I had this same situation in my family. My sister was marrying a transgender "man". She wanted my 2 year old daughter(at the time) to be the flower girl. I had just become a Christian only under a year before being confronted with this. My sister tried to bribe me with a position in the wedding too. I told her no I would not be coming and neither would my daughter. My wife and I planted seeds in my sister about Christ. After years of trama and abuse mental and physical from the trans "man" my sister finally ended the relationship. She finally met a good man and they are married now and have 2 kids. My sister thanked me quietly for making the stand and not going to the wedding. She says that it always bothered her that I was so against that wedding because of my convictions. My sister now is a Christian and understands the position I took those many years ago. Our relationship has been healed.
And while I'm sure you continued to love her in the interim, it was NOT your job to "build bridges" and makes sure YOU kept the relationship going and that YOU weren't vilified; you obeyed God and He did the rest. Begg should have remembered that as much as he himself may want people saved, God wants that far more. He's Sovereign and perfectly capable of restoring relationships - or not - as He sees fit.
@@jerilowehowell6015 absolutely. It all happened in His time. I just made sure I stayed true to what God was telling me. It's turned out better than I could have hoped. My sister and I have a better relationship now than even back when we were kids.
Thank you Todd Friel! You did explain this matter in a very sensitive way! So sorry for Pastor Alistair Begg. Should not be published everywhere. He is a compassionate person. He is a Believer in Christ and we need to be loving towards him as his brothers and sisters even when he is wrong.
I was in this situation a year ago with my son and was torn between going because I love him and not going because of my conviction. I struggled with it for months. I didn’t go because I knew God would not be pleased in me affirming transgenderism. Both the little children of his new wife claim to be “transgender”, and they were in the bridal party standing in opposite positions of their real gender. The son as a bridesmaid and the daughter a groomsman. My son disowned me, but my love for God is greater. A year later, he’s back in my life and his wife says she respects my steadfastness in my faith. I was a witness for Christ in not going.
Praise God. It takes faith (trust) to do the will of God and wait... And it's also always an excellent witness for Christ who did the will of God. It says "I'm trusting God, no matter what. Even if I *seem* to lose everything".
Hats off! This isn’t fun or easy, but what is expected in this evil world. I’m so sorry one pastor made so light of this matter that was and is hard for you. You honor God. Keep praying!! He’s a great big God who loves you.❤️
Wow this is a perfect comment!! You are an inspiration!! This should be shared as an answer to those who support Alistair Begg! I also made an Alistair Begg video before Wretched made it! I use the exact SAME arguments and biblical explanation as you!
I had this EXACT discussion with a sisterinlaw and a son. I clearly stated my beliefs were biblical and based upon the Word I could not support a same sex wedding of a nephew. They did not argue or diswade my response. It was a real surprise they challenged me and the Holy Spirit really spoke through me! Sooo thankful I was ready and didn't even know it! Thank you soooo much for your kindness to this pastor and the CLARITY you provided!!!😊
I have a wayward daughter who married a woman. My wife and I refused to attend the wedding (as lovingly as we could - yet firmly). We are willing to love her through our differences, but she has cut off all contact. Our door remains open, and we reach out frequently. Please pray for her soul.
And, I think that is why Alistair gave the advice to the Grandmother that he did...to show the grandchild that even in her sin she was still loved. She still has a chance at sharing the gospel with her grandchild AND their "spouse"
@@rebeccaotis8056 and what of the gospel that tells the grandchild to repent and believe? How serious do you think that the grandchild will take the gospel when they are called to repentance? If the grandchild "accepts the Lord" and then wants to be baptized and then join a church what then?? Does the whole church need to receive him/her into fellowship? If they don't does that send the message that he/she AND their spouse aren't loved?
So hard but I believe you did the right thing. The day she returns, she will know your faith has integrity. Christopher Yuan has some good teaching on this and shares his journey. Somehow we gloss over the reality that Jesus taught to follow Him would divide family. He is very clear on this. Why do we think we can outlove God by doing what we think is best (attending and being a “witness” at these ceremonies). Such a hard line and heart wrenching. Praying for your daughter while you wait and love.
@rebeccaotis8056 No not their spouse in the eyes of God. Marriage is a Godly act, when the state steps in God doesn't have to honor that marriage. As for believers, we have way to many who compromise, so they don't lose their children. They're lost anyways already. But in reality steadfastness brings children to back later to God not compromise.
