Is there a better way forward with LGBT?

Following Christ is not a “gay to straight” journey (both are false constructs.) Discipleship is a matter of changing one’s mind and worldview to believe we are all simply human beings. Together. That path requires real repentance (a change of mind) and an environment that can facilitate life in Christ alongside self-knowledge, understanding of our past, perspective on our gifts or strengths, honor, dignity, transformation, hope… essentially, it requires the kingdom of God. We need an environment where we can be cherished while being authentic as we lay down our LGBT identity. One that is undaunted by temptation.

God can restore what has been lost to the worldview that our sexual desires are central to our self-understanding.

Read More
Elizabeth Woning
Celibacy vs. Abstinence? Why the Distinction Matters

I sat down with Rosaria Butterfield and Mike Davidson to discuss the conflation of the terms celibacy and abstinence that is becoming common among evangelical churches. Celibacy is inaccurate to describe those who are identifying as LGBTQ and Christian. We do a deep dive into the theological difference and why it matters.

Read More
Elizabeth Woning
Reframing the Narrative

How can we get away from using “the clobber passages” when addressing homosexuality and the Bible? This video presentation at Bethel School of Ministry dives into that important question.

Read More
Elizabeth Woning
Irenaeus and the problem of modern dualism

In the second century, Irenaeus of Lyons exhaustively confronted the Gnostic heresy and its rejection of scriptural truth by affirming the unity of the Godhead and its life-giving effect upon humanity. He points to physical communion with a good and benevolent God and, by implication, the goodness of creation as an essential tenet of the Christian faith. This essay from my doctoral research looks briefly at transgenderism and how Irenaeus’ apologetic approach could help Christians better speak to the issue.

Read More
Elizabeth Woning
Following Jesus in our sexuality

Jesus taught authoritatively on the nature of human sexuality according to God, but he also disclosed his own mindset and mentality as he stewarded his life as an unmarried man. How did Jesus posture his own heart in order to live righteously in the face of temptation and what hope does that offer us?

This message looks closely at Jesus’ vision for our sexuality by observing his own.

Read More
Elizabeth Woning