Embracing Inclusivity: A Call to Love and Justice
Summary
Today, I began by welcoming everyone to New Covenant Christian, emphasizing our commitment to inclusivity and community. I highlighted our open communion table, inviting all to participate regardless of their church membership, and introduced various aspects of our service, including a special time for children called Worship and Wonder.
I then transitioned into the sermon, focusing on Psalm 23, a passage familiar to many. I explored the metaphor of God as a shepherd, guiding us to green pastures and still waters, which symbolizes a life of peace and restoration under God's care. I emphasized that this psalm is particularly powerful during times of loss and mourning, providing comfort and assurance.
The core of today's message addressed the upcoming congregation vote on adopting an open and affirming statement. This statement is designed to explicitly welcome individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, and other backgrounds. I passionately argued that adopting this statement aligns with our Christian duty to love and welcome all, reflecting Jesus' teachings on justice and inclusivity.
I addressed common questions and concerns about the open and affirming stance, particularly regarding biblical interpretations that have historically been used to exclude LGBTQ+ individuals. I clarified that many of these interpretations are misreadings and that a more thorough, contextual study of the scriptures reveals a message of love and acceptance.
I also discussed the practical and profound impacts of becoming an open and affirming church. I shared statistics on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, including higher rates of suicide and homelessness, underscoring the life-saving potential of affirming church environments. I stressed that our decision could lead to a more vibrant, inclusive church community that mirrors the kingdom of God, where love and justice prevail.
The sermon concluded with a call to action, urging the congregation to vote in favor of the statement, thereby committing to a path of love and acceptance. I led into the communion, reinforcing the message of inclusion and community, and ended with a blessing, sending forth the congregation with a charge to spread goodness and mercy.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Shepherd's Guidance: Psalm 23 is not just a source of comfort in times of grief but a model for our daily lives. As a shepherd leads to nourishment and safety, so should our church lead in offering a sanctuary of acceptance and love. This guidance is crucial as we decide on our open and affirming stance, reflecting our commitment to follow the path God has laid out for us. [22:03]
2. Biblical Misinterpretations and LGBTQ+ Inclusion: The Bible, when studied contextually and with an open heart, does not support the exclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals. Instead, it advocates for love, justice, and the inherent worth of every person. This understanding is essential as we seek to align our church's practices with the teachings of Christ. [39:02]
3. The Impact of an Open and Affirming Church: Adopting an open and affirming statement is not merely a symbolic act but a vital step towards saving lives and fostering a supportive community. It directly affects the mental and physical well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals, making our church a refuge of hope and acceptance. [46:19]
4. Justice as a Core Christian Value: Our commitment to justice is rooted in Jesus' ministry and teachings. By becoming open and affirming, we are not only aligning with our denomination but also actively participating in the broader movement for social justice, which is integral to our faith. [41:35]
5. Community and Future Growth: Embracing an open and affirming stance is crucial for the growth and relevance of our church. It ensures that we remain a vibrant community of faith that is welcoming to all, particularly younger generations who increasingly view inclusivity as non-negotiable. [45:16]
### Chapters
0:00 - Welcome
06:06 - Introduction to Service and Community
13:06 - Invocation and Prayer
20:25 - Reading of Psalm 23
24:35 - Introduction to Open and Affirming Statement
33:53 - Addressing Biblical Misinterpretations
41:03 - Justice and Inclusion
48:36 - The Impact of Open and Affirming Churches
51:20 - Conclusion and Call to Action
54:10 - Communion and Closing Blessing
01:02:26 - Final Amen and Dismissal
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Psalm 23:1-6 (NRSV)
> "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord my whole life long."
### Observation Questions
1. What are the key elements of God's guidance and care as described in Psalm 23? How do these elements provide comfort and assurance? ([20:25])
2. According to the sermon, what is the significance of the metaphor of God as a shepherd in Psalm 23? ([22:32])
3. What are some of the common biblical misinterpretations that have been used to exclude LGBTQ+ individuals, as discussed in the sermon? ([27:41])
4. How does the pastor describe the impact of becoming an open and affirming church on the mental and physical well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals? ([46:19])
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the metaphor of God as a shepherd in Psalm 23 relate to the church's role in providing a sanctuary of acceptance and love? ([24:35])
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that biblical misinterpretations have historically been used to justify the exclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals? How does a contextual study of the scriptures change this perspective? ([39:02])
3. What are the practical implications of adopting an open and affirming statement for the church community, according to the sermon? ([48:36])
4. How does the pastor connect the church's commitment to justice with Jesus' teachings and ministry? ([41:35])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt guided and cared for by God, similar to the imagery in Psalm 23. How can this experience inspire you to support the church's open and affirming stance? ([20:25])
2. The pastor mentioned that many biblical interpretations excluding LGBTQ+ individuals are misreadings. How can you engage in a more thorough, contextual study of the scriptures to better understand God's message of love and acceptance? ([39:02])
3. Considering the statistics shared about the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, what specific actions can you take to make your church a more supportive and affirming environment? ([46:19])
4. How can you personally contribute to the church's mission of justice and inclusivity, as emphasized in the sermon? ([41:35])
5. The pastor highlighted the importance of community and future growth for the church. What steps can you take to ensure that your church remains a vibrant and inclusive community of faith? ([45:16])
6. Reflect on the pastor's call to action to vote in favor of the open and affirming statement. How does this decision align with your understanding of Christian love and justice? ([51:20])
7. How can you actively spread goodness and mercy in your daily life, as encouraged by the pastor at the end of the sermon? ([51:20])
Devotional
Day 1: Navigating Life with Divine Guidance
As we reflect on the imagery of Psalm 23, we see a vivid portrayal of God as a shepherd who leads us to places of nourishment and rest. This passage invites us to consider our lives under the care of a divine guide who not only knows our needs but also provides for them abundantly. In times of uncertainty or decision-making, this image of God as a shepherd assures us that we are not wandering aimlessly but are being led towards green pastures and still waters. This guidance is especially pertinent as we contemplate our stance on inclusivity and acceptance within our community. [22:03]
Psalm 78:52-54: "Then he led out his people like sheep and guided them in the wilderness like a flock. He led them in safety, so that they were not afraid, but the sea overwhelmed their enemies. And he brought them to his holy land, to the mountain which his right hand had won."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to trust more in God's guidance? How can you actively follow His lead this week?
