Podcasts about Exodus International

In this episode of If Not For God, host Mike Zwick sits down with Stephen Black, founder of the discipleship ministry Coram Deo and author of Freedom Realized. Stephen shares his personal testimony of leaving the gay lifestyle after coming to faith in 1983 and discusses his decades of experience in pastoral care. The conversation tackles complex and controversial topics, including the closure of Exodus International, the ideological shift toward "hypergrace," and the cultural impact of Pride Month and DEI initiatives on children. Together, they explore the biblical call to sexual integrity and what it means to find true transformation and identity in Christ.

What happens when the face of the world's largest “ex-gay” ministry completely reverses course… and decades later is arrested in a shocking underage sex sting investigation? In this explosive episode, Pastor Tim Hatch examines the tragic rise and fall of Alan Chambers, former president of Exodus International — once the most influential Christian organization promoting “conversion therapy” and freedom from homosexuality through faith. From his childhood gender confusion… to becoming the national spokesperson for the ex-gay movement… to publicly abandoning core biblical convictions on sexuality… marching in Pride parades… apologizing for conversion therapy… and now facing criminal charges involving the alleged solicitation of a minor — this story raises massive questions about identity, temptation, truth, repentance, theology, and spiritual deception. Was this simply hypocrisy? A cautionary tale? Or a deeper warning to the modern Church? This episode explores: • The rise and collapse of Exodus International • Alan Chambers' dramatic theological shift on homosexuality • The debate over “conversion therapy” • LGBTQ ideology and Christianity • Same-sex attraction and identity struggles • Gender confusion in childhood • Progressive Christianity and compromise • Biblical truth vs cultural acceptance • The danger of abandoning God's Word • Spiritual deception, temptation, and hidden sin • The shocking 2026 criminal allegations against Alan Chambers • What Christians should learn from this story

