The definitions have changed!

When discussing this subject

of homosexuality, I think it is important to mention how definitions have

changed over time. Consider words like tolerance, respect, acceptance,

moral judgments, personal preference, personal rights, freedom, and truth.

The former definition for tolerance

was, "Accept others without agreeing with or sharing their beliefs

or lifestyle choices." Today's definition seems to be, "Accepting

that every individual's beliefs, values, lifestyles and truth claims are

equal."

The former definition for respect

was, "Giving due consideration to others." Today's definition

seems to be, "Wholeheartedly approving of others' beliefs or lifestyle

choices." The former definition for acceptance was, "Embracing

people for who they are, not necessarily for what they say or do."

Today the definition seems to be, "Endorsing and praising others

for their beliefs and lifestyle choices."

The former definition for moral

judgments was, "Certain things are morally right and wrong, as determined

judge another person's view or behavior." The former definition for

personal preference was, "Preferences of color, food, clothing, style,

hobbies, etc., are personally determined." Today's definition seems

to be, "Preference of sexual behaviors, value systems, and beliefs

are personally determined."

The former definition for personal

rights was, "Everyone has the right to be treated justly under the

law." Today's definition seems to be, "Everyone has the right

to do what they believe is right." The former definition for freedom

was, "Being free to do what you know you ought to do." Today's

definition seems to be, "Being able to do anything you want to do."

The former definition of truth

was, "An absolute standard of right and wrong." Today's definition

seems to be, "Whatever is right for you."

The definitions have been changed

such that speaking against any perverted behavior brings accusations of

intolerance, disrespect and judgment.

The definitions reveal how

today's post-Christian world stands in direct contrast to Biblical Christianity.

You can see the culture war raging within our nation. Today we are dealing

with gay marriage. Tomorrow we will be confronted with incest, bestiality,

pedophilia, and other detestable sins. If those who support gay marriage

are logically consistent with their new definitions, they will demand

that we show tolerance, respect, and acceptance for any abhorrent behavior.

[Keith Turner is minister

of education at Harp's Crossing Baptist Church, Fayetteville, Ga. His

e-mail address is