S

In God’s image?Is the church’s stance on

sexuality wrong?Canon Chris Tebbutt

Controversial?

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We are dealing with people …

BackgroundThe historic teaching of the church

The Reformation Biblical authority versus Church Authority 39 Articles, Creeds, Liturgy

Scriptural texts NT does not re-interpret OT laws on same sex practices Homosexual practice is criticised (12 key scriptures)

Government moves towards equality - marriage

The Church is split General Synod 2017 will be crucial

The arguments for …

God is a God of love and abhors the prejudice again LGBT people

The ‘binary’ model is too black and white

The Biblical passages (esp. the six key) are open to interpretation

Jesus never specifically condemns same sex relationships

He does condemn injustice, greed, prejudice, religiosity

He judges the fruit on the tree, not the tree

Thought provoking views

Same Sex Marriage - N.T. Wrighthttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKxvOMOmHeI

Oppression of LGBT people https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZFCB9sduxQ

Living out as a same-sex attracted Christianhttp://www.livingout.org/stories/vaughan

Conclusions?

Is there one?

God loves everyone

God hates sin

We all sin and fall short of the glory of God

Therefore, we all need Jesus

Looking ahead

Diocesan “Facilitated Conversations”

Discussions at Diocesan Synods

Comes before General Synod some time in 2017

Please pray for the Church

Please pray for your church leaders