Shepherding and Befriending the Same-Sex Attracted

What is same-sex attraction (SSA)?

What are its origins? (King’s Speech, Muriel’s Wedding)

What other problems manifest? (Exodus 6:9, Judges 17)

What role do affections play? (Prov. 4:23, Psalm 34:18)

Where do you fit in? (Pastoral shepherd, friend, family)

Where does church fit in (Psalm 68:5-6)?

Where does it fit in with God’s plan? (Mal. 4:5-6)

Patience, prayerfulness, involvement, consideration, preparation, and expecting the unexpected

Believe it or not, this can help you too!

Romans 12:15-16 (NKJV)– 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.

i. Connect with your own brokenness in order to pastor to the wounds of others (v. 15);

ii. Empathise (v. 16a)- same mind, same heart;iii. Don’t emotionally disengage and be lofty, but

humble (v. 16b, Ps. 131:1, Elanor Rigby). iv. Remember to keep yourself safe.

The church with healing presence

Preach and practice lament and include it in worship!Be a listener and a pray-er, not a problem solver.

About Liberty Christian MinistriesWe provide: - support, hope, and insight to Christians struggling with

unwanted SSA;- help to those with children, parents, family and others who

are same-sex attracted or living the ‘gay’ lifestyle;- resources such as articles, book reviews, and other

information.Online: http://www.libertychristianministries.org.au Email: lcmi@iinet.net.auPhone: 9818-8111

What Liberty Offers Training pastoral staff, preaching, testimony; One-to-one meetings for those struggling; Support groups for parents and those struggling with SSA; Counselling contacts.

What Liberty Offers - Resources

What You Can Do Pray for us! Volunteer and get involved, if you’d like to Recommend us Invite us to your fellowship groups, etc. Provide financial support

Questionsand

Comments

Key Learning Points for those who struggle…1. Jer. 2:13, 17:9– people use broken cups because of sick hearts2. Isaiah 53, 61:1-7 – God is in the business of healing hearts3. John 5:39-40 – Knowing the Bible is not enough4. Matt. 11:29-30, Heb. 12, Lament. 3 – God doesn’t remove

struggle: He helps and uses it. He disciplines for us to return.5. Titus 2:11-14 – I have choices and am not a hapless victim6. John 4:1-25 – Jesus is the living water7. 1 Corinth. 6:9-11 – some were once ‘gay’ 8. Psalm 139:23-24 - God, tell me why I’m doing what I do!9. Revelation 21:6-7 – war against sin has a higher purpose10. Luke 15:11-32 – The gut-wrenching father heart of God