:: in.a.mirror.dimly :: A theology and culture blog with the Bible in one tab and a news feed in the other.

Churches in the North, particularly in America and Europe have shown an increasing tolerance toward homosexuality among its clergy and homosexual marriage in general. The Episcopals in America approved an openly gay bishop, while the Anglicans in England have permitted, though not officially approved, homosexual clergy and unions.

We’ve heard the various sides in America and Europe on this issue and I’ve provided some analysis of the main Biblical texts that speak against homosexuality, but today I’m most interested in the perspective presented by the most Rev. Peter Akinola of Nigeria. Ankola has spoken out against the approval of homosexuality. It is important to note that:

“Akinola is motivated less by a desire for schism (or even any distaste for homosexuality per se) than by a sorrowful conviction that Robinson’s ordination in the U.S., along with support in other provinces for gay unions, is the last straw in a series of offenses indicating a massive Western disregard for the authority of the Bible. They say he is not so much trying to blow up the communion as force it, by negotiation and a certain degree of brinkmanship, to rein itself in.” Time Magazine

Therefore, we need to review his comments concerning the homosexual question in the light of the broader debate concerning the authority of scripture. For example, his statement regarding the homosexual issue he shared:

“There is no longer any hope, therefore, for a unified Communion … Now we confront a moment of decision … We want unity, but not at the cost of relegating Christ to the position of another wise teacher, who can be obeyed or disobeyed. We earnestly desire the healing of our beloved Communion, but not at the cost of rewriting the Bible to accommodate the latest cultural trend. We have arrived at a crossroads; it is, for us, the moment of truth.” Time Magazine

What I’m most worried about is the effect of potential conservative boycott could have on the Anglican Church. I’m sure they have a strategy, but it seems to me if they truly want unity and to uphold the authority of scripture in this church, then it makes much more sense for them to attend their conferences. It’s easy to play Monday morning quarterback with these theological controversies, but it is concerning to see the divisions that arise concerning biblical interpretation when it comes to the homosexual question.

I believe the homosexual question is one of the most important issues the church faces today. While we never want to be intolerant, hateful, or homophobic toward people who are just like us, we can’t simply sweep the relevant Bible passages under the carpet of cultural trends. When a large body of Christians from continents such as Africa speak against the theology set out by Western Christians, we would do well to take note of their criticism.

For more on this issue, see my link to the best blog post on homosexuality.