1Question_ Sexuality - Can I be gay and Christian_ Ralph Gilmore
Teacher
Lesson Summary
The class began with an overview of the church’s One Question project, explaining how the community’s top‑ranked inquiry—"Can I be gay and a Christian?"—was selected for in‑depth discussion. Dr. Ralph Gilmore introduced the cultural background, noting media portrayals and legal developments that have softened public perception of same‑sex attraction, and he shared personal anecdotes from his time at Freed‑Hardeman University where he witnessed the tragic outcomes of two former choir members who struggled with their sexuality. Gilmore emphasized that the biblical answer has not changed, pointing to Jesus’ command to love everyone (Matt. 5:43) and His merciful treatment of the adulterous woman (John 7:53‑8:11). He argued that while the Bible labels homosexual behavior as sin, the church must respond with compassion, outreach, and hope for repentance, rather than hatred. The session concluded with an invitation for further dialogue through the church’s online platforms, reinforcing the commitment to love and truth.