Ah...Romans1:20-31. That passage is the cause of many a fight between those who believe. I'm a Christian and I believe that the bible is God's word spoken through his prophets. However, in order to understand and interpret the bible, we must determine what biblical passages are to be taken literally, figuratively and/or symbolically. Greater minds than mine have taught me ways to decipher when to use which interpretation. I am also a lawyer, who values the Constitution of the United States and the Amendments that further define it. So for me...when you are talking about a marriage based in religious doctrine...that religion has the right to determine what constitutes a "marriage." BUT if we're talking "marriage" based in civil law...then the law must define marriage in a non-discriminatory manner.
It's called Equal Protection.
Churches can define marriage and refuse to sanction same-sex marriage...but once the government determines that special or additional rights and privileges are given to those who are "married," the law requires that marriage be accessible to all.
Oh...and while we pontificate about protecting the traditional "Christian Marriage"...be sure that you are being faithful, supportive, dependable, reliable, financially responsible, non-abusive & providing of security in your "traditional marriage"...'cause the bible says that also.
Posts
Thank you Ms. Jones. As an aspiring attorney and christian I could not have put it better. You should publish this.
ReplyDeleteVery well stated. I have been trying to determine how to reconcile my beliefs as a Christian with my feelings regarding civil rights. This sums it up nicely.
ReplyDeleteI love what you said here.I have tweeted this link.
ReplyDeleteI am glad you wrote that, that sums up how I feel too.
ReplyDeleteWell said Star! This sums it up nicely. As an LGBT wedding expo organizer I am all to familiar with the fight for marriage equality. Love is love!
ReplyDeleteTHIS IS MY OPINION....I understand the "law" however, the final say is what God wants. I am sure if being married to the same sex was not an issue He, God wouldn't have wrote it like that. I am sure people are going to comment that "man" made the bible. Yeah but by God's words. To each its own but for me, God doesn't approve so why should I. Now for the government, if they are going to ban same sex marriage based on religion and belief....then why allow 1 person to take out prayers in school? I'm just saying. Be Blessed.
ReplyDeleteStar, you won me over with that well thought out, reasoned response.
ReplyDeleteAs a Gay American, I've always respected people's religious beliefs, but at the same time wanted my equal rights.
I wish more Christians would understand that my wanting equal rights has nothing to do with their beliefs or the teachings of their church. Don't want to change anyone's church.
Cheers from Atlanta!