Marriage, Divorce and Fornication (1) (audio) David Eells, 5/24/26   Scriptural Marriage and Divorce David Eells I know this can be a real can of worms and such a touchy subject when dealing with people who love each other, but we owe it to the brethren to speak the truth concerning their eternal life. We must consider scripture rather than human reasoning, which has gotten a lot of people in trouble and they don't know why they are there. Here are some basic things the Lord has shown from scripture on divorce and remarriage: Jesus' commands superseded the Jews' permission for divorce by His statements, so we cannot go to the law to justify divorce. (Mat.19:8) He said to them, Because of your hardness of heart Moses permitted you to divorce your wives; but from the beginning it has not been this way. Once again religion is wrong. Hardened hearts cannot be turned easily but in respecting scripture there is safety. There is only one reason for divorce. (9) And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for fornication (Numeric) and marries another woman commits adultery.” If a spouse commits fornication, whether outside of the first marriage or by illegal remarriage, the other is free to remarry because the first spouse broke the marriage bond. Being legally able to remarry does not mean this is God's will for you. God loves to restore. If your mate repents and asks your forgiveness, then forgive as Christ forgave you. Also, spiritual fornication of the heart is not an excuse, for the scripture speaks of physical fornication of the body. You may be concerned, thinking, “What can I do if I got married before I came to the Lord?” Don't worry about that, because everything we did before we came to the Lord was sin, and we can't go back and do anything about it. After you're saved, you are now a new creation in the Lord, and your sins are washed clean by the blood of Christ. The disciples admitted this was a hard statement, and many think so today, but it is better to obey than to bring yourselves under a curse that many endure. (Mat.19:10) The disciples said to Him, “If the relationship of the man with his wife is like this, it is better not to marry.” Even in the Old Testament, it was fornication for a believer to be married to an unbeliever but hear me out... (Ezr.9:2) For they have taken of their daughters for themselves and for their sons, so that the holy seed have mingled themselves with the peoples of the lands: yea, the hand of the princes and rulers hath been chief in this trespass. ... (Ezr.10:10) And Ezra the priest stood up, and said unto them, Ye have trespassed, and have married foreign women, to increase the guilt of Israel. (11) Now therefore make confession unto Jehovah, the God of your fathers, and do his pleasure; and separate yourselves from the peoples of the land, and from the foreign women. Don't act here without reading on. And so it is in the New Covenant: (1Co.7:39) A wife is bound for so long time as her husband liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is free to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord. Notice we are to marry “only in the Lord”. (1Co.9:5) Have we no right to lead about a wife that is a believer. Notice the condition, the wife must be a believer.. (2Co.6:14) Be not unequally yoked with unbelievers: for what fellowship have righteousness and iniquity? or what communion hath light with darkness? (15) And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what portion hath a believer with an unbeliever? (If one becomes one with an unbeliever to some extent they are leavening themselves.)(16) And what agreement hath a temple of God with idols? for we are a temple of the living God; even as God said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. (17) Wherefore Come ye out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, And touch no unclean thing; And I will receive you. Better not even to date an unbeliever, saints. You don't want to go there because it will bring you a lot of heartache and curses in the future. However, God makes a concession in the New Testament when a person comes to the Lord with an unbelieving spouse because the unbelieving spouse might eventually be saved through their faith. (1Co.7:12) But to the rest say I, not the Lord: If any brother hath an unbelieving wife, and she is content to dwell with him, let him not leave her. (13) And the woman that hath an unbelieving husband, and he is content to dwell with her, let her not leave her husband. (14) For the unbelieving husband is sanctified in the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified in the brother: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. If that spouse, as an unbeliever, departs, you can remarry. (15) Yet if the unbelieving departeth, let him depart: the brother or the sister is not under bondage in such [cases]... Even if you are remarried illegally many times before coming to the Lord, the commands are to Christians and are not retroactive to the old life, for we are a new creation, cleansed of all past sins. Also, Christians can do things in ignorance that are under the blood, for knowledge precedes sin in the New Testament, as before the Law. (Rom.5:13) for until the law sin was in the world; but sin is not imputed when there is no law. (Rom.7:8)... for apart from the law sin [is] dead. (Jas.4:17) To him therefore that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. (Joh.15:22) If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no excuse for their sin. This is not an excuse for someone to falsely claim ignorance because God looks on the heart and knows all; He knows what you understand and what you do not. Judgment is sure for fornicators and adulterers. (1Co.6:9) Or know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators (Basically illegal sexual actions), nor idolaters, nor adulterers (Sometimes this is marrying someone who is already married and not scripturally divorced), nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with men, (10) nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. (Rev.21:7) He that overcometh shall inherit these things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. (8) But for the fearful, and unbelieving, and abominable, and murderers, and fornicators, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, their part [shall be] in the lake that burneth with fire and brimstone; which is the second death. Marriage and divorce can be a very convoluted problem. If, after diligently searching into all that the New Covenant teaches on this subject and asking elders with no satisfaction, remember what Moses did. (Exo.18:25) And Moses chose able men out of all Israel, and made them heads over the people, rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens. (26) And they judged the people at all seasons: the hard causes they brought unto Moses, but every small matter they judged themselves. God told Moses that he would be as God to Israel. For some things, we need to get a word from our Lord. But be careful that you don't receive a flesh pleasing answer from your own mind. Samson kept choosing women for looks rather than staying with scripture and it got him killed. Let's look at what Paul wrote to the Corinthians about marriage. (1Co.7:1) Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. (2) But, because of fornications, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband. (3) Let the husband render unto the wife her due: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. (4) The wife hath not power over her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power over his own body, but the wife. (5) Defraud ye not one the other, except it be by consent for a season, that ye may give yourselves unto prayer, and may be together again, that Satan tempt you not because of your incontinency. (6) But this I say by way of concession, not of commandment. (7) Yet I would that all men were even as I myself. Howbeit each man hath his own gift from God, one after this manner, and another after that. (If you're not married, then you won't be distracted, but not everybody has this gift to be celibate, and we're told, (Pro.18:22) Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, And obtaineth favor of the Lord.) (8) But I say to the unmarried and to widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I. (9) But if they have not continency, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. (10) But unto the married I give charge, [yea] not I, but the Lord, That the wife depart not from her husband (11) (but should she depart, let her remain unmarried, or else be reconciled to her husband); and that the husband leave not his wife.  (I know there are circumstances where a believing or unbelieving husband can be very obnoxious, very overbearing, very sinful, and that's very crucifying to the wife, but that's not an excuse to leave. In most cases, unless he is asking the wife to willfully sin, there can be submission on her part. However, no one should stay in a situation where their life or the lives of their children are in physical danger. We have permission in such a case to flee (Matthew 24:16; Luke 21:21; etc.). (12) But to the rest say I, not the Lord: If any brother hath an unbelieving wife, and she is content to dwell with him, let him not leave her. (13) And the woman that hath an unbelieving husband, and he is content to dwell with her, let her not leave her husband. (14) For the unbelieving husband is sanctified in the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified in the brother: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. Sanctified here means that the influence of you Christian life can save them and also your faith can stand in for them. (15) Yet if the unbelieving departeth, let him depart: the brother or the sister is not under bondage in such [cases]: but God hath called us in peace. (Just know that in the New Testament, being married to an unbeliever is not grounds to leave them; again, only if they leave you, are you free. In the Old Testament, however, if a believer married a non-believer, they demanded a divorce over that because for Jews to be married to non-Jews was fornication (Nehemiah 13:23-30; Ezra chapters 9 and 10). (Neh.13:26) Did not Solomon king of Israel sin by these things? yet among many nations was there no king like him, and he was beloved of his God, and God made him king over all Israel: nevertheless even him did foreign women cause to sin. (27) Shall we then hearken unto you to do all this great evil, to trespass against our God in marrying foreign women? Back to (1Cor.7:16) For how knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? Or how knowest thou, O husband, whether thou shalt save thy wife? …(25) Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: but I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be trustworthy. (26) I think therefore that this is good by reason of the distress that is upon us, [namely,] that it is good for a man to be as he is. (27) Art thou bound unto a wife? Seek not to be loosed. Art thou loosed from a wife? Seek not a wife. (28) But shouldest thou marry, thou hast not sinned; and if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned. Yet such shall have tribulation in the flesh: and I would spare you. (29) But this I say, brethren, the time is shortened, that henceforth both those that have wives may be as though they had none; (In other words don't let this distract from your service to God.) (30) and those that weep, as though they wept not; and those that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and those that buy, as though they possessed not; (31) and those that use the world, as not using it to the full: for the fashion of this world passeth away. (32) But I would have you to be free from cares. He that is unmarried is careful for the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord; (In other words, they're not divided in their attention. However, people don't have to be divided in their attention; they can be celibate or they can always put the Lord first.) (33) but he that is married is careful for the things of the world, how he may please his wife, (Well, if a man is married, it's necessary for him to please his wife, but not to the extent that he lets her be the head of the house; that's bad, very bad. That's like Jezebel and Ahab  and I'll share more on that later.) (34) and is divided. [So] also the woman that is unmarried and the virgin is careful for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married is careful for the things of the world, how she may please her husband. (Is this a bad thing? No, it's commanded, as a matter of fact. It's not a bad thing; it's just that your ability to have your total attention on the Lord without being distracted by family situations is going to be limited. God created the family, so He's not against families. He's against families where they're not married, obviously. What Paul is saying is that if a woman is married, she has to please her husband.) (35) And this I say for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is seemly, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction. (36) But if any man thinketh that he behaveth himself unseemly toward his virgin [daughter], if she be past the flower of her age, and if need so requireth, let him do what he will; he sinneth not; let them marry. (You have to understand that a woman was under the authority of her father until she married.)(37) But he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power as touching in his own heart, to keep his own virgin [daughter], shall do well. (38) So then both he that giveth his own virgin [daughter] in marriage doeth well; and he that giveth her not in marriage shall do better. (39) A wife is bound for so long time as her husband liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is free to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord. (40) But she is happier if she abide as she is, after my judgment: and I think that I also have the Spirit of God.   Polygamy in the Church? Question from a sister: Someone told me that polygamy is allowed by God! I don't believe this, but I had no way to refute this claim. I tried finding some scriptures, but to no avail. When I looked this subject up on the internet, I actually found a “Christian” website promoting polygamy. What will they think of next? Can you share some scriptures that refute this claim? My answer: Under the Law, they were permitted to have more than one wife and divorce their wives because of their “hardness of heart” but under grace, there is no such permission. Jesus said a man could have one wife and “the two shall become one flesh.” (Mat.19:5-8) and said, For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and the two shall become one flesh? So that they are no more two, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. They say unto him, Why then did Moses command to give a bill of divorcement, and to put [her] away? He saith unto them, Moses for your hardness of heart suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it hath not been so. From the beginning, God gave Adam, the Son of God, one wife. It appears his righteous seed through Seth were monogamous also. Cain's evil descendant, Lamech, was the first to take two wives. (Gen.4:19) And Lamech took unto him two wives. In order that a line of Israel not be extinct, the next of kin was permitted to raise up seed to a dead man's wife. But the seed of New Testament spiritual Israel is passed on through the Word (seed or sperma) of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the spirit is spirit. Although they disobeyed God, the Kings of Israel were forbidden to multiply wives. (Deu.17:17-19) Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away: neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold. And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book, out of [that which is] before the priests the Levites: and it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life; that he may learn to fear Jehovah his God, to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them. The Apostles had one wife. (1Co.9:5) Have we no right to lead about a wife that is a believer, even as the rest of the apostles, and the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas? All of God's people must be upright, but Paul required elders to be “without reproach” and “blameless” in that they were to be the “husband of one wife.” This is definitely one wife at a time because fornication is a legal ground for divorce and remarriage (1 Corinthians 7), and the death of a spouse is a legal ground to remarry. (1Ti.3:2) The bishop therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, orderly, given to hospitality, apt to teach. (12) Let deacons be husbands of one wife, ruling [their] children and their own houses well. (Tit.1:6,7) if any man is blameless, the husband of one wife, having children that believe, who are not accused of riot or unruly. For the bishop must be blameless, as God's steward... If the elders or the mature in the Lord need to be upright in having one wife, all need to be this way to be mature. The husband is the head of one wife as Christ is the head of one church. (Eph.5:23-33) For the husband is the head of the wife (not wives), as Christ also is the head of the church, [being] himself the saviour of the body. (24) But as the church is subject to Christ, so [let] the wives also [be] to their husbands in everything. (25) Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it; (26) that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the washing of water with the word, (27) that he might present the church to himself a glorious [church], not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. (28) Even so ought husbands also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his own wife loveth himself: (29) for no man ever hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as Christ also the church; (30) because we are members of his body. (31) For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife (not wives); and the two shall become one flesh. (32) This mystery is great: but I speak in regard of Christ and of the church. (33) Nevertheless do ye also severally love each one his own wife even as himself; and [let] the wife [see] that she fear her husband. Now, I want to share this, too. Men, do not appease a Jezebel spirit; it's going to seduce you and lead you astray. This is our command from God. (Eph.5:22) Wives, [be in subjection] unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. (The Lord, not I, said this, but those who have a Jezebel spirit will still get angry, although this is the truth. We have to obey God's Word, or we can't call ourselves “disciples.”) (23) For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, (Just as much as Jesus is Head of the Church, the husband is the head of the wife.), [being] himself the saviour of the body. (If a wife does not obey her husband, she is not going to get saved.) (24) But as the church is subject to Christ, so [let] the wives also [be] to their husbands in everything. (To make this possible for the wife, we are then told,) (25) Husbands, love your wives (Feeling unloved isn't an excuse for a wife to disobey her husband, but love makes it easier for the wife to obey her husband.), even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it. Men, loving your wife does not include giving in to a Jezebel spirit. Giving in means you are putting yourself under a demon spirit and taking yourself and your family out from under God. If you do that, you will pay the price. On the other hand, do not judge the lost wife. God insists on Christ the Word being your Head. Don't judge her, but don't allow her to be your Head. If Jesus is not your Head, then you are following a false god. It's very plain. (Mat.12:30) He that is not with me is against me… If, because of your stand for Christ, your wife leaves you, then suffer for Christ's sake. We all have to suffer in one way or another, but do not follow a false god. The Bible says, (1Co.7:15) Yet if the unbelieving departeth, let him depart: the brother or the sister is not under bondage in such [cases:] but God hath called us in peace If your spouse leaves because you follow Jesus, then so be it. You are not bound in such a case; God never really wants you to be married to an unbeliever anyway. He says to stay married to them only if they are content to dwell with you, because they can be saved through your witness. Amen! The wife who has an unbelieving husband should obey him up to, but not including, moral sin. (1Pe.3:1) In like manner, ye wives, [be] in subjection to your own husbands; that, even if any obey not the word, they may without the word be gained by the behavior of their wives. (Read our book on our site, Word Woman and Authority.) If you want to be a disciple of Jesus, you have to follow the Word. If you want to be a “Christian” and not be a disciple of Jesus, you are not going to be saved. It's that simple. The word “Christian” is a very loose term in our day, meaning almost nothing. In the early days, people were called “Christians” because they followed Christ Jesus and did His works. Today, the word “Christian” should mean more, but, sadly, it doesn't mean much to people. Jesus told us, (Mat.10:34) Think not that I came to send peace on the earth (You might think, “Peace between me and my wife is the most important. I have to do whatever I have to do.” No, you don't. Jesus did not come to send peace on the earth.): I came not to send peace, but a sword. (And that “sword” is to divide those who are loyal to God's Word from those who are not.) (35) For I came to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law (Now, there are many more relationships. He's just making a point.): (36) and a man's foes [shall be] they of his own household. When you come to God, and they have not, you have no communion there. The Bible says, (2Co.6:14) Be not unequally yoked with unbelievers: for what fellowship have righteousness and iniquity? or what communion hath light with darkness? If you follow the Lord, they can be converted by your witness. If you don't follow the Lord, you have no favor from God, and in that event, don't expect your family to be saved. For your family to be saved, the most important thing for you to do is follow the Lord as a disciple of Jesus Christ and have favor from God. He will save your family if you believe Him for it. (Mat.10:37) He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. You can love people more than you love the Word. The Lord and Word are the same. If you love someone or something more than the Word, you are going to be deceived. It's possible to pity demon-possessed people and then, through demons manipulating that pity, to be deceived and fall right into their situation. Don't believe that all those who call themselves “Christian” are going to be saved, because (Mat.10:38) And he that doth not take his cross and follow after me, is not worthy of me. (We are to die on our “cross” in order to gain our higher life, the life of the born-again man.) (39) He that findeth his life (This is the old psuche life.) shall lose it; (39) and he that loseth his life (Again, this is the old psuche life, the carnal self.) for my sake shall find it. Let me share with you a testimony we have on our site called:   Marriage Lost and Found William and Jamie Leek - 02/09/2010 My wife and I have been separated and near divorce twice since the year 2000 because we loved “our sin”, plain and simple. The first separation was in 2002 and 2003. This separation wasn't as bad as the second, but there were a lot of lies and deceit practiced by both parties during the first separation. We got back together in 2003, where our “Mother in the Lord” renewed our vows. The only problem with this is that we were still mocking God in our walks with Him and still “playing church.” We had made a “confession” of Jesus Christ, but we were not being taught the “whole counsel of God,” so we thought the Lord forgave our sin at the cross, and we were “Covered in the Blood.” According to Matthew 12:43-45, when we confessed Christ and His blood cleansed us from our sin and the curse, we allowed that sin to remain in our lives. The demons, which plagued us, brought seven more back with them, stronger than the first. Thus, we were worse off than ever before. We thank the Lord for His mercy, grace, and long-suffering with us. In 2004 came the second separation. This time, the Lord had given us both over to the desires of our very own wicked hearts and allowed us to sink to levels of darkness that we never knew we had in us. During our second separation, the Lord allowed us to see just how sick the human heart, will, and emotions really are (Jeremiah 17:9). During this time of separation, we both fled at top speed back into the world, and we returned to our old ways. I began to smoke pot again (all day EVERYDAY), and she began to drink more than she ever did. We both began to sleep around with other people outside of our marriage. We were separated for nine months, and the combined number of people the two of us slept with was 16. The Lord really allowed us to fall to the bottom of the depths of the sea of sin, which our lives had become. We were going to a little Pentecostal church at the time when these separations took place. It was here we met a woman I considered to be like a mother in the Lord. She loved my wife and family with all her heart. She took time to come to our home and share the scriptures with us once a week for an extended period of time. She believed with her whole heart that we were “called” to the ministry. She would call me in the middle of the night and say, “I woke up in tears, praying in tongues because I just had such a burden for your family.” The Lord would end up using this mighty woman of God and her fervent prayer life to reconcile our marriage and heal our family. She also told me during the 2004 separation that the Lord gave her a dream where He showed her my family living together in a home happier than we had ever been. This, of course, did not matter to me at the time because my heart was full of rage and hatred. I don't believe in accidents; I believe in the sovereign God written about in the scriptures. In January of 2005, I took a trip to Florida with a woman with whom I had been committing adultery. We drove down together, but for some reason at the end of the trip I made her get on a plane, and I drove home alone. On the trip home, my wife and I started to talk again. The Lord also began to really convict me of my sin. Even though, at the time, I did not understand the meaning of “conviction of sin.” All I knew was that I had an overwhelming feeling of guilt for what I was doing. I knew that a change had to come. In April of 2005, my wife and I really started to talk again on a regular basis. At the beginning of May, we had been together for the entire weekend when we received a phone call from a lady with whom we had gone to church. This lady had news that would shake my wife and me to the very core of our being. She told me that my Mother in the Lord, Shirley Summers, was dying of cancer. Well, this is where we know the Lord began to heal our marriage. When the woman shared this news with me on the phone, I began to weep. With tears streaming down my face, I shared the news with my wife, and we shared tears together. She looked at me and said, “I am going to my parents' house, and I'm getting my things, and I am coming home.” That was on May 4, 2005. The next day, my mom called me on the phone and told me that Shirley had gone on to glory. The reason this stands out as one of the most important events in our marriage is that this woman prayed for us fervently (James 5:16). She never stopped believing in our call to the ministry, and she stood in faith for our marriage when we couldn't. Also, the number “5” in the scriptures signifies “GRACE,” and we didn't realize that until a year later, that our Mother in the Lord had died on 5/05/05, a number and day of GRACE. The Lord was very long-suffering with my wife and me. It was not until after we reconciled that we ran across a website where we began to hear the “full Gospel” being preached. We had never heard all the important doctrines taught throughout the scriptures. We had not been taught about repentance, obedience, holiness, or real Bible faith. We also realized that neither one of us was truly saved, as spoken of in the Bible. The scariest thing of all is that we realized that if the Lord would have called our numbers, we would have gone to HELL! It has been a long journey for both of us, as we got rid of the leaven in our lives after leaving the organized church. Over the years, we have had to learn what it means to repent and to truly come to the Lord, believing who He is and that He rewards those who diligently seek Him. We thank the Lord for UBM for standing for the “TRUE GOSPEL”! Deuteronomy 4:30 When you are in tribulation, and all these things come upon you in the latter days, you will return to the Lord your God and obey his voice. Matthew 3:3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Now, what about common law marriage? Is that biblical? Most states in America have abolished common law marriage, and only a few states recognize it as a legal marriage between two people who have not purchased a marriage license or had their marriage solemnized by a ceremony. The few states that do recognize it have conditional statutes. Scripture is clear that marriage is a binding commitment before witnesses and God; a public, covenantal relationship. It is a commitment agreement until death. When Christians marry, they commit to loving each other just as Christ loved the church. If you are not married, you are living in fornication.   Heterosexual and Homosexual Fornication Letter from a friend:  Hi! I have a neighbor friend with whom I've been having sort of an ongoing “discussion/argument” about whether sex outside of marriage is OK, according to the Bible. I know in my heart it is not, but he wants me to prove it to him with scripture. I haven't studied it extensively, but what I've read doesn't say it precisely enough to prove my point. There is one passage about two unwed people being found in the act and having to marry. Since the Ten Commandments do not say, thou shalt not have sex outside of marriage, he thinks it is ok. (LOL) Of course, the real issue is that he's not a born-again believer. But he asked me to prove it to him, so I'm going to try to do it. I don't know much about the Hebrew meanings of the words, etc. Can you help when you have time? :-) Thanks! My reply:  Fornication is the broad term that covers all sex outside of heterosexual marriage. Adultery, homosexuality, whoremonger, bestiality, and masturbation all fall under this category. The Greek word for fornication is “porneia”, from which we get pornography. Many commit fornication with pornography in print or on any visual screen, TV, social media sites, movies, etc. (Mat.5:28) but I say unto you, that every one that looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. The same is true for any other illicit sexual desire. Repentance and faith deliver from these sins.   Heterosexual Fornication Everyone who has sex out of marriage is a fornicator. (1Co.7:1) Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. (7:2) But, because of fornications, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband. All fornicators must repent or face eternal damnation. (1Co.6:9) Or know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with men, (10) nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. (11) And such were some of you: but ye were washed, but ye were sanctified, but ye were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in the Spirit of our God. (15) Know ye not that your bodies are members of Christ? shall I then take away the members of Christ, and make them members of a harlot? God forbid. (16) Or know ye not that he that is joined to a harlot is one body? for, The twain, saith he, shall become one flesh. (17) But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. (18) Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. (1Co.10:8) Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. (Gal.5:19) Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are [these]: fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness (License to “go beyond the things that are written”), (21) envyings, drunkenness, revellings, and such like; of which I forewarn you, even as I did forewarn you, that they who practise such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. (Rev.21:7) He that overcometh shall inherit these things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. (8) But for the fearful, and unbelieving, and abominable, and murderers, and fornicators, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, their part [shall be] in the lake that burneth with fire and brimstone; which is the second death. (Rev.22:14) Blessed are they that wash their robes, that they may have the right [to come] to the tree of life, and my enter in by the gates into the city (the bride). (15) Without are the dogs, and the sorcerers, and the fornicators, and the murderers, and the idolaters, and every one that loveth and maketh a lie. (1Co.7:9) But if they have not continency (self-control of sexual appetites), let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. (1Ti.5:14) I desire therefore that the younger [widows] marry, bear children, rule the household, give no occasion to the adversary for reviling: (15) for already some are turned aside after Satan. (Job.31:1) I made a covenant with mine eyes; How then should I look upon a virgin? (9) If my heart hath been enticed unto a woman, And I have laid wait at my neighbor's door; (10) Then let my wife grind unto another, And let others bow down upon her. (11) For that were a heinous crime; Yea, it were an iniquity to be punished by the judges: (12) For it is a fire that consumeth unto Destruction, And would root out all mine increase. (Pro.2:16) To deliver thee from the strange woman, Even from the foreigner that flattereth with her words; (17) That forsaketh the friend of her youth, And forgetteth the covenant of her God: (18) For her house inclineth unto death, And her paths unto the dead; (19) None that go unto her return again, Neither do they attain unto the paths of life: (Exo.22:16) And if a man entice a virgin that is not betrothed, and lie with her, he shall surely pay a dowry for her to be his wife. (17) If her father utterly refuse to give her unto him, he shall pay money according to the dowry of virgins. (Deu.22:28) If a man find a damsel that is a virgin, that is not betrothed, and lay hold on her, and lie with her, and they be found; (29) then the man that lay with her shall give unto the damsel's father fifty [shekels] of silver, and she shall be his wife, because he hath humbled her; he may not put her away all his days. Do you believe that because you are “saved” that you can get away with this willful disobedience? (Jer.7:9) Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods that ye have not known, (10) and come and stand before me in this house, which is called by my name, and say, We are delivered; that ye may do all these abominations? (11) Is this house, which is called by my name, become a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, I, even I, have seen it, saith Jehovah. (12) But go ye now unto my place which was in Shiloh, where I caused my name to dwell at the first, and see what I did to it for the wickedness of my people Israel. (13) And now, because ye have done all these works, saith Jehovah, and I spake unto you, rising up early and speaking, but ye heard not; and I called you, but ye answered not: (14) therefore will I do unto the house which is called by my name, wherein ye trust, and unto the place which I gave to you and to your fathers, as I did to Shiloh. (15) And I will cast you out of my sight, as I have cast out all your brethren, even the whole seed of Ephraim. That is just the Old Testament, you say? In any place that we are willfully disobedient, we need the fear of God. Sins of ignorance (Rom.5:13; 7:8,9) and sins of failure (Rom.7:19-25) are under the blood when we repent. However, we cannot claim the sacrificial benefits if we willfully walk in premeditated sin. (Heb.10:26) For if we sin willfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more a sacrifice for sins, (27) but a certain fearful expectation of judgment... Jesus bore all sin; He also bore the penalty for all sin, except willful disobedience. Notice that there is “no more a sacrifice” for that sin. We would have “a certain fearful expectation of judgment.” Many of us have been lied to about the cleansing of the blood. (1Jn.1:7) But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanseth us from all sin. The blood cleanses the one who walks in the light of the Word, not in the darkness of willful disobedience. For willful disobedience, we are promised certain judgment. We pay the penalty for this sin here and now, as in the following verses: (Mat.18:34) And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors (demons), till he should pay all that was due. (35) So shall also my heavenly Father do unto you, if ye forgive not every one his brother from your hearts. God will use the demons to make us pay for a sin of the will. (Mat.5:25) Agree with thine adversary quickly, while thou art with him in the way; lest haply the adversary deliver thee to the judge (God), and the judge deliver thee to the officer (demon), and thou be cast into prison. (26) Verily I say unto thee, thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou have paid the last farthing. The prison here is spiritual bondage to sin and the curse, administered by the demons. Jesus came “...to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening [of the prison] to them that are bound” (Isa.61:1). Willful disobedience throws us back into the prison that Jesus delivered us from. David sinned willfully with Bathsheba. When he repented, Nathan the prophet said, “The Lord also hath put away thy sin”, but he also said, “The sword shall never depart from thy house.” In other words, I forgive you, but you will have to pay the penalty. This proved true, for David lost three sons and many people. His own son Absalom won the sympathy of the people and usurped the kingdom. David had to flee for his life. As parents we do not spank our children for failure or mistakes, but for willful disobedience. Paul said, “For the good which I would I do not: but the evil which I would not (willed not), that I practice. But if what I would not (willed not), that I do, it is no more I that do it, but sin which dwelleth in me” (Rom.7:19,20). Paul was failing God in a sin that his will was against. Notice that he hated the sin and was not accounted guilty; the old sin nature was guilty. When we are against the sin, God takes our side against the sin. He takes the side of the spiritual man against the old man. In this state, Paul cried out to the Lord. (24) Wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me out of the body of this death? Then he accepted God's promise of deliverance by faith. (25) I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Jesus bore the curse of the sin for a person who, like Paul, is repentant. The curse of death is upon the one who will not save themselves for marriage. (Deu.22:13) If any man take a wife, and go in unto her, and hate her,(14) and lay shameful things to her charge, and bring up an evil name upon her, and say, I took this woman, and when I came nigh to her, I found not in her the tokens of virginity; …(20) But if this thing be true, that the tokens of virginity were not found in the damsel; (21) then they shall bring out the damsel to the door of her father's house, and the men of her city shall stone her to death with stones, because she hath wrought folly in Israel, to play the harlot in her father's house: so shalt thou put away the evil from the midst of thee. Only repentance and faith in the sacrifice of Jesus removes this curse. (22) If a man be found lying with a woman married to a husband,(Adultery) then they shall both of them die, the man that lay with the woman, and the woman: so shalt thou put away the evil from Israel. (23) If there be a damsel that is a virgin betrothed unto a husband, and a man find her in the city, and lie with her; (24) then ye shall bring them both out unto the gate of that city, and ye shall stone them to death with stones; the damsel, because she cried not, being in the city; and the man, because he hath humbled his neighbor's wife: so thou shalt put away the evil from the midst of thee. (25) But if the man find the damsel that is betrothed in the field, and the man force her, and lie with her; then the man only that lay with her shall die: (26) but unto the damsel thou shalt do nothing; there is in the damsel no sin worthy of death: for as when a man riseth against his neighbor, and slayeth him, even so is this matter; (27) for he found her in the field, the betrothed damsel cried, and there was none to save her.   Homosexual Fornication (Jude 1:7) Even as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them, having in like manner with these given themselves over to fornication and gone after strange flesh (Men with men/women with women), are set forth as an example, suffering the punishment of eternal fire. (2Pe.2:6) and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, having made them an example unto those that should live ungodly; (7) and delivered righteous Lot, sore distressed by the lascivious life of the wicked (8) (for that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed [his] righteous soul from day to day with [their] lawless deeds): (9) the Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment unto the day of judgment; (10) but chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of defilement, and despise dominion. We have seen many people who fell into faction and ultimately into fornication of many kinds, and God reprobated them. Let me share a portion of a dream from Reynaldo Portela: In this dream, an angel put me in a room where a group of men was practicing homosexuality, and the angel told me, “The man who has sex with another man is going to regret it. God hates the practice of that sin.” (David: In the spiritual, we are reborn with Christ's spirit. Therefore, we should only sow Christ's spirit in our soul, which is our mind, will, and emotions. If we receive the spiritual seed of “men”, we often lose our first love and become reprobate.) (Rom.1:24) Wherefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts unto uncleanness, that their bodies should be dishonored among themselves: (25) for that they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshipped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. (26) For this cause God gave them up unto vile passions: for their women changed the natural use into that which is against nature: (27) and likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another, men with men working unseemliness, and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was due. (28) And even as they refused to have God in [their] knowledge, God gave them up unto a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not fitting (32) who, knowing the ordinance of God, that they that practise such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but also consent with them that practise them. In an open vision, I, David, saw a factious group, and one of them that I knew left them and went behind a wall. The Lord said, “Follow him,” so I did. What I saw behind the wall was this man committing sodomy on 3 of his friends. Over the next day or two, I went to this man and told him my vision, and his eyes widened, and Michael and I both saw he was guilty. He didn't deny it, but later he threatened me. The factious leader told me about three times that he spoke with them during a certain time period, when he was supposed to be with us, and then he fell away three times. I told him he could not associate with them according to the Word. Eve Brast had a dream where they had captured her, and they were bisexual. Other factious leaders had the same problem and were also bisexual. They all have sexual perversion. Satan demands perversion from his servants. The DS are satanists also and are bisexual. They have the same spirits. God is always willing to deliver anyone like this if there is repentance. (Gal.5:19) Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are [these]: fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, (21) ...they who practise such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. (1Co.6:9) Or know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with men, (10) ... shall inherit the kingdom of God. (11) And such were some of you: but ye were washed, but ye were sanctified, but ye were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in the Spirit of our God. (Deu.23:17) There shall be no prostitute of the daughters of Israel, neither shall there be a sodomite of the sons of Israel. (18) Thou shalt not bring the hire of a harlot, or the wages of a dog, into the house of Jehovah thy God for any vow: for even both these are an abomination unto Jehovah thy God. (Rev.21:7) He that overcometh shall inherit these things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. (8) But for the fearful, and unbelieving, and abominable, and murderers, and fornicators, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, their part [shall be] in the lake that burneth with fire and brimstone; which is the second death. (Rev.22:14) Blessed are they that wash their robes, that they may have the right [to come] to the tree of life, and my enter in by the gates into the city. (15) Without are the dogs, and the sorcerers, and the fornicators, and the murderers, and the idolaters, and every one that loveth and maketh a lie. Sodomite Crossdressers -(1Ki.14:24) and there were also sodomites in the land: they did according to all the abominations of the nations which Jehovah drove out before the children of Israel. (1Ki.15:11) And Asa did that which was right in the eyes of Jehovah, as did David his father. (12) And he put away the sodomites out of the land, and removed all the idols that his fathers had made. (Deu.22:5) A woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman's garment; for whosoever doeth these things is an abomination unto Jehovah thy God. (Lev.18:22) Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination. (Lev.20:13) And if a man lie with mankind, as with womankind, both of them have committed abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.   Bestiality (Exo.22:19) Whosoever lieth with a beast shall surely be put to death. (Lev.18:23) And thou shalt not lie with any beast to defile thyself therewith; neither shall any woman stand before a beast, to lie down thereto: it is confusion. (Lev.20:15) And if a man lie with a beast, he shall surely be put to death: and ye shall slay the beast. (16) And if a woman approach unto any beast, and lie down thereto, thou shalt kill the woman, and the beast: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them. (Deu.27:21) Cursed be he that lieth with any manner of beast. And all the people shall say, Amen.   Masturbation (Gen.38:8) And Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother's wife, and perform the duty of a husband's brother unto her, and raise up seed to thy brother. (9) And Onan knew that the seed would not be his; and it came to pass, when he went in unto his brother's wife, that he spilled it on the ground, lest he should give seed to his brother. (10) And the thing which he did was evil in the sight of Jehovah: and he slew him also. Remember I said that through repentance and faith in Jesus and His sacrifice for us, there is deliverance from these sins and its curses. Now God knows that you did not necessarily choose this life, and some of you think you had this from birth, which is not true. A lot of you already know that you were molested at some point in your life, and you became a sinner. Well, these demons entered in then. Now the Good News of the Gospel is that Jesus Christ bore this sin upon Himself for you, and He is offering you grace to repent and be delivered from it so you will never have these wrong desires and emotions again. He took away the sin nature of homosexuality and any sin of fornication. He wants you to repent and surrender your life to Him. Confess your sins as the Bible says in 1Jo.1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. God will give you a new, clean spirit and a new nature, this free gift of His salvation! Let's pray. Father, we thank You, and we ask You, Lord, to reach out and touch the people out there who are in bondage to sin, homosexual, heterosexual, or any kind of sin, and we ask You, Lord, to reach out and touch them with Your convicting power. Father, we ask You to show them that Your word is true. We ask You to reveal Yourself to them, and to show them the Real True Good News that Jesus has already delivered them from this; He's already borne their sin on the cross, and they don't have to bear it any longer. Father, we ask it in the name of Jesus that You go forth right now and deliver those who are listening to us who believe what's been shared here. Please, Lord, go forth and deliver them now in the name of Jesus. We rebuke these demons from your life in the name of Jesus Christ! O Lord, we thank You for Your mighty power going forth to restore those that You have loved from the foundation of the world. Thank you, Father.  Now, friends, if you agreed and prayed this with us, you need to go and start reading your New Testament and believe what it says and know that the Lord is working in you both to will and do of His good pleasure. It's not by your works, it's His working in you! Now, I want to share a published article on a study done that proves there is freedom from homosexuality.   'Groundbreaking' study shows 'gays' can change  Posted: September 15, 2007 1:00 a.m. Eastern © 2007 WorldNetDaily.com In the first longitudinal, peer-reviewed, scientific study of its kind, researchers have concluded that some homosexuals can change their “orientation” through religiously mediated guidance. Researchers Stanton L. Jones and Mark A. Yarhouse released the results of a three-year study on Thursday during an address at the American Association of Christian Counselors World Conference. Their conclusions contradict the claims of the American Psychological Association and the American Psychiatric Association, which contend that such a change in sexual orientation is impossible and attempting to pursue it likely will cause depression, anxiety, or self-destructive behavior. The new study concluded such changes do not cause psychological harm to the patient. Nicholas A. Cummings, former American Psychological Association president, praised the research. “This study has broken new ground in its adherence to objectivity and a scientific precision that can be replicated and expanded, and it opens new horizons for investigation”, he said. Exodus International, the world's largest Christian ministry to homosexuals, said it funded the research because of the absence of any scientific, peer-reviewed research on the topic. The major findings are reported in a book to be released by the evangelical Christian publisher InterVarsity Press, “Ex-Gays? A Longitudinal Study of Religiously Mediated Change in Sexual Orientation.” A homosexual-activist group called Truth Wins Out warned news organizations “to be highly skeptical of a biased 'ex-gay' sham study.” The homosexual group said, “Caution should be taken in prematurely critiquing the study until the full methodology is available. However, based on unconfirmed reports, there is great concern that these notorious anti-gay researchers did little more than professional ex-gay lobbyists and ministers from Exodus International, and ask them if they had 'changed.'” Alan Chambers, president of Exodus International and a former homosexual, said, “Finally, there is now scientific evidence to prove what we as former homosexuals have known all along - that those who struggle with unwanted same-sex attraction can experience freedom from it.” “For years, opponents of choice have said otherwise, and this body of research is critical in advancing the national dialogue on this issue”, he said. Chambers said, “the life-changing process of leaving homosexuality behind” is not easy, but “for thousands of us, the journey has been well worth it, and we are grateful that these study findings give credence to our existence as men and women whose lives have been transformed by Jesus Christ.” Jones, a provost and professor at Wheaton College, an evangelical school in Wheaton, Ill., told CitizenLink magazine in an interview he was prompted to do the study because of the “ever-increasing pessimism expressed in the professional world that sexual orientation could ever be changed.” “This was in contrast to the fact that I occasionally met individuals in Christian circles who claim to have experienced precisely such change”, he said. “When the mental-health field actually began to say that change is impossible - that sexual orientation cannot be changed - it formed the perfect scientific hypothesis to be able to conduct a study.” Jones noted there have been dozens of studies conducted suggesting change is possible for some people, but “the research is not of the highest quality and has been deeply and highly criticized.” After studying the criticisms of those studies, Jones and Yarhouse concluded the proper methodology would need to be both “prospective and longitudinal.” “Prospective means that you catch people before they begin the change process and follow them through the process, while longitudinal means that you're actually following people over time to see if the change is stable”, Jones explained to CitizenLink. “The scientific characteristics of the study are unique, in that no one has ever started early and then followed people over a long period of time like we did.” Jones said they found that, by following the subjects over time, “not everyone is successful, not even a majority is successful, but a very substantial group of people report fairly dramatic change.” “We found that 15 percent of our sample of about 100 claimed to actually have changed from homosexuality to heterosexuality”, he said. “These people experienced significant enough change that they really felt like they had left one sexual orientation to shift into another.” He acknowledged “life is still complicated for these people, and some still have some residuals of their homosexual attractions.” “However, they are people who report being able to function as heterosexuals, they're happy with their marriages, and they feel that their lives have changed dramatically”, he said. The other type of success he found - in almost a quarter of the subjects - was “people who left the homosexual lifestyle and experienced very substantial reductions in homosexual attraction by embracing the Christian discipline of chastity, not acting on their sexual impulses.” “These were people who felt like they were free now to orient their lives not on their sexual, erotic desires and needs, but on their relationship with God and on healthy, nonsexual intimacy with other people”, Jones said. The two groups together, those who converted and those who experienced chastity, made up about 38 percent of the sample. “We feel these changes observed over this substantial period of time provide a clear indication that the opinions of the secular mental-health field that change is impossible are simply wrong”, Jones said. The second area of the research focused on the secular mental-health community's claims that the attempt to change is harmful. Jones and Yarhouse administered a standard psychological inventory that measures psychological distress to subjects at every point along the way. “We found that there was essentially no change in their psychological distress over time”, Jones said. “On that basis, we feel that there is no evidence that the change attempt is harmful, and we found evidence that change is possible for some people.” He added, however, the research does not prove that anybody can change or that no one has ever been harmed from the attempt to change. “It just suggests that the forceful way in which the secular mental-health community is saying change is impossible and harmful is just not well-advised”, he said. Jones pointed out that the American Psychological Association has a blue-ribbon panel right now examining the question of how it should formulate its policies on the subject of attempts to change sexual orientation. Certain members, Jones noted, have already said publicly that change is impossible and harmful. Jones said he hopes “there will be enough of an open mind on the part of the secular mental-health community that they will not continue the movement towards banning these kinds of attempts to change sexual orientation, harassing them out of existence and labeling as unethical any professional person who cooperates with them.” “There is a need to respect the autonomy of individuals who are distressed about what they have experienced sexually and for religious or moral reasons want to try the attempt to change”, Jones told CitizenLink. “Those people first need to be fully informed about just how complex and difficult that process is, and then they should have the right as individuals, as an exercise of personal and religious freedom, to seek support in their attempt to change sexual orientation.”   Printer-friendly version

We've taken a step back with podcast production as Tom has been refocusing his efforts and part-time hours on the YOB community. With more podcasts recently recorded and coming soon, Tom also takes some time to process the Alan Chambers arrest, following the former Exodus International president's alleged solicitation of a minor. We encourage you to feel your feelings; please reach out to us anytime. We're with you. LINKS FROM THIS EPISODE YOF General Giving YOB Membership YOS Membership YOF Newsletter Signup Follow YOF Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Follow YOB Facebook Instagram TikTok Follow YOS Facebook Instagram TikTok Email Tom: tom@yourotherfamily.org Email Erin: erin@yourotherfamily.org you are not alone; even the sparrow finds a home

Alan Manning Chambers, 54, faces three felony charges involving allegations that he solicited a 14-year-old boy for sex on social media. An Orange County Sheriff's detective wrote in an affidavit that he posed as a teenage boy and messaged with Chambers about meeting for sex. Chambers was a minister at Exodus International until 2013 where he advocated for conversion therapy. But after the church closed, Chambers campaigned against the practice. Law&Crime's Angenette Levy goes through the case in this episode of Crime Fix — a daily show covering the biggest stories in crime.PLEASE SUPPORT THE SHOW: Download the FREE Upside App at https://upside.app.link/crimefix to get an extra 25 cents bonus for every gallon on your first tank of gas.Host:Angenette Levy https://twitter.com/Angenette5Guest: Dave Aronberg https://www.instagram.com/davearonberg/CRIME FIX PRODUCTION:Head of Social Media, YouTube - Bobby SzokeSocial Media Management - Vanessa BeinVideo Editing - Daniel CamachoGuest Booking - Alyssa Fisher & Diane KayeSTAY UP-TO-DATE WITH THE LAW&CRIME NETWORK:Watch Law&Crime Network on YouTubeTV: https://bit.ly/3td2e3yWhere To Watch Law&Crime Network: https://bit.ly/3akxLK5Sign Up For Law&Crime's Daily Newsletter: https://bit.ly/LawandCrimeNewsletterRead Fascinating Articles From Law&Crime Network: https://bit.ly/3td2IqoLAW&CRIME NETWORK SOCIAL MEDIA:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawandcrime/Twitter: https://twitter.com/LawCrimeNetworkFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/lawandcrimeTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/lawandcrimenetworkTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lawandcrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alan Chambers — former president of Exodus International — was recently arrested in what authorities describe as a child enticement sting operation. In this video, we respond to the news with both truth and grace, discussing sin, compromise, repentance, and the importance of gospel hope.This conversation also addresses how stories like this are often used in broader cultural debates surrounding sexuality, faith, and transformation in Christ. Rather than celebrating someone's downfall, Christians are called to pray, remain vigilant against sin, and point people toward the redeeming power of Jesus.Topics covered:-The history of Exodus International-Alan Chambers' theological shift over the years-The destructive nature of unrepentant sin-How Christians should respond biblically-Why gospel hope still matters-Ministries and testimonies of transformation in ChristJoin us weekly as we strive help people embrace God's standard for sexuality! Other ways to listen:https://linktr.ee/calibrateconversations#Christianity #Repentance #Truth

When we recorded this episode two weeks ago, we knew that the Supreme Court was planning on releasing a judgment in Chiles v. Salazar — to decide whether Colorado's law banning conversion therapy (which is similar to laws in 22 other states) likely violated the First Amendment. We thought the decision might come in June. But it fell last week like a hammer, and has the potential to undo years of advocacy to ban treatments that have tried to "ungay" thousands of kids, teens, and adults. The judgment is devastating. But it also reminds us that just because a treatment is "legal" doesn't mean it's ethical — or even that it works. (It doesn't!) Timothy Schraeder Rodriguez endured years of conversion therapy, and joins the pod to talk about the real psychological harms it inflicts, and answer all of your excellent questions about how to spot a therapist using low-key conversion tactics, how to make sure kids growing up in high-control anti-gay environments know you're a safe person, and why this therapy persists despite so much evidence that it doesn't work. This is a hard episode — but an important one. GREAT NEWS: WE HAVE VERY GOOD EPISODE TRANSCRIPTS NOW! They come out within 24 hours of the pod — just come back and click here. We pay an actual human for help with these, so thank you for either being a paid subscriber or listening to the ads that make this model possible!If you're a paid subscriber and haven't yet set up your subscriber RSS feed in your podcast player, here's the EXTREMELY easy how-to .And if you're having any other issues with your Patreon subscription — please get in touch! Email me at annehelenpetersen @ gmail OR submit a request to Patreon Support. Thanks to the sponsors of today's episode!Get $35 off your first box of wild-caught, sustainable seafood—delivered right to your door. Go to:  https://www.wildalaskan.com/CULTUREOllie. Feed the Obsession. Go to ollie.com/culture and use code culture to get 60% off your first box!Thanks to Article for sponsoring this podcast! If you're in the market for a beautiful new sofa, dining table or bed, head over to https://www.article.com/Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to Zocdoc.com/CULTURE to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.Show Notes:Pre-order Conversion Therapy Dropout here: https://bookshop.org/a/56144/9798889835431 Follow Timothy on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/timothy.s.rodriguez/Subscribe to Timothy's newsletter here: https://timothysrodriguez.substack.comThe Center for American Progress report on the Trump administration's efforts to rebrand conversion therapy: https://www.americanprogress.org/article/the-trump-administrations-campaign-to-rebrand-conversion-practices-puts-lgbtqi-communities-at-risk/A solid overview of some of the ramifications of deeming therapy as protected free speech: https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2026/03/chiles-salazar-therapy-free-speechExodus International disbanded in 2013 and released a statement that conversion therapy doesn't actually work: https://www.npr.org/2013/06/20/193965227/group-that-claimed-to-cure-gays-disbands-leader-apologizesFor anyone who needs it, Tim recommends the Q Christian Fellowship, which provides resources for LGBTQ+ Christians - https://www.qchristian.orgMelody's other podcast, Strict Scrutiny, recorded an emergency episode about the opinion, its complications, and its ramifications: https://crooked.com/podcast/scotus-not-cool-with-colorado-ban-on-conversion-therapy/We're currently looking for your questions for future episodes about:WHITE LADY HAIR! Cultural critic Sarah Mesle will be joining us to talk about her new book Tangled: Seven Iconic Moments in White Women's Hair and What They Tell Us About Power, Pleasure, and Complicity. If there's a white lady whose hair interests you, I guarantee you it interests Sarah, too. We can talk about specific celebrity/actress haircuts but also specific styles/trends. I cannot wait for this one. EMILY BLUNT! (and secondary characters becoming primary ones!) with Xochitl Gonzalez — obvi we're gonna talk a lot about Devil Wears Prada and 2000s-era striving but you can take this in so many directions BOOMER MOMS! Tracy Clark-Flory and I need your questions about why boomer moms (very broad designation here, I realize) are the way they are — we're specifically going to talk about the constrictions of growing up in '60s/'70s U.S., particularly around femininity, race, education, body image, employment, and motherhood. This one's gonna be really good, I know it. INTERGENERATIONAL FRIENDSHIP with Andrew Sean Greer, author of Less (and Villa Coco, a new book with an intergenerational friendship at its center). You can ask questions about how to find intergenerational friends, how to sustain those friendships, what people seem to love so much about them, wherever your heart takes you. HOW TO FALL IN LOVE WITH A CITY with Lilah Raptopoulos, editor of the Financial Times city life vertical. We're going to talk about how to fall in love with cities WHILE VISITING (for fun, for vacation, for work) and how to fall in love with the city where you currently live. What tips do you want? What city are you struggling to fall in love with? Anything you need advice for/want musings about for the AAA segment. You can ask about anything, it's literally the name of the segment.As always, you can submit your questions (and ideas for future eps) hereFor this week's discussion: If you have additional advice on how to highlight that you're a safe person for kids who are growing up in repressive/anti-gay homes, we'd love to hear it.