Day 2: Embracing Biblical Truths for Inclusivity
The Bible, when interpreted in context and with a compassionate heart, reveals a consistent message of love and acceptance. It is crucial to challenge traditional misinterpretations that have excluded LGBTQ+ individuals and to embrace a more inclusive understanding of scripture. This approach not only aligns with the teachings of Christ but also opens our community to a fuller expression of God's love. By reexamining the scriptures with openness and care, we can better understand and implement the inclusive heart of the gospel in our church's practices. [39:02]
Galatians 3:28-29: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise."
Reflection: How can you contribute to a more thorough and compassionate understanding of scripture in your community?
Day 3: The Life-Changing Impact of Affirmation
Adopting an open and affirming statement is not merely a symbolic gesture but a critical step towards creating a safe and supportive environment for all, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals who face significant challenges. Such a stance can dramatically affect the mental and physical well-being of community members, offering them a refuge and a sense of belonging. This commitment to affirmation can transform our church into a true sanctuary of hope and acceptance, reflecting the kingdom of God where love and justice prevail. [46:19]
James 2:15-17: "If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace, be warmed and filled,' without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."
Reflection: What practical steps can you take to make your community a more affirming and welcoming space for everyone?
Day 4: Justice as a Core Christian Value
Our commitment to justice is deeply rooted in the teachings and ministry of Jesus. By advocating for an open and affirming church, we align ourselves not only with our denomination's values but also with the broader Christian mandate to promote justice and equality. This commitment challenges us to act against injustices and to be a voice for the marginalized, thereby living out the radical inclusivity that Jesus modeled. [41:35]
Micah 6:8: "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"
Reflection: How can you actively participate in promoting justice within your community this week?
Day 5: Fostering Community and Future Growth
Embracing an open and affirming stance is essential not only for the spiritual health of our current members but also for attracting future generations who value inclusivity. This commitment ensures that our church remains a vibrant and relevant community of faith, where all are welcome. As we look to the future, our openness can lead to growth and a deeper engagement with the broader community, making our church a beacon of hope and acceptance. [45:16]
1 Peter 4:8-9: "Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling."
Reflection: What actions can you take to ensure your church community is welcoming to newcomers and sensitive to their needs?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Good morning and welcome to New Covenant Christian. We're a Christian church where no matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here. We welcome all to God's table just as God has welcomed all of us." [06:06]
2. "This is the table, not of the church, but of God. It is to be made ready for those who seek relationship with God. Come and make this journey, you who have much faith, you who have little, you who have been here many times before, and you who have not been here for a long time, but have tried to follow and maybe even lost your way." [53:03]
3. "And it's certainly not among younger generations. Churches that keep debating instead of actively loving, welcoming, affirming the gifts and graces of LGBTQ persons are actually already running out of folks who want to be members because of their lack of clarity and with good reason." [46:19]
4. "And so if our congregation had not been open and affirming at my prior church, these folks would have never darkened the door. And so if we approve an open and affirming statement and begin to be more bold in our advocacy for the LGBTQ plus community, but also all the groups that have been traditionally marginalized by churches, what will our church look like in the future? Well, simply put, it will look more and more like the kingdom of God that Jesus came to bring about." [50:12]
### Quotes for Members
1. "It is my deep conviction that adopting this statement not only as a written policy, but even more importantly, as a heartfelt practice and way of life together as a congregation will help us lead the kind of lives that goodness and mercy truly follow after, as we dwell in God's house together, to use the language of the Psalmist." [25:37]
2. "Jesus latched onto the Hebrew prophet's approach to his ministry and he made justice seeking a key component of Christian discipleship. At the outset of his ministry in Luke's Gospel in chapter 4, Jesus announced his mission statement. He adopted the words from the prophet Isaiah. The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he has appointed me to bring good news to the poor." [41:35]
3. "The first step in any serious Bible study is not to just rush to application to our lives today, but to figure out what was being said in the original setting, in the original context. And so when we rush and we don't and we short-circuit that, unfortunately what happens is the Bible becomes a weapon on whatever topic we want it to be." [39:02]
4. "For the sake of alignment. Alignment. Yeah, I said alignment. And here's what I mean. If we become open and affirming, it will align us with our denomination. It will align us with younger generations. And it will align us with the correct side of history." [43:41]
5. "The grip of Psalm 23 is never more noticeable than at funerals. There is something deeply reassuring to us, I think, about its magnificent prose in moments of loss and mourning. At the most challenging times of our lives, its deep richness often meets us there, gives us the rhythm we need to pause, the time we need to breathe and to reflect, and then helps us find a sense of comfort and guidance amidst incredibly important moments of change and loss and transition." [22:03]
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