Tips for Sharing the Gospel (with those who are gay and lesbian)

[Selena]

Tips for Sharing the Gospel
by Robbi Kenney

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See a person, not a homosexual. We're not a clean-up campaign; we're ambassadors of love. How would you approach any person you felt needed Christ?
Paul Little's book, How to Give Away Your Faith, might be a good one to read for ideas. There's nothing special about homosexuality as a sin in God's eyes. Don't let it cloud yours. Homosexuals are looking for love, just like anyone else. Jesus Christ is the answer for that need.

Remember that the gospel means "good news." Be sure to present a Savior, not a code of ethics. Jesus is a real person, not a life philosophy. Don't be so concerned about a particular sin. God wants to redeem the whole person, not just his or her sexuality.
Know what you are offering. You are offering Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. You are not offering heterosexuality. There is a different between being homosexual and acting out homosexual behavior. When a person makes a commitment to Christ, he or she must come into agreement with God that homosexual behavior is sin. You are initially offering the power to come into abstinence from homosexual behaviors--but the feelings are not going to change overnight. That will come with time, the care and concern of friends, and the quality of his or her own continued surrender to Christ.
Actively love that person. Words can be so empty. Demonstrate your love by listening, by calling, by confronting when necessary, by sitting together in church. Love is a verb.
Don't be afraid to hear some "gory" details. Some folks don't know how to express themselves in any way but street language. Listen with love and respond as you seek the counsel of Jesus. Love them where they're at.
Don't be afraid to say, "I love you." Don't be afraid to hug, touch, hold hands in prayer. We all need that physical affirmation of love from one another. Touching is not sexual, it's loving. Homosexuals need to learn the place of affection outside the context of sexual involvement. They won't rape you. If your intentions are misunderstood, explain yourself, but don't back away.
Share your life. Many people coming from a homosexual background are surprised to realize that "regular folks" also wrestle with sexual temptation, loneliness, rejection, hurt, etc. That helps them put their lives into perspective.
Present the whole gospel. Jesus wants to set them free from lying, bitterness, pride, rebellion, you name it. Homosexual behavior and fantasy are only a part.
Don't make homosexuality the focal point of your relationship. While you should not be afraid to talk about this issue, remember that there are many other areas of your friend's life you can discuss. And let them see Jesus, the answer to all their sins.
Tell them about Exodus. Share Scriptures like 1 Corinthians 6:11 ("... and such were some of you ...") as well as testimonies of others who have come out of homosexuality. "Faith cometh by hearing ..."
Copyright © Robbi Kenney. Reprinted with permission of Outpost.