Open Letter to Tony Campolo
Dear Mr. Campolo,
We've never met, but somehow I feel like I know you. Maybe it's because you've had a huge impact on my spiritual life through your books and speaking. But recently I was disappointed and confused by a stance you took on some important issues.
My first memory of you is still vivid. I was 16 years old, just one soul in a sea of thousands, crammed into an arena for a youth conference. You erupted onto the stage that night. As you paced back and forth, dabbing perspiration from your brow, you delivered a no-compromise message that sent a holy hush over the crowd.
I remember one story in particular. You recounted how a young man had approached you about his plans to become a missionary doctor in Africa. Yet when you caught up to him years later, he had traded his dream of missions work for a lucrative career as a plastic surgeon. Others may have excused his actions. Not you. You thundered the response you had given him: “Charlie, you’re a sellout!”
The message wasn’t lost on us. We were inspired by your challenge. We wouldn’t cave in to the world. We wouldn’t be sellouts.
When I read a recent interview with you, I glimpsed that same passion for the radical demands of the gospel. The interview covered several topics. When asked what Jesus would say to youth, your response was unequivocal. “Youth was made for heroism and not for pleasure…what I am here to do is call you to sacrifice.” Amen.
But I found myself shaking my head after reading the rest of the interview, especially after seeing your comments about Muslims and homosexuality.
You seemed to suggest that Muslims might obtain salvation apart from belief in Christ. You even cited John 10:16, naming Muslims as the sheep Jesus speaks of “that are not of this fold.” You went on to say that on judgment day the eternal destiny of Muslims would be decided—not on whether they accepted or rejected Christ—but on whether they performed good or evil deeds.
I was shocked by this significant departure from historic and orthodox Christianity. As I’m sure you’re aware, theologians almost unanimously agree that Jesus’ mention of “other sheep,” which was made to Jewish listeners, is almost certainly a reference to the gentiles who would soon profess faith in Christ. To claim that he was referring to adherents of a religion that was not even in existence would be strange indeed.
I also find your position on Muslims and salvation dangerous for Christian missions. I have friends risking their lives in repressive countries to bring the soul-saving message of Christ to Muslims. I wonder how they would respond to your assertion that Muslims are already on their way to heaven. Teaching that any group of people can enter heaven without accepting the atoning work of the cross ignores the exclusivity of the gospel and diminishes the imperative to spread the good news with passion and urgency.
Next you tackled the topic of homosexuality. “We shouldn't be saying to gay and lesbian people, ‘You have to become what you're not in order to be welcome by Jesus.’”
I agree that we should encourage homosexuals to come to Jesus “just as they are.” Yet once they come to Jesus, shouldn’t we expect that He will change their homosexual behavior? You seem to equate sexual orientation with core identity. Have I misunderstood you? I believe we all have sinful behaviors when we come to Christ. The hope is that He will cleanse us from those sins and reveal our true selves. We should accept homosexuals with open arms—and with a promise of freedom from their sin.
Perhaps I’m misrepresenting your positions. If so, please clarify what you meant by your comments. You are an influential voice in the church and your opinions carry great weight. Years ago you inspired me to stand against the culture and cling to the truth. Today I ask you to do the same.
Sincerely,
Drew Dyck
New Man magazine
We've never met, but somehow I feel like I know you. Maybe it's because you've had a huge impact on my spiritual life through your books and speaking. But recently I was disappointed and confused by a stance you took on some important issues.
My first memory of you is still vivid. I was 16 years old, just one soul in a sea of thousands, crammed into an arena for a youth conference. You erupted onto the stage that night. As you paced back and forth, dabbing perspiration from your brow, you delivered a no-compromise message that sent a holy hush over the crowd.
I remember one story in particular. You recounted how a young man had approached you about his plans to become a missionary doctor in Africa. Yet when you caught up to him years later, he had traded his dream of missions work for a lucrative career as a plastic surgeon. Others may have excused his actions. Not you. You thundered the response you had given him: “Charlie, you’re a sellout!”
The message wasn’t lost on us. We were inspired by your challenge. We wouldn’t cave in to the world. We wouldn’t be sellouts.
When I read a recent interview with you, I glimpsed that same passion for the radical demands of the gospel. The interview covered several topics. When asked what Jesus would say to youth, your response was unequivocal. “Youth was made for heroism and not for pleasure…what I am here to do is call you to sacrifice.” Amen.
But I found myself shaking my head after reading the rest of the interview, especially after seeing your comments about Muslims and homosexuality.
You seemed to suggest that Muslims might obtain salvation apart from belief in Christ. You even cited John 10:16, naming Muslims as the sheep Jesus speaks of “that are not of this fold.” You went on to say that on judgment day the eternal destiny of Muslims would be decided—not on whether they accepted or rejected Christ—but on whether they performed good or evil deeds.
I was shocked by this significant departure from historic and orthodox Christianity. As I’m sure you’re aware, theologians almost unanimously agree that Jesus’ mention of “other sheep,” which was made to Jewish listeners, is almost certainly a reference to the gentiles who would soon profess faith in Christ. To claim that he was referring to adherents of a religion that was not even in existence would be strange indeed.
I also find your position on Muslims and salvation dangerous for Christian missions. I have friends risking their lives in repressive countries to bring the soul-saving message of Christ to Muslims. I wonder how they would respond to your assertion that Muslims are already on their way to heaven. Teaching that any group of people can enter heaven without accepting the atoning work of the cross ignores the exclusivity of the gospel and diminishes the imperative to spread the good news with passion and urgency.
Next you tackled the topic of homosexuality. “We shouldn't be saying to gay and lesbian people, ‘You have to become what you're not in order to be welcome by Jesus.’”
I agree that we should encourage homosexuals to come to Jesus “just as they are.” Yet once they come to Jesus, shouldn’t we expect that He will change their homosexual behavior? You seem to equate sexual orientation with core identity. Have I misunderstood you? I believe we all have sinful behaviors when we come to Christ. The hope is that He will cleanse us from those sins and reveal our true selves. We should accept homosexuals with open arms—and with a promise of freedom from their sin.
Perhaps I’m misrepresenting your positions. If so, please clarify what you meant by your comments. You are an influential voice in the church and your opinions carry great weight. Years ago you inspired me to stand against the culture and cling to the truth. Today I ask you to do the same.
Sincerely,
Drew Dyck
New Man magazine
posted by Drew Dyck at 3:33 PM
21 Comments:
Thank you Drew for taking the time to write such a meaningful letter I know Jesus would not compromise and I thank you for doing the same. I hope and pray that Mr. Campolo will read your letter and change his stance, but in todays world where compromise rules he won't.
Keep up the good work,
In Christ,
Tim M
I recall a president against whom credible evidence and testimony exists that backs up claims of rape, murder conspiracy, and treason. And I will never forget the footage of Tony Campolo walking beside that president leaving the funeral of a cabinet member (also credibly accused of treason) who died under suspicious circumstances.
What else do you expect?
Hello Drew and all:
A sometime post 9-11-2001 Mr. Compalo was in Spokane WA and spoke to a group of "Evangelical" leaders. When he started on a emotional tirade blaming American Christians for the 9-11 terrorist attacks a lone Pastor stood up and let Mr Campalo know that he was wrong on his conclusions regarding the America Church and that it was the age old perverted Muslim teachings and the terrotists decisions to accept and act on those teaching that were at fault. Mr. Compalo hesitated for a monment and then brushed past his remarks and continued his blaming the American Church. That Pastor rose and let the meeting. It is a sad reprt to hear there was only one Pastor/Leader that arose and left... The Peace of Jesus to all of you... Bill M Spokane WA
Your response represents the biblical view of sin and repentance in the process of salvation. We know God loves all, but requires repentance as a standard for life in the Kingdom of Heaven. Thank you for responding in such a kind, thoughtful and yet direct manner. It is difficult to others we respect begin to step away from the gospel in the name of acceptance as we are. The Bible is clear, and although we are loved as we are, the standards of repentance remain clear, from the words of Jesus through the Epistles and Revelation. We love Tony Campolo, but it appears he has headed in a dangerous direction.
Thank you again!
In Him,
Kraig W.
Please be aware that many people, heterosexuals, bisexuals and homosexuals, regard their sexual orientation as part of their core identity. It is not something one does; it is something one is.
My belief is that the Bible is very clear when it condemns certain same-sex behaviors:
- homosexual rape (Genesis 19)
- homosexual ritual sex in Pagan temples (two passages in Leviticus)
- homosexual prostitution (many places in the Old Testament)
- men molesting boys (1 Corinthians 6)
- heterosexuals engaged in homosexual behavior (Romans 1)
- men engaging in bestiality with angels (Jude)
But I see it as silent on same-sex activity within a loving, committed relationship.
Don't get me wrong. Sex is often sinful, when it is unsafe or coercive, or manipulative, our outside a committed relationship. But same-sex behavior, IMHO, is not intrinsically sinful.
Regards
Bruce Robinson
http://religioustolerance.org/hom_bibl.htm
The attoning work of Christ on the cross isn't really a debateable issue. It is SUCH an insult to His sacrifice to suggest that there is any other route to God. There are lots of religions and social movements that urge you on toward good deeds to justify yourself. Perhaps Tony would like to become a Mormon or a Buddhist. Who cares if he inspires people to "do good things". Our good things are as filthy rags. Sorry to get so fired up - I am just appalled.
T. Mills
Bruce Robinson,
I am very aware that many people equate sexual orientation with their core identity. But simply because they feel it is part of their identity, does not mean it should be. For instance, if an alcoholic insists that alcoholism is an integral part of his core identity, we wouldn’t affirm his alcoholism. Rather, if we cared for him, we’d encourage him to reconsider letting that particular behavior define who he is. I’m not trying to say homosexuality and alcoholism are the same. I’m just noting that our self perceptions are not necessarily valid. So the question becomes, what behaviors should define us?
The philosopher Michael Foucault observed that the modern era ushered in an unprecedented focus on sexuality. The proof of this shift can be seen in our new ways of thinking. For example, in the past a person who committed a homosexual act was simply described as a person who committed a homosexual act. Today, however, someone who commits a homosexual act is automatically labeled a homosexual. Sexual action defines personhood. This subtle, but important change only demonstrates sexuality’s new exalted status. Its role as formative factor for identity was actually an invention of modernity and can therefore should be questioned.
Regarding your position that the Bible does not condemn homosexuality—only perversities like homosexual prostitution or pedophilia—I don’t know where to start. The exegetical gymnastics required to arrive at such a conclusion boggles the mind. Every time homosexuality is mentioned in the Bible it is denounced. In the case of 1 Corinthians Paul is not referring to pedophilia as you suggest. There were many other common Greek words he could have used to denote pedophilia. Instead he chose the word arsenokoitai, a word that has roots in the Septuagintal passage from Leviticus that condemns regular homosexuality.
Each argument you cite relies on a supple hermeneutic, one that hopes—but is unable to prove—that the biblical writers referred to other practices than just plain homosexuality. In reality to deny that the Bible condemns homosexuality requires either a low view of scripture or a poor method of interpreting it.
Drew Dyck
Thank you, Drew, for a creative way of sharing the truth in regards to these important issues.
In Christ,
-Josh
Colorado Springs, CO
www.myspace.com/joshmshep
A letter to Drew Dyck, New Man Magazine
Dear Drew,
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to respond to your open letter. I hope you give my response as much space in your magazine as you gave to the questions you raised about me, since you probably are aware that what you had to say will have serious consequences for me and for the missionary work to which I am related.
It seems to me that the first obligation which, according to Matthew 18, is that when you have some serious questions about a brother that you are to go to that brother directly and only after things are clarified and there is no way to set things straight should you be going to the larger community of Christians with your concerns. You could have prevented a lot of damage had you lived up to Biblical requisites.