My wife made a very good point, and one that as far as I know, no one has made yet. The grandchild, we assume knew the views of grandma, ought to have said, "I understand that you won't be able to attend. I love you, so don't feel torn for not being there.
Your wife is correct. That is grandchild that loves her grandmother! Her grandmother should have given her a hug and told her that her understanding was appreciated why she would NOT attend. I don’t understand her needing to talk to minister, she had the Bible and the Comforter for reassurance. Alistair should have guided her to prayer and given her the scriptures for her to lookup.
Even though the grandchild knew the grandmothers position, some in this lifestyle, want the approval of a Christian to say 'see she's a Christian and she came' or just to show other Christians that they might be wrong because this Christian came. It can be a divisive thing which we have seen in enlarger groups. It's great to read these other comments where family members lovingly explained and didn't attend and then later the person in this lifestyle came to know Lord.
what error? How many weddings have you attended where one of the parties was either a heathen or divorced? Do you have illegitimate relatives that you attend their birthday parties? Do you attend work parties where unbiblical activities (alcohol consumption) take place?
Very well articulated Pastor Todd. I myself has been grappling with Alistair Begg's advise. Thank you for your knowledge and insight. You truly are a well versed Bible expositor. God bless you.
All i can think is how many times I've gone off the rails, not immediately repented, but eventually came to my senses, and God in His mercy forgave me after i repented after humbling myself. I got to do this all privately. I can't imagine how hard it would be to do publicly. Just prayn for this brother in Christ to realise his error, repent, ask God for forgiveness, accept His forgiveness that God through Jesus' death and resurrecting has promised and continue on his journey with Jesus.
Thank you Todd you always explain everything so clearly. I worry about the souls of people that are led to hell because of pastors who are not strong to defend the truth.
Peoples salvation does not depend on pastors , strong , truthful or otherwise . It is Gods Holy Spirit who does ALL of the work of convicting someone of their sin , regenerating their spirit , bringing them to repentance and faith and giving them eternal life as the chosen children of Almighty God . John 6;44 Ephesians 2;8-10 Please read and believe the doctrines of election and Gods sovereignty and you will worry no more . Read Romans 8;28 and in fact the whole chapter for comfort and then hit chapter nine while you’re at it . May the Lord God Almighty bless you mightily , and your house !
@malcolms crivener8750 Jesus surely condemned the (false) shepherds of Israel. He said that they are the blind leading the blind and if you follow them you will fall into a pit. Their actions were leading people to hell. You cannot separate responsibility from the sovereignty of God.
@@paulhovan5466 The sovereignty of God trumps everything else . We pray that His will is done on earth as it is in heaven . Either Man is in control or the Lord is . His Word says that He is , so don’t argue back !
@@malcolmscrivener8750 You are are correct, but within God's sovereignty he has written human actions, and humans are responsible for the actions they have taken. We don't know what those actions are ahead of time, so when we make a decision it is a real decision, and we are responsible for our actions. But God already ordained that action.
@@paulhovan5466 Paul , thank you for your comments . Most of all I thank Almighty God for revealing the truth to me and saving me . I speak severely to people who are in rebellion against the Lord , because they don’t realise that the consequences they will suffer are very severe . Atheists , Arminians and other heretical cultists . with the myriad of pagan , works righteousness based religions of satans kingdom , have no realisation of the eternal danger they are in . Therefore, as I remember how I used to despise and scorn “ Bible Bashers “ before the Holy Spirit regenerated me by giving me the fear of the Lord , and drawing me to a saving relationship with Him , I know as one of His children , that only straight speaking of the truth is required . We are to rise above the fear of Man , as God is our Saviour and friend who alone we want to please , always remembering the hopeless position of the lost and dying souls around us Wishy washy , mealy mouthed platitudes were not used by the Lord Jesus Christ and “ loving people into the Kingdom “ is satans delight . All men everywhere are commanded to repent and believe the Gospel of salvation or suffer the consequences of their rejection of Him . However at the same time , salvation is of the LORD !
Yea but from someone who has spent so long in teaching and reading from the Bible. We expect more from our elders and when corrected not to double down Proverbs 15:32 “He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.”
