Two Viewpoints on Sexuality and the Church

Wesley chose people over policies

NEW YORK (UMNS) — John Wesley chose people over policies when he ordained bishops in America without church authority. The United Methodist Church in the 21st century needs to adopt that “profound emphasis on grace,” writes Dorothee Benz, a General Conference delegate who seeks full inclusion of LGBTQ people in the church. She contends that immense damage has been done to countless young people who are taught that their lives are “incompatible with Christian teaching,” as the denomination’s law book says. Benz said that makes a mockery of Wesley’s admonition to “do no harm.” The whole commentary can be seen at http://www.rmnetwork.org/newrmn/queer-survival-a-call-to-action-at-general-conference/
 

Renewal agenda on sexuality, abortion

The WOODLANDS, Texas (UMNS) — The first of three major legislative priorities for the Renewal and Reform Coalition is to uphold biblical teachings on life, marriage and human sexuality, writes the Rev. Tom Lambrecht, vice president and general manager of Good News. Lambrecht explains the proposals by the coalition, which represents evangelical concerns. He also writes about proposals the coalition opposes, including petitions that would make it a matter of conscience whether a pastor performs a same-sex wedding or a board approves a practicing homosexual as ordained clergy. The entire commentary is at http://goodnewsmag.org/2016/04/renewal-agenda-for-general-conference/