Faith Leaders Clash Over Controversial Stance
Pastor John MacArthur recently addressed comments made by Pastor Alistair Begg, disagreeing with Begg’s suggestion that Christians should attend LGBT weddings. Speaking during a Q&A session at Grace Community Church in Los Angeles, MacArthur expressed concern that Begg’s advice might tarnish his otherwise faithful ministry spanning 40 years at Parkside Church in Cleveland, Ohio.
Begg’s remarks, initially shared on his “Truth For Life” podcast last September, resurfaced on social media, drawing criticism for his advice to a grandmother contemplating attending her transgender grandson’s wedding. Begg advised attending the wedding as an expression of love to avoid reinforcing negative stereotypes about Christians.
Following the backlash, American Family Radio (AFR) discontinued airing “Truth For Life,” and Begg was removed from the Shepherd’s Conference website, an outreach of MacArthur’s church.
MacArthur, while acknowledging his longstanding friendship with Begg, disagreed with his stance, asserting that attending such weddings contradicts Christian principles. He argued that declining to attend and condemning the relationship would be a more loving response, emphasizing the need to uphold God’s standards.
He underscored his belief that same-sex marriage defies God’s design and constitutes a form of blasphemy. MacArthur expressed doubt about his own ability to participate in ceremonies that conflict with his convictions, cautioning against lending support to actions contrary to biblical teachings.
Furthermore, MacArthur expressed surprise at Begg’s involvement in the controversy, considering the potential repercussions for his ministry and reputation. He questioned the rationale behind Begg’s comments, given the significant impact they could have on his legacy.
In response to the criticism, Begg defended his position in a sermon titled “Compassion vs. Condemnation,” stressing the importance of showing compassion rather than condemnation. He cautioned against adopting a Pharisaical attitude and highlighted the discrepancy between the attention garnered by his remarks and his decades-long teaching on biblical marriage.
The exchange between MacArthur and Begg underscores differing perspectives within the Christian community regarding engagement with controversial social issues and adherence to traditional biblical teachings.
I don’t think the grandmother should have gone to the wedding, that would indicate she approved. A born again Christian would not approve.
Jesus set an example when he mixed with others at meals and other gatherings.
He loved all people not just perfect church goers.
He came to show that the strict rules set by preists were not
serving his fathers wishes.