Should LGBTQ+ Members Be Permitted To Serve in Ministry? 

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If they've repented of the sin, yes. If they're actively yielding to it, no. And I would hold this position for ANY sin. Drunkenness, fornication, sexual immorality, etc.

I played keys at my last church for 3 years. My wife started having an affair, made an only fans where she met the other guy on. I unfortunately fell into porn. I mentioned it, needing help and leadership refused to set either of us down. I mentioned all the scripture you spoke about Allen and they still refused. Packed up all my instruments, threw my key on the table and left. Went home and anointed my house and repented. haven't watched any since. Now my ex wife is still sleeping around and is still on the team. I was the only one with moxy to follow God.

1 Corinthians 15:33 33 Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character."

Depends on if its unrepentant sin. If we found out somebody was openly practicing any sin, they should be removed from a position of leadership.

My married cousin was in ministry and having an affair with another member who was also married. Heterosexual. They removed her from her spot. And even though I love her. They did the right thing

I think when people take a behavior and make it an identifiable identity as if its an immutable characteristic, that is the problem.

Sin is sin … what ever shape or form straight or not OUT!!!!

Easy answer: "no". If they are an active member who has pride in their sin, how can they glorify God with playing an instrument? It's another thing if they are struggling with SSA but are doing something about it, praying for deliverance and living a life of repentance.

The only place for them is at the altar, pleading for repentance

Ex-LGBTQ+ who can prove YAH heals all things.

People don’t want any consequence for their sinful behavior because in our society today whatever feels right is okay. This is regardless of what the word of God says.

Thank you for this video and for discussing challenging topics in today's world. I am someone who recently turned from the LGBT life, turned to Christ, and I struggle with this daily. I have stumbled along the way, but I am striving to let Christ transform my life. IF a person is in a place of leadership, be it worship, music, whatever, and they are actively living in sin (WHATEVER that sin is) without repentance, they have no business residing in a place of leadership within the congregation. My/their sin does not garner special privilege! If they are living opposite of what Scripture/Christ demands of His followers, they are unfit to lead. As a member of a congregation, their active behavior also runs the risk of laying down stumbling blocks for other members who struggle with whatever sin it is. This is no different than someone in the military being required to adhere to and meet certain standards in order to be fit to lead and also to serve. If you are overweight and refusing to stay in shape, you absolutely should not be in the place of military leadership. If you refuse to meet the basic requirements and minimum standards while conveying a lack of interest in meeting those minimum standards, you will eventually be separated from military service. The church should function the same. At the same time, this does not open the doors for hatred or condemnation but loving correction. And if necessary, administrative action (relieving someone from duty/a leadership role, etc). We are to love and pray for them earnestly and to demonstrate Christ's love daily while remembering Christ calls to us. I say this with conviction despite my struggle and feelings: Unconditional love ≠ Unconditional tolerance.

As far as Principle 3 is concerned: Level 1 - removed from leadership AND fellowship Level 2 - removed from leadership, NOT fellowship Level 3 - free to lead and fellowship within the church This entire conversation boils down to the first principle that Bro. Allen pointed out - NOTHING, even our love for people, can supersede our commitment to God’s Word, His righteousness, and His holiness. Great message.

And lead whom to Heaven?! Don’t play with God and try to change His Word to justify sinful ways. No!!!

This is why church membership matters. If "leading worship" is a gig, then there is no standard. If corporate church worship is truly a ministry of the church, then only church members should lead and serve. Only people who are pursuing Christ are church members. That doesn't mean perfection or sinlessness. And yes, this goes for more than LGBTQ+. If anyone is struggling with sin, it's a realistic and ultimately better situation that they step out of leadership. Holiness is more important than leadership positions.

Sadly, most pastors are not preaching the message of repentance because the church is a business for them. Very few preach repentance. They are focused on everything but worshipping God in spirit and truth.

1 Timothy 3:6 '' ..A church leader should not be a recent convert because they may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. A church leader should have a good reputation with outsiders so that they will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap...''

Not if they're still actively pursuing that lifestyle. But if they've repented and changed there life decisions in that area they should be allowed to work.

I wish more pastors will have the guts as you have to speak on this topic. I am so tired of these pastor too scared to speak on this topic. Good for you. and yes, if you’re in sin I think you should step down no matter what type of sin.

I recently read Worship Matters by Bob Kauflin, and I love the criteria he highlights for choosing worship team members. Above any talent or desire to be on the team, personal holiness and how closely the person follows God should be considered when selecting leadership! I'm in full time college ministry, and by God's grace He has grown my abilities to minister where I lacked natural talent or skill- God is not limited to leaders who are already talented, but to leaders who are whole-heartedly following Him.

No matter what society tells you, it is completely possible to rid yourself of these sinful desires. Not through "conversion therapy" but through a relationship with Jesus Christ. When you accept Jesus Christ into your life, the Holy Spirit will do amazing things. He can change you and save you from every situation and sinful desire.

