Comments

ImAChristian wrote on May 25, 2009 10:56 PM:

" In my belief all Satan wants us to do is hate each other. His plan is working perfectly. What I see here mostly is Christians declaring what they believe and getting a lot of inflammatory and hateful responses in return. If you want respect, you must show respect. You may stand up for Gay rights if you wish. That is your right. I choose to stand up for the doctrine I choose as well. It is clear we will always have different point of views. I am willing to accept that. Just don't ask me for anything. "




jp wrote on May 25, 2009 8:45 PM:

" Michael, don't go away mad.........just go away! "




Michael wrote on May 23, 2009 9:50 AM:

" To the Editor: Oh yeah, one more thing: I live in the Valley but I'll never buy or read another Frontiersman again nor will I recommend that anyone else do so. In fact, I'll actively advocate against it. Feel free to not post any of my comments. They're not for the cretins that post here anyway. "




Michael wrote on May 23, 2009 9:48 AM:

" "A hundred years ago, sin was sin and this type of trash would earn you a quick demise, and rightfully so. " WOW. I can't believe the editor actually published this hate-mongering murder-advocating trash. This is unbelievable. I'm glad the editor reviews all posts so he or she will see this one. Editor: You should be ashamed of yourself. "




Pepper wrote on May 22, 2009 2:42 PM:

" To "Endeavor" - you read the Bible as dogma and call yourself good. But, you are merely unthinking, and miss the spirit of the Word. Faith and ignorance are not the same thing.

To "Once Again," you are exactly right. I have traveled around the world also, and every gay person I ever met only wanted to be accepted for what they are, and treated with the same fairness any one of us would want and expect. "




Lets just get along wrote on May 22, 2009 12:22 PM:

" Thank you. I'm so glad you have such a firm grasp on what is sinful and non-sinful. It's just wonderful to have people like you in our midst who can speak with such authority. Give me a break! "




OnceAgain wrote on May 22, 2009 10:59 AM:

" Gays aren't trying to force people to "ok" them, they're trying to stop discrimination against them for being gay. Those are two different things.

I have homes in several different states, including major cities, and have traveled around the world on business. I have never lived, or done business, anyplace where homosexuals were trying to force me to believe anything. They just want to be treated like everyone else and not be discriminated against.

Why's it so hard for some people to do so? Evangelical hatred and intolerance. "




answers wrote on May 21, 2009 10:57 PM:

" Um..where do you see anybody stating that homosexuality is the 'greatest sin'? Sin is sin. God doesn't rate or rank them. But then, I don't see a national movement or coalition to rationalize and approve pedophiles, murderers, thieves etc. I don't see my children being taught in public schools that these things are 'normal'. THAT'S the issue with homosexuality...that we're being forced to accept that it's really NOT a sin, or wrong, etc. You want to 'OK' homosexuality? Fine...better 'OK' everything else while you're at it. (Oh, and the Noah's Ark question? Look around..there's good input on that...) "




questions for Christians wrote on May 21, 2009 9:35 PM:

" Where in the Bible does God call homosexuality the greatest sin? If you want to legislate against homosexuality, why not get some laws forbidding adultery, divorce and lying? Why aren't Christians leading the pack to hold Gov. Palin accountable for her lies?

While we're at it....how did Noah get every species on his ark? "




Endeavor wrote on May 21, 2009 7:09 PM:

" Oh, hi Ed. I see you've added "Pepper" to your list of pretend people. And the bunk about SORT of believing in SOME parts of the Bible...kinda...doesn't cut it. And a perfect example of what so many are trying to do when they teach that some sins are acceptable; undermine both the Bible and Christianity. Man twisting the Bible to fit what HIS own wants are. I suppose the 10 Commandments are really the '10 Suggestions' too? Or maybe God is just joking? Accepting SOME of the Bible corrodes faith...the most important part of Christianity. "




Pepper wrote on May 21, 2009 1:15 PM:

" Dear Mr. "Wrong"/Right, Black/White, Not everyone believes in a literal interpretation of the Bible. Yet, they may, or may not, still believe in the teachings and message of the Bible. You are the one who is wrong in your narrow conceptions, and your misunderstanding about the discussion.

And, for that matter, at least Ed from Az has fresh thought processes whereas you, Mr. Wrong, are boring. The letter from Mr. Smith was not "about the Bible." It is an off-track, uncalled for, and hateful bashing of an interesting and heartfelt article by Pastor Bess. "




Wrong wrote on May 20, 2009 11:43 PM:

" This article isn't about whether or not one believes in the Bible. The article is written from the perspective that IF you do believe in it, then homosexuality is a sin. Period. People like Ed, who obviously don't believe in it are off track. Obviously, if you don't believe it than there's no point in debating. That's not the context nor the point of this article. Believing what the Bible says revolves around the notion of "faith". If one has "faith" in the Bible, than what is written is indeed "gospel". You're spinning your wheels, Ed, but going nowhere. "




EdwardfromAZ wrote on May 20, 2009 7:01 PM:

" Poor Ed wrote May 20, 2009

" Silly Ed...the blogger states that it is a sin in reference to what the Bible states. And the Bible is specific about what it considers to be sin. If you're referring to those that don't believe the Bible, then you obviously didn't grasp the point of the ENTIRE article! (And, once again, you just look silly!) "==============

The Bible is a book written by men from stories handed down. Doubt very seriously they are as true as you believe. Regardless, because something is written does not make it GOSPEL "




M wrote on May 20, 2009 5:30 PM:

" Growing up in the Valley, I was smothered by the intolerance I saw and left as fast as I could. After reading this opinion, and then the responses I feel that there is hope for us all. Thank you, each and every person who responded with such understanding, 'tolerance', and love.

Thank you. "




Gnosti Know-It-All wrote on May 20, 2009 3:44 PM:

" If you believe that someone is lesser than you because of their love for someone else I would say that YOU SIR WILL BE THE ONE BURNING IN THE LAKE OF FIRE ;) "




Tolerant wrote on May 20, 2009 1:24 PM:

" Sounds as if Jesse is doing a real good job of suppressing his or her urges. Seriously, I thought Christianity was about tolerance? It's certainly not about hate, there, Jesse. And by the way, someone in your family is gay, sorry to break it to you. "




Alaska1970 wrote on May 20, 2009 12:45 PM:

" I find it interesting how so many Christians preach against homosexual sin and yet these same Christians are often the ones caught with prostitutes or molesting children. I find it interesting that some of these Christians preach so much about the sin of homosexuality and yet fail to address far more serious sin, such as greed, which is far more desructive.

Hypocrisy is an ugly thing that they need to learn to face in the mirror.

I wonder how many skeletons are continuing to collect dust in Jesse's closet while he rants about the sin of homosexuality? "




WAKE UP PEOPLE STOP BEING SO RACIST wrote on May 20, 2009 12:01 PM:

" If you want to believe in "SINS" keep them too yourselves, and stand by your beliefs, but one should not jugde another by their sexual preference. This is very "RACIST" indeed.
Will this ever end!!?? Probably not, which is a shame because they're wonderful people.

Everyone should love one another! We all come from the same place!!!
Find something else to do with your boring lives!
At least there wiil be some
awesome people down below where the homosexual sinners will go! LMFAO
But remember,
what can be worse than being
here on earth? "




caps wrote on May 20, 2009 11:42 AM:

" Over the years I've discovered that people find something to either love or hate just to have something in common.
Hate is easier because so few question it.
The different person whatever they may appear or profess to be is a target.

It's just bullying and the blame game. Very highschool.

'Fix the problem, not the blame' requires hard work,character and integrity. Those lacking these qualities throw stones,destroy more than they create,deceive to accomplish their goals and leave nothing of value behind them.

2,000 years later and we're still doing the Christ/Barabas thing. "




Poor Ed wrote on May 20, 2009 11:32 AM:

" Silly Ed...the blogger states that it is a sin in reference to what the Bible states. And the Bible is pretty specific about what it considers to be sin. If you're referring to those that don't believe in the Bible, then you obviously didn't grasp the point of the ENTIRE article! (And, once again, you just look silly!) "




EdwardfromAZ wrote on May 20, 2009 7:38 AM:

" Wasilla resident wrote on May 19, 2009 4:58 PM:

" If the question is "Is it a sin?" then the answer is that it clearly is, period. "
==================================

Your opinion. What is your basis for your opinion? "




Wasilla resident wrote on May 19, 2009 4:58 PM:

" If the question is "Is it a sin?" then the answer is that it clearly is, period. "




MAXKATT from NY wrote on May 19, 2009 9:34 AM:

