Q: I’ve heard about an organized group of Adventists and ex-Adventists whose members are gay. Some participate in the church but are afraid of being expelled or ridiculed if they expose their sexual choices. What is your view on homosexuality, a much discussed topic in the church and outside of it? And what should we do with members who opt for that sexual orientation? — Samuel, from Brazil
A: First, ridicule has no place in the life of a Christian or in the church. We are to love and respect all human beings as people for whom Christ died — no matter who they are, or whether they are in or out of the church.
In addition, it is important that in all questions of faith and practice, we follow what the Bible says, rather than heeding humanistic views. The Bible speaks very plainly on the topic of homosexuality, and when we humbly and prayerfully study the Scriptures for answers, we can be assured that God will give us the wisdom that we seek (James 1:5-6).
Realizing that the reality of homosexuality exists not only outside the church, but within as well, an important document titled, “Responding to Changing Cultural Attitudes Regarding Homosexual and Other Alternative Sexual Practices,” was approved and voted by the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists at the 2014 Spring Meeting.
These comprehensive official guidelines of the Seventh-day Adventist Church address your questions and many others that are raised on this topic. I encourage you to read the entire statement here.