God, and continues to do so whenever we disagree with what God says. We have crafted a religion that is failing, and it is no coincidence, that the failure rides on human logic influenced by subjective empathy. It is sad to see ministers using their own experience and logic to override the Word of God. But, this is not new, it has been part of the Church since the apostles began to carry the Lord's word into the world. It will not be your church that carries you to the Lord, but your heart.

[@mikezinner5070]

The church I want to be apart of is one that loves without compromising Jesus's convictions as they are written in the Bible. We shouldn't change the wording of the Bible we should teach it and explain what it means in modern society. I personally feel judgement on either end of the argument is wrong and not for humans to decide. We shouldn't hate people for any reason, we shouldn't shun people for any reason. We should be able to base how we feel about marriage and being ordaned in the ministry on Jesus's words in the Bible. If we can't put biblical meaning behind this....its simply because it's not biblical. For now I'm just gonna keep praying and seeking wisdom to know the difference and just keep on loving and accepting people through Christ without conditions.

[@matthewstanger1423]

I was part of the Wesleyan church. I left 10 years came back it was not the same Holyness Church I left. 😪 so sad 😞 but I found a better church I found a Reformed Baptist church I'm so happy it preaches the word and the Calvinistic way is always what I believe in.

[@drobertson1958]

I am at a Church that has gone through the process as set forth and ready to vote. The Bishop in North Central Texas has said no more Churches will be allowed to vote in 2022. This is so wrong to leave a Church in conflict that has followed the process UMC has set forth. I am Christian but I am coming more and more to the conclusion that UMC does not care about their congregation unless the $$$$$$$ is rolling in!

[@vladtheinhaler8940]

The UMC is a corrupted organization.

[@myrapizzo1773]

Thank you for sharing the other side!

[@annpippin6388]

I am.so glad to.hear that you.are not leaving The Traditional UMC .

[@ron5501]

My Church is voting this next Sunday evening. I have been an employee of the united methodist church for a few years now . I was baptized in the same church I attended and work at today. This division within our church has been overwhelming and heart breaking. My position is onthe traditional side , but just as the time comes closer to the vote I find myself wondering should I even be voting on this at all? I have a problem with being part of a judgement against any of GOD'S people. I am a sinner. I am a Christian. I love all equally. I want to fallow the path set before me, by my Holy Father. I vowed to uphold the church , but I swear devotion to The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Not a building or any specific congregation nor any organization. On Sunday the 16th I will not be voting, I will be moving away from any organized religious organization. I will continue to practice my beliefs as I have and I will continue to spread GOD'S word to all who will hear. As I said I work for the church, but I am not the pastor I'm the janitor. However I am ordained, I do not feel adequate to lead a church because I am so week . My sins are a cognitive action. I am a chain smoker. I smoke Marijuana, I am not at all someone who should be leading a congregation. I believe our pastor should be held at a higher standard. Someone who is leading by example. Repentance, compassion, being that example.

[@vladtheinhaler8940]

You put too much importance on a man made denomination that interprets the Bible according to the surrounding culture. You are not passing judgment on people by not allowing unbiblical practices to be accepted by the church.

[@vernonquarles1740]

I am new to the discussion within the Methodist Church. I did some research and found Romans 1:26-31. Thank you for letting me comment.

[@ykben51]

In regard to the "Three Buckets", who determines what Scripture goes in what bucket and how or by what standard is that determination is made?

[@hexahexametermeter]

He does

[@barrybarnett9449]

Wow! What a spin. What is your definition of marriage? The church chases the culture, not Vice versa.

[@scottlucas8498]

I'm from the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Australia. It seems the UMC is going down the same path of the Uniting Church in Australia which now allows gay clergy and gay marriage and even created a second rite of marriage for same-sex marriage, which is polar opposite to the real rite of marriage for heterosexual marriage. Both can't be right under God's Word. Unfortunately the UCA here don't believe the Bible is the Word of God either (sounding much like the UMC). They claim the Bible "contains" the Word of God, so which parts are or aren't and who decides? Total apostacy. I've also watched the 6 videos created for the GMC and think they are going the right way. UMC can't possibly call themselves a Christian Church. The videos are very explanative and cover all the issues.

[@calvinbrady9944]

Good job. You're judge, jury and executioner all rolled into one.

[@scottlucas8498]

@@calvinbrady9944 I'm simply observing what's happening and how like the Uniting Church in Australia is like, and also now the Anglican Church in Australia splitting as well. Unfortunately, when you leave God's Word, and make some of the claims I've heard (not in this video) where bishops of UMC have claimed that Jesus was only relevant for His day, not now, and that the Bible is not the Word of God, then how can they call themselves a Christian Church. And that's without the whole same-sex marriage fiasco being thrown in. It would seem that the progressives of the UMC are the executioner unfortunately, and we, as Christians, are called to use good judgment. God will be the ultimate judge here.

[@vladtheinhaler8940]

@@calvinbrady9944 way to completely ignore his entire statement in order to use a strawman.

[@tommac5411]

Nice job. These truly are difficult times for churches and denominations.

