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The United Methodist Church, third-largest Christian denomination in America, recently made an astonishing decision. Its delegates voted overwhelmingly (692-51) to repeal a ban that had been in place since 1984, which prohibited members of the LGBTQ community from serving as clergy.

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This decision is being celebrated by many within the denomination who do not hold to traditional views on the interpretation of Scripture and the definition of marriage. The decision not only lifts the ban but also prevents regional administrators from punishing clergy for either conducting or refusing to conduct same-sex weddings.

Furthermore, the delegates are considering a revision to the church’s “Social Principles” document. The proposed changes include redefining marriage from being between a man and a woman to a union between “two people of faith.” The delegates also suggest removing a line that considers homosexuality “incompatible with Christian teaching.”

The impact of this decision is expected to be most significant in the U.S., as Methodist churches in other countries can set their own rules for congregations. The United Methodist Church, with 5.9 million members in the U.S. and over 4 million members internationally, has made a decision to turn its back on God’s Word.

The changes go into effect today.

What do you think of this decision? Share your thoughts, prayers, and scriptures below.

(Photo Credit: Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons)