That seems to be the point which Kirk is making in response to the law recently passed in New York. He writes,
As long as the state is in the marriage business, Christians should support gay marriage as an embodiment of our calling to love our neighbor as ourselves.
Admittedly, this is a difficult issue for Christians to wrestle with. On one hand, they view homosexuality as evil. There is no other hand. Kirk makes the point that since “the state is not in the business of adhering to or adjudicating religious principles” (or rather, shouldn’t be – I mean, do you want the State saying what an official baptism or Eucharist is?) then it is not so much an issue of marriage as civil liberties and then it becomes…. Actually, his argument is much more in depth. Take a read at the link above.
Joel Landon Watts is a Masters of Theological Studies student with a focus in Mimetic Criticism of the Gospel of Mark. His interests include exploring the role of mimesis in human civilization, specifically in the study of religion and media, as well as science fiction and the way in which it has allowed mythology to be explored in light of scientific ideals of the past century. Currently, he is a TA for Old Testament at United Theological Seminary under Dr. Vivian Johnson, Associate Professor of Old Testament. His first book, Rhetorical Strategies of the Evangelist: Mimetic Criticism of the Gospel of Mark, is expected to be published by Wipf and Stock early next year. He is currently co-editing a book on moving from Fear to Faith (Energion, 2013).
Joel, before I answer the question — I need to ask for clarification. You speak of Christians viewing “homosexuality as evil.” This is not a position all Christians take. In fact there is a growing number who would answer very differently.
But, there is another issue — should we expect the state to abide by religious precepts in matters such as this? In the NY law, as in most that I know of, there is no requirement that churches recognize gay marriage or offer it to people. In the end, it is probably best that the church cease being agents of the state with regard to marriage. As currently understood, marriage is a civil right that grants certain benefits to the recipients. To deny these rights to those who are gay or lesbian is to deny to them rights held by others, whether or not we might theologically agree with their decision to seek marriage.
No, Bob – you are correct – not all Christians feel that homosexuality is a sin, and they usually base it on factual biblical studies. Some consider it a sin and not evil. Sorry about that. (sorry about the moderation. I know you have commented here before. Shouldn’t happen again).
While I understand that gay marriage will be in all 50 states in probably short order, the other issue as a pastor is bothersome. Should I NOT marry a gay couple that comes and requests it of me, there are implications down the road that need to be considered. That said, it brings us as believers to a point where we will finally realized the clash of Kingdoms.
Joel, no problem!
And Dan — what are the implications?
If I pastor a church that believes that marriage is between a man and a woman then I’m under no obligation to marry someone except as church policy/conscience/theology permits. But, if I pastor a church that affirms that marriage could include gays and lesbians, should I not have that freedom?
If churches are allowed to stay that way, obviously there are no iomplications. I don’t see it staying that way in the future. Again, that’s just the way it may go. Hopefully not.
It’s the same as if a Jewish or Buddhist or Hindu couple comes and requests that you perform their marriage service. You’re not required to, even though that could be construed as religious discrimination.
ok gay marriage will never be legal in all 50 stares – likely this goes on ballot in NY and overturned – http://blog.beliefnet.com/on_the_front_lines_of_the_culture_wars/2011/07/new-yorkers-vow-to-overturn-same-sex-marriage-law-just-like-california.html –
Also many states recently banned gay marriage – made ammedments to their constitutions – literally banning it
Gay marriage when put to the vote – doesn’t get it
Kathryn,
putting the interpretation and application of laws to the vote of the majority worries me…
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