Homosexualism and lesbianism is an ever growing discussion in and out of the church. It is to the point where some never speak of it and others support it. However, when these individuals move next door to you what do you do? In the Old Testament, hospitality was as important then as it is today. We can read that when hospitality was extended to those of same sex practices, violence was executed by homosexuals according to Gen. 19:1-4 and especially in Jdgs. 19:22-26 whereby, since they could not take the men, they took a man’s concubine and used, raped and abused her all night long until the morning because they were refused their desires of the man.
Now, this is not to say that we should be in any danger of those who are engaged in homosexual behaviors. But, to see how the past reacted to such behavior is to notice in the days of the Assyrians when homosexuals were castrated for their behavior. In addition to this, America in the 1800’s decreed that if a man was found to be a homosexual he was killed.
Now, I do not believe that it should go to such extremes because homosexuals are still human beings. However, the Bible clearly shows that homosexuality is sinful because it rejects the created order that God made for male and female and that procreation is to be within the confines of the marriage between husband and wife. Furthermore, Rom 1:18-32 speaks of women and men who leave the natural use and indicates to the world that they that practice such things are shameless acts. This is further seen when we read about cities such as Sodom and Gomorrah which were both destroyed because of such wickedness. (Gen. 19:24) Henceforth, Homosexuality and Lesbianism is an abomination (Lev. 18:22) Therefore, what should we do? Do we stay or leave our homes?
In the church, Christians often devote themselves to be politically correct instead of defending God’s view on homosexuality. We are to hate and abhor sin, but love the sinner. (Rom 12:9; Eph. 5:11, 12) However, when a Christian family lives next to this type of public behavior, we must see who is being influenced by it. While it is true that Christians should treat everyone with kindness and respect possessing a genuine love deep in our souls for those who disobey God, it is very often easier said than done. And this becomes especially hard when you have children, friends, or family around when right next door they witness two boys kissing and massaging one another in the front yard or conducting homosexual parties. Should we expose our children to such things? Furthermore, what if right next door to you there was a major drug house where people sat around the yard influencing our children and their friends and others to do drugs, would this be acceptable? No, because this is against the laws of the land. Therefore, those who abuse themselves with drugs and those who abuse themselves with homosexual actions may not be seen the same regarding the laws of the land, but both are seen as illegal and soul destroying in the eyes of God. Both violate his will and this does not mean that we should be subject to this kind of view. There is only one word and one word alone that describes what we should do: keep away from sin lest you fall into the same pit. (2 Pet. 3:17)
Homosexual behavior is sin and unfortunately today, anyone who speaks out against their lifestyle are looked upon as uncaring and inconsiderate. But, these individuals who lead such lives within the homosexual cult seeks to destroy that which God created for them. Therefore, Christians must take a stand against such behavior. Taking a stand not against the person, but the behavior because it is sin and rejects Christ’ authority and directions. But Jesus said, “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;” (Matt. 5:44). However, this does not mean that we go looking for trouble. But, if your conscious bothers you or you see that you, your family, friends, and relatives are being influenced by it . . . living next to homosexuals should be avoided at all cost which may include moving from your home.
For we must learn to look at all things Biblically and not tolerate immoral behaviors which the scriptures say is wrong. However, when anyone speaks out against or criticizes the things that the homosexuals are doing, right away they are accused of being homophobic. This simply is not true. Christians are not to fear or hate anyone. We are to love all people, yet despise and hate sin. Paul states, “But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.” (1 Cor. 8:9) This verse was in reference to idol meats. However, if we cause another person to stumble, then we are wrong in the action. Likewise, if we live next to those who publicly practice homosexuality and we stay just to stand our ground, while others around us suffer and are weakened by it, then it is wrong to live next to them. For, “when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ.” (1 Cor. 8:10) Therefore, It would be unwise having a clear conscious to live next to those who practice such wickedness for fear that they may corrupt us, our families, or those who come to visit at our Christian homes.