A War of Loves: The Unexpected Story of a Gay Activist Discovering Jesus

by David Bennett

I sat with my Bible open and my coffee untouched. “I can’t believe a loving marriage between two members of the same sex is sinful. I’m happy to concede that sex before marriage is wrong, and that’s exactly why the church needs to have gay marriages,” I said to my aunt. “If I wanted to marry Thomas, where would I go? I’d have to leave this church where God meets me so profoundly.” I stared intently at her, waiting for a response. Helen met my gaze. “David,” she began slowly, “I agree with what Scripture says. I believe its intent is clear. But it’s easy for me. I’ve never struggled with same-sex attraction.” She paused to sip her coffee before continuing. “All of us have a cross to bear, an ultimate issue to wrestle over with God. This is something you’ll have to work out with him. That’s faith! You have the Holy Spirit, your teacher, living in you now. You need to seek his answer to your question. The voices of falsehood are loud—so loud. But God’s voice is a still whisper. You’ll have to learn to hear him. Remember, God will never contradict his Word. Never.” She locked eyes with me. “I’m sorry if we or this church have failed to love you. No one should bear their cross alone. We’re here for you. Whatever you come to believe about your sexuality, you are always welcome, and if you have a partner, you’re both welcome.” She reached across the table and grabbed my hand. “Yes, we have a policy that means our church will submit to what Scripture says about marriage. But, Davi...

Wow.