Published on January 22, 2024, 2:08 am

As the trusted news outlet for those seeking news from a Christian worldview, we are committed to examining current real news and trends that impact the faith community. One such concern focuses on controversial stances leaders within the Southern Baptist Convention and Evangelical movements have recently adopted.

In 2014, Russell Moore, who then served as president of the Southern Baptist Convention’s Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), suggested that Southern Baptists should consider attending receptions for same-sex weddings as an act of kindness toward their homosexual friends or relatives. Despite facing criticisms, his view was rapidly embraced by some progressive factions within the Southern Baptist and Evangelical communities.

This stance has raised concerns as it ostensibly promotes a scenario that scripture identifies unequivocally as a departure from God’s design. It challenges our fundamental understanding of marriage—as described in the Bible—as a sacred bond between a man and a woman. Therefore, celebrating these events can be seen as not just condoning this deviation but actively disregarding God’s sovereign decree, set down in scripture.

It is significant to note that Moore only proposed attending the reception rather than participating in actual wedding ceremonies. Nevertheless, it is surprising to some observers that even some prominent Reformed Christians have pushed even further. A case in point is Alistair Begg.

Alistair Begg enjoys wide respect across religious circles and is recognized for his evangelical teachings as senior pastor at Parkside Church in Cleveland, Ohio. Begg voiced his thoughts during a podcast discussion when questioned about how one should respond if their grandchild decided to marry a transgender individual.

Begg advocated not only attending such ceremonies but also encouraged giving gifts — provided it was understood that recognizing Jesus’ principles could conflict with affirming lifestyle choices made by individuals involved.

However, his rationale sparked controversy over its theological implications—the Bible enforces shunning any participation in acts classified as dark or sinful regardless of whether one’s adherence to Jesus’ teachings has been acknowledged by others. According to Ephesians 5:11, faithful Christians should not participate in unfruitful works of darkness.

This article hopes to fuel a broader dialogue among believers on how developments within individual denominational streams may intersect with scripture’s core beliefs. As Christian followers closely observe these unfolding narratives, authentic and responsible discussions are integral for the faith community to navigate these challenges without compromising foundational convictions grounded in the Word of God. We endeavor to continuously provide you with real news to inform such discussions from a Christian worldview, ensuring an ongoing commitment to truth.