First of all, I have always made clear that there is no salvation apart from the grace of God given through Jesus Christ and his sacrificial work on the cross. In accord with Scripture, I’ve always held that there is no other name given under heaven whereby a person can be saved except in the name of Jesus.
What I have said, though, on various occasions, what you must have heard me say, is that while Jesus is the only savior, I am not convinced that Christians are the only ones that are saved. In reference to Muslims, I have specifically referred to men like Al-Hallag, one of the leaders of the Sufi sect of Islam. This man, while maintaining his Muslim identity, affirmed Jesus as the living WORD of God, and was so into what Christ did on the cross that his fellow Muslims accused him of becoming a Christian and put him to death by crucifixion. In my book, Speaking My Mind, I raise the question as to whether or not a Muslim such as Al-Hallag is saved through the cross of Christ even though he never identified himself as a Christian. I have said over and over again that think it is best for Christians to leave the judgment of who will be received into heaven and who will not be received into heaven to God. I have heard Billy Graham say exactly the same thing on multiple occasions.
Concerning homosexuality, I have contended that no one knows what causes a homosexual orientation. But as a sociologist, I know from my colleagues in my field that research indicates that people do not choose to be homosexuals. Whatever it is that creates that orientation occurs so early in the physical/social development of the individual that decision-making on this matter is never an option. Furthermore, while believing that God can do anything, I have strongly pointed out that sexual orientation does not normatively change even for those who have had deep spiritual experiences and who have had extensive counseling. It is interesting to note that even the leaders of the EXODUS ministries have recently declared that while it is possible for homosexuals to change their behavior and enter into heterosexual marriages that the tendencies towards same-gender attraction is likely to continue throughout the lifespan of gay and lesbian persons. If you read my books, (i.e. Speaking My Mind), you will find that I have no easy answers for my gay brothers and lesbian sisters. I call them to celibacy but point out that the church, which is quick to affirm this call, is reluctant to provide the emotional support and the prayerful encouragement that is essential for those who would enter into a celibate lifestyle. This is because in most instances, any person who “comes out” as being homosexual is likely to find that the church reacts with rejection and hostility. Hence, our congregations are filled with closeted gays and lesbians.
You are quite right when you point out that I believe that the church should be open to gays and lesbians. It seems strange to me that the church has become so open to people who are divorced and remarried even though Jesus speaks directly against such relationships but will have little if anything to do with people who are in gay and lesbian relationships.
I am a conservative on the issue, but I believe that our arms should be open to all who want to receive Christ and be a part of the fellowship of believers in which they can be nurtured into lifestyles that are in accord with Scripture.
I hope this letter provides adequate answers to the questions you raised in your “open letter.” I think it is important for Christians to hold each other accountable; it’s just that I think that we should do this in private before going public.
May our friendship continue as brothers in Christ.
Sincerely,
Tony Campolo
Eastern University
St. Davids, PA
I find it funny that after Tony's thoughtful and well balanced answer no one has any comment. Well said Tony, and thank you for graciously responding. And to poorhouse dad who wrote.. "I recall a president against whom credible evidence and testimony exists that backs up claims of rape, murder conspiracy, and treason. And I will never forget the footage of Tony Campolo walking beside that president leaving the funeral of a cabinet member (also credibly accused of treason) who died under suspicious circumstances.
What else do you expect?"
What a stupid thing to write, I mean really, I remember reading about people who were murders, rapists, etc. and Jesus walking beside them. Are you honestly saying that the grace of God should not be given to people who have sinned? Jesus tells us to make disciples of all people. what you said in your comment must have been what some said when paul was first saved "I saw Peter walking with a man who...."
P.S. Treason is not a sin. It isn't always very great, it may be against the law but sin? No
To begin, I commend Drew for bringing this topic to light. It takes courage to bring up such a topic that could not only offend someone, but to also challenge a leader such as Tony.
In response to Tony's citing Matthew 18, yes every brother/sister should approach one an other if what is being done/said is about to danger someone. However, I feel in Drew's profession it is his job to inform fellow believers about such said comments. It is then up to the reader to seek out what he feels is the truth by reading further articles on/by Tony and his stance on various issues.
My only thought about Tony bring-up his reference to "Al-Hallag...this man, while maintaining his Muslim identity, affirmed Jesus as the living WORD" is that I would say he was saved. Because as Tony pointed out Al-Hallag "affirmed Jesus as the living WORD" though he never said "I AM A CHRISTIAN," by his acknowledgment of Christ being the living word and His roll on the cross for our sins Al-Hallag stated in his heart his love and devotion to Christ. Again, just my thought.
Ultimately, this side of heaven we will never know who is and who isn't saved, God is the final judge and we as believers don't have the right to judge each other.
I pray these types of "controversial" articles continue because this is what will grow our community as believers to not be judgmental and accepting of each others different views.
This is so sad the body is so judgmental. We know in part, we understand and in part, but when he who is perfect shall appear then we will know fully what the Lord meant about a whole lot of subjects. Our jobs are so simple. Go to the highway and hedges and compel men to come. Show them the love of Christ, encourage them to read and study his word and be filled with the power of the holy spirit. And keep it moving. We get so side tracked by our own self righteousness and hang ups that we fail to do the work that he has called us to, because we are trying to do his job. Some questions we just DO NOT have the answers to. We have our opinions. This how were destroy our witness to the lost and the dying.
I find it interesting that an individual who agrees with such topics as the acceptance of inappropriate sexual behavior, and deminishing the work of Christ at the cross, would not understand that Treason is an act of betrayal and deception. Please excuse the sarcasm.
Let me see if I have this right...
Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
Pretty much cut and dried.
In peace
Jeff
Like Drew I have also been and still am a big fan of Mr. Compolo because he challenges me to live outside the box. By the box, I mean the way we understand Christianity without in depth reading, discussing and praying about it. The way Jesus challenges us to love those who hate us and do good to them. I’ve read many of Tony’s books and he seems to have always challenged us believers to error on love and let the Holy Spirit convict. I personally don’t think his position on heaven dwellers or homosexuals threatens or lessens the Gospel.
Whether some scientist discovers a gene that predisposes some people to homosexuality is really irrelevant isn’t it? God tells us that acting out on it is still a choice to sin. We are all predisposed to sin genetically and we are told to overcome our fleshly desires… including the one to condemn and convict. I’m really not sure which sin is worse homosexuality behavior or the unloving condemnation of it. It’s like choosing between the prostitute or the ones throwing rocks at her. Biblical correction yes, stoning no.
As far a Muslums in heaven … God alone has that call. Tony’s point, I think, is again one of loving the way Jesus says to. I think we could all agree that we don’t know everything there is to know about God. We do know He tells us that the Jesus is the only way to heaven. That should settle it for all of us and we should live accordingly and tell others this truth. But I’m not convinced that the God of the universe has told me everything He knows. Could His grace extend to non-Christians that are genuinely searching for Him? Well not as far as I know, but then again I don’t know everything. That kind of grace is only for God to give. The plan of salvation that God gave us is simple and it should be the only plan we should follow because He tells us that. But why does the only plan we know of and are told to follow have to be the only plan… Oh I know why it matters so much … because anything else would be too complicated for me! God probably knew that a long time ago. Jesus is the only plan I know of and I will stick to that and spend my time and energy on that truth. It’s the only one I can handle adequately.
Tony’s views are a little out of the box but not heretical. Thanks Tony for stretching all of us toward love and compassion.
Tim T
Thanks for the Open Letter.
I agree with Tony that one should go to the source before going public. I also admire Drew for his challenge.
To say that we are not to judge, is misrepresentation of scripture. 1 Corinthians 2:15 says, "He who is spiritual judges all things...." We love to hide behind Matthew 7:1 "Judge not lest you be judged" so our opinions do not have to be held accountable. I believe that we are to "see all things for what they are" (this is judging according to 1 Corinthians 2:15) and yet "not pronounce a sentence" (this is judging according to Matthew 7:1).
