Churches and religious organizations face a rapidly-changing American culture. Many churches are confronting things they never thought they would a decade ago. The issues of same-sex “marriage”, homosexual behavior, and gender-identity, are among the emerging issues that confront churches today. The legal impact of these issues on churches can appear confusing.
In responding to a culture seemingly bent on fulfilling every whim of the sexual revolution, today’s churches must take the time to revise or implement their statement of faith on the issues of marriage and human sexuality. Churches who know their position on these issues may think it unnecessary, but every church must understand that culture at large no longer subscribes to a Judeo-Christian sexual ethic or morality. As one pastor recently put it, the church is no longer the “home team” in America. As a result, it is important for a church to put in writing what it believes on the issues confronting culture. And from a legal perspective, it is always better to act in advance. If a church is ever required to legally prove its religious beliefs on these issues, having written evidence will ensure that it can do so easily.
So, here is some advice and resources to start the process at your church: