HUMANKIND

'...how should we think of ourselves? Well, the one word that comes to mind is that we are disordered. I think this word captures the human condition. However...I do not want the word to be used to focus in on certain experiences to the exclusion of our own disorder. In other words when we speak of being disordered, it should be noted that we share with one another this essential quality; we do not focus on the disorder of the other while overlooking our own disorder before a holy God.' 

Mark A Yarhouse, Understanding Gender Dysphoria: Navigating Transgender Issues in a Changing Culture , p.41.  

HOMOSEXUALITY & THE CHURCH

'My experience is that those who struggle with homosexuality are quite aware of and sensitive to hypocrisy in the church. They know when they are being asked to do something that others are not. If you agree that sexual minorities could benefit from following a curriculum of Christlikeness, then follow that curriculum in your own life. It is always better to lead by example, which will give you credibility to speak to the benefits of following such a curriculum. Put differently, if you believe in stewarding your sexuality, then lead by example, living out the principles you promote.'

Mark A Yarhouse, Homosexulaity and the Christian, p.186.

SANCTIFICATION

'Santification is not simply a matter of denying yourself pleasure or enjoyment. That is not an accurate way to frame this from a Christian perspective. It involves seeing things in relation to their ultimate purpose and value in the light of the kingdom and economy of God.'

Mark A Yarhouse, Homosexuality and the Christian, p.166.

HOMOSEXUALITY & CHRISTIANS

'If we as a church continue to believe that deep spiritual maturity can only come about with a change in orientation, then we will be waiting forever for those people who are trying to change but can't. Either that or we will place great pressure on them to say that they have experienced dramatic change even when they have not.

What the church can help people with - regardless of whether orientation changes - is identity. We can recognize that a gay script is compelling to those who struggle with same-sex attraction, especially when they see few options emerging from their community of faith. Therefore we can help develop alternative scripts that are anchored in biblical truth and centred in the person and work of Christ. We can also look at our own lives and whether we are really prepared to live in a way that makes Christ our primary identity, whether we experience same-sex attraction or not.'

Mark A Yarhouse, Homosexuality and the Christian: A Guide for Parents, Pastors, and Friends, p.54.