A Biblical Response

A rainbow flag is saluted in a public school classroom. A three-year-old is diagnosed as the world’s youngest transgender. A gay couple requests the use of a local church auditorium for their upcoming wedding. These are issues that may have been unheard of ten years ago, but with an estimated 5.6% of US adults identifying as LGBTQ, and nearly 70% of Americans indicating they support homosexuality and gender exploration, these are the situations we will most certainly encounter in the days ahead.

With more attention being given to alternative lifestyles and gender identity, it is important that the church knows what God says about these issues and how we should respond. This is why LeFlore Baptist Association is hosting an In His Image Weekend October 15-16 in conjunction with First Stone Ministries out of Oklahoma City.

• Friday: Local churches are encouraged to view the documentary In His Image. A copy has been purchased for each church in our association. A viewing will also take place at Southside Baptist Church in Poteau from 6:00-8:00.

• Saturday 9:00-4:00 @ the Poteau Reynolds Center: This free, one-day conference will offer testimonies and information affirming that freedom from homosexuality is not a method, but a person—Jesus Christ. Sessions will also be available to equip the parents, family and friends of those who struggle with gender identity and same-sex attraction.

We fully understand these are sensitive issues and controversial topics, but ignoring them won’t make them go away. Therefore, we must speak the truth in love, knowing that the truth is able to bring freedom. We hope you will mark your calendar for the In His Image Weekend, October 15-16, and begin praying now that God will teach us how we can minister healing and restoration to all.

For more information or a detailed schedule of the conference, feel free to contact the LBA office at 918-647-8271. God bless you and we hope to see you there.

In Him,

Bentley Hill