Aaron Goldenberg, actor, comedian, and (hilarious) content creator, joins Lola and Meagan to talk about being gay as a Christian child, what it was like learning Bill Gothard’s IBLP homeschool curriculum as a boy, and how his parents discovered his queerness and sent him to conversion therapy. He talks about Exodus International, a now-disbanded “ex-gay” Christian ministry that taught that you could heal your gayness (until its president apologized to the gay community and said it didn’t work), doubling down on his belief that he could force himself to be straight, and how getting sober finally forced him to confront the truth and accept himself for who he really was.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vanessa Zoltan and Hannah McGregor meet-up at True Directions to record this week's episode of Hot and Bothered, all about But I'm a Cheerleader.This week we discuss heteronormativity and the film's mise-en-scène, and revisit the idea of 'camp'. We finish the episode by calling Lynne Gerber to talk to us about the ex-gay organization, Exodus International.---Hot and Bothered is a Not Sorry ProductionFind us at our website | Follow us on InstagramIf we give you butterflies, consider supporting us on Patreon! On Patreon we have more great romance content including a bonus close scene analysis with Hannah and Vanessa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chapters00:00Introduction and Community Life03:03John's Early Life and Struggles05:54Coming Out and Embracing Identity08:58The Journey into Ex-Gay Ministry11:48Family Dynamics and Healing15:01The Cracks in the Ex-Gay Ministry19:57Transitioning Away from Ex-Gay Beliefs25:04New Relationships and Personal Growth35:03Redefining God and Spirituality38:32Living Authentically and Embracing Life42:41Exploring Sexual Freedom and Relationships50:17The Impact of Ex-Gay Ministries56:23Supporting the Transgender Community58:01Lessons Learned and Guiding PrinciplesTAKEAWAYS:John was raised in a complicated household that impacted his emotional development.He discovered his identity as a homosexual later in life after years of confusion.John believed he was doing God's work while involved in ex-gay ministries.He struggled with intimacy in his marriage due to his sexual orientation.John's journey led him to question the beliefs he had held for years.He found freedom in accepting his identity and moving away from ex-gay beliefs.John emphasizes the importance of living authentically and being true to oneself.He is actively involved in supporting the LGBTQ community in Hot Springs.John reflects on the impact of ex-gay ministries and the harm they cause.He believes in making amends to those affected by his past actions.SUMMARY:In this conversation, John Smid shares his journey from a complicated upbringing to discovering his identity as a gay man. He discusses his experiences with ex-gay ministries, the struggles he faced with family acceptance, and his eventual transition away from those beliefs. John reflects on his current views on faith, sexuality, and the importance of community support, emphasizing the need for authenticity and personal growth.From John J. Smid:I was born in July of 1954. Throughout my life I have lived through the mantra, “How can things be better?” As I continue to ask that question, my life has gone through several quite impactful life transitions.I have been married three times. I have two children and four grandchildren from my first marriage. Each marriage was a classroom of life for me through which I grew more aware each time that being a gay man wasn't always easy to embrace.I spent over 25 years trying to suppress my natural sexuality in order to please God and my then, religious beliefs. 22 of those years I was deeply entrenched in the Evangelical ExGay movement. I was the Executive Director for Love In Action, a residential ExGay ministry and a board member for eleven of those years with Exodus International, a worldwide coalition of ExGay ministries.I resigned from Love in Action in 2008 and at that time began a search for what was really true for me and my religious beliefs. I've spent these last 17 years working to make amends whenever possible for the messages I taught and the impact they had on hundreds of people very personally. Through personal reconnections with program clients and speaking out I hope I am at least making a dent in the harm done.After 24 years in my second marriage, I finally grew the courage to answer that life question once again. For life to be better I needed to fully embrace my homosexuality and life a more authentic life.Today, I am married to my husband Larry. We spend most of our time managing our acreage in central Arkansas and our little Airbnb cabin.  We have a wonderful LGBTQ+ community here and are very active socially with our friends.Website:http://www.johnjsmid.comJohn's book: https://johnjsmid.com/exd-out-2/Contact via email: js@johnjsmid.comTo contact Wilkinson:  BecomingW

Hear the real story behind Exodus International's dissolution in May of 2013. Conversion and restoration for repentant homosexuals is real. It is happening everywhere around the country. Kevin Swanson interviews David Foster, himself a repentant homosexual, on his new film project entitled “Such Were Some Of You.” These are the stories that the media does not want you to hear. What is it like for a homosexual to repent and recover from a state of sexual brokenness? This program includes: 1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus (In 3 days, Americans gave $200 million to Trump's campaign; 75-year-old pro-lifer given 2-year prison sentence; One million African Methodists walk away from denomination) 2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

Hear the real story behind Exodus International's dissolution in May of 2013. Conversion and restoration for repentant homosexuals is real. It is happening everywhere around the country. Kevin Swanson interviews David Foster, himself a repentant homosexual, on his new film project entitled -Such Were Some of You.- These are the stories that the media does not want you to hear. What is it like for a homosexual to repent and recover from a state of sexual brokenness--

Hear the real story behind Exodus International's dissolution in May of 2013. Conversion and restoration for repentant homosexuals is real. It is happening everywhere around the country. Kevin Swanson interviews David Foster, himself a repentant homosexual, on his new film project entitled "Such Were Some of You." These are the stories that the media does not want you to hear. What is it like for a homosexual to repent and recover from a state of sexual brokenness?

Hear the real story behind Exodus International's dissolution in May of 2013. Conversion and restoration for repentant homosexuals is real. It is happening everywhere around the country. Kevin Swanson interviews David Foster, himself a repentant homosexual, on his new film project entitled -Such Were Some Of You.- These are the stories that the media does not want you to hear. What is it like for a homosexual to repent and recover from a state of sexual brokenness-- --This program includes---1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus -In 3 days, Americans gave -200 million to Trump's campaign- 75-year-old pro-lifer given 2-year prison sentence- One million African Methodists walk away from denomination---2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

Andy Wells returns to the podcast with an update on his popular book, Tried to be Straight. The first two-part interview with Andy has been one of the most popular BWM episodes to date. In that episode, Andy shares his journey growing up in church (All Saints Episcopal Church and Lake Avenue Congregational Church both in Pasadena, CA) where he served in leadership roles - and on to college and graduate school where he earned a Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics at Biola University. After struggling for decades with his identity - including association with the now defunct Exodus International and “reparative therapy” -  he tells his “coming out” story. Andy remains a committed Christian and dedicated student and teacher of the Bible. Today's episode gets us current. Because of his book, Andy has counseled countless others in the LGBTQ+ community who struggle with their own identity, parents whose children have “come out,” and Christians who maintain a moral objection to non-hetero sexuality but want to maintain a positive relationship with everyone. Andy has been invited to speak and share his book with groups who have shared their appreciation and help. Andy endorses high-impact groups like Free Mom Hugs and Real Momma Bears. He shares his new book project designed to give language that builds bridges rather than walls. This is an important interview you will not want to miss - and then share it with your friends. SHOW NOTESAndy's Web Site | Become a Patron | Ken's Substack PageSupport the show

Prepare for an enlightening discussion as we unpack the various theological perspectives within Christian circles that address sexuality. We explore the nuanced viewpoints labeled as Side A, Side B, Side Y, and Side X. Our dialogue provides insight into the affirming stance of Side A churches, celibate gay identity embraced by Side B, and the controversial views of x-gay and side-y approach. Our end goal? To equip you with a broader understanding of these divergent perspectives in the context of Christianity.Our conversation takes a twist as we inspect the complexities of 'x-gay' and 'side-x' labels, recounting firsthand experiences with these terms and their transformation over time. We shed light on the potential pitfalls of certain theological and therapeutic approaches within the x-gay movement, while acknowledging the positive impact made by organizations like Exodus International. The focus then progresses towards 'side-y', an emerging approach that underscores sanctification in overcoming same-sex attractions.The final part of our discussion grapples with the contentious belief of side y, which disowns the idea of a gay identity, endorsing instead, sanctification and transformation through God. We highlight the debates surrounding this conviction, and the stand of prominent figures like Rosario Butterfield against the acceptance of homosexuality. We further discuss the challenges faced within Christian ministry, particularly within the organization of Cru, and underscore the need for a balanced approach that blends empathy with guiding individuals towards sanctification. So, buckle up as we venture into this journey of understanding, navigating, and responding to these issues from a Christian perspective.Timestamps:(0:00:16) - Theological Frameworks of Sexuality(0:18:30) - X-Gay and Side Y Movements Analysis(0:24:57) - LGBTQ+ Christianity and Controversial Side B(0:44:37) - Challenges and Concerns in Christian MinistryJoin us weekly as we strive help people embrace God's standard for sexuality! Other ways to listen:https://linktr.ee/calibrateconversations

Speaker Mike Johnson has concerning connections to Russia that raise national security questions as he pushes for President Biden's impeachment. Johnson has long received donations from American Ethane, a company run by two Russians with direct Kremlin ties. American Ethane bankrolled Johnson for years to grease the wheels on getting approval for a proposed ethane terminal in Louisiana. Interestingly, while the firm is Russian-owned and named American Ethane, the exports were all destined for China. Johnson's anti-LGBTQ advocacy also aligns closely with Russia's global anti-gay agenda. He has compared homosexuality to pedophilia and called it dangerous. His wife runs a Christian counseling service equating homosexuality with bestiality. In the 2000s, Johnson provided legal advice to Exodus International, a harmful conversion therapy group, as well as advocacy for an anti-gay "Day of Truth" in schools. At the time, Johnson worked for the Alliance Defending Freedom, which connects him to Russia's representative at the anti-LGBTQ World Congress of Families. The WCF authored Russia's severe anti-gay propaganda law. Johnson's personal life also raises questions. He adopted a black son when he was 25, two years before meeting his wife. Yet few photos exist of Johnson's adopted son with the rest of the family. Johnson has been evasive in providing details around the adoption. In 2010, Johnson was dean of a failed Baptist law school embroiled in fundraising and child abuse scandals, which he conveniently omits from his resume. With an impeachment of President Biden looming, Moscow may be applying pressure on Johnson through compromising materials obtained over years of Russian connections. The stakes could not be higher to determine whether the Kremlin is influencing the impeachment process through Speaker Johnson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Speaker Mike Johnson has concerning connections to Russia that raise national security questions as he pushes for President Biden's impeachment. Johnson has long received donations from American Ethane, a company run by two Russians with direct Kremlin ties. American Ethane bankrolled Johnson for years to grease the wheels on getting approval for a proposed ethane terminal in Louisiana. Interestingly, while the firm is Russian-owned and named American Ethane, the exports were all destined for China. Johnson's anti-LGBTQ advocacy also aligns closely with Russia's global anti-gay agenda. He has compared homosexuality to pedophilia and called it dangerous. His wife runs a Christian counseling service equating homosexuality with bestiality. In the 2000s, Johnson provided legal advice to Exodus International, a harmful conversion therapy group, as well as advocacy for an anti-gay "Day of Truth" in schools. At the time, Johnson worked for the Alliance Defending Freedom, which connected him to Russia's representative at the anti-LGBTQ World Congress of Families. The WCF authored Russia's severe anti-gay propaganda law. Johnson's personal life also raises questions. He adopted a black son when he was 25, two years before meeting his wife. Yet few photos exist of Johnson's adopted son with the rest of the family. Johnson has been elusive in providing details about the adoption. In 2010, Johnson was dean of a failed Baptist law school embroiled in fundraising and child abuse scandals, which he conveniently omits from his resume. With an impeachment of President Biden looming, Moscow may be applying pressure on Johnson through compromising materials obtained over years of Russian connections. The stakes could not be higher to determine whether the Kremlin is influencing the impeachment process through Speaker Johnson.

