Expert: John of AllFaith - 9/26/2007

Question
I have recently become aware that a longtime friend has decided to pursue the Baptist faith.  I knew for a while before this that she was "shopping" around for a church that she felt comfortable with.  For a bout a year now,(that is right around the time she began attending a Baptist church) I've noticed a change in her attitude towards me.  She has distanced herself considerably.  I'm curious to know if my friend's indifference towards me has something to do with her new found religion.  It has been commented to me that Baptists' are known to be indifferent towards non-Baptists, and even discontinue friendships with people that are same-sex oriented.  I do not like to go by hear-say and so I am turning my question to you. I hope that you can enlighten me; I would like to know more about the Baptist religion.

Thank you.
Silvia

Answer
Hi Silvia,
I'm happy to share my thoughts with you.

First, understand that the Baptist Church is very diverse. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a Baptist Minister as is Jesse Jackson and many other "liberals". At the same time, so was Rev. Jerry Falwell and Rev. Billy Graham.

What are often called Progressive Baptists are usually quite inclusive of others in most areas. Conservative and Fundamentalist Baptists tend to be very exclusive of others. I assume we are talking about the later here.

Conservative and Fundamentalist Baptists usually believe that anyone who honestly "accepts Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior" is a Christian, however they also tend to feel that their segment of the Baptist denomination knows best how to do this. They therefore do often "look down their noses" at other Christians and non-Christians.

As for same gender oriented people, such Baptists tend to be very homophobic. They are convinced that God condemns all homosexuals and that the current rise in homosexuality (which is merely that people are now feeling safer to come out of the closet of course) is a sign of how evil the world has become. To accept gays and lesbians (and transgendered etc.) is to betray faith in God and embrace evil. This is how they tend to believe.

So, if you are Lesbian it is quite likely that this will be an issue your friend will be unable to accept if she/he fully embraces this form of Christianity. There are of course lots of exceptions. If you can love her/him and be patient you may be able to maintain your friendship.  

If you are interested in the Bible and homosexuality you might like my Grace Inclusive Site: http://allfaith.com/Grace/ I discuss every verse misused to condemns gays and lesbians.

Hope this helps,
Write back anytime

~John of AllFaith