" Good for you moreloveintheworldisneeded. Glad you came to the light. "




moreloveintheworldisneeded wrote on May 18, 2009 5:40 PM:

" People with low self esteem find and follow religion.
Here's the biggest Sin of all. It starts with
priest's and nuns, they're in the closet gays.
I should know this because I wanted to be a "nun" back when I was a kid. This way I too could hide my homosexuality from my family and others so they would love me. If my own mother doesn't except me as who I am,
I don't need that negitive crap in my life! My long time friends of 20-33 yrs who don't follow religion love me. "




MAXKATT from NY wrote on May 18, 2009 1:34 PM:

" Wow...someone had a gay dog? Never heard of that. How would you know?

I did, seriously, however, have a friend with a hermaphrodite dog. Biggest issue was what to name it. They did not, however, tell him/her they were full of sin. "




DJ wrote on May 18, 2009 12:34 PM:

" Uh...hey, the 'moreloveinthisworld' blogger....can you try it again but this time without the recreational pharmaceuticals? Maybe then it would make sense.... "




Alex wrote on May 18, 2009 12:33 PM:

" Jesse Smith has the sin of false pride and his gratuitous, insults to Pastor Best were anything but Christian-like.

It is sad to see Jesse Smith try vainly to mask his intolerance and petty, misguided, hatred behind the trappings of Christianity - since it is a concept he neither honors nor understands. "




It is for Loves Sake wrote on May 18, 2009 11:50 AM:

" It’s for love that I say homosexuality is a sin. It’s not to promote hate or a separation but the sin DOES separate. I cannot water down the TRUTH. One does not have to accept or believe that it is the TRUTH to be judged by God and sent to eternal torment. It does not matter if it is sexual perversion or another sinful act. Christ died and arose for Love's sake that we would REPENT (turn away) from sin and receive the gift of life. If we do not accept Him, we are condemned. Find relationship with Jesus. "




moreloveintheworldisneeded wrote on May 18, 2009 11:11 AM:

" Think about this statement below.
Dog = God, Man's best friend?
Evil = Live
Lived = Devil
Hmmm....
Homophobic people are closet gays!
My dog is gay, and the some for other animals! Why do people except animals being gay and not humans!
Who are you going to pick on next?
People who have no moles?
Get a life! "




Someone who cares for all wrote on May 18, 2009 9:38 AM:

" AMEN (thank you Jesse for being honest and telling the TRUTH. People can not handle the truth when they are living OF this world and they do not want to be told by anyone (namely GOD) that they are living wrong. No matter what the sin! We are ALL sinners but when people put out there that they are OF God and that they are a homosexual it opens the floor for discussion amongst all Christians who have the right to tell them the truth and that is... IT IS WRONG! LOVE the sinner HATE SIN! "




to Publius wrote on May 18, 2009 9:25 AM:

" Tell you what, when a large group rises up demanding that adultry be treated as "OK', be pushed on our children as acceptable etc...you WILL see the same outrage! The outrage isn't over whether or not homosexuality is a sin so much as the push to make it "OK" and not really wrong after all. "




EdwardfromAZ wrote on May 18, 2009 8:07 AM:

" Lets try again wrote on May 17, 2009 "

No Ed, the Bible wasn't written directly by God Himself. The concept is that it was written by God through prophets. And that's where Faith comes in. Once men start saying "since it was written my men, then we can assume it's full of mistakes. AND..if we assume it's full of mistakes then we're free to 'cherry pick
_____________And since men wrote the Bible based upon their interpetations it is potentially biased. And aren't you interpeting or "cherry picking" also your version of reality ? God is only Judge "




lucy wrote on May 18, 2009 12:03 AM:

" I just want Mr. Bess to know how much I appreciate reading his articles in the faith section. I am not a christian, not gay, just a mom. I read what he has to say- I want to. I appreciate his views and interpretations of biblical matters. I believe that he has the audience that Jesus had- and his calling is directed at the audience of "but where do I fit in?" I guess if one's goal is to "save", then Mr. Bess's efforts commendable!Really- what would Jesus do? Write ignorant letters like Mr. Smith's ? No. "




Publius wrote on May 17, 2009 5:36 PM:

" Adultery is a sin, too. Where is the outrage over this? "




Lynne wrote on May 17, 2009 11:53 AM:

" There is unending irony in Jesse Smith's attempt to portray himself as an authority on what is and isn't good. It seems to me, Jesse Smith may be a frustrated misfit with a closed mind, and anger issues.

On the other hand, Pastor Bess has always impressed me as being an outgoing, happy, and thoughtful person. On any given day of the year, I'd be infinitely more interested in what Pastor Best has to say. "




Harper wrote on May 17, 2009 10:19 AM:

" To Jesse Smith, have you ever heard the words "homophobic," "hate-mongerer," and "hypocrite?" If so, take a good long look in the mirror Mr. Smith. You seem to believe you are a model Christian and citizen, a paragon of virtue, and a qualified critic of others, and of opinion pieces in "your" hometown newspaper. However, I have never heard the good Pastor Bess, God bless him, speak with the unbridled hatred, closed mindedness, and preposterous arrogance you have just exhibited. "




Spare me the nutcases wrote on May 17, 2009 8:36 AM:

" I don't have a problem so much with Christianity. It's the Christians who give me a pain in the butt.

I wonder if these foaming at the mouth fundamentalists ever stop thumping their bibles long enough to ponder that they have so much in common...with Middle East extremists' views on their own religion?

I wish we could put them all on an island together--the extremists on both sides--and let them duke it out--and leave the rest of us alone. "




baby girl wrote on May 17, 2009 7:23 AM:

" It's people like you that scare the crap out of me. Who in the heck do you think you are?? Stop playing God. "




Lets try again wrote on May 17, 2009 1:11 AM:

" No Ed, the Bible wasn't written directly by God Himself. The concept is that it was written by God through prophets. And that's where Faith comes in. Once men start saying "Well, since it was written my men, then we can assume it's full of mistakes. AND..if we assume it's full of mistakes then we're free to 'cherry pick' which parts we want to follow..' Well, that's an erosion of faith. Ed, since you obviously don't believe in or follow the Bible, you really shouldn't try using it as backup for your arguments. You're not very good at it. "




EdwardfromAZ wrote on May 16, 2009 8:10 AM:

" to Edward from AZ wrote on May 15, 2009
" Homosexuality is not a sin? Oh, right...got it....you're not talking about the Bible. You're talking about the Magical Book of Ed or something. And that spiel that some push about the Bible being written by men based on stories etc etc...
Blasts the whole notion of 'faith' and 'prophesy' right out of the debate. So, in the end, you aren't a Christian and know nothing about what you're talking about (again.) Got it. So then don't try to reference what you don't know. "=============
The Bible is not God writings, "




Think wrote on May 15, 2009 10:13 PM:

" WWJD? No, What would Jesus REALLY Do? I can oly guess that he'd probably begin by trying to slap some sense into all the hypocrites who blashpheme his name by calling themselves "Christian" while advocating hatred. Do you really think that discriminating against people and spewing hatred toward others makes you a good Christian? "




to Edward from AZ wrote on May 15, 2009 7:37 PM:

" Homosexuality is not a sin? Oh, right...got it....you're not talking about the Bible. You're talking about the Magical Book of Ed or something. And that spiel that some push about the Bible being written by men based on stories etc etc...
Blasts the whole notion of 'faith' and 'prophesy' right out of the debate. So, in the end, you aren't a Christian and know nothing about what you're talking about (again.) Got it. So then don't try to reference what you don't know. "




EdwardfromAZ wrote on May 15, 2009 4:46 PM:

" Don't they call it "ABSTINENCE".


Opps, wrong letter. Well whatever. And homosexuality is not sin, the sin are the religious ones trying to put their values as truth. The Bible is not written by God, but by humans based on "storiies" that had been passed along, yadda yadda yadda.

1If ya don't like homsexuality, don't pay attention to it, and don't force your beliefs upon others.

Thank You. "




say what wrote on May 15, 2009 3:29 PM:

" to 'to say what';
Thank you for 'being finished with me now' Since you aren't able to follow along and unable to respond, I think it's for the best that you remain 'finished'. I presented a logical rebuttal, you presented nothing. 'Any other assertion is contrary and illogical'?! Ha ha...oh goodness...did you just get back from watching 'Star Trek'? Nice try,..but you only succeeded in looking silly.... "




Amazing.. wrote on May 15, 2009 2:14 PM:

" "this type of trash would earn you a quick demise, and rightfully so"

Religion has been the cause of more death and hatred worldwide than anything else in history. People like Jessee Smith are what propogate and feed that kind of hