While the Leadership Team has affirmed the "traditional" view of marriage, we recognize that many people are still unsure of the best way to learn about this topic or how to understand what the Bible says on the subject.
We are currently arranging a series of workshops for this fall to explore this important issue. We are in conversation with several individuals (outside of ECC) who can not only represent our traditional view clearly, but also introduce the "affirming" view in a way that is respectful and unbiased.
We will keep you updated as details for these workshops are finalized.
In the meantime, the Leadership Team has compiled a list of recommended resources for anyone interested in doing further personal study.
Resources that represent the traditional view of marriage:
“A Response to Questions on Sexuality” By Chris Price. This booklet was produced by the Vancouver church “The Way.” It is a free e-booklet. We feel this booklet speaks to the issue of “posture” well and addresses many of the issues raised in both of our forums.
“Does The Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage?” by Preston Sprinkle. The author is at the forefront of the current discussion on sexuality in North American churches. He represents the theological position and foundation for the belief in traditional marriage between one man and one woman. He also seeks to address many of the objections to the traditional position that ECC has taken.
“Does the Bible affirm same-sex marriage?” by Rebecca McLaughlin. In this concise book, Rebecca McLaughlin, someone with a long history of same-sex attraction, looks at ten of the most common arguments used to claim that the Bible affirms same-sex sexual relationships. She analyzes the arguments and associated Bible passages one by one.
Resources that represent an affirming view of same-sex marriage:
“Changing Our Mind” by David Gushee. This is a bit autobiographical as well, but specific to his own views on sexuality, not life in general. The author writes about his journey of changing his position as well as changing how he approached the issue of same-sex marriage. Along the way, he gives theological responses to many issues that are being discussed in the current debate, including the position that ECC has taken. Gushee also has a moderate tone and there is much in his writing with which we should all agree.
“Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate” by Justin Lee. This autobiographical book not only tells the story of a gay Christian man who was raised in a conservative Christian home, but it also gives support for the affirming view of same-sex marriage. He also provides practical guidance for all committed Christians who wonder how to relate to gay friends or family members--or who struggle with their own sexuality. No matter where you have landed on this important issue, reading Justin’s book would be helpful.