"Over the past millenium the Christian nations of the West have faced a number of cultural and philosophical revolutions. These revolutions have led to societies that are more just and more compassionate as well as more understanding of the realities of our world. Let me list a few: the divine right of kings; the flat earth; the earth-centered universe; slavery and its evil stepsisters of racism, segregation and apartheid; patriarchy and the marginalization of women; evolution; and homosexuality. In every instance the defenders of the status quo have used the bible extensively to mount a very vigorous defense of their position. Only in the case of the last three issues does there remain any resistance whatsoever. No Christian today would defend the flat earth or slavery. These issues are settled and the biblical arguments for them have been discredited and rejected. This process is well under way with each of the other issues. I see all this as evidence that God continues to work in the world through people of understanding and of compassion and of faith. It is also worth pointing out that for the most part these changes were brought about by Christians who had to struggle, sometimes heroically, against their fellow Christians to change their traditional way of thinking. To regard the bible as inerrant and as set for all time ignores the simple fact that our understanding of the bible, of the universe and of our society continues to evolve. And this is exactly as it should be.

In my humble opinion the recent acceptance of homosexual marriage and of homosexual clergy is proof that God's Spirit continues to operate through people of faith and of compassion and of wisdom to right ancient prejudices and correct ancient evil."

Thanks JRT :)

Winston