Wednesday, September 3, 2003

In rights debate, definitions have changed

By KEITH TURNER
Miniser of Education, Harps Crossing Baptist Church

The definitions have changed!

When discussing this subject of homosexuality, I think it is important to mention how definitions have changed over time. Consider words like tolerance, respect, acceptance, moral judgments, personal preference, personal rights, freedom, and truth.

The former definition for tolerance was, "Accept others without agreeing with or sharing their beliefs or lifestyle choices." Today's definition seems to be, "Accepting that every individual's beliefs, values, lifestyles and truth claims are equal."

The former definition for respect was, "Giving due consideration to others." Today's definition seems to be, "Wholeheartedly approving of others' beliefs or lifestyle choices." The former definition for acceptance was, "Embracing people for who they are, not necessarily for what they say or do." Today the definition seems to be, "Endorsing and praising others for their beliefs and lifestyle choices."

The former definition for moral judgments was, "Certain things are morally right and wrong, as determined by God." Today's definition seems to be, "We have no right to judge another person's view or behavior." The former definition for personal preference was, "Preferences of color, food, clothing, style, hobbies, etc., are personally determined." Today's definition seems to be, "Preference of sexual behaviors, value systems, and beliefs are personally determined."

The former definition for personal rights was, "Everyone has the right to be treated justly under the law." Today's definition seems to be, "Everyone has the right to do what they believe is right." The former definition for freedom was, "Being free to do what you know you ought to do." Today's definition seems to be, "Being able to do anything you want to do."

The former definition of truth was, "An absolute standard of right and wrong." Today's definition seems to be, "Whatever is right for you."

The definitions have been changed such that speaking against any perverted behavior brings accusations of intolerance, disrespect and judgment.

The definitions reveal how today's post-Christian world stands in direct contrast to Biblical Christianity. You can see the culture war raging within our nation. Today we are dealing with gay marriage. Tomorrow we will be confronted with incest, bestiality, pedophilia, and other detestable sins. If those who support gay marriage are logically consistent with their new definitions, they will demand that we show tolerance, respect, and acceptance for any abhorrent behavior.

[Keith Turner is minister of education at Harp's Crossing Baptist Church, Fayetteville, Ga. His e-mail address is