Published on January 19, 2024, 1:28 am

With the constant shifting socio-cultural tides, the Christian community continues to grapple with its stance on certain practices that are clearly at odds with a Christian worldview. A rather contentious issue has been the attendance of homosexual weddings and receptions by believers. An instance in 2014 saw Russell Moore, then president of the Southern Baptist Convention’s Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), advising Southern Baptists to grace gay wedding receptions as a show of love towards their homosexual relations.

Undoubtedly, this position drew a lot of criticisms within both conservative Christian circles and outside of them. These critiques were warranted as Moore’s advice subtly implied an approval for what Scripture blatantly describes as sinful bonding. The divinely inspired Bible clearly upholds marriage as a sacred covenant instituted between one man and one woman – any deviation from this invites judgment.

Apparently, Moore’s recommendation was not just related to the reception but exempted participation in the main ceremony itself. It remains astounding that some prominent figures within the Reformed church would go beyond his suggestion and advise believers to attend both the wedding ceremony and reception. One such prominent figure is Alistair Begg.

Alistair Begg, an esteemed pastor, author and bible teacher known for his evangelical teachings, serves as a senior pastor at Parkside Church in Cleveland, Ohio. In a recent engagement with his audience during a podcast session, Begg responded to a listener’s inquiry regarding her grandson marrying a transgender person with surprising advice.

Contrary to orthodox teaching reinforcing no affirmation or support for such life choices contradictory to Biblical principles, Begg recommended that she attends such kind of ceremonies and even presents gifts at these occasions – despite her belief being glaringly against such unions.

Biblical theology emphasizes no participation in activities described as ‘unfruitful works of darkness’ (Eph 5:11). Attending or celebrating same-sex weddings certainly falls into this category since it goes against God’s design for marriage and it therefore begs the question: why should any Christian endorse such practices? God’s approach to such practices should shape believers’ attitudes. Consequently, hearing this proposition from Begg was deeply unsettling for many within the church.

Critics have pointed to this stance as a demonstration of his steady drift from core Christian teachings over recent years; a problematic journey that many believe is common amongst those who affiliate with platforms such as The Gospel Coalition.

In an era where real news and trusted news are becoming increasingly difficult to find in the realm of Faith-Based reporting, understanding events like these within Christianity is essential to developing a more informed Christian worldview. As believers contend with these culturally challenging times, commitment to undiluted scriptural teaching remains paramount in maintaining the sanctity of our faith.