Bible clear on homosexuality but no Church should be a cold place for those who truly repent their sins

HAVING contributed three or four letters over recent months calling for an end to “Presbyterian-bashing”, I had resolved to say no more. Even though my last letter provoked some criticism, I am content to let the critics have the lastword.

However, Colin Nevin’s letter (Write Back, January 16) prompts me to write just once more.

I don’t think I know Colin, apart from his regular letters to this page. His letter is magnificent and I thank him for it. He writes with such courage, honesty and clarity.

Two things he says are particularly helpful. Firstly, I appreciate his clear conviction on what the Bible says about homosexuality and the evident sacrifice and struggles that come with trying to live faithfully within the bounds that God has set.

I have always had more respect for the liberals who simply reject what the Bible says than for those who try to twist it in an attempt to make the Bible say the opposite of what is a clear and consistent message in both Old and New Testaments.

Secondly, it is with a heavy heart that I hear about the unnecessary struggles that Colin has had to face from some within the Churches. He clearly has resolved to live a life of scriptural holiness. He, like me and every other Christian I know, must live every day by the grace of God and in need of his forgiveness.

Sexual sins are not bigger than other kinds of sin. God forgives all who truly repent and no Church should be a cold place for forgiven sinners, whatever the sin has been and whatever the temptations we have to struggle with, in order to live holy lives that please God.

REV DAVID CLEMENTS

Carrickfergus, Co Antrim