And if grandma attends the wedding and the officiating person asks the audience "does anyone have any reason that these two should not be joined together in HOLY matrimony, speak now or forever hold your peace", what exactly should grandma do? Does she speak up and be disruptive to the ceremony? Does she hold her peace and therefore never again express the sinfulness of the union? By holding her peace, is she now a partaker of the evil of the union?
Why not? Jesus was invited to a Pharisee's house, declined washing his hands as a part of ritual ceremonial cleansing, and then denounced everything the Pharisee's were doing (Luke 11:37-54).
@@FailRobotAndCalebArmy I am just wondering if grandma would have the fortitude to do that, and if not, if she could live with the regret of having gone and not speaking up. His counsel puts grandma in a very hard spot.
@@MrsBaird-gf1rx Well Grandma needs some faith. 😜 In all seriousness, the situation depends if Grandma should go or not. Is she going to the ceremony to just keep her family? Is she going to evangelize and make a statement about faith? Is she going in love or not going in love? Unfortunately taking Grandma's situation at a local congregation and investigating it on a global level on RU-vid does not follow Matthew 18 protocol. Wretched and all these other RU-vid channels should stop posting every argument online and instead have one on one conversations with these pastors if they have a problem (not sure if they have). These channels seem to cause more divisions than necessary.
This situation really breaks my heart. I have grown to love Pastor Begg over the past 2-3 years. I have sat (online) under his teachings and listened to at least 300+ of his sermons. I love his teaching style. But there is a biblical line that cannot be crossed. Although I still love him, I cannot and will not stand by him on this issue. I will pray for him that somewhere down the road he rethinks his statement. This situation clearly shows me that the line we are on is getting smaller and smaller. One day, we will all have to stand for the truth. At what line will you compromise? We can't be too arrogant as to think we are that faithful. We must be alert and watch!
Thank you for explaining this. I knew she shouldn't go but did not have a good explanation why. In one sense, I am glad this happened. Sharpen my senses on this matter.
Allistair is not repenting, and is now trying to justify his response. So many scriptures tell us we are to be kept apart, we will have to choose HIM over our family, etc. Based on Jesus not doing miracles in his own town is a prime example that we are probably not going to reach our loved ones as well as a stranger or friend. If the grandmother went, she compromised and Allistair has stumbled. We all stumble, we just don't expect it from pastors like Allistair.
I think if he repented we would be overjoyed. It takes so much humility and we humans aren’t good at that. If Jesus humbled Himself so should we. He was perfect but He showed us how to behave.
@@sojourning7 I think he was concentrating too much on the relationship of the grandmother losing her granddaughter, instead of what scripture says, which puts him in error. He doesn't agree with the lifestyle, so it doesn't seem he's gone "full blown acknowledgment", but he does need to repent publicly, per scripture.
When I first heard Alistair Begg's advice, I disagreed with it. Then the absolute firestorm of response began raining down and I was appalled at the snarky, condescending, disrespectful tone 99.9% of the people who felt compelled to comment took. I think that's exposing a real problem in Christianity. Todd - thanks for being in the 0.1% that didn't show up with a torch and a pitchfork.
I disagree with you. I have read thousands of comments and found the opposite to be true. I was honestly surprised by how few were anything but grieved and overwhelmed with sorrow. I don't know where you have been but it certainly is not where I have been.
I came to this issue on the fence. Just not sure. But it was the godly behavior of those who disagreed with Pastor Begg that swayed me in their direction. I have witnessed nothing but kind, caring, and concern for Pastor Begg in the dozens of internet commentaries I have listened to who disagree with Pastor Begg’s advice.
Yes, how can we show our support in love when vehemently, ( biblically) we are against such a choice. You can love the person and hate what God calls a grievous sin. I cannot honor their choice by attending their wedding. However, I can continue to love them and pray for them- even be in their presence.
The beloved Allister Begg is not the first one to confuse a lost sheep and a prodigal son. A lost sheep is someone you chase after. A prodigal son is someone, whose return you carefully watch for.
Thank you for this thought out heartfelt response to Pastor Begg. I really appreciate that clarification on the parable and " conviction" vs "condemnation. " I've been in situations like this before and just did not want to disobey The Lord. I knew it wasn't right to be a partaker of certain events but now I see why. Thank you for explaining this to us. I don't think it is pleasant for anybody to reject an invitation. But we have to if we are followers of Christ and the situation is one as we see here. Again many thanks for your your godly insight Pastor Friel!!!!
