PastorPete,

I’m glad to hear that the RCA is being intentional about engaging in a serious dialogue over the issue of homosexuality, and I think your proposal is a fantastic start. Particularly refreshing is the fact that your proposal addresses one of the major deficiencies in most discussions of Christian ethics: the work of the Spirit. I’m constantly struck by how central the work of the Spirit is to Paul, and yet how easily we marginalize it. Quite clearly (and understandably) we prefer our ethics to be carved in stone – tamed, dead.

However, I do question your use of divisiveness as a criterion of evaluation of Spirit-led activities (last paragraph). Sadly, it’s hard to think of a significant church doctrine or practice that has not led to divisions.

Please keep us posted on how the RCA responds to your proposal.

Seth