[@BAYBAY_316]

I've been agnostic for a long time now, so it is fair to say I have not listened to a pastor talk for 43 minutes in a very very long time but I promise you I wouldn't have made it to the end if you didn't seem like a fair and just man. I very much appreciate how you're trying to find that balance between scripture and being a good person and leader to people. All I've ever asked from Christians is to "practice what you preach" so to speak.

[@mitchmclean5435]

Independent evangelical tuning in from Wollongong, Australia.

[@alanpigg9806]

I was born a white heterosexual male. I did not have a choice of who I am because God made me. He also made homosexual people. God made us and told us to love one another as ourselves. I can't change how I feel or my body chemistry to be gay just as a gay person can't change who they are. Excluding gay people from God's church and other parts of sacraments is a sin against what God has created. Who are we to change that?

[@smartwiseone]

There is always a choice. You can make the choice to be gay and you can make the choice to not live in sin. Gay people are NOT being excluded from God's church. That is NOT even an issue. The issue is upholding God's Holy Word and following The UMC Book of Discipline. Why take vows to do so? Do you want leaders like that leading your church. Making vows and then not keeping them?

[@richardcanon755]

I promised myself I would open mindedly review positions on both sides of disaffiliation. This is the first I have read supporting to stay UM. Sorry Brother, I love you, but you did not convince me that you are correct. I will continue to search the "stay UMC" side. AT 75 and having been a Wesleyan Methodist all my life, I do plan to stay one. At this point, probably not a UM though.

[@gailgoins5230]

Thank you for explaining this in a way that is loving and compassionate. I appreciate hearing the side to stay Methodist as my minister is on the disaffiliation side.

[@brownro214]

Your pastor is on the side of the Book of Discipline.

[@Logiconfire]

Adam is excellent communicator. However, no matter how he spins it the final destination for those traveling on the wide road never changes.

[@EdnaSizemore-gh9nh]

Amen to that

[@shihyuchu6753]

Do you believe in absolute truth?

[@PastorJohnBalliet]

Adam, I appreciated this video. I too take great offense, as one who holds to the BOD, with the inaccurate claims. Thank you for your accurate articulation of the situation at hand .

[@cheryllee6817]

❤️thank you SC needs lots of prayers

[@EdnaSizemore-gh9nh]

It sure does.

[@marthastone4843]

I want to understand both views of what is going on. I have many questions but here are a few. Do you believe the scriptures are the word of God? Do you believe the Bible is truly authoritative? What is your stance on second Timothy 3:16? Do you follow all of the apostle Paul’s scripture?

[@marilynfutrell6781]

One of our old pastors went to conference. He was already to preach and revival. He said they looked at him like he was crazy. It was all about money and they passed budget of $600,000,00 dollars. I feel we are packing the higher ups pockets. We little churches are struggling.

[@vladtheinhaler8940]

This seems to be mostly about financial reasons like you said. They are dropping the language if it hurts their chances of getting new people into their church and adopting views that will appeal to the wider society. It's ultimately about having more people to pay into the church.

[@comradeobedkefas7798]

God's moral stand cannot be changed to suit human instincts. Thanks that you did admit that you change but such change cannot be applied to God. His love for sinners has not changed but note that His anger towards sin has not changed too.

[@Imsaved777]

The question everyone needs to be asking is “What saith the Scriptures?” Anyone can sugarcoat doctrine but what does God Himself say about the issue facing the United Methodist Church.

[@brock2443]

Leviticus 20:13 is pretty clear.

[@dchewning1]

It’s either the culture or Gods truth, choose wisely

[@1Phoenizian]

I'm not a member, but have been attending a Methodist church for several years. I was unaware of this history and had been wondering about the people who left our church over the gay issue and why our pastor did not talk openly about the politics. I have been trained to help people who are traumatized and for these folks, so often the heart is closed by fear and being accepted and loved is profoundly healing. Thank you for your open-heart.

[@annpippin6388]

To Rev Adam Hamilton ,I am.glsd to.hear that you are not leaving The UMC .

[@BigdaddiZ]

I pray for the gmc, they will face many financial hardships in the future. The umc is a long-standing organization and will remain long after the disaffected leave. I hope things go well for all that leave, I however am called to grow the UMC, through gods word and the love of Jesus Christ. This is my church and I will not abandon it.

[@frankjennings4849]

The UMC abandoned me with the re-interpretation of the gospel.

[@douglasmayer5079]

Pastor, while I respect your experience as a leader for your congregation, I must disagree. We are called as Christians to change for Him, not the other way around. Pastors like you who are moved by the emotional stories of people whose lifestyle is, according to BOTH the Old and New Testaments, incompatible with Christian teaching are why we are in this situation. I had the displeasure of attending a UMC in southern California a year ago. Everyone in the church except for one older couple and myself were homosexual, including the clergy. That in and of itself is not a bad thing, but the entire service was a glorification of their lifestyle with little to resemble a Christian service. That, I am afraid, is what the future holds, because it has happened to other denominations. Services become celebrations of self, and not glorification of the Word. Once you proceed down the road of celebrating that which we have always known to be sinful, then you cease to be a Christian church. You were called to defend the Word of God, not ally with those opposed to it and seek ways to soften it. It saddens me that this is where we are, but I believe those who stand by the Word will emerge stronger in their faith as a result.

