Posted by Neon, many many moons ago.
National Council of Churches of Singapore
Statement on Homosexuality
Preamble:
There has recently been wide discussion in the press and the
Internet on the issue of homosexuality with different views
expressed. Christians, like other thoughtful citizens, are also
concerned about this issue. We present our position below as a
guide to Christians in our member churches and as our witness, as
concerned citizens, to the society in which we belong.
Our stand:
1) Recognizing the Bible as the authoritative standard for its
faith and practice the Church has historically and consistently
held the view that the practice of homosexuality is clearly
incompatible with the teachings of the Christian faith. The only
sexual relationship, sanctioned by God and given as a gift from
God, is between a male and a female within the bounds of a
monogamous marriage.
2) Therefore, we do not condone homosexual practice and we consider
homosexual lifestyle as sinful and unacceptable. However, this does
not mean that we reject or despise homosexuals (homophobia). We
acknowledge that every person is loved by God and we all live under
the grace of God. Homosexuals should be regarded and treated no
less as persons of worth and dignity.
3) The Church is called to be a caring community and a sanctuary,
always extending ministry to all persons. As sinners ourselves, we
are committed to the path of true freedom made possible by the
grace of God and found in and through obedience to Jesus Christ.
Without minimizing their struggles, the Church offers those beset
with homosexual desire the same opportunity to receive God's
forgiveness and fulfillment in Jesus Christ and to experience His
transforming power. Not accepting homosexual practice and lifestyle
must not be confused with homophobia.
4) In public debate about homosexuality scientific data have
sometimes been used to support certain claims. To the layperson,
science has been unsuspectingly regarded as an objective discipline
and conclusions based on its findings have been assumed as
irrefutable and authoritative. But that is an assumption we do not
accept especially with regard to attempts to give biological
explanations to homosexual inclination and behaviour. We note that
there is no clear evidence that homosexuality is biologically
determined.
5) Though we deem homosexual lifestyle totally unacceptable on the
basis of the Bible and our faith, we believe that unless there are
legitimate reasons homosexuals, as individuals, should not be
discriminated against in areas such as employment. It does not
follow, however, that our society should be re-ordered or allowed
to evolve to the extent that eventually homosexual practice is
endorsed, permitted or encouraged as an alternative lifestyle. In
this regard, we urge our government to maintain:
a) current legislation concerning homosexuality;
b) its policy of not permitting the registration of homosexual
societies or clubs;
c) its policy of not allowing the promotion of homosexual lifestyle
and activities.
6) As churches we seek to remain faithful to our Christian faith
and practice. We shall strengthen the education of our members in
the teachings and practices of our faith. We are committed to
serving our nation by helping to preserve and promote wholesome
values and lifestyles that will contribute to the well-being of our
society.
29 July 2003
