Enough debate. There is little to discuss. Next to nothing. What we have here are two vastly different visions of Christian ethics.
One vision claims that homosexuals need to be chastised for being unrepentant sinners even though each and every one of us sin and continue to sin. The Law of Moses requires taking up stones. Paul would be okay with it as long as you do not throw the stones. Correct me if I mischaracterized theological "conservatives" on this issue.
The other vision is that we are bound by the teachings of Jesus to love and respect all. The scriptures clearly state that same-sex relationships may offend God. Let people attracted to the same sex iron out their own differences with God. God does not need the rest of us as an intercessory. Christian ethics requires that each of us work on our own relationship with God, not stand in judgment of others. We have two simple commandments - love God and love others. You cannot claim to love God and then turn around and mistreat other people. Neither can you claim to love Christ and ignore the words of Jesus.
Consider this. Some Christians are doing everything they can to prevent homosexuals from reconciling with God. These warriors for Christ want to ostracize homosexuals from faith communities and the community at large. Treat them as second class citizens or even criminals. Marginalize. Dehumanize. Tell them they are disliked by God rather than loved.
It is not complicated. Jesus said no stones for anyone that is guilty of their own sins. That leaves no one holding stones. By the way, be especially careful if you are love to talk about hating the sin of homosexuality. It is very, very difficult to love another person while despising something about them.
While we debate the Christian response to same-sex couples, we are ignoring the suffering all around us. We live in a society where the most vulnerable are being kicked to the curb. The sick. The old. The mentally or physically disabled. Especially the poor. Too many of us that call ourselves Christians stand idly by and seem quite content to let the frail suffer. We are not repairing the world according to the Lord's instruction because it is more fun to debate doctrine than solve problems. I suspect there will be hell to pay for not loving others as Jesus taught his disciples through word and deed.
What better way to prepare for Christ's return than to lift the crosses of those in need and live in peace with others. Beacons of God's love as reflected in our love for all of God's creation. Love God. Love each other. No exceptions.
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