Today, I want to tackle a challenging and divisive question: Can Christians be gay and rightfully be hired by a church for a leadership position in ministry? Additionally, what should a church do if they discover that someone already on staff is an active member of the LGBTQ+ community?
This issue might seem straightforward to some, but it’s more nuanced than it appears. Let’s dive into two key areas: the dangers associated with hiring someone living in unrepentant sin, and the principles that should guide churches in handling this delicate situation.
Can Christians be gay and lead in church? Context behind the question
Depending on the type of church you attend, this question may not even seem relevant. For instance, in many predominantly white churches, this issue rarely arises. However, in predominantly black churches, this is a more pressing matter that requires careful consideration. It’s important to recognize that this issue isn’t as cut-and-dry as it may seem, and we need to examine the complexities of handling LGBTQ+ members on staff.
Dangers of Hiring LGBTQ+ Individuals in Leadership Roles
The Bible sets clear guidelines for Christian leaders, and it teaches that leaders must not live in willful, unrepentant sin. Whether someone is LGBTQ+ or heterosexual, the same biblical principles apply.
The Church May Fall Under God’s Condemnation
In 1 Corinthians 5, Paul addresses sexual immorality within the church. He calls out the church for tolerating sin, emphasizing that allowing someone to remain in leadership while living in sin can bring God’s condemnation on the church. The Bible calls for the removal of individuals who are living in unrepentant sin, as their actions can negatively impact the church community.
Sin Can Spread Throughout the Congregation
Paul also warns that allowing sin to remain unchecked in leadership can cause it to spread throughout the congregation. When a church doesn’t address sin within its leadership, it sends a message that certain behaviors are acceptable, which can lead to others in the congregation justifying similar actions. This creates a ripple effect that can compromise the church’s spiritual health.
Damaged Reputation
Another consequence of allowing LGBTQ+ individuals or others living in willful sin to serve in leadership is the potential damage to the church’s reputation. Both within the Christian community and among non-believers, the church’s reputation is at stake. Allowing unrepentant sin in leadership can lead others to question the church’s commitment to biblical values.
Loss of Trust in Leadership
Church leaders must be consistent. If pastors preach against sin while allowing someone in leadership to live in open sin, it can cause confusion and lead to a loss of trust within the congregation. Church members need to see that leaders live by the same standards they preach from the pulpit.
Guiding Principles for Handling LGBTQ+ Individuals in Ministry
Because this issue is not a simple yes-or-no situation, it’s important to consider some guiding principles when addressing it.
Holiness Over Personal Relationships
Churches must prioritize holiness over their personal relationships with staff members. While it’s natural to want to protect or defend someone you care about, Scripture requires leaders to uphold God’s standards for righteousness. Love for the individual should not supersede the church’s commitment to biblical holiness.
Do Not Let Talent Justify Sin
A common issue, particularly in the black church, is the temptation to overlook sin because of a person’s talent. Churches may justify keeping someone in leadership because they are a talented musician or singer, but talent should never outweigh character. Trust that God can provide leaders who are both talented and committed to living according to His Word.
Consider the Level of Sin
When deciding whether to hire or keep someone in leadership, it’s essential to evaluate the level of sin involved. I see three distinct levels of sin in relation to LGBTQ+ individuals:
- Openly Gay: Someone who is unapologetic about their lifestyle and has no plans to repent or change.
- Struggling with Sin: Someone who acknowledges their sin but is struggling to overcome it. They may seek accountability but haven’t yet fully committed to celibacy.
- Same-Sex Attracted but Celibate: Someone who recognizes their same-sex attraction but chooses to live a celibate life out of commitment to God’s standards.
The church’s response should vary based on the individual’s level of repentance and desire to live in accordance with biblical teaching.
Avoiding Partiality in Judging Sin
One of the most important principles I want to emphasize is the need for consistency in addressing sin. Churches should not be harsher on LGBTQ+ sins than they are on heterosexual sins like adultery or fornication. The Bible calls for equal accountability regardless of the type of sin. Churches must avoid showing partiality and ensure that they address all forms of unrepentant sin with the same level of seriousness.
A Word of Encouragement
If you are someone struggling with LGBTQ+ issues or living in this lifestyle, you might wonder if God loves you. Despite what you may have heard from others, the truth is that God loves you deeply. His love for you is not diminished by your struggles. God offers forgiveness through Jesus Christ for all sins—including those related to sexuality. His grace is available to help you live a life that honors Him if you are willing to surrender your desires to His lordship.
For those in leadership facing this issue within your church, remember the consequences of leaving sin unchecked. But also, take heart in the biblical principles that can guide your decisions in a way that honors both the individual and the broader church community.
