The Governor of New Jersey, Chris Christie, has signed a Bill that bars licensed therapists from so-called "reparative therapy" in regard to homosexuality. New Jersey is now the second state (after California) to ban this type of counseling.
One legislator who voted for the Bill said it would not preclude clergy from providing such counseling if they do not seek a state license to practice professionally. One pastor objects, stating that he wants the option for clergy-counselors to obtain professional credentials, citing the legislation hinders his counseling center.
Question? Why would a pastor WANT a State License to help people understand and apply The Bible to their everyday lives? What does the State offer that entices pastors to seek such credibility? We all know! It's Liability Insurance and Secular Credibility -- which translates into higher Fees For Service.
Question? Why would a pastor [or a Christian Counseling Center] seek Fees? Is The Word of God For Sale? Do we charge a fee to explain God's Word? If so, I've missed something [not to mention a lot of money].
These are some of the questions NOT being asked or answered in this debate over Reparative Therapy. That our world is accepting of homosexual behavior, goes without saying. That our world is now supportive / protective of this dangerous and disgusting behavior, is a clear sign that God has judged our Nation. [Rom. 1]
However, lost in this debate is the issue of biblical counseling v. secular counseling. In the 1980's John MacArthur's Grace Community Church faced a lawsuit from a family whose son committed suicide while receiving counseling from the church.
John recounts the ordeal that worked its way to the California State Supreme Court. At each juncture, the Church won their case.
On one level [I can't remember which one], John reports that a Jewish judge [a woman], hearing from both John and at least one secular psychologist, declared that IF what these men were saying is an accurate representation of their disciplines, these systems are not the same; not friends. They are enemies of one another!
This, of course, is The Issue! We bemoan the inclusion of homosexuality in the definition of 'normal,' but ignore the fact that for over 50 years the psychological community has been drawing Christians away from The Bible; away from The Holy Spirit, into a system designed to destroy our dependence upon God.
That pastors and Christians, generally, approve and support this philosophy says more about the Christian Community and The Society at large, than does acceptance of homosexuality!
How did we get here? By embracing the world's view of life, rather than God's. One is accepting, the other is judgmental. We are now at the place where pointing out sin is a sin! Did YOU contribute to this development?
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