Right off the bat, what Begg said was unbelievably heinous advise. If he said go to an abortion party, or a pedophile wedding, or a CEO throwing a company party because their porn company reached its 10 millionth view on its streaming platform, then it would be just as heinous. But afterward, he’s demonstrating a serious lack of humility in showing all who follow him a perfect example of how to not take correction. It made me sick in my stomach when he was saying he won’t repent, and his church was applauding. You KNOW that there have to be godly Christians in that congregation that now feel alienated for standing on the Bible. I feel like Christians are scared to death of looking hateful, but if you have a heart for God’s glory, then you will stand against what Begg has said with a passion, because he stands condemned. But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. - Galatians 2:11
Watching your response to this brought tears to my eyes. I have had this conversation with many at my work place. I am strong in my convictions. I pray for Alistair and his church. May we all take to heart what you have so beautifully stated here. Thank You Pastor Todd for allowing God and the Holy Spirit to use you in helping to heal a community with such wise words and thoughts.
Thank you for this, it’s one of the best commentaries I’ve seen so far and I wholeheartedly agree that this whole topic in its broader sense needs to be dealt with. Every time I or a fellow Christian I know, asks of those in leadership “what shall we do?”, we keep getting the same lame answer…”you figure it out; it’s between you and your conscience”. Sorry but this is too important of a topic and we wouldn’t receive that answer for any other area of sin. And look where that complacent attitude is leading us now! I love Alistair and have always appreciated and trusted his teaching. My heart is very heavy & broken with all this. I’ve listened to his sermon from Sunday addressing this issue and listening again today, I was even more devastated & grieved to hear a man of his biblical knowledge, so utterly incorrect, defensive and misquoting scripture. 😢 I’m disturbed, that he’s basically said, if we disagree with him, we’re pharisaical, unforgiving and uncompassionate. I hate to say it but this is classic narcissistic behaviour! 😔 blame everyone else, typical “word salad” i.e take something completely out of context and make it fit your own reasoning & self justification. And… EVERYONE else is wrong! How can Alistair, having walked with these many godly men, think that ALL of them are wrong?! 😔 I’m a nobody, a first generation Christian of the last 13 years with no professional biblical training and no theology degrees etc and I can clearly see that this doesn’t add up. The misuse of the prodigal son passages in context to this situation was sadly, embarrassing and I cannot believe that if I, a simpleton can see that, that the godly men in that church aren’t in uproar about it instead of clapping him! 🤷♀️🤦♀️😔 He said one elder did. ONE elder?!! Has he really surrounded himself with that many ‘yes’ men?!! I’m going shut up because I feel so grieved about all this, but will leave the following verses. Living life with unsaved friends and family, eating and drinking with them whether gay, straight or trans is NOT the same as joining with them in their sin…. 1 Peter 4…. “Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.” May God be merciful and quickly bring Alistair to repentance for His glory. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
"All I could think was how to help this grandmother not to lose her granddaughter who has publicly turned her back on God and on God's design." - Alistair Begg, 2024 "My concern on racial issues is that I do not drive our grandchildren into the arms of the LGBQTIA issue, where already our younger people don't want to touch that issue, because they know that immediately it marginalizes them." - Ligon Duncan, 2019 "I'm afraid we're going to lose an enormous number of evangelicals to various kinds of social gospel because that's a lot easier to find satisfaction in than evangelism." - Al Mohler, 2019 These are statements that hold in common a fear of either a) not being able to share the gospel with a young generation or b) a younger generation leaving the church. Neither of those concerns is legitimate if a) God saves those whom He wishes and b) He preserves those who are genuinely saved. We have an aging era of Christian leaders who are unhitching their practice from their biblical interpretation.
The problem is they are loosing people to the world, but also modern day churches lead by coaches instead of Pastors that will NOT preach sin and repetance. So, they compromise. Sad.
Right on! The key is what kind of message does a professing Christian send by attending a wedding. How does one honor and please God by endorsing evil?
The missing question is, "would Jesus go to celebrate the same thing?" This isn't about what people think about us but what they think about Christ. Unfortunately we are seeing a rise in people who are more like Ahab and just want a prophet that speaks only good things having no actual interest in worshipping Jehovah. They want compassion for their cause but not for righteousness that represents Jehovah.