The intent being, know that sentencing belongs to God....discerning belongs to man....that we can accept someone regardless of what their background is, knowing God has the ability to change them who allow Him to and at the same time, not cave in to the pressures of humanity to accept behavior that is not in alignment with the standards of God's Word.
Homosexual behavior is condemned in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10...and in verse 11 Paul writes, "and such were some of you, but you were washed, sanctified and justified" and in verse 20 he tells us it came at a price...."the precious blood of Christ!" He also states to repent (glorify Christ in your body). See also where Jesus Himself states, "Unless you repent you will likewise perish." (see Luke 13:3)
When someone like Tony Campolo is on the national and international scene, he will receive the greater judgment (James 3:1) and what he says will be a great influence (good or bad) and he needs to be concerned as much with what they hear as much as what he said....as we all should.
The character of Christ is always at stake in each of us and we can't draw back and be wimpy, but we can't lose His grace extension to humanity either. Everyone produces after their own kind...stop and inspect the fruit from time to time, don't be offended when you are judged, and repent!!!
In the meantime........keep blessin where the devil is messin!!!
dll
Thank you Drew, for standing for truth, in a day and age where many Christians are content to remain silent as the devil rages on.
I find it very interesting that your open letter brought out very different "definitions" from Mr. Compalo from his first interview to his reply to your letter.
After reading his interview I understood that Muslims will be judged good or bad on whether or not they were helping others...nothing to do with Jesus whatsoever.
Mr. Campolo is far too vague for my liking. So the Muslim leader believes that Jesus is the Word of God...what does that mean?
The Apostle Paul wrote a letter to the Galatian church rebuking them...warning them that if they strayed from the gospel that they will be eternally damned.
The Galatians were professing Jesus...Jesus plus the ceremonial law.
Our hope must be in Jesus alone...not Jesus plus my other relgious beliefs...we must fight the temptation of "I want to get as many pokers in the fire...just to be safe"!
Everyone screams that we should not judge! The only people we seem to have no problem judging are the people who judge...we are such hypocrites. The Apostle Paul says we are to judge those inside the church, he also says that if an elder is sinning he should be rebuked in the presense of all.
From reading Mr. Compalo's interview I believe that he needed to be rebuked...and I believe that you did so in a gentle fashion.
May God's word be our ultimate authority, and nothing less.
Whether the topic is evolution or homosexuality we must go to the bible first, and not take our naturalistic scientific presuppositions and begin to shape and bend the bible to fit them.
I know that I have jumped all over the place...excuse that please.
I just wanted to encourage you to continue to preach the word...and beware of wanting to tickle peoples ears...because believe me we live in a day where they want their ears tickled.
I just wanted to take a moment to commend both Drew Dyck and Tony Campolo for taking the time to discuss such important topics publicly.
I truly believe that this was and is a discussion that should be held in public and each of us should be accountable for our beliefs and have to answer questions, even publicly. In an age where it seems that the church stays silent on so many issues and cowers when confronted with questioning about their faith it is refreshing to see such a discussion aired out publicly so that we may all grow together in our understanding of our Lord.
I must though, go on to say that I was disappointed with Rev. Campolo's response. Matthew 18 is specifically referencing offenses against an individual, which was clearly not the case here. Matthew 18 does not reference questions on the Biblical validity of a publicly made statement/s.
Beyond that, many ministries would be vehemently against the statement that homosexuals do not normatively lose their attraction for the same sex. Although many homosexuals do not lose their propensity toward same-sex relationships it should not lead us to draw conclusions about the nature or source of their lifestyle. I could accurately state that the majority of masturbators do not normatively change their behavior fully, even those who’ve had extensive counseling and deep spiritual experiences- but that does not mean that masturbation is acceptable, natural, or an unchosen behavior. It means that our methods of counsel and spiritual growth are failures. There are thousands of documented cases of homosexuals going on to walk away from that lifestyle into a satisfied and fruitful heterosexual relationship without lust for the opposite sex. I know of a handful personally through my brief ministerial experience. Sociology has never fully agreed on the subject of the source for sexual preference, but any sociologist who has studied cultures such as the Samoan faafafines and numerous other homosexual cultures would tend to disagree with the idea that homosexuality is not a choice and is not affected by social stimuli.
