I am saddened for the misinterpretation surrounding Phil Robertson's comments. He never compared homosexuality to bestiality or terrorism, as he's being accused of doing. He was asked, "what, in your mind, is sinful?" Ok, so the interviewer not only asked what is sinful, but phrased it "in your mind?" In your opinion. In your way of thinking. In your interpretation.
He started a list of what he believes sinful behavior is. A list that is in the Bible. Guess what else is on would be on that list, according to the Bible? Lying. Judging. Denying God. He also included sleeping around with lots of women. Most people, particularly Christians and / or married folks, would agree that's not something you should do. Most people would agree that terrorism is not something you should do. Most people would agree that bestiality is not something you should do.
He also went on to say that he was not judging or would ever act unkindly towards someone he disagreed with on spiritual issues. He leaves that to God. Why is it that his remarks are being misinterpreted? And why is it that he is being persecuted suddenly for being a Christian. The family prays at the end of every episode! They are on "I Am Second" billboards. Are people surprised to find out he is a Christian?
Considering the question the interviewer asked, I guess I'm really unclear what anyone expected him to say. Everyone sins. Period. Non-negotiable. Even Phil. Sin is offensive. If we didn't all sin, we wouldn't need God. We wouldn't need Jesus. God wouldn't have sent His Son. We wouldn't be in this season of Christmas.
And why, oh why, oh why can we not disagree with people without being perceived as bigoted, homophobic, or any other negative label? Why is it not believable that we might actually be able to love someone without agreeing with every decision they make on how they live their lives? Why is it not believable that we can make mistakes and sin, acknowledge it as sin, seek forgiveness, and still love ourselves and our God?
Can you hear me say I don't believe sex outside of marriage? Can you forgive me when I fall short of that? Can you believe me when I say I love you unconditionally when you're living with your boyfriend / girlfriend? I may not agree with you, I may not have always lived up to the standard I hold to be true, but I do always love you and still love me.
Sin sucks. Sin offends. God forgives. God loves. Phil loves. I love.
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