[@budmeade4583]

What is missing is a discussion about the Book of Discipline being ignored and unenforced. Choosing to disobey the Book of Discipline because one doesn't agree, is in my opinion, unacceptable and damaging to the UMC. The ordination and election to the position of Bishop by a self avowed, practicing homosexual is contrary to the BOD. One can stay true to the BOD and still be loving, accepting, and welcoming. God tells us to love every, God does not tell us to approve of what everyone wants to do.

[@percyhawkins716]

The Bible calls it an abomination. How does the Church get around that? Serious question.

[@mlhremix]

Thank you for this. I am new to the UMC and just recently attended a church council meeting about whether or not to begin the disaffiliation process. I really appreciate your thoughtful insight here.

[@anneharris2860]

This is very well stated and easy to follow.

[@johne6081]

Adam Hamilton is great. I have watched a few of his videos and read his books. Good, balanced, open, honest.

[@jimcherry217]

Wonderful clear presentation. As a retired radiologist, I am fascinated by continuing research confirming the complexities of sexuality. In my field, functional MRI (essentally brain mapping) has added to the embryology, genetics and hormone timing and interplay aspects of current research. Not a binary issue !

[@grace4peace]

What do you want to say with your words? I have a medical education as well as a theological but I do not understand what you imply. Keep it simple for simple people

[@jimcherry217]

@@grace4peace Hello, yes I would be happy to explain my comments further, if you wish. Extensive and complicated topic (human sexuality). Certainly not a black-white, male-female issue as I once thought. Roughly speaking, one can look at it as two ends of a spectrum were the great majority are male or female, but a lot of gray in-between, such as the rare genetic variation in a village in the Dominican Republic where "girls" at birth grow penises at puberty, or the PMDS (persistent Mullerian Duct Syndrome, in which anatomic males may have periods with blood in their urine or semen.

[@marthadrake1652]

I believe in loving everyone even if they don’t love me but…Gods’s word is the final word and it is against God to bless a marriage between the same sex persons. This is a sign of the end of the world. Evil is not good! Your church is lost and God will make the final judgement on you and your members!! Praying for your lost souls.

[@dannyiselin]

UMC bishops: 🎶🎼🎼"we have decided...to follow MAMMON...no turning back.🎵

[@alivingfaith]

The Bible clearly states that whoever loveth knoweth God for God is Love. It doesnt say only if you love the right person. Thank you for this balanced presentation, Pastor. Our small group enjoys studing your books even tho we are not Methodist.

[@kathrynbraun2073]

You’re not responding to/writing about “love”, that is the love expressed in Corinthians-you’re talking about sex--when did you decide sex = love???

[@jollypearltank8935]

You should try reading the Bible more but this guy's book. Blatantly saying love in order to cover for sin is ignorant. It's obvious to me this guy wants his pension 😉

[@notmyrealname6150]

Love and sexual lust are 2 different things. Have you ever seen an LGBT pride parade? If you did, you would realize how deviant they are.

[@Sanddollar1]

I am dumbfounded at this post. It just goes to show just how biblically ignorant and off the mark mainline denomination churches, like the Lutherans, have become. Just amazingly ignorant of even basic Scriptural truth.

[@judithhilliard8966]

Thank you. This message has helped me decide how I will vote when the time comes at my Montgomery UMC, Montgomery Texas.

[@sarahburchett2808]

I’m in Huntsville! I feel the same way.

[@toddblackwell2034]

The UMC has been a train wreck ever before they became "woke." I was brought up in the UMC. My family have been Methodist for many generations all the way back to the Wesleyan movement in England. My grandfather and great - great grandfather were both Methodist pastors. I imagine they both are rolling over in their graves over this new direction the Church is taking. I made the decision to leave 20 years ago and aligned with a more conservative and Bible Believing and Teaching Church. It appears the UMC looks at the Bible like a bag of trail mix - pick out the pieces you like (agree with) and leave (ignore) the rest. Sorry folks, the Bible is the Whole Truth - it does not work that way. It appears as if their book of Discipline has become their new “Bible” and they can change anything in it to suit their desires.

[@randyorr9443]

I am curious. Do you have gay children? Did you or would you turn your back on your own children if they were or are gay??? Gay children of God are not any different than your own gay children.

[@kevinjacks3519]

@@randyorr9443 That is a good question. I find that there are parents who turn their backs on their own children and withdraw their love and support, and those that love their children whether they are in any way prodigal to the parent's beliefs. I have a stepdaughter who is transgender. She was also molested by a pastor as a child. Sadly many, Christians do not look at the person and that person's story. Jesus did.

[@cheryllee6817]

Jesus was woke

[@sunshine9717]

​@@cheryllee6817But your statement is not.

[@trishquintenz6341]

Love God. Love one another. Love your neighbor as yourself. 💕 Who is my neighbor? Answer: everyone. All are created by God. All have worth. God loves them all.