This is good and I must say from someone who lived in the LGBTQ community for years. The Holy Spirit convicted me to the point where the pastor didn't have to sit me down. When people are serious about change I believe firmly that the Spirit will convict us. I was choir director and I was living a double life. The more I heard the Word & read the Word the more I was convicted. I realized that there is no condemnation to those in Christ, but we cannot continue in sin that grace may be abound. I don't care what the sin is if people are refusing to repent then they should be seated!

When I was in that lifestyle… My mom definitely sat me down and did not allow me to serve! I look back at that now and understand her reasoning… They gave me much more respect for her! glory to God for deliverance 😍

Thank you, Allen! Once again, you have addressed a difficult topic with truth and compassion ❤

if unrepentant sinners can sit in your church week after week and feel comfortable...what message is being presented

I love how complete and thorough your explanation is. Especially in these times, it's important people outside of church see the difference between discrimination and someone being ineligible for church leadership due to sinful lifestyles of every kind.

I appreciate this piece because you are so right my brother, we tend to prop up some sins more than others. It’s all sin and we as a church have to do better.

This was a solid teaching! Great Job!

If they are there in your midst and are comfortable being so, then your pastor isn’t preaching the Word in its entirety. Period. If your pastor was actually doing his job, they wouldn’t even want to be there and if they did, they would repent, not be there and stay the same.

Thanks Brother Allen this was very informative. Thanks for all your teachings and doing what God called you to🦋

Excelent explanation brother. This kind of situation is more common than ever nowadays and its really well explain. Thank you for sharing.

What would you do with a musician (serving in church) who is committing adultery and does not plan on stopping. It’s the same question, gotta be dismissed from the ministry.

Good biblically based teaching as always. A nearby church recently lost a few members because the church refused to affirm same sex marriage. Sadly, there are lots of churches around where they will feel totally at home.

For the person who sent this question: We should be treating all sins with the same conviction. Not just homosexuality.

ABSOLUTELY NOOOOO

Well said and easy to understand backed up by scripture. Thank you!

If they are repenting of that sin and crucified it every day, then I would have no problem. But you can't be actively in the LGBTQ and in a church leadership role.

Nice ending comment Allen, speaking to those who might be struggling. That shows the Christian love that is often missing in these conversations

Thank you brother Allen for your grace and love in your teaching.

I firmly believe people struggling with sin or living in sin are always welcome to attend church. However, for those who are serving in the church must have a higher moral values and standards.

The answer is simply No.....

Fantastic video with a much-needed message. Keep up the excellent work!🎉

You're right on it, as usual, Allen. One suggestion for this video I'd like to make is putting the portion found at round the 14:20ish mark at the front of the video. I'm glad you addressed the nature for some to have a xenophobic reaction to certain sins and a blanket pass over more relatable ones, too. Good stuff here!

I wouldn't be so quick to say that this problem is more weighty with one church group over another. This particular issue is not limited to racial demographics.

1 Corinthians 6:18 (AMP) "Run away from sexual immorality [in any form, whether thought or behavior, whether visual or written]. Every other sin that a man commits is outside the body, but the one who is sexually immoral sins against his own body."

Great video Brother specially, for people and staff on church or volunteering as well because you just never know. I especially like the point that you pointed out that to not look past other sins that other people as well are struggling with. God continue to give you wisdom and bless your ministry, your life, and your family.

You addressed this issue with truth in love. Keep up the God work!👏

If they are truly with their whole heart trying to get out of that sin. but it they are willfully choosing to stay in this iniquity, then its a problem spiritually.

i think a lot of you guys feel a way Mr. Parr is talking about the gay community, he is simply responding to one of his subscribers questions and speaking truth regarding the question. most of you in the comment know that all sin is the same and Mr. Parr isn't saying just calling out the LGBTQ just because. Good stuff Mr. Parr. God bless you and your family.

So many responses already...❤❤❤ Our lives are built in this platform.. Thanku son..spread the good news.

Hey Allen, I must say that this is one of the most simple and comprehensive videos that you have done. I love how you handled this subject matter. Praise God.

Quick answer is no. 1 Corinthians 5 comes to mind.

So I just found out that you were college buddies with my favorite RU-vid musician, Jamal Hartwell. My mind was blown.

I believe you think deeply about and approach these kinds of topics gracefully. I really enjoyed this. Thank you

Thanks for the vid! The cards look awesome

No!!!!!

I say no !

I recommended the book "Washed and Waiting." It provides great insight to what Allen is talking about.

Very informative! Great video!🙏🙏

To all struggling in this area, its possible to repent. It can be very difficult but it's possible. I'm speaking from experience Also loved how you ended the video. It should go without saying that God loves those who struggle with this, but you wont believe how much it helps to be reminded of it. Ppl can be pretty harsh on sin but at times the way ppl react to this in particular did make it feel unforgiveable

John MacArthur said homosexuals are welcome in his church, but they better leave the service feeling convicted and wanting to repent.

