Homosexual Church of Ireland Clergyman in Civil Partnership
Rev. Angus Stewart presents a Reformed theological critique of the Church of Ireland's acceptance of a clergyman in a same-sex civil partnership, using conditional statements to demonstrate how departing from biblical teaching on sexuality and marriage contradicts Scripture and historic Christian doctrine. The article argues from biblical texts (Matthew 19, Romans 1, 1 Corinthians 6, 1 Timothy 3) that embracing homosexuality in the clergy represents a capitulation to worldly standards rather than obedience to God's Word.
Rev. Angus Stewart In view of Church of Ireland clergyman Rev. Tom Gordon’s civil partnership with another man (July, 2011), the Belfast News Letter asked for Letters to the Editor: “What are your views on same-sex relationships in the clergy?” (3 September, 2011). First, if God’s Word does not forbid all sexual relationships outside lifelong marriage between one man and one woman (Matt. 19:3-12) and does not prohibit homosexuality (Rom. 1:27), then Christian office-bearers should be free to...