Thanks forestgrey.

I guess my main concern is the people who gave me the book hold this view of me/gay community/etc. They push matthias media quite a bit in this christian group, and I sometimes feel they rely on them as the ultimate authority in a sense of interpreting the bible. which sometimes worries me.

it’s upsetting that they will feel this way, but I am coming to accept that I don’t need to please them, only God, and I know I am right with him 🙂

cal87

Sounds like an awesome book. Hopefully it will help a lot of people and open the eyes of a few other's.

Good one

from Mother Hen

I would like to recommend this book to you all:

Being gay, being Christian: you can be both

by Stuart Edser

published by Exisle Publishing http://www.exislepublishing.com

Dr Stuart Edser is a psychologist in private practice in Newscastle, Australia. He has experienced both Catholic and evangelical/Pentecostal churches. According to the bio 'after years of struggle and self-acceptance, he now lives with his partner Chris and is very comfortable being both gay and Christian.'

I found this an excellent book for its easy-to-read approach to both the psychological/physiological bases for homosexuality and the biblical/religious approaches to dealing with homosexual people. Here we have a book by an Australian author, with wide experience across the church, and an in-depth understanding from academic study and professional practise.

There are sections on

being gay

coming out

ex-gay therapy

biblical passages thought to relate to homosexuality

evangelical responses to homosexuality

Catholic responses to homosexuality

This is a 230 page book which is an easy read, a comprehensive treatment of the subject, and a great resource (useful end-notes with references for those wanting to go further).

I will make extensive use of this book in discussing the subject of homosexuality with both Christians and non-Christians.

If you are serious about understanding this subject and having a simple, though comprehensive resource for others, then please buy this book!

"Being Gay, Being Christian". Here are reviews from a couple of freedom2b people ….

You Can Be Both by Phyllis Gresham

In a very important new Australian publication, Dr Stuart Edser reassures his readers “Being Gay, Being Christian – You can be both”. This book combines the amazing story of his personal journey including his professional experience as a clinical psychologist with a strong argument supported by a wealth of in depth research. This research covers being gay or lesbian today as well as the sociology, biology and psychology of being gay.

The author examines the Bible and its interpretation, the Evangelical view and the Catholic view and comes to the conclusion that sexuality does not separate us from God’s love. In each chapter the research is very comprehensive with personal comments and well-chosen examples which make it easier to understand. The structure of the book with its frequent sub-headings means you can focus on the areas which interest you personally. However if you read the whole book, all the chapters fit beautifully together into a strong argument for the integration of faith and sexuality.

I would enthusiastically recommend this book to the LGBTIQ community as well as their families and friends and those who work with young people as pastors or youth leaders. As the mother of a gay son, I wish our son and our family had been able to read this book years ago. This book will inform, encourage and inspire all who read its pages.

[ As a Christian and mother, Phyllis Gresham found herself on a new journey of discovery and understanding when her teenage son announced he was gay. Phyllis is a high school & college teacher with advanced qualifications in linguistics. ]

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

A Fresh Approach to Faith & Sexuality by Sam Grebert

Dr Stuart Edser, author of 'Being Gay, Being Christian', presents us with a clear & concise approach to dealing with the themes of Faith & Human Sexuality from a Christian perspective. This book will both challenge, provoke & resource you with the knowledge & the 'know-how' for engaging in thoughtful, respectful & informed discussions with friends, family and Pastors. This book will also provide you with the tools for personal growth in your life and possibly challenge some personal held beliefs as well.

Stuart Edser provides a good foundational approach with this resource as it is written to engage the reader through factual information, psychological perspectives & biblical examples which support same-sex relationships from a Christian, Historical & Medical approach. I highly recommend 'Being Gay, Being Christian' to anyone who is looking for a fresh approach, and also written to be an Australian resource, on the topic of Faith & Sexuality."

[ Sam undertook ministry training in Perth before founding a church in regional NSW. He moved to Sydney when he acknowledged his sexuality and reconciled that with his faith. He remains active in Christian ministry. ]

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

>> More details about this exciting new book (including purchase information) can be found at http://www.beinggaybeingchristian.com <<

Thanks Ben! 🙂

Blessings,

Ann Maree