The western concept of churches “hiring” people to serve in the local church still baffles me. For years I just can’t get my head around it

*No* ....anymore questions?

True worship leaders and church musicians should be volunteers not paid church staff. This should be done to serve the Lord not as just a job.

Love your work Allen.

Glad to discover your channel after talking to you last Sunday.😀

A person struggling with sin may participate and help the Church. But leaders must always be held to the highest standards. Furthermore, someone who is in the LGBTQABCDEFGXYZ cult, regardless if they're gay or not, must never lead a church.

Are you serious !!! That is not even a question to answer no no no there is nooooo excuse Your comment and contemplating the possibility is already a problem God is either hot or cold Stop this nonsense

You’re gonna get heat Bro Parr. I’m praying for anyone who is struggling with that lifestyle ❤

This is so true. @allenparr I am so glad you addressed this from an all-around approach because so often in the church we only look at those in the alphabet remix community but overlook the sins of adultery, fornication, porn, etc.

You are so careful and thoughtful with your words. Thank you for your boldness and willingness to bring the truth of Scripture into these conversations. Reminded me of the message I hear weekly at church, “it’s either God’s way or the wrong way”. We get to choose.

Excellent explanation You never hear anyone discuss this topic At All. This has been very informative and enlightening. Thank you Brother Allen Parr😊😇🫶🏾💟✝️💕

Thank you for all tht great information that drive us to the truth light.

Mr. Parr is preaching! Phenomenal insight. I learned a lot. Thank you for your view.

You nailed it. Thanks for sharing this with us. 😎👍🏽

This was presented from a GREAT perspective. Awesomely put together, Pastor.

ABSOLUTELY NOT ALLOWED !!!!

This was GREAT!!!

Amen! You explained this very well with scriptures to back it up.

If you compromise in one area, where else will it go? Accountability for all believers is crucial.

Can’t believe the times we are in. How is this even a question lol.

Amazing video brother allen ❤

Thank you Allen for this video. 😊

Thank you for providing us with biblical balanced teachings. You nailed this subject 100%; I hope church leaders will see this video and make some hard choices regarding the people serving in leadership at their church.

Hey Allan, this was a great video Thank you.

Good video brother!

I grew up in church with an understanding that if you are living in sin you are NOT allowed in the pulpit. It’s difference between struggling with sin and living in sin.

Allen, please consider doing a video on being paid as a musician. I think it would be a great topic of discussion.

Will you clarify when you say "on staff" and do you have different views if this person is serving on a "volunteer team" on a regular basis?

The issue is that the bible describes sexual attraction as a burning desire. Paul even says that for some people its not possible to be celibate/single so those people should get married. You can't have it both ways. Sexual desire can't both be a burning passion that some people cannot escape and a requirement for those of a particular community to remain celibate. Further, the concept of sexual activity has evolved biblically to have concubines, have relations with your servant, have multiple spouses, etc. So its been a moving targeting over biblical history. This also produces a cringe factor when modern christians discuss this matter so black and white when its historical context wasn't so black and white.

I thought the three levels were explained very well. I do have a question about the example of someone from the lettered company whom the congregation loves because they're nice. When you said they're "... naturally a good person" I assume you mean earthly speaking. We know from scriptures that there is no such thing on a heavenly scale. Please clarify.

Brother Allen, you were spot on for 90+% of the video and for that I say Thank you sir. However, and not but- I’d say you probably shouldn’t have singled out the “Black church” in saying that we tolerate a lot more of these sinful practices because we value gifts over holiness differently. Have you forgotten Jerry Falwell, Hillsong, and most prominently the Catholic Church? The Catholic Church especially? They’ve allowed leadership to practice gay lifestyles for decades and turned the other way…so I think that was unfair and you should probably address that at some point brother…just to be balanced and not seem biased. Other than that you were thorough.

A great Correction/Connection video brother!

I was curious how this would be addressed, you did an excellent job.👍🏾🙏🏾

Good to see this conversation being had. We have questions but the church isn’t talking about it.

Great video brother

Here’s an example of the issue with being gay. Several years ago my mom wanted me to play a piano solo at her church, they said I could not because I was gay. Although not their direct words, the intent was the same. Around the same time their own youth minister had gotten a divorce. People unconsciously place some sins such as being gay as the top level sins. A combination of things they either don’t like the concept of don’t understand. Being saved, Im a bit of an apologist for churches but at the same time it hurts and is easy to see why so many want nothing to do them.

We need to first clarify what worship is and if you live in accordance to the wishes of Our Creator who clearly hates homosexuality

let God judge them, there is no sin greater or small ..Revelation 21:8