Rev. Clay Stauffer: Living in a 5-4 world

Summary of a Blog Post on The Tennessean website (original Posting: http://www.tennessean.com/story/news/religion/2015/07/04/rev-clay-stauffer-living-world/29591647/)

When the Supreme Court made its 5-4 ruling on same sex marriage, I immediately thought less about my own perspective and more about what it will mean for the future of Christianity and the church.

Many already claim that we live in a post-Christian world where the church has lost its influence in society. Some point to this ruling as clear evidence that the church has not done its job. Others say the ruling will now give the church a chance to reach people it has alienated and marginalized from the pews for years. Both use scripture to defend their position.

My fear all along has been an increased polarization within Christianity. There are churches who are adamantly against same sex marriage and they are digging in. There are churches who are adamantly for it and they will raise the flag even higher. What about those of us who pastor churches where not everybody agrees?

We say in the Christian Church that we “agree to disagree.” “In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; but in all things love.” Christianity would do well to make this issue a non-essential and let good people simply disagree.

United Methodist pastor Travis Garner wrote these pastoral words the Sunday following the ruling regarding the complexity of the situation: “When we proclaim from our soapboxes that you’re either in favor of this decision or you’re a hateful bigot, we’re being shortsighted. When we say you’re either against this decision or you’re championing immorality, we’re failing to understand the complex reality in which we find ourselves.”

Make no mistake, these are complicated times. Passions run high. Fear is pervasive. Anger is real. On June 26, many celebrated the court’s decision as justice long overdue. Others felt as though five activist judges had spoken for the people and had no right to redefine marriage.

Garner also wrote this: “As a pastor, I’m a pastor to both the 5 and to the 4. I’m a pastor to people who sharply disagree with one another. And the bottom line is this: All are welcomed in my church and loved unconditionally by God. And all are asked and enabled to become more than what they are when they walked in the door — a person who is continually growing and transforming into the likeness of Christ. I am grateful that this morning, at my church, there will be space for everyone; all are invited.”

All are entitled to their own beliefs regarding marriage and what it is. And the church would be well-served to be a place where civil and respectful dialogue can occur. Demonizing those with whom we disagree is never a good idea. The Apostle Paul identifies the fruit of the spirit in Galatians 5: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. What you will not find on this list is anger, hatred, resentment, fear, hostility, pride or bitterness.

Wherever Christians might stand on this issue, let us not lose sight of Christ and his commandment to love.