UMC Elects Gay Bishop
Does the Bible support the ordination of homosexual clergy in theUnited Methodist Church ? What Bible verses are for or against this decision?
The Annual Conference of theUnited Methodist Church (UMC) recently elected its third openly gay bishop, Kristin Stoneking, the first since the mainline Protestant denomination changed its rules to allow the ordination of non-celibate gays. The decision was made at the UMC’s Western Jurisdiction meeting last week in Spokane, Washington. Stoneking was elected after 11 rounds of voting with 65 of 94 votes and will begin her service Sept. 1.
Stoneking’s election marks a turning point for the denomination
In a moving speech, Stoneking emphasized that saints are ordinary people who love without limits, resonating with the theme of the event. She expressed humility at this monumental opportunity for the UMC to embrace new perspectives. Stoneking’s election marks a turning point for the denomination, which had previously banned the ordination of noncelibate gay clergy.
UMC Book of Discipline
However, this decision was not unanimous within theUnited Methodist Church. The UMC Book of Discipline, until recently, contained strict rules against the ordination of non-celibate homosexuals and same-sex unions. Despite the removal of these prohibitions by the General Conference of the UMC earlier this year, several regional bodies and local churches continue to resist these changes.
For example, the UMC Liberia Annual Conference recently affirmed that it will maintain its traditional rules regarding the interpretation of Scripture and ordination. Additionally, Stoneking’s election comes after significant resistance from more than 7,000 conservative congregations that have left the denomination due to ongoing debates over LGBT issues.
Does the Bible support this kind of decision? and What verses are for or against this decision?
It is crucial to turn to the Scriptures. Among the verses often cited against the ordination of homosexuals, Leviticus 18:22 and Romans 1:26-27 are commonly mentioned. However, other interpretations emphasize love and inclusion, citing Galatians 3:28 as an example of supporting inclusiveness.
Other links:
5 Impacts of the Global Methodist Church’s Response to UMC Change
