Time for some non-pot-stirring (hopefully) light shedding on some issues.

I just happened to drop by Paul's blog and discovered a debate in full swing between this dude Chris and, apparently, the rest of HSB's teen bloggers. Chris apparently said (in this post) the following: I believe that being gay is not a sin, but that being a practicing gay is a sin.

Now, this is a very general statement, and one that can be easily misunderstood. In fact, based on some of Chris's comments later on Paul's blog, I believe it was indeed misunderstood.

That's right, I'm taking Chris's side on this one. I think we're still outnumbered, though . . . :P

So, what exactly do I believe? Well, this might take a while. Before we get started, bear in mind that it may sound at first that I'm saying some wacky things. Please read this post thoroughly and make sure you understand what I'm saying, because I do believe I'm taking the Biblical stance on this issue.

First, what does it mean to be gay? I think most people define being gay as actively participating in homosexual behavior. However, I think Chris was defining "gay" as meaning "having homosexual feelings." THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT!

Correct me if I'm wrong, but based on what I have seen, the Bible only specifically addresses homosexual activity. In Leviticus, it does not condemn being tempted to engage in homosexual behavior, it condemns the behavior itself. This is also very important.

All of us, if we are honest with ourselves, will admit that we are regularly tempted to do sinful things. This temptation is our fleshly desire. It is Satan (the "roaring lion") trying to catch us and cause us to sin. We may not be tempted to do anything homosexual, but we are all tempted toward other sins. Hopefully, we are able to resist these temptations. However, the fact that we are tempted is not sinful! Jesus himself was tempted to sin, but did not.

This is the important distinction that I believe Chris was making, and that I personally agree with. As a result of our fallen state, some of us, even as Christians, may be tempted to engage in homosexual behavior or feel a physical attraction to someone of the same sex. But it is only when we act on these temptations that we begin sinning!

I think this debate could have been entirely avoided if Chris had been a little more clear about what he meant. That is not to say that it is his fault. I'm just trying to create some understanding.

I welcome your thoughts on this matter!