This summer, in a controversial but expected move, the United Methodist Church (UMC) repealed the ban on homosexual clergy. My recent conversation on The Stand Radio with pastors and writers Matthew White and Dr. Ray Rooney, provided an in-depth look at the events leading up to this pivotal moment and its far-reaching implications.
For decades, United Methodists have grappled with issues of inclusivity and the ordination of homosexual clergy, culminating in this landmark vote. As Matthew White explained, "They finally decided to officially endorse what they've been endorsing for many years now."
Dr. Ray Rooney, who left the UMC before this vote, shared his perspective on the inevitability of this decision, especially given the significant number of churches that had already departed from the denomination over this subject. "Over 7000 churches had left because of this issue, which means that you got fewer churches sending delegates to this general conference," he notes.
One of the most moving moments discussed in the episode was listening to an objection given during the conference by Bishop Jerry Kula from Liberia. Holding his Bible aloft, Bishop Kula passionately argued against the amendment, emphasizing the importance of adhering to biblical teachings. "We do not have another Bible apart from this Bible... the Bible is very emphatic that we have marriage between a man and a woman," he declared.
The conversation also touches on broader themes of biblical authority and faithfulness. Both White and Rooney stress the importance of staying true to Scripture in the face of societal changes. "There is no more riding the fence. There is no more compromise," White asserted, highlighting the decisive stance pastors are called to take.
Rooney, now affiliated with the Global Methodist Church, reflected on the challenges of preventing a similar drift in faith within any denomination. He emphasized the need for pastors to remain courageous and steadfast in their preaching, addressing difficult topics head-on. "You just can't shy away from talking very frankly and prophetically and biblically from the issues that the Bible brings up," he advised.
Hearing these men stress faithfulness to the unchanging truths of God’s word was heartening. I hope you’ll take a few moments to listen and then share it with members of your church.
Click HERE to listen to the podcast on AFR or click below.