Would Jesus go to the wedding of a non-believer? I'm struggling through this out loud. But would Jesus go to a heterosexual wedding of a non-believing couple that was having premarital sex?
Jesus would definitely go to a wedding of someone who had been living in sin but who understood and was repentant! I don't know whether Jesus would go to a wedding where the person had not repented of the previous sin and was getting married in order to rectify the relationship. But I know that God does not condone, wink at, or encourage sin or celebrate it in any way. The difference between an unbelieving couple getting married or a heterosexual couple getting married who had been living and sin is that the marriage is not inherently sinful. The sexual relationship between a homosexual couple or a transsexual relationship is sinful on its face and should not be tolerated within the church or celebrated by christians.
Absolutely. That wedding was clearly perversion. No. Jesus would NOT have attended. Why? Because the Holy Spirit is convicting you now, who's reading this and telling you it's wrong.
Jesus would go to a heterosexual marriage because that’s Godly. It’s from God and of God. Jesus would celebrate marriage because marriage is Godly. Doesn’t mean Jesus condones the sin. Same way Jesus would seek justice for someone who isn’t a believer but is being dealt with unjust.
Our prior pastor officiated an unbiblical wedding, used the same "the context" and "case by case" language. It was really just a refusal to admit a mistske.
My prior pastor played the "I'm being compassionate" card to not speak up for the gospel or for the truth in God's word. It worked well for him, got him a new gig where he wanted to go.
Thank you for your comments regarding this situation. You are so kind, but have expoused the truth of the matter. I would not attend this kind of wedding, rather i would affirm my love but explain why i could not violate my conscience but need to obey my God.
This was a very well thought out, and very gracious presentation of this very sad and difficult issue. Your analysis of the parables Pastor Begg used was also right on the money. I feel that he was unwittingly reading things into those parables to justify his stance on this issue. As you so clearly pointed out, the issue should center around the very nature of what a wedding is -- that it is the entering of a covenant established by God between a man and a woman, and includes witnesses to that covenant. Anything else is a sinful sacrilege. Attending such a ceremony clearly communicates support and agreement with the 'union'. The very response of the grandmother to Pastor Begg's recommendation suggests that she already had conscience issues with attending. Thank you for this well thought out discussion and thank you for your excellent understanding of Scripture -- it is a treasure that is sadly lacking in the modern Church. Pastor Begg is in my prayers, as is his entire congregation.
For such a brief comment there seems to be multiple levels of confusion. Did you mean to say, This verse does/ or does not apply? I think it does apply as a matter of principle, the principle being that we need to speak up for the truth, even when it publicly may make someone uncomfortable. As Peter himself acknowledged earlier in Acts, it is better to please God rather than man. @@FailRobotAndCalebArmy
@@donblosser8720It really doesn't. The relationship Paul had with Peter is way stronger than some of the people may think they have with whomever they are about to accuse. Also, Peter was a leader of the people of God, he was a preacher, his conduct was testimony to be observed. It does not really apply in every circumstance to everyone.
In this specific situation Begg does not see the grandmother's attendance as affirmation, and THAT specifically is what the disagreement is here. He has historically and still does fully acknowledge the biblical understanding of marriage (alone). Pastor Begg believes that as long as the grandchild clearly knew her stance, then attendance is not affirmation but instead a way to show the pursuing love of Christ. Also stating that in a different scenario, with a different person, he may have advised to NOT attend. Both sides of this discussion are acknowledging sin and agree that it should NOT be affirmed, however in this scenario they disagree on what actions actually constitute affirmation. I personally do not think I agree with Pastor Begg's opinion that you can attend such a ceremony without it being affirming, however I'm also willing to show him grace, and am not willing to toss out his teaching & leadership based on this one difference of opinion. If this was about actually accepting/affirming such marriages, then that would be a different story.
"Brothers, even if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, each of you looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted." Galatians 6:1 LSB
Thank you brother Todd for standing with Lord and His Truth and His Words. I know you have been saddened by Begg’s fall, so have I 😔😞😓😟😢. I was heart broken and I grieved for he has been my online pastor for 4 years. I have loved pastor Begg as I have learnt a lot from his biblical teachings. But if Lord has allowed pastor Begg to fail and to expose him as He is Sovereign over all things, I have peace after grieving for 2 weeks. I have prayed for Lord to grant pastor Begg His Mercy to repent and if he won’t, i asked Lord that He may have Mercy on his soul on That Day. Hallelujah. Amen. Yes you are right, brother Todd. The false church that I was in for 6 years taught about legalism of the elder prodigal brother.
Thank You Todd Friel! You are the ONLY one, out of all the others I have listened to, that truly handled this in a Christ Honoring/GOD Honoring/an Alistair Begg is our Brother in Christ Honoring way! I have returned to this video because I believe it's that important. To give Alistair Begg, whom I love & admire, a chance I went to listen to his sermon addressing the "controversy". I was disappointed to see that they disabled the comment because I believe there should be an open dialog about this topic. It was also heartbreaking to hear a faithful man of GOD to speak with such brokenness in his voice.
We must deny ourselves, and carry our cross daily, which tells us that, not only are we ourselves sinners, but so is the world around us. Let us go with our Lord outside the camp in these last moments even if it costs us everything.
Sadly, MOST people WON'T Bible check him or follow what the Holy Spirit has guided their conscience to do. 😮😢💔🙏. The sad part is he's so proud/defiant... and especially after his evening message. Jordan Peterson even chimed in. It seemed that he was attacking those that disagreed with him... apparently WE'RE the Pharisees. I wonder if he'd go with a female to have an Ab-hort-ion? Or to get a divorce? Or any other sin?
@@Mitzi73 You're a little right and a little wrong on this. Yes, he's not fully developed and completely understood salvation (at this time of writing February 2024) but Jordan has some very impressive insights on Biblical correctness that I've not even heard coming out of any Pastor's mouths because of his deep knowledge across a broad base of literature, history and cultures which 99.99% of Christian Pastors (or the rest of us) don't have and therefore can't see. And on this issue Jordan is correct because he understands human psychi better than most.
Alistair Begg gave advice for one person in one instance. He said this advice was never intended for everyone. Is bad advice a sin? I've seen way worse coming from people condemning him. I don't agree with his advice but still love him and think that the backlash is way out of proportion!
It's more than that because he's not even honoring marriage and its huge symbolic significance in the New Testament. And he's being prideful and disingenuous in his "explanation". He knows that it's not a birthday party the grandmother's attending. He also gaslights critics in his explanation and that's inexcusable. Implying they're heartless Pharisees is completely unfair and unacceptable.
I agree with you on the fact it's been blown waaaay out of proportion. However, I agree with Alistairs advice. 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 is just one fantastic passage. 19 Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. 20 To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. 21 To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law), so as to win those not having the law. 22 To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. 23 I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings. I have been watching Todd for decades, and I'm a bit shocked he's taken this stance, to be honest. There are wonderful pastors, John Mcarther, Phil Johnson, etc. who have stayed silent. For those who haven't, it makes me wonder if their more concerned about subscribers, unsubscribing.
Yes for one person and his preaching has been rock solid on this issue for years and just recently he taught from Jude on it haven't heard teaching like that for years. The backlash has been heartbreaking to watch. When so many Pastors these days have no problem marrying a couple who committed adultery and broke up two families and caused so much pain to their spouses and children. One Pastor was asked how he could do that and he replied because the mother of the woman desired it. It is so common these days. Yet where is all the outrage over that? Would we put the same effort into every sin like gossip in our churches that is a cancer to the Body.
We often say that sin is sin. Would it be a fair excercuse to think about what we would do if its a sin thats "less" abhorent? What if a friend cheated on his wife, divorced her, and then years later married a new person. He would still be in adulter, but most of us would attend the wedding, I think. How about if a christian family member married someone of a different religion?
My convictions overrides my compassions, because my conviction of biblical truth needs to be clear. The enemy will tell condemn us, however there is therefore now no condemnation for those who are convicted in truth in Christ Jesus teaching, stand firm in your conviction and DONOT let the enemy sway our emotions to thinking otherwise! I love Alistair Begg, let the Lord deal with his heart, pray for him and it is his choice to make. But it's not the choices of many who are convicted in biblical truths. ❤
What Begg did is irresponsible and destructive. In a time where we're experiencing a cultural rot of epic proportions, we face more and more challenges in sharing the gospel with fallen humanity. The last thing we need is to give off the impression that we are affiriming something like homosexuality. Wolves are watching us, waiting to pounce when we stumble. (For example, gay (false) pastors have come out applauding Begg). What message does that send? It makes those who are committed to the flesh think the pendulum is slowly swinging in their favor, that somehow the word of God can be tailored to fit their fleshly desires/feelings. Very, very irresponsible advice by Begg. And whats worse is that hes tripled down, labeling those who have called him out on his error as " Pharisees." People need the gospel, not affirmation. And there is no way to justify attending a same-sex mirage, which is a perversion of an institution ordained by God (marriage), the purpose of which is to make people holy. Showing up to a same sex mirage is, no matter how one tries to justify it, an implicit endorsement of something God condemns. Are we to please God or man?
I really appreciate your response to Alistair, Todd. I do ultimately disagree with your conclusion, as Alistair reminds everyone that it was in this specific circumstance, to this specific person, etc. He would have had a very different response to someone else. But your response was incredibly well-thought, compassionate, and respectful. We need to have more conversations like this within our church, rather than "cancel" those we disagree with. God bless, brother.
I too agree with Alistair on this occasion. This is a particular circumstance...one in which even the tone of the voice in asking and in reply would make a difference. None of us were present and should be slow to condemn or approve....Yes, Jesus did eat with sinners! And no, Jesus did not call us out of the world. And no, Paul in I Corinthians 5 did not call us to not associate with "sexually immoral people...of this world, who are immoral, or greedy and swindlers, or idolaters"...since "in that case you would have to leave this world." Each circumstance is different and likely for the most part, most of us would either avoid attending...or would struggle to attend and yet not approve. What is remarkable is the harsh condemnation of the vast majority of what I would call "weak" Christians... (We are all "weak" to some extent.) No wonder Paul included Romans 14:22 (NIV). In fact, perhaps I should shut up as should most if not all of us.
“Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a person's enemies will be those of his own household." Matthew 10:34-36
Todd nailed it. This all seems to hinge on what we consider our attendance at a wedding to symbolize. Listening to Begg, it seems like he believes that attendance can communicate love but does not necessarily communicate support. I would like to hear his reasoning. Personally, I do not see how it could fail to communicate support.
In his response Begg made it clear that in this case he was encouraging an act of love and compassion from one Christian to a non-believing family member in this specific situation, not in any way condoning the person's choices. People may disagree with him or think his advice was bad, but it was not heretical and he has not changed his view on anything. He even admits he may have been misguided by his empathy as a Grandfather speaking to Grandmother. I give him the benefit of the doubt that he gave the best advice for the particular situation not a blanket statement of acceptance. I like Todd's approach with love and respect. So many have just trashed him needlessly and self righteously. Like Todd says watch it for yourself on Alistair Begg's RU-vid channel. Todd says Begg didn’t address the wedding issue but I think he did and people are trying to apply his advice in this one case as if he's giving blanket permission to attend and affirm all lgbtq “weddings”. Again watch for yourself. God bless you.
Thank you Paul Washer , ever greatful that you have taught me to ask these 4 questions when i read God's Word: who God is, what God has ordained, what God has done and what God has promised. When i think about the parable of the prodical son , the answer to the first question is the love of God for the lost. With that truth i can then try to better understand my sinful self in the two brothers.
Jesus while sitting with the sinners says “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
His counsel was not controversial, it was, plain and simple, wrong. His unwillingness to acknowledge his error is the problem and until he does acknowledge it, the problem will remain.
If my neighbour who practiced witchcraft invited me to one of their covens...should I go in the hope of the forlorn chance of winning a future convert for Christ? We all know the answer to that one. Ephesians 5v11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.
Just repeating this point that I saw in another comment here: John the Baptist was imprisoned (and later beheaded) because he would not bless an unlawful marriage.
I love, love, love Allister Begg and his pulpit ministry. He has been a blessing to my wife and I after the closing of our little church. On this point, I am very respectfully going to agree to disagree (something I have yet to do with Allister) and continue to be blessed by his ministry. I do some occasional preaching, and would appreciate the same grace when I make a mis step.
I'm glad you brought up what attending a wedding is communicating. It communicates approval of it plain and simple. Ultimately, what the sinner wants is approval of their sin and acceptance of it. Alistair is confusing compassion with placating. Someone being upset with you in itself has nothing to do with whether you are compassionate to them. Compassion means you care enough to want the best for them even if they hate you for it. Telling someone the truth in love is compassionate even if they reject it. Warning people about sin is compassionate even if it angers them. As you mentioned, we can easily replace the wedding with other sins and Alistair would never approve. "Mom, I just started a new job at the strip club. I never thought I could do such a wild thing, but I decided to give it a try. I know you don't approve of how I starting living my life after I left home, but I would like you to come support me as I go through this new and exciting change in my life. It would really mean a lot to me if you did!" Would he say to go to that? Of course not!
I was in this situation awhile back. My son got married and I went. I explained my position and he understood clearly. But during the vows Me and my wife stepped out the room while they said their vows. It made my son upset but he was grateful we loved him but didn’t compromise our faith. Afterward it was a testimony to his partner. He saw we were loving them but were honoring God. I wanted to keep the door open for gospel conversations. I did not want my son to see Christianity as a list of things we can and cannot do(law). I chose to show him grace while he was making a sinful decision the same way God saved me while I was living sinful. I agree with AB and his advice. And he even stated that he wouldn’t give that advice to everybody. Im glad AB has taken on this issue and is causing the church as a whole to figure out how are we going to reach this LGBTQ community. Because honestly theres not a lot of people intentionally trying to reach this group.
I think that you handled this so carefully and lovingly. Thank you because I do NOT feel it’s been handled well by some others at all (and have told them😬). You’re right. It’s a conversation we need to have. Thank you again for how lovingly you’ve handled this.
God stands with his faithful.Staying strongly obedient to God's Word rather than pleasing anybody in this world including our own. Salvation has to be held to and not loose it. Hallelujah Amen
One more thought. It is likely that not everyone at the wedding knows the personal convictions of the grandmother. They might assume she approves of a homosexual wedding.
45 years since rebirth myself, and 24 years since being Baptized in the holy spirit, gifted with discernment of spirits... Ive LONG AGO, tore down the strong hold in my heart.. .....that thete is such a thing as "THE" Pastor, THE kingpin, of any gathering of the brethren. 1'Cor. 11:17 thriugh 14:40 kjv .. Especially 1 Cor. 14:29-31 kjv...ended that nonsence..
Your exposition (Todd) and Tina Marie's comment sharing her own family testimony are the most gracious and Bible honoring response I have seen on this issue thus far. Great respect. May the Lord be glorified! And for all pastors that may read this: perhaps you are surrounded by sheep most of the time, but your flock is surrounded by goats and wolves to a significant extent and we are being tested every single day. We need and expect you to give us the truth that will honor Christ the most. This is our plea to you...
I also believe that the advice that Dr. Begg should be approached gently and with love yet rebuked accordingly to the scripture with compassion. Late note: I listened to the message of Dr. Begg that you suggested…I believe that your analysis is accurate.
“Love does not delight in evil” (I Cor. 13) is sometimes translated as “Love does not rejoice in unrighteousness.” Both mean that we should not celebrate what God says is wrong. Another example we are living in the "last days" and God is NOT mocked. Real love is the love of Christ, not the celebration of sin.
Thank you for address this with respect towards Alistair Begg. This is an increasingly important topic as we see the world around us diving headlong into defining "marriage" as something other than it actually is. The church needs to be trained in how to address questions like this in a Godly way, if we are to love genuinely.
I went to an Alistair Begg appearance once many years ago and the problem I had was it was at Mars Hill in Seattle and when I asked if he had any problem with Christians reading the Harry Potter books (the movies were not out yet), he responded that he had no problem with it. I have had a problem ever since taking him seriously.
my observance is Colossians 2:16, Amplified bible "Therefore let no one judge you in regard to food and drink or in regard to [the observance of] a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day."
No matter who you are, I think many people respect others who stand in their convictions. I've heard the testimonies of how a Christian standing apart, (as the Bible says), is impacted and can lead to Christ. When you show up, you affirm it.
Finally someone is putting this into understanding , thank you this what we have to deal with in post christian world and I have no doubt that Alister Begg’s faith maybe I would dealt with this differently but throw him out over this wow
I have to say, agree with you in most of what you’re saying, but, I couldn’t stand to hear the way some “Christian” RU-vidrs are bashing him so horribly. I am not saying he’s right, but, there are ways to go about correcting someone or calling them out. He is such an amazing preacher. There’s no doubt he loves The Lord. I am so thankful you went about this so tactfully and kind. I believe he will appreciate it as well.