Let's focus on the Biblical proofs: that no man comes to the Father but through the Son, and you shall not lie with another man as with a woman- instead of watering down the gospel so that we can make people feel good or win "converts".
As I constantly tell others, I as a Christian and a minister must live my life under the assumption that anyone who does not know Christ, has never heard of Christ, and/or has rejected Christ is going to hell. I should live this way, even if my beliefs were to the contrary. Under such a lifestyle, if indeed I am wrong, then GLORY TO GOD because I'll have a larger extended family in heaven. But, to presuppose that Muslims or any other group are "the other sheep" or have access to the Father would be extra-Biblical to say the least and eternally fatal for any who would find hope in such a message if traditional Christian beliefs prove to be accurate.
I think that the greatest lesson to learn from this is that we ministers of the gospel should be careful how we speak publicly, not giving false hope to those who are suffering. We should also take heed to Brother Campolo's words and have greater acceptance of all people- just as Paul said so that we may become all things to all people hoping to win some for Christ.
There is such a thing as having compassion without compromise in our theological beliefs! May the Lord help the church of America to find that great balance that our Savior Jesus Christ had between loving acceptance and life-changing conviction!!
Rev. Matthew C Cullipher
www.operation2819.com
Tony may be right about going to him in private first, but I'm still glad you brought this to light. Tony is probably looked up to by a lot of believers and his comments and direction is given great weight. But his comments about Muslims and homosexuals was still not biblically sound in his letter of response to you.
Drew,
Tony Campolo is either being deceitful or lying when he insists that you should have talked him first about these issues, when he gives the impression that you are the first one to confront him on these issues. It is likely that He and many other "Christian" leaders have privately addressed these issues to Campolo, his wife and others at Eastern about welcoming in our churches practicing homosexuals (or even practicing immoral heterosexuals). In a proper Christian church, practicing open adulterers, open thieves, open fornicators are NOT welcome to worship freely but should be subject to church discipline (like the full Matthew 18:15-18 demands), as I Cor. 5:11-13 is very clear, but how many churches really do as those passages ask us, most act like the full passages don't exist. Tony, is NOT open to correction, if he truly was, he would renounce his false doctrine. He would either remain silent and/or work hard to change the false image of Christianity, that somehow God is unable to change behavior, and cleanse hearts, just like I John 1:9 says.
Tony using that canard of you not talking to him privately is to attempt to avoid the issue and blame the messenger for an "abuse of process", where biblically those who preach and teach false doctrine publicly, must be rebuked publicly for the instruction and admonition of the church at large. I Timothy 5:20. I am so glad you publicly rebuked him, it would be great if James Dobson, and other real Christian leaders would do the same.
Sincerely,
Gene Douglass
I disagree with Tony's use of Matthew 18 in this context. Tony Campolo is a public figure and in making public commments should be willing to be brought to accountablity publically.
The sad truth is that such a private conversation would benefit Tony and Drew but not the rest of us who desire the same private conversation.
In response to Tony's comment:
"It seems strange to me that the church has become so open to people who are divorced and remarried even though Jesus speaks directly against such relationships but will have little if anything to do with people who are in gay and lesbian relationships"
Wow. The logic here is so weak it's sad. There are clear reasons in scripture where divorce is legitmate: adultery and if a non-believing spouse wants to leave a believing spouse. Moreover, if a believer divorced when they were a non-believer then clearly they are forgiven of the sin as all other sins. Of course, we always we pray for reconcilation in all situations.
Nevertheless, with homosexuality, it is sin period. It is never not sin unless you take a liberal reading of the scripture which in my opinion, is also weak logic.
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