Overview

The culture wars show no sign of abating. Same-sex sexuality continues to be one of the most brutal and bloody fronts in those wars and Christians, the fiercest combatants. Friendships, families, churches, and denominations continue to draw their lines-in-the-sand, split, and go their separate ways. Meanwhile, the lives of many, young and old, are deeply scarred and some even lost in the crossfire. It doesn't have to be that way! Challenging the arguments that perpetuate that conflict, Open Wide the Gates presents a carefully developed biblical, theological, and ethical argument for the welcome, affirmation, and inclusion of gays and lesbians in the life and ministry of the local church. Its irenic tone and clearly articulated presentation provides pastors, denominational leaders, and concerned laypeople with a reliable guide for navigating these often-turbulent waters. In this comprehensive study, Brian D. Cunnington points to a path forward, a path for following Jesus in the twenty-first century characterized by grace, love, and hope; a path that demonstrates the radical presence of God's kingdom here on earth for all people, regardless of their sexual orientation.

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9781666777734

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Reviews

"""An important book at an important time--when attitudes are changing--but as the title suggests, the gates need to be opened wide. This work will help very much. It will challenge many, convince many, even save many."" --Michael Coren, author of The Rebel Christ ""When nineteenth-century Canon William Vanstone indicated that 'the church is like a swimming pool: all the noise comes from the shallow end, ' he inadvertently described the polarized nature of contemporary church culture where both the 'left' and the 'right' often avoid in-depth engagement. Brian Cunnington, in contrast, offers wise and substantive biblical, theological, philosophical, and pastoral reflection, with a humble invitation to join him in the deep end."" --Rod Wilson, writer and consultant ""This thoroughly researched book will be a profound help to those evangelical Christians who are wrestling with the tension between non-affirming Christian attitudes towards LGBTQI+ siblings and their exposure to the sincere faith of such siblings. Brian Cunnington unpacks scientific knowledge about sexual diversity, what biblical scholars have uncovered on difficult biblical texts, and how Christian churches can address a harmful past and the promise of a future loving response to much maligned LGBTQI+ people."" --Charles Fensham, professor of systematic theology, Knox College, University of Toronto ""In a courageous and carefully written book, Brian Cunnington invites us to consider this: if we take the Bible as seriously as our own thoughts about same-sex sexuality, the only faithful and just response is the full inclusion of gay and lesbian people in the church."" --John A. Vissers, professor of historical theology, Knox College, University of Toronto"

"""An important book at an important time--when attitudes are changing--but as the title suggests, the gates need to be opened wide. This work will help very much. It will challenge many, convince many, even save many."" --Michael Coren, author of The Rebel Christ ""When nineteenth-century Canon William Vanstone indicated that 'the church is like a swimming pool: all the noise comes from the shallow end, ' he inadvertently described the polarized nature of contemporary church culture where both the 'left' and the 'right' often avoid in-depth engagement. Brian Cunnington, in contrast, offers wise and substantive biblical, theological, philosophical, and pastoral reflection, with a humble invitation to join him in the deep end."" --Rod Wilson, writer and consultant ""This thoroughly researched book will be a profound help to those evangelical Christians who are wrestling with the tension between non-affirming Christian attitudes towards LGBTQI+ siblings and their exposure to the sincere faith of such siblings. Brian Cunnington unpacks scientific knowledge about sexual diversity, what biblical scholars have uncovered on difficult biblical texts, and how Christian churches can address a harmful past and the promise of a future loving response to much maligned LGBTQI+ people."" --Charles Fensham, professor of systematic theology, Knox College, University of Toronto ""In a courageous and carefully written book, Brian Cunnington invites us to consider this: if we take the Bible as seriously as our own thoughts about same-sex sexuality, the only faithful and just response is the full inclusion of gay and lesbian people in the church."" --John A. Vissers, professor of historical theology, Knox College, University of Toronto"

Author Information

Brian D. Cunnington is professor emeritus (counseling) at Tyndale University, Toronto. In addition to his teaching and administrative roles, he has been actively involved in clinical and supervisory work with the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapists. An avid reader in history, social and cultural studies, and any discipline touching on the human condition, he is now retired, lives with his wife Karleen in Barrie Ontario, and enjoys summers in Muskoka with his family.

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