Indiana’s Sure Foundation Baptist Church has faced national backlash for sermons advocating the execution of LGBTQ+ individuals. Despite condemnation from religious leaders and advocates, the church stands by its statements, with lead preacher Justin Zhong asserting it aligns with biblical teachings.
“I will not apologize for preaching the Word of God…,” Zhong stated. “The Bible is crystal clear that sodomites (homosexuals) deserve the death penalty carried out by a government that actually cares about the law of God.”
The sermons included inflammatory language, falsely portraying LGBTQ+ people as threats to children. Local clergy denounced the rhetoric as “theologically irresponsible” and “pastorally dangerous,” emphasizing the inclusivity of the Gospel.
Advocacy groups warned that such language could incite real-world violence. This church is part of a network known for extreme anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, often amplified through social media to reach wider audiences than in-person congregants. Sure Foundation’s stance highlights ongoing issues with extremist views within some religious networks, stressing a need for continued advocacy and dialogue on inclusivity and safety for all communities.
Opinion / Fact
Isn’t it interesting how many of these so-called Christians point their fingers at the LGBTQ+ community, all while having premarital and extramarital sex? All while abusing drugs and alcohol? All while coveting thy neighbors’ money, possessions, and wives?
Maybe the minister is or isn’t doing those things…. But rest assured, some in the congregation probably are. And a lot of folks who consider themselves anti-LGBTQ+ definitely are.
I recognize the perspective that the Mosaic Law is no longer applicable to Christians after Jesus’ sacrifice. The Old Testament laws were intended for a specific group at a particular time—ancient Jews—and should not be applied universally today. However, this raises an important point: if that’s the case, then Christians should not be troubled by cultural matters concerning LGBT visibility and existence. Notably, Jesus never addressed this topic directly, yet it disproportionately influences contemporary Christian culture and discussions. This inconsistency is worth examining.
Moreover, it’s crucial to consider what it implies about God’s nature if He once commanded such severe actions against gay individuals.
Killing gay people seems to directly contradict the teachings of Christ, who preached love and compassion for all. As Christians, supporting capital punishment for gay individuals is not aligned with the core message of Christ’s teachings. By opposing such measures, Christians are actually demonstrating greater consistency with Christ’s message of love and acceptance rather than being intellectually dishonest or inconsistent. Embracing this perspective strengthens their faith and aligns them more closely with the true essence of Christianity.
Jesus says in John 13 verses 34 and 35, “I give you a new commandment. Love each other just as much as I have loved you. For when you demonstrate the same love I have for you by loving one another everybody will know that you’re my true followers.”