Dr. Sharp's expansive book, The Other Evangelicals, dials back the clock to the early days of evangelicalism. Isaac identifies a significant collection of high-profile, self-identified "evangelical" Christians who just do not fit the current stereotype. Some were liberal, others black or progressive or feminist even gay. What these believers have in common is that they were ultimately rejected as "evangelicals" by the self-appointed gatekeepers of the movement. In this PART II of this series, Ken and Dr. Sharp begin with a discussion of the Bible - as the inerrant and infallible authority over the movement as argued by Harold Lindsell in his Battle for the Bible. It's not just the book itself, but the sectarian interpretation of the book that for many becomes non-negotiable for many. Women like Letha Scanzoni, Nancy Hardesty and Virginia Mollenkott engaged feminism as part of their biblical faith. Dr. David Gushee (Sharp's academic advisor turned literary colleague) challenges evangelicalism's condemnation of the LGBTQ+ community. They talk about Dr. Ralph Blair, an ardent biblical Christian psychologist, and his critique of "pray-it-away" reparative therapy.  The Exodus International, promoted by Rev. Jerry Falwell, represented itself as a biblical ministry that existed to "cure" homosexuality. But it was ceremoniously shut down by founder Alan Chambers. Lawsuits, abuse and documented psychological harm overwhelmed the operation and led to its demise.  John R. W. Stott and Tony Campolo challenged evangelical assumptions, but their advice went unheeded. In the era of Trumpism, evangelicals virtually eliminated these non-conformists from their exclusive tribe. In spite of the efforts of these biblical voices, evangelicalism has become the domain of white, conservative Republicanism.  SHOW NOTESBecome a Patron: www.patreon.com/beachedwhitemaleSupport the show

"Lo heterosexual es lo único que rifa y aquí podemos curarte". Bueno, al menos eso es lo que sostienen grupos como Exodus International y Living Hope. Sobre ello habla el documental Pray Away que vimos esta semana en Política Ficción. Roberto y Raúl abordan el tema de las terapias de conversión y la diversidad sexual.

Welcome to a special international episode of The Road To The Movie Podcast. We meet up with international actor Ashraf Barhom, known from movies like The Kingdom, Lebanon and the TV series Tyrant. We talk about his unique path to the movies and Hollywood. Director Abbe Hassan (Exodus) joins the conversation, as they finally reunite after finishing principal photography in Greece, 2 years ago. Leading the conversation is filmmaker Mauricio Molinari.  Thank you for listening and be sure to watch Exodus as it hits cinemas. Produced in collaboration with TellusStory and Moviezine.

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast)Episode 503 Still Time to Care: What We Can Learn from the Church's Failed Attempt to Cure Homosexuality Guest Greg Johnson   Get the Book: https://amzn.to/3SeFHyp Charting the path forward for our churches and ministries in providing care—not a cure— for our non-straight sisters and brothers who are living lives of costly obedience to Jesus. At the start of the gay rights movement in 1969, evangelicalism's leading voices cast a vision for gay people who turn to Jesus. It was C.S. Lewis, Billy Graham, Francis Schaeffer and John Stott who were among the most respected leaders within theologically orthodox Protestantism. We see with them a positive pastoral approach toward gay people, an approach that viewed homosexuality as a fallen condition experienced by some Christians who needed care more than cure. With the birth and rise of the ex-gay movement, the focus shifted from care to cure. As a result, there are an estimated 700,000 people alive today who underwent conversion therapy in the United States alone. Many of these patients were treated by faith-based, testimony-driven parachurch ministries centered on the ex-gay script. Despite the best of intentions, the movement ended with very troubling results. Yet the ex-gay movement died not because it had the wrong sex ethic. It died because it was founded on a practice that diminished the beauty of the gospel. Yet even after the closure of the ex-gay umbrella organization Exodus International in 2013, the ex-gay script continues to walk about as the undead among us, pressuring people like me to say, "I used to be gay, but I'm not gay anymore. Now I'm just same-sex attracted." For orthodox Christians, the way forward is to take a close look at our history. It is time again to focus with our Neo-Evangelical fathers on caring over attempting to cure. With warmth and humor, as well as original research, Still Time to Care provides: Guidance for the gay person who hears the gospel and finds themselves smitten by the life-giving call of Jesus. Guidance for the church to repent of its homophobia and instead offer gospel-motivated love and compassion.   About the Author Greg Johnson is lead pastor of historic Memorial Presbyterian Church (PCA) in St. Louis, where he has served on the pastoral staff since 2003. He holds a PhD in historical theology with a concentration in American religion from Saint Louis University and an MDiv from Covenant Theological Seminary. He is the author of The World according to God: A Biblical View of Culture, Work, Science, Sex and Everything Else, and Still Time to Care: What We Can Learn from the Church's Failed Attempt to Cure Homosexuality Get The Book       10% Off Everything Rick Lee James on Band camp Instructions Visit https://rickleejames.bandcamp.com At checkout use code: 10off Advent Hymn (Watching, Waiting, Longing) This song appeared on over 80 Spotify playlists this Advent Season. I want to thank everyone for listening and sharing it this year.   Official Music Video: Web Site: https://rickleejames.com   PURCHASE ALBUM: www.RickLeeJames.Bandcamp.com SongSelect: https://songselect.ccli.com/Songs/6152291/advent-hymn-watching-waiting-longing Downloadable Charts and More available from LIFEWAYWORSHIP.COM: https://worship.lifeway.com/findAndBuy/songPage/AdventHymn(Watching%2CWaiting%2CLonging)?versionId=93901&rowNum=0&searchString=Advent%20Hymn%20(watching,%20Waiting,%20Longing)#song-Parts Loop Community: https://loopcommunity.com/en-us/songs/advent-hymn-(watching%2C-waiting%2C-longing)-by-rick-lee-james-3892  Endorsements: “A perfect and needed addition to any Christmas playlist this year. Rick Lee James bringing home the Advent Message.” -CCM Magazine https://www.ccmmagazine.com/music-video/rick-lee-james-advent-hymn-watching-waiting-longing/ “I love Advent Hymn (Watching, Waiting, Longing), which gives newness to the phrases of Isaiah. Watching, waiting, and longing is what we do now, and these songs help us do that in confidence. I anticipate that this album will be received as a great gift by many who will find their faith nourished and awakened by it.” –Walter Brueggemann (Professor Emeritus of Old Testament at Columbia Theological Seminary) "I've watched Rick grow as an artist and songwriter for many years. Congratulations brother on an excellent independent release." -Paul Baloche (Dove Award Winning Songwriter) "Rick Lee James is a poet and singer. You will not only enjoy listening, you'll be drawn into the source –Jesus." -Mike Harland RICK LEE JAMES INFO Web Sites: https://www.rickleejames.com Get The Single: https://rickleejames.hearnow.com/halls       More from Rick Lee James Shine A Light In The Darkness Get The Single: https://rickleejames.hearnow.com/shine-a-light-in-the-darkness Music Video: Rick Lee James Playlist on Spotify:   https://t.co/S7nCRl0xqa

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast)Episode 503 Still Time to Care: What We Can Learn from the Church's Failed Attempt to Cure Homosexuality Guest Greg Johnson Get the Book: https://amzn.to/3SeFHypCharting the path forward for our churches and ministries in providing care—not a cure— for our non-straight sisters and brothers who are living lives of costly obedience to Jesus.At the start of the gay rights movement in 1969, evangelicalism's leading voices cast a vision for gay people who turn to Jesus. It was C.S. Lewis, Billy Graham, Francis Schaeffer and John Stott who were among the most respected leaders within theologically orthodox Protestantism. We see with them a positive pastoral approach toward gay people, an approach that viewed homosexuality as a fallen condition experienced by some Christians who needed care more than cure.With the birth and rise of the ex-gay movement, the focus shifted from care to cure. As a result, there are an estimated 700,000 people alive today who underwent conversion therapy in the United States alone. Many of these patients were treated by faith-based, testimony-driven parachurch ministries centered on the ex-gay script. Despite the best of intentions, the movement ended with very troubling results. Yet the ex-gay movement died not because it had the wrong sex ethic. It died because it was founded on a practice that diminished the beauty of the gospel.Yet even after the closure of the ex-gay umbrella organization Exodus International in 2013, the ex-gay script continues to walk about as the undead among us, pressuring people like me to say, "I used to be gay, but I'm not gay anymore. Now I'm just same-sex attracted."For orthodox Christians, the way forward is to take a close look at our history. It is time again to focus with our Neo-Evangelical fathers on caring over attempting to cure.With warmth and humor, as well as original research, Still Time to Care provides:Guidance for the gay person who hears the gospel and finds themselves smitten by the life-giving call of Jesus.Guidance for the church to repent of its homophobia and instead offer gospel-motivated love and compassion.About the AuthorGreg Johnson is lead pastor of historic Memorial Presbyterian Church (PCA) in St. Louis, where he has served on the pastoral staff since 2003. He holds a PhD in historical theology with a concentration in American religion from Saint Louis University and an MDiv from Covenant Theological Seminary. He is the author of The World according to God: A Biblical View of Culture, Work, Science, Sex and Everything Else, and Still Time to Care: What We Can Learn from the Church's Failed Attempt to Cure Homosexuality10% Off Everything Rick Lee James on Band campInstructions* Visit https://rickleejames.bandcamp.com* At checkout use code: 10offAdvent Hymn (Watching, Waiting, Longing)This song appeared on over 80 Spotify playlists this Advent Season. I want to thank everyone for listening and sharing it this year.* Official Music Video:* Web Site:https://rickleejames.com * PURCHASE ALBUM: www.RickLeeJames.Bandcamp.com* SongSelect: https://songselect.ccli.com/Songs/6152291/advent-hymn-watching-waiting-longing* Downloadable Charts and More available from LIFEWAYWORSHIP.COM: https://worship.lifeway.com/findAndBuy/songPage/AdventHymn(Watching%2CWaiting%2CLonging)?versionId=93901&rowNum=0&searchString=Advent%20Hymn%20(watching,%20Waiting,%20Longing)#song-Parts* Loop Community: https://loopcommunity.com/en-us/songs/advent-hymn-(watching%2C-waiting%2C-longing)-by-rick-lee-james-3892 Endorsements:“A perfect and needed addition to any Christmas playlist this year. Rick Lee James bringing home the Advent Message.”-CCM Magazine https://www.ccmmagazine.com/music-video/rick-lee-james-advent-hymn-watching-waiting-longing/“I love Advent Hymn (Watching, Waiting, Longing), which gives newness to the phrases of Isaiah. Watching, waiting, and longing is what we do now, and these songs help us do that in confidence. I anticipate that this album will be received as a great gift by many who will find their faith nourished and awakened by it.”–Walter Brueggemann (Professor Emeritus of Old Testament at Columbia Theological Seminary)"I've watched Rick grow as an artist and songwriter for many years. Congratulations brother on an excellent independent release."-Paul Baloche (Dove Award Winning Songwriter)"Rick Lee James is a poet and singer. You will not only enjoy listening, you'll be drawn into the source –Jesus."-Mike HarlandRICK LEE JAMES INFOWeb Sites:https://www.rickleejames.comGet The Single:https://rickleejames.hearnow.com/halls More from Rick Lee JamesShine A Light In The DarknessGet The Single: https://rickleejames.hearnow.com/shine-a-light-in-the-darknessMusic Video:Rick Lee James Playlist on Spotify:https://t.co/S7nCRl0xqa This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rickleejames.substack.com/subscribe

Author George Azar joins the VCW hall to talk about "My Gay Church Days", his self-published memoir of converting to evangelicalism as a teenager, becoming a pastor and thinking of himself as "struggling with same-sex attraction", his experience at Exodus International (the most notorious gay conversion organization in the world before it disbanded in 2012), and eventual acceptance of himself as a gay man and exit from evangelicalism. Connect with George Azar: Twitter: @mygaychurchdays Instagram: @mygaychurchdays Website: (Where you can order the book) https://www.mygaychurchdays.com/ -Check out Zach's music by going to: https://muzach.bandcamp.com Twitter: Twitter: @vcwpod Zach- @muzach Dave- @Davejlester Podcast music by Zach Malm Logo by Zach Malm

Jessica Ritter is the Texas Ambassador for Born Perfect and a Conversion Therapy survivor.  After three years of Conversion Therapy Jessica came out to her friends and family for a second time.  Since coming out, Jessica has been forced to sever her relationship with her immediate family. However, with the help of a real therapist, she has been able to create a strongly knit chosen family made up of extended family, her girlfriend, and friends.  Today, Jessica is a successful professional and surrounded by more love and acceptance than she ever thought possible.  

Interview with Joe Dallas, former president of Exodus International; Canada just outlawed "conversion therapy." But what is that, exactly? Did Exodus International really teach that you can just pray the gay away? Did they recommend dangerous conversion techniques?

This week we're joined by author, CPA, and podcaster, George Azar! George was heavily involved in the church as a young man, all while struggling to understand and overcome his sexuality. He went so far as to get involved with Exodus International (the organization covered in "Pray Away"), undergo conversion therapy, become a pastor, and even cooperate with church leadership as they attempted to arrange a straight relationship for him. We barely scratched the surface of George's story, but you're in luck! His autobiography "My Gay Church Days" will be available February 14, and you're going to love it! For more information, go to www.mygaychurchdays.com, follow him on social media @mygaychurchdays, and listen to the My Gay Church Days Podcast.     If you're a coffee lover, you owe it to yourself to check out our beloved sponsor, Captain Cecil's Coffee! They have an all new selection of single source artisan roasts for 2022, and they are offering our listeners 20% off when you enter the promo code "growingupchristian" at checkout. Plus, orders over $50 get free shipping! Find your favorite blend at www.captaincecilscoffee.com.

