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James Alison

But the Bible says ... ? A Catholic reading of Romans 1A fascinating new article by James Alison, delivered as a talk in January 2004.

'">But the Bible says ... ? A Catholic reading of Romans 1 (January 2004)

Some thoughts on the AtonementIn this remarkable piece, covering similar ground to a talk he gave at a Courage meeting in March this year, James Alison brings a fresh understanding of the Atonement which profoundly challenges some of our traditionally taught theories.

'">Some thoughts on the Atonement (August 2004)

Unbinding the Gay ConscienceJames Alison writes, lectures and teaches in the UK, the USA and Latin America. This article is also a chapter in his recent book On Being Liked (Darton, Longman and Todd). In it, he reflects on the power of the One who is able to unbind the conscience of the gay person and what this means. In an imagined conversation between a ‘false god’ and ‘self’ he shows how the Gospel can be presented in such a way that it becomes a double-bind, a stumbling block, a pathway to paralysis. He then contrasts this with the ‘Unambivalently loving God’ who loves all unconditionally, and goes on to examine the quality of that love, its unbinding powers and consequences.

'">Unbinding the Gay Conscience (July 2002)

Dr Ralph Blair

On Evangelical Faith and HomosexualityThis is the fortieth year (2004) in which Dr Ralph Blair has been preaching the integration of the evangelical Christian faith and homosexuality. As founder and president of Evangelicals Concerned in the USA, he organises and sponsors two ‘ConnECtion’ conferences each year (on the east and west coasts of the USA) which have been life-changing experiences for hundreds of gay men, lesbians and friends who are responding with trust to God’s love and who seek to live thankfully and faithfully under God’s grace and peace. In this lecture, given at Princeton Theological Seminary in March 2003, Dr Blair explains the reasons for his convictions, challenging evangelical Christians to take a closer look at what they think they know about homosexuality and the Christians faith. He declares that:

‘For me, the genuinely good news of Christ’s gospel has always trumped the cheap, self-centred substitutes offered – whether in fundamentalist or liberal circles or in the homosexuality obsessions of the Religious Right and the GLBTQ Left. In the wise words of 19th-century evangelist D. L. Moody: “Look at what He is, and at what He has done; not at what you are, and what you have done. That is the way to get peace and rest.”’

'">On Evangelical Faith and Homosexuality (March 2003)

Dr Roy Clements

I need a hero!‘The scholar and author C. S. Lewis used to say that the reason myths and legends have exercised so much influence over people throughout history is because, at the deepest levels of our human awareness, we feel intuitively that the themes which those ancient stories explore are all actually part of a real story — a story which isn’t fiction even though we know they are — a story that is able to make sense of our human experience and that satisfies our profound need for meaning and purpose. A story which is objectively true, in a way that myths and legends and fairytales can only pretend to be.’

In this talk, given at the Courage Christmas Special on 17 December 2004, Roy Clements reflects on the way the longings of our hearts are awaked by the heroes we encounter in fiction, pointing to the living truth about Jesus — whose birth we celebrate at Christmas.

'">I need a hero! (December 2004)

Sex in the CityAn exposition of 1 Corinthians 6 given at the Courage Discipleship Group Meeting, 6 February 2004.

'">Sex in the City (February 2004)

Suffering and MysteryIn this superb talk, given at Courage in June 2006, Roy Clements speaks about the mystery of suffering as experienced by Job, and mentions in passing the relevance of Job’s journey through suffering to the debate over homosexuality that is currently tearing the Church apart.

'">Suffering and Mystery (June 2006)

They Met in BethlehemA talk given at the Courage Christmas Special – a special service with carols, readings, mime and Roy’s talk – for friends and members of the Courage Discipleship Group, 5 December 2003.

'">They Met in Bethlehem (December 2003)

Weaker brothers, damnable heretics - and how to tell the differenceIn recent years we have seen much controversy in the Church in which fellowship is threatened because of disputes over what many claim to be “defining issues”—such as women in leadership, lesbian & gay people in leadership and homosexual partnerships. Are these really defining issues or is it the Gospel that is being compromised here? In this immensely helpful study of Galatians 1 & 2 and Romans 14, Roy Clements gives some very helpful clear biblical guidelines as to what really are defining issues and what are matters of personal conscience.

