Searching for Meaning and Purpose...

I've alluded to W.P. Cambpell's book, Turning Controversy into Church Ministry: A Christlike Response to Homosexuality several times, but today you get all my thoughts regarding the book. First, note that Campbell is a pastor in the PC(USA), which means he falls into one of two camps: for or against the repeal of the "fidelity and chastity" clause. I'll admit, when I saw the title of the book, I was afraid he fell into the camp that totally embraced homosexuality because Jesus was "inclusive." At the same time, I imagined it couldn't be too far right (a la Fred "I'm a nut-job" Phelps) and wondered what middle ground he had found. Fortunately, Campbell navigates the roaring rapids of the homosexual issue quite well. He begins with the story that forms his framework from John 8, showcasing Jesus, the Pharisees, and the woman caught in adultery. Of specific note, he highlights Jesus' response to their demands that she be stoned, J...

As I finished W.P. Campbell's book, "Turning Controversy Into Church Ministry," it has made me want to re-examine Ephesians. Partly because it is the framework upon which he builds the entire book (which is VERY, VERY, VERY good and comes highly recommended for everyone in ministry or who is dealing with issues related to homosexuality, in fact I'm going to recommend [and possibly push "gently"] it become required reading material for our church and Presbytery officers/staff) but mainly because he brought a lot of great thoughts into my head. But, I'll start my thoughts around this particular quote and passage from Ephesians 3 tonight: "The love of God is wide enough to reach all kinds of people, long enough to keep your church on track through time, high enough to change any life, and deep enough to heal every wounded heart." Followed by Ephesians 3.14-19: When I think of all this, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the Creator of ...