For more than four decades, organizations like Exodus International, Courage, and Homosexuals Anonymous have provided counsel and support to people who realized they were attracted to the same sex, considered homosexuality a sin, and wanted help dealing with their desires. These groups and the people they served made up what's often called the “Ex-Gay Movement,” a phenomenon which has always gotten its share of supporters and critics.Its critics have tended to be pro-gay, some producing books and documentaries hoping to persuade others that their accusations against the ex-gay movement validated their gay-affirming position.But Greg Johnson's book Still Time To Care (Zondervan) is a unique addition to these criticisms, because unlike others, he writes from the position of a traditionalist who views homosexual behavior as sin. His objections to the movement he decries are not, therefore, over its theological stance, but the way it practiced and promoted that stance.This Postmodern Realities episode is a conversation with Journal author Joe Dallas about his online-exclusive article, “Is it Time To Change Ministry to LGBTQ People? Book Review Still Time to Care by Greg Johnson (Zondervan, 2021)”. https://www.equip.org/article/is-it-time-to-change-ministry-to-lgbtq-people-book-review-still-time-to-care-by-greg-johnson-zondervan-2021/Starting in February 2021, all online-exclusive articles, have had a early access window for Journal subscribers only before being made public. Given the time sensitive nature and global importance of this subject, our editorial board decided to make this available to the public as soon as possible. Also consider this a free preview of the quality and in-depth research that goes into our online-exclusives. To learn more about subscribing and gaining early access to future online-exclusive articles, please see our FAQ section on Early Access to Online-Exclusive Articles by clicking here and subscribing by clicking here.We'd also like to invite you to subscribe to the Journal. To subscribe to the Journal, please click here. https://www.equip.org/product/crj-subscription/When you to subscribe to the Journal, you join the team of print subscribers whose paid subscriptions help provide the resources at equip.org that minister to people worldwide. These resources include our ever growing database of over 1,500 articles, as well as our free Postmodern Realities podcast. Another way you can support our online articles is by leaving us a tip. A tip is just a small amount, like $3, $5, or $10 which is the cost for some of a latte, lunch out, or coffee drink. To leave a tip, click here https://www.equip.org/product/pmr-jnl-tip/Other articles and Postmodern Realities podcasts featuring this authorEpisode 101 Homosexuality and Modern Ministry: Part OnePart one of this two-part series: Homosexuality and Modern Ministry: Examining Old Approaches and Assessing New Ones Part One: A History of Missions and MisstepsEpisode 103 Homosexuality and Modern Ministry: Part TwoPart Two: Identity, Terminology, and the Revoice Conference Whoever Said You Can “Pray the Gay Away”? A Film Review of Netflix's Pray AwayDon't miss an episode; please subscribe to the Postmodern Realities podcast wherever you get your favorite podcasts. Please help spread the word about Postmodern Realities by giving us a rating and review when you subscribe to the podcast. The more ratings and reviews we have, the more new listeners can discover our content.

This summer Netflix released Pray Away, a documentary following the lives of former leaders of ex-gay ministries and survivors of conversion therapy. It's a heavy film, filled with heavy topics like abuse and self-harm. This may not be the podcast for you if it hits a bit close to home with your story. But if you watched the film and/or feel ready for our conversation on it, we hope this episode can be a blessing as we walk through the film's heaviness with you. Join Tom, Ben, and Will for our Pray Away takeaways. While Tom only had positive experiences with Exodus International, Will had significant negative ones. Ben gives us his take as a married guy in a mixed-orientation marriage and how other marrieds might see themselves in this film. We share about our Exodus connections with some of the people in the film, as well as the annual conferences Tom and Will attended, and we ponder the notion of whether a "Side B" theology (traditional sexual ethic, LGBT+ identifying) was lacking amid the "Side X" (or "ex-gay") and "Side A" (affirming) points-of-view in the documentary. It's perhaps our first try at a YOB "film club"? We hope you enjoy this episode, and we'd love to read your thoughts on our podcast episode page. What did you think of Pray Away? What was encouraging about the film, and what was challenging, if not devastating? Share only as you're comfortable. GET IN TOUCH Call the YOBline! 706.389.8009 Shoot us an email! podcast@yourotherbrothers.com Mail us something yummy! Your Other Brothers / P.O. Box 843 / Asheville, NC 28802 SUPPORT YOB Your Other Brothers on Patreon Your Other Brothers Store FOLLOW YOB Your Other Brothers on Facebook Your Other Brothers on Twitter Your Other Brothers on Instagram Your Other Brothers on YouTube Your Other Brothers on TikTok MUSIC CREDIT Intro theme: "The Best is Yet to Come" by Tim Halperin Benediction theme: "Born Again" by Cory Asbury 100% clearance through Musicbed.

On this episode of Real Talk with Tedi & Lisa, Tedi and Lisa chat about the Netflix documentary 'Pray Away',  a film about Exodus International and  their mission to 'de-gay' members of the LGBTQ+ community.  Tedi & Lisa also discuss faith and how it can be damaging and hurtful to others.  WARNING: this episode/conversation may be triggering for those in the LGBTQ+ community.   NY Times Article- August 3,2021.   You can connect with Tedi and Lisa at:Email:   TediLisa@tlrealtalk.comWebsite:  https://www.tlrealtalk.com/Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/realtalktedilisaTedi LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/tediparsonsLisa LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-allen-kost-apr-0b380219Twitter:  https://twitter.com/TediTweetsPhone:  (517)  253-0872Disclaimer:  The opinions and statements made by guests on Real Talk with Tedi & Lisa are/or do not necessarily reflect those of  Real Talk with Tedi & Lisa or The Professionals Forum LLC.  Learn more  at:  https://www.tlrealtalk.com/Real Talk with Tedi & Lisa Intro music provided by: ChilledMusic (Spark of Energy) 

Support the show: Patreon l Glow l Episode TranscriptWe need voices like Julie's. They remind us where we are and where we've been and if we hear each other we both become bigger humans because of it.Guest Bio:Julie Rodgers is the author of Outlove: A Queer Christian Survival Story. She played a significant role in shutting down Exodus International, the largest conversion therapy organization in the world, and she was the first openly gay person to be hired by an evangelical Christian college. She is featured in Pray Away (2020), a documentary about the movement to pray the gay away. Her writing has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Time. If you're into queer reflections on faith, public life, and chosen family, then subscribe to her newsletter Reimagining Belonging.Follow Julie at the places: Web, Twitter, Facebook, InstagramGuest Music by Forrest ClayYou can also find all the musical selections from all our episodes on our Spotify Playlist. Check out all the things over at the store...it's a great way to support the show www.canisaythisatchurch.com/storeWhat are you waiting for; consider becoming a Patreon supporter of the show. You'll have access to many perks as well as guaranteeing the future of these conversations; even $3/Month goes so far as this show is 100% listener supported. Follow the show:Facebook, Twitter, StoreAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Michael Bussee, one of the founders of Exodus and Gary Cooper, a leader within the ministry of Exodus, left the group to be in a relationship with each other in 1979. They divorced their wives and participated in a commitment ceremony in 1982. Bussee and Cooper lived together until Cooper's death from AIDS-related illness in 1991.In June 2007, Bussee issued an apology for his involvement in promoting orientation change through Exodus. Also apologizing were Jeremy Marks, former president of Exodus International Europe, and Darlene Bogle, the founder of Paraklete Ministries, an Exodus referral agency. The apology stated in part "Some who heard our message were compelled to try to change an integral part of themselves, bringing harm to themselves and their families." Bussee stated, "In the almost 40 years since I started Exodus International, I can honestly say that I have never met a gay person who became heterosexual through conversion therapy or ex-gay programs. Yes, some stayed celibate for a time. Some even married and said they were happy. But most of those marriages ended with very painful divorcesSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/houseofmysteryradio. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In the spirit of Elul, Enzi talks about the documentary "Pray Away" and reflects on his own time immersed in Exodus International and conversion therapy.

So today, we're doing something a little different on the Pride podcast. I connect with Anne Heche and Heather Duffy, hosts of the Better Together podcast, who introduce me to Randy Thomas. Randy, one of the subjects of Netflix's "Pray Away", was the former vice-president of Exodus International. Exodus was a nonprofit group under the Christian umbrella that practiced conversion therapy in attempt to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity, using psychological or spiritual interventions. Anne also divulges her own Christian-cult family history, with an appearance from her mother, Nancy Heche, herself. Resources: PrayAwayFilm,com WannaTalkAboutIt.com Be sure to watch Pray Away on Netflix! Your host is Levi Chambers, co-founder of Gayety. Follow the show and keep up with the conversation @Pride. Want more great shows from Straw Hut Media? Check out or website at strawhutmedia.com. Your producers are Levi Chambers, Maggie Boles, Ryan Tillotson and Edited by Sebastian Alcala Have an interesting LGBTQ+ story to share? We might feature U! Email us at lgbtq@strawhutmedia.com. *This podcast is not affiliated with Pride Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: We discuss gay conversion therapy and Netflix's documentary Pray Away in this episode.The documentary, Pray Away, follows four members of Exodus International, a global conversion therapy advocate. This was going on behind our backs all along. So few were aware of how prevalent it really was. So much of the anti-gay movement was tied up in fears around the AIDS epidemic, and the church drove a big part of that. We discuss some of the history surrounding the documentary, how gay conversion therapy still exists today, and whether – in light of this – the church is salvageable, or if we should just burn the whole thing down.Resources:Send questions to cancelbag@gmail.com to be part of our mailbag episodeRead: The Miseducation of Cameron PostUntil We Get Canceled is a Crate Original from Crate Media

This week Anne and Heather are joined by Randy Thomas, who is featured in the new Netflix documentary, "Pray Away", about evangelicals who've broken free of the "ex-gay" conversion therapy group, Exodus International. Listen to Randy talk about his regretful past affiliation with Exodus and how he helped take it down. Be sure to follow BETTER TOGETHER on IG! From Straw Hut Media Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Blake Chastian of Exvangelical joins us to talk about the usual, but mostly to talk about Pray Away, the new documentary on Netflix chronicling the rise and fall of Exodus International, as well as the modern ex-gay movement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Director Kristine Stolakis is in the house!  In the coming weeks, Netflix will be releasing "PRAY AWAY" -- her new documentary. Focusing on the dramatic journeys of former conversion therapy leaders,current members, and a survivor, PRAY AWAY chronicles the“exgay" movement's rise to power,its unscientific influence, and its legacy of profound harm. Kristine is a documentary film director whose work focuses on politics, prejudice and power.  Her debut film, THE TYPIST cracked open the untold story of a closeted Korean War vet who was tasked with writing dishonorable discharges for outed LGBT seamen. With co-host Brody Levesque  

This is Father Jared Cramer from St. John's Episcopal Church in Grand Haven, Michigan, here with today's edition of Christian Mythbusters, a regular segment I offer to counter some common misconceptions about the Christian faith. During Pride month, I've been talking about the relationship between Christianity and the LGBTQIA+ community. This week, I'd like to talk about the problems surrounding the traditional teaching of the church on these questions—and the harm it can do. As I mentioned a couple weeks ago, the Scriptural questions surrounding the place of LGBTQIA+ people in the church can get thorny. Very easily, people fall into their own sorts of proof-texting, each person coming up with Scripture that justifies their own view. Part of the reason for this is that Scripture is not a monolithic witness. Rather, Scripture is the unfolding story of God's grace—and our growing apprehension of God's grace and design for us and the world. Sometimes, there are just different ways of telling the story in the Bible. In Genesis one, for example, humanity is created last, as the pinnacle of creation. In Genesis two, however, humanity is created before animals and given stewardship. If the point of the creation narratives is a newsreel retelling of the events, this is a problem. But if the point is not about specific order, but theological principals revealed in myth and ancient story, then we can find the inconsistencies helpful for understanding the text. At other times the Bible simply disagrees with itself. When the Jewish people returned from captivity in Babylon, Ezra commanded them to divorce their foreign wives. However, this is contrary to the prohibitions on how you treat foreigners in Leviticus 19 and is in direct contrast to the story of Ruth, a Moabite, who marries Boaz and becomes the great-grandmother of King David. The prophet Malachi, writing after Ezra, also argues against putting away a foreign wife simply based upon her ethnicity. In short, the old saying, “The Bible says it. I believe it. That settles it,” simply does not really work in practice.  But there is a deeper reason why using those seven verses people claim are about homosexuality to exclude and discriminate against LGBTQIA+ people is wrong—because that reading of the Bible comes at a cost If you are opposed to people of different sexual and gender identities expressing themselves honestly according to their own understanding of themself, then the question becomes… what is the message of the church to the gay Christian? And does that message sound like Jesus? Most conservative Christians respond that the message is “Go and sin no more,” echoing Jesus in the Gospel of John. But what does that look like? For some people, the message of the church has been that God's grace can change you and make you straight or cisgender. This has been the claim of so-called reparative or conversion therapy. However, there is no reliable evidence that this is actually possible. Indeed, there is actually reliable evidence that it is not only ineffective but can cause significant harm, leading to suicide, this is why it is deemed to be an unethical practice by the American Psychological Association and is illegal in several jurisdictions. One of the largest proponents of this approach, Exodus International, disbanded in 2013 the board published a statement repudiating their use of reparative therapy and apologizing for the harm they had done. So, neither prayer nor psychology can turn a gay person straight or a transgender person into a cisgender person. The next offering I'll usually hear is that the message of the church is that gay people should live celibate lives. This is the stance the American Association of Christian Counselors took when they removed their promotion of conversion therapy from their code of ethics. However, the church has long understood celibacy as a gift some people may be called to but never as something that can be imposed upon a class of people due to their biology. We've already established that you don't choose to be gay. Requiring someone who happens to be gay to be celibate would be a violent imposition of a manner of life on a whole class of people without regard to God's calling in their lives. Some might respond that straight people are also called to chaste lives until they're married. I'd counter that even that view is a shrinking one these days, but that at least straight people are told to be chaste until they find someone. Gay people are not given that chance by much of the church. So, what is the message of the church to LGBTQIA+ people. It must be two-fold. First, that you are the way you are through no choice or fault of your own. Indeed, this is your natural state of existence—a state that is found in the rest of God's creation at times. Second, you are called, just like anyone else, to holiness of life: by living in covenanted relationship with the person you love, should you so chose. The affirmation of same-sex marriage is indeed the best graced response to gay Christians, an avenue that enables them to be who they are, while also to receive the gifts of the sacrament of marriage just like straight people. And, one more time, if you're LGBTQIA+ or an ally, and you live in West Michigan, I'd invite you to join me on Sunday, June 27, at 10am at the downtown Waterfront Stadium in Grand Haven, for a special pride worship service to celebrate all of God's beloved children. Thanks for being with me. To find out more about my parish, you can go to sjegh.com. Until next time, remember, protest like Jesus, love recklessly, and live your faith out in a community that accepts you but also challenges you to be better tomorrow than you are today.

Randy Thomas (former leader at Exodus International) has been a Christian for most of his life.  Early in life, after living as a gay man for years, he was convinced that he could no longer continue living in what he perceived to be a life of sin.  Not only did he fight his same-sex attraction, he became one of the top leaders at Exodus International, a nationally-acclaimed organization where Christians were sent to either undo their “gayness” or learn how to have victory through celibacy.  Fast forward 30 years and Randy is back out of the closet, engaged to a man and deeply regrets his involvement at Exodus.  He still prioritizes his faith and is a committed follower of Christ.  No matter your feelings or beliefs surrounding this conversation, all listeners are encouraged to hear a sincere man's true story.  The spirit of a human.  May we walk together in love. Randy Thomas:https://www.instagram.com/rthomasartJoey/PWNA Instagram:  www.instagram.com/joeysvendsenCurrent DonorSee giving opportunity: https://donorsee.com/pwnahelpsSupport Us:Join us as a patron! https://www.patreon.com/pwnapodor leave a Venmo tip right @  https://venmo.com/joey-svendsenJoin the discussion:https://www.facebook.com/groups/PWNAtalkSocials:https://twitter.com/joeysvendsenhttps://www.facebook.com/PWNApodE-mail PWNAcontact@gmail.com for correspondence.Theme Song courtesy of Derek Minor:  http://www.derekminor.comOther music originally composed by Joel Hamilton//Cakewolfhttps://mechanicalriver.bandcamp.com/http://embassyfreqs.com/Executive Producer of PWNApod:  Jared SvendsenSupport the show

Earlier this week, Yahoo news reported that McKrae Game, the man who founded one of the largest conversion therapy programs in the country and led the homophobic organization for 20 years, has come out as gay. That program, originally was called Truth Ministry is "faith-based " and located in South Carolina. It aims to suppress or completely change a person's LGBTQ+ sexuality through counseling, interventions, or ministry. The organization was eventually rebranded and renamed as Hope for Wholeness in 2013. Our guests are two people who know Game, and have been tightly involved with the ex-gay movement for years. We are joined by Yvette Cantu Schneider, who was involved in the so-called ex-gay movement for two decades. She was a policy analyst and spokesperson for Family Research Council, and, later, was the first and only director of women's ministry for Exodus International. She is the author of the book Never Not Broken: a journey of unbridled transformation, and the soon-to-be-released novel Two Black Stones.  We are also pleased to feature good friend Kathy Baldock, an ordained minster and the Executive Director of Renobased Canyon Walker Connections. Kathy has now read and reviewed 47 anti-LGBTQ books by Christian authors. She has seen the expectation and goals patterns shift as the conservatives try to control LGBTQ people. The authors also create ideology and present it as theology which is then adopted by many of the churches and people within the Christian Right. Brody Levesque guest hosts.

Historically, people within the church who experienced homosexual feelings went unaddressed, creating a void. They recognized both the Biblical and cultural prohibitions against yielding to their temptations, but also realized the temptations remained. Afraid to confess and deal with them, many fell into secret homosexual sin, while others eventually came out as openly gay. Still others remained faithful, yet felt isolated and alienated from fellow Christians. Ministry to same-sex attracted people became publicly available when Exodus International was formed in 1976, along with other lesser known networks. For over three decades, the organization heavily influenced the Christian populations view of ministry to homosexuals, but was also beset from the beginning with detractors, critics, and internal struggles. Those struggles escalated between 2005-2013, culminating in Exodus decision to close its doors in 2013. Conflicts within the organization, leading to its closure, had to do with the approach its leadership was taking on issues of grace, sin, proper ministry approaches to homosexuality, and a growing emphasis on harmony with the gay community at the expense of clarity regarding sexuality and scripture. With its Executive Director claiming most homosexuals couldnt change, and that gay Christians were in fellowship with God along with other believers, a split within the organization became inevitable. When Exodus closed, new ministries sprang up in the aftermath, and most of the ministries associated with it continue to thrive. The ensuing controversies, though, confused many people who wandered what the options were for people wanting to repent of homosexuality. That confusion, in turn, has opened the door to a new approach to ministry to samesex attracted people which is causing considerable controversy and calls for Biblical examination, and examination which will be made in the second part of this series. This Postmodern Realities episode this the first part of a two part series which is a conversation with JOURNAL author Joe Dallas about his online exclusive articles. This episode covers part one called Homosexuality and Modern Ministry Examining Old Approaches and Assessing New Ones, Part I A History of Missions and Missteps.

With so many Christians capitulating to the culture, it has never been more important to understand issues of sexuality from a biblical perspective. Joe Dallas has been our lead expert on the subject at the Christian Research Institute for decades, and once again he joins Hank to discuss articles he has written for the Christian Research Journal about the Revoice Conference, the new film Boy Erased, and whether or not the United States is closer to a state-controlled church. The Bible isn't shy about sex, leaving Christians without an excuse not to understand issues of sexuality and communicate a Christian perspective with conscience and conviction. Topics discussed include: how important is the issue of human sexuality to our culture? (3:00); is it intolerant and violent to hold traditional views of marriage and heterosexuality? (4:55); are issues of human sexuality leading to greater levels of “big brother” and government control? (7:40); why are so many Christians capitulating to the culture when it comes to issues of homosexuality and sexuality in general? (10:05); discussing the article by Joe Dallas, “Homosexuality and Modern Ministry,” as well as the ministry that Joe was once president of: Exodus International (12:00); is the church supposed to be offensive in the name of truth? (17:15); what is the Revoice Conference, and what is their mission? (18:35); discussing the question presented at the Revoice Conference: “What does queer culture (and specifically queer literature and theory) have to offer us who follow Christ? What queer treasure, honor, and glory will be brought into the New Jerusalem at the end of time? (Revelation 21:24-26)” (23:10); using language as a tool for progress, such as the moniker of “gay Christian,” making homosexuality and Christianity seem compatible (25:50); discussing the term spiritual friendship, as promoted at the Revoice Conference and in the book Spiritual Friendship: Finding Love in the Church as a Celibate Gay Christian (28:15); discussing sin and issues of human sexuality that affect all of us and the problem with putting a positive spin on sinful tendencies (31:25); the problem with people proclaiming that homosexuality is a gift from God (35:45); what is conversion therapy, and what is the problem with conversion therapy? (38:00); discussing the new film Boy Erased and whether Christians in general are being unfairly portrayed in Boy Erased (41:30); the new article in the Christian Research Journal titled “Solo Sex and the Christian,” discussing the sinful mindset of masturbation (46:10); why all transformation begins with repentance and obedience (52:35); the Bible isn't shy about sex, so how can we as Christians be better at addressing issues of sexuality in the church and with our families? (56:40); an update on California House Bill AB-2943 and whether a state-controlled church is imminent in the United States (59:45); the great evil of pedophilia, and what it means when those who take the sacred name of Christ are involved in it (1:02:50); the sadness of how the controversies within the Catholic church are tarnishing the name of good Catholics and Christianity as a whole, as well as diminishing the good work being done by Catholics worldwide (1:04:55); Speaking of Homosexuality: Discussing the Issues with Kindness and Clarity by Joe Dallas (1:07:10); seeking the peace that passes all understanding through Christ (1:10:50); why Joe Dallas wrote The Game Plan: The Men's 30-Day Strategy for Attaining Sexual Integrity (1:16:20); the Sacrament of Confession and how it relates to issues of accountability in the church (1:18:30); and how pro-gay advocates misinterpret the Bible and revise the truth to fit their agenda (1:21:35).

Best of Show Replaying interviews with Alan Chambers, former president of Exodus International, an organization that promoted solutions and treatment of homosexuality or ex-gay therapy, on his book, "My Exodus: From Fear to Grace". Marianne Duddy-Burke, Executive Director of DignityUSA, on the Pope's visit and his endorsement of Kim Davis' agenda.

Alan Chambers, former president of Exodus International, an organization that promoted solutions and treatment of homosexuality or ex-gay therapy, on his book, "My Exodus: From Fear to Grace". Marianne Duddy-Burke, Executive Director of DignityUSA, on the Pope's visit and his endorsement of Kim Davis' agenda.

Everyone has an interesting story to tell and on tonight's show John Paulk joins the show to share his. John will share his story from leading the now-defuct Exodus International, to raising his son, becomming a celebrity chef and appearing on the Food Network hit show Cutthroat Kitchen with celebrity guest judge Valerie Bertinelli!  John's also the host of "Talking with out Mouths Full" at Wild Planet Radio in Portland, OR.  He is also the owner of Mezzaluna Fine Catering and can always be seen cooking up a storm! Call 323 657-1493 to ask a question and join in the fun! Check out John's Facebook page for his delicious food by clicking here!

Everyone has an interesting story to tell and on tonight's show John Paulk joins the show to share his. John will share his story from leading the now-defuct Exodus International, to raising his son, becomming a celebrity chef and appearing on the Food Network hit show Cutthroat Kitchen with celebrity guest judge Valerie Bertinelli!  John's also the host of "Talking with out Mouths Full" at Wild Planet Radio in Portland, OR.  He is also the owner of Mezzaluna Fine Catering and can always be seen cooking up a storm! Call 323 657-1493 to ask a question and join in the fun! Check out John's Facebook page for his delicious food by clicking here!

Exodus has closed it's doors. They now say you cannot "Pray the Gay Away," but can Jesus Christ really change a life. Alan Chambers the ex-president of Exodus was well served by closing the doors.Listen to his interview with Anderson Cooper.

Rod and Karen are joined by Kriss to discuss Kate Upton's boobs, movie critics, Karen gets peppers in her eyes, the rules to Impossible White Man Movies, Twinky's are back, Exodus International closes up shop, shot over Lebrons, Charles Ramsey, mushrooms cause bad trip, Bronx teacher writes rap apology, wheelchair hammer man, a bad flirt and sword ratchetness. Twitter: @rodimusprime @SayDatAgain @TBGWT @InsanityReport Email: theblackguywhotips@gmail.com Blog: www.theblackguywhotips.com Voice Mail: 704-557-0186 http://www.theblackguywhotips.com/the-impossible-white-manifesto/ Kriss' Website: http://insanityreport.com/ www.adamandeve.com And they're on Twitter: @adamandeve Code: TBGWT

On June 19th, Exodus International (a Christian “Gay Therapy” organization well known for their “Pray The Gay Away” strategies) announced that they were closing up shop. This announcement was came by way of Alan Chambers, president of Exodus International with a blog post simply titles “I Am Sorry.” Chambers then announced a day later at […]