'">Weaker brothers, damnable heretics - and how to tell the difference (April 2005)

What is an Evangelical?In these times, "evangelical Christians" such as ourselves are receiving much bad press because of the debate about homosexuality and the intransigent anti-gay views of some evangelical Christians. This essay by Dr Roy Clements brings a helpful understanding as to what it really means to be an evangelical. This and many other articles and sermons can be found on Roy’s website at: www.royclements.co.uk

'">What is an Evangelical? (2005)

Why Evangelicals Must Think Again about HomosexualityDr Roy Clements gives his three reasons as to why evangelical Christians need to think again about homosexuality. He briefly mentions some of the scriptures that are often put forward as defending the traditional view of homosexuality and goes on to indicate a few of the general areas that require further development and deliberation: Genesis, Leviticus, Paul. In conclusion there is reference to Science, Social Change and the Church and a challenge to evangelicals to at least ‘think again’.

'">Why Evangelicals Must Think Again about Homosexuality (2003)

Why the Cross?At this time (Easter 2004), following the release of Mel Gibson’s new filmThe Passion of the Christ, we felt that Roy Clements’ excellent exposition on ‘Why the Cross?’ – about the Cross of Christ and the Atonement – would be particularly helpful to many of our readers. This is the text of the talk Roy gave to the Courage Discipleship Group last Easter, 2003.

'">Why the Cross? (April 2003)

Evangelical Alliance/Courage

Evangelical Alliance/Courage Joint StatementThe full text of the Joint Statement together with an additional statement of the Evangelical Alliance’s position on homosexuality.

'">Evangelical Alliance/Courage Joint Statement (March 2002)

Sarah Longford

Human Sexuality another look and a wider viewSomewhere in this article you will find a quote that ‘homosexuality does not exist: it is a word …’. If that tantalising snippet provokes you into reading the whole article, you will not be disappointed. The author promises ‘another look and a wider view’ – and delivers on both. In the space of less than 6,000 words, Sarah Longford, an evangelical Christian, covers a lot of ground and does so in a very positive way. This would be a particularly helpful read for anyone seeking to be better informed and to increase their understanding of human sexuality (especially homosexuality and the church’s traditional attitude). There is a fairly extensive bibliography for anyone wishing to dig deeper, but the article itself is a real gem: a very concise and easily understood summary of the diversity of human sexuality ‘deliberately planned [by God] and, even more startling, specifically expressing his glory and character’. It is a gay-friendly article which pleads for an end to stereotyping, for a better understanding of Bible passages that are quoted so freely in condemnation of homosexuals, and an encouragement to keep on exploring the issues and continuing to listen to each other.

'">Human Sexuality another look and a wider view (December 2004)

Sheila Longman

The Stand of CourageThis article gives, in brief, a rationale as to why it is reasonable, from an evangelical Christian viewpoint, to accept gay people and committed same-sex partnerships. The article was originally requested for inclusion in an “ex-gay” ministry handbook by the enlightened author, who wanted to provide an opportunity for people to hear what we really think and why.

'">The Stand of Courage (April 2005)

Andy Mapstone

The Bible and HomosexualitySub-titled ‘How, as a gay man, am I to conform to the image of Christ?’ – a question surely asked by many gay Christians at some time in their lives. In this booklet, Andy looks at some of the so-called ‘clobber’ passages (and other regulatory texts) and examines them in the light of their cultural perspectives and fresh understanding of what they mean today. Andy places emphasis on the command to love (’the universal absolute’), a basic respect for others and responsibility with commitment in relationships.

'">The Bible and Homosexuality (December 2003)

Jeremy Marks

A Brief History of Courage UKA brief history of Courage, since the minstry was founded in 1988, explaining the reasons for a change of approach from ex-gay to gay-affirming.

'">A Brief History of Courage UK (December 2011)

A Time for ChangeWhat is the difference between Courage in 1988 (the year of its foundation by Jeremy) and the Courage of today? This article provides the answer as Jeremy explains how, after 10 years of ministry and running residential discipleship courses followed by years of weekly group meetings, ‘We never saw the fruit we longed for’. People’s sexual orientation did not change and their struggle against being gay remained. This led to what has become known as ‘the new approach’ and a redefining of the aim of Courage.

'">A Time for Change (October 2006)

Christ in You, the Hope of GloryInevitably, the radically ‘new approach’ of Courage raised many questions for some people. In this article Jeremy seeks to clarify some of the underlying issues behind those changes of approach and to answer some of the questions raised. He takes us through the time of transition and confronts the question of the ‘causes and cure?’ of homosexuality and where the God of miracles is in all of this. Other topics in this article include What About Sin?, Love, Forgiveness and Restoration, Labelling, the need for companionship ... and more. The article concludes with a note of great encouragement and promise: ‘It is not overcoming homosexuality but knowing Christ in us that is our hope and glory!’

'">Christ in You, the Hope of Glory (March 2001)

Courage and the Evangelical Alliance part companyIn March 2002, the Evangelical Alliance ‘with the greatest regret, had no alternative but to accept Courage’s resignation from membership.’ This article seeks to explain the background to that decision and the twelve months of discussions that preceded it.

'">Courage and the Evangelical Alliance part company (March 2002)

Fools GoldAre we motivated in our lives by the conviction (or need) to uphold good biblical principles? Or are we motivated more by knowing the love of Christ and wanting to share the Good News with all? The answer to that question will almost certainly determine the way in which we will respond to the current debate over homosexuality. Those who live according to biblical principles will find it difficult if not impossible to accept anything but a traditional view of the scriptures where homosexuality is concerned, and by conviction will remain the strongest protagonists opposing any move away from traditional views on the subject. But when principles become more important than the love of Christ, we may discover on Judgement Day that we have bought the treasure of idols, or ‘Fool’s Gold’, rather than understood the heart of God. In this address, prepared for the July 2004 conference of Evangelicals Concerned Western Region in Los Angeles, Jeremy argues for the importance of being motivated by the love of Christ if we are to avoid splitting the Church.

'">Fools Gold (July 2004)

Hearing the Cry of the Human Heart!This is the first article written by Jeremy (1999) heralding the need for a change of attitude and ministry approach. Jeremy reflects upon his attempts to grapple with the things that God was calling him to do – to reach people who felt they had no hope. It was a radical call to change the approach of Courage and put his reputation on the line. Jeremy suggests that this article may be uncomfortable for some and may raise more questions than it answers – but follow Jeremy as he processes these thoughts and reaches towards some conclusions.

'">Hearing the Cry of the Human Heart! (December 2003)

Jesus Christ is the Same Yesterday, Today and For EverJeremy argues that what is needed today is a change of heart-attitude towards gay people and their relationships. He touches upon some of the injustices and rejection meted out to gay Christians by the church and pleads for a more Christ-like attitude – a theology of acceptance and inclusion. Jesus welcomed the outcast and the rejected – he is unchanging and has an unchanging agenda.

'">Jesus Christ is the Same Yesterday, Today and For Ever (December 2003)

Our Search for IntimacyRecognising and understanding our longing for intimate relationships; overcoming guilt about sex; the need to accept ourselves as God does: unconditionally! Practical advice on finding and establishing healthy partnerships that will survive.

'">Our Search for Intimacy (2001)

Pastoral Care for Lesbian & Gay ChristiansA short history of our change of pastoral approach for LGBT Christians, from the very traditional model to a fully accepting and affirming model.

'">Pastoral Care for Lesbian & Gay Christians (August 2013)

Same-sex relationships and ScriptureDoes the Bible not unequivocally forbid the practice of homosexuality? Do we not all know that it is considered to be an abomination? How can gay Christians not recognise and accept ‘the plain teaching of scripture’? Yet for many gay people who have struggled to understand how to live as Christians, with persistent prayer and conscientious bible study, it becomes quite clear that the texts so often used to forbid gay relationships are not prohibiting committed same-sex relationships at all, but rather are being used to support a prejudiced and ignorant viewpoint. In this article, Jeremy Marks look again at the oft-quoted scriptures. This article is referred to in Jeremy’s new book “Exchanging the truth of God for a lie”, published July 2008.

'">Same-sex relationships and Scripture (June 2008)

Should the Church be willing to bless same-sex relationships?This question seems almost certain to split the church down the middle. First written as an essay for the Ethics module of a Theology course Jeremy was studying, this article looks at both sides of the argument and tries to give an ethical and biblical rationale for the acceptability of committed same-sex relationships.

'">Should the Church be willing to bless same-sex relationships? (June 2005)

Some Thoughts for Gay Men who are Married and ChristianI recently prepared a special paper to form a basis for discussion and prayer at a meeting in London convened for married gay Christian men, held in mid-November 2004. This paper summarises the lessons we have learned over the past 17 years of the Courage ministry. No doubt we will learn many new lessons in the years to come and the paper will need to be updated. If we seek God we expect to go on learning what he has to show us.

This version has already been substantially updated since the November meeting, based on discussion and feedback that evening. I would be very interested to hear of the experiences of other gay Christian married men and welcomes e-mail correspondence on the subject. If anyone reading this wishes to join us for any future meetings, please go to the Discipleship Group Members page, print out a membership form, complete as required, sign it, and post it to the Courage office. We can then notify you of future events.

Jeremy Marks

'">Some Thoughts for Gay Men who are Married and Christian (December 2004)

The Challenge of the GospelThe Good News of Jesus Christ proposes a radical new paradigm through which we can understand the world God made and the future of mankind—as transformed by the power of the Gospel. To preach the Good News is the Great Commission that Jesus left his disciples. How do we understand the Gospel? And are we able to respond to by giving our own lives to Christ—and to preaching his message? Jeremy Marks opens the year’s new series of discipleship group meetings in London with this talk.

'">The Challenge of the Gospel (January 2009)

The Righteous shall Live by FaithThis article originally appeared in Third Way magazine (April 2002) under the editor’s title ‘The Gay and Narrow Way’. It is a brief overview of Jeremy’s earlier years as founder and director of Courage and of the opposition, if not open hostility, that gay Christians encounter from the church at large. But Jeremy ends on a characteristically upbeat note: being gay or lesbian does not need to be a stumbling block to a saving faith.

'">The Righteous shall Live by Faith (October 2003)

The Times They Are A-ChanginBig changes are ahead for the Courage ministry and for Jeremy Marks, founder and director. Read all about it . . .

'">The Times They Are A-Changin (August 2011)

The Way Forward for CourageThis helpful article is a clear and concise statement of the Vision, Values and Mission of Courage, following its adoption in 2001 of the ‘new approach’. But it is more than that, for it goes on to address our God-given need for companionship, the biblical endorsement of covenant relationships and seeing sexuality as a gift of God. We are reminded of the biblical call to shun sexual immorality, and the controversial question of ‘What about genital acts?’ is not side-stepped. Finally, consideration for the consciences of others is promoted and the Lordship of Jesus Christ and the sovereignty of God is acknowledged.

'">The Way Forward for Courage (December 2003)

What is that to you?Jesus’ relationship with the beloved disciple is not a comfortable topic for discussion amongst those Christians today who have difficulty in accepting same-sex relationships of a gay or lesbian orientation. The possibility that Jesus’ relationship could be a source of encouragement to lesbian and gay people is seen as tantamount to blasphemy. Jesus’ own words in context surely restores our true priority: “What is that to you?”

'">What is that to you? (March 2007)

When sin is still SIN!A reliable conversation-stopper – but is there a hidden agenda? Why do other people’s sins attract so much censure – especially where sexual matters are concerned? Is sin used in a rather shallow sense? Where is the place for judgement? Why bother to be good? What about ‘the sin that enslaves’ – what is it – what to do about it? Is it really possible to love the sinner while hating the sin? Is being gay a moral issue? ... the questions come thick and fast in this article and so, thankfully, do some of the answers. Jeremy concludes with a timely reminder that we are to be messengers of Good News, not guardians of moral purity!

'">When sin is still SIN! (July 2002)

Steve Schuh

Challenging Conventional WisdomThis essay addresses the dozen or so Bible passages often cited as referring to homosexuality, highlighting their original, biblical contexts and how the texts were understood within the Bible itself. It then outlines how the original ‘then and there’ of the texts and the contemporary ‘here and now’ of same‐sex relationships compare, which suggests how these biblical texts might properly inform the current debate.

'">Challenging Conventional Wisdom (July 2007)

Dave Tomlinson

Be Proud of Who God Made YouThis article is the essense of the talk given by Dave Tomlinson at the final Courage event on 15th September 2012. This was a service of Celebration and Thanksgiving for 25 years of Courage; also the occasion marking the finish of the Courage ministry (and heralding the start of the new Two:23 Network).

'">Be Proud of Who God Made You (September 2012)

Anthony Venn-Brown

Mixed Orientation Marriage - What to do?A mixed orientation marriage (MOM) is where one partner is heterosexual and the other is same-sex-oriented (gay, lesbian or bi-sexual). Author Anthony Venn-Brown is well acquainted with the dilemmas this situation raises for all parties and also offers a life-coaching service for those seeking to resolve their situation.

'">Mixed Orientation Marriage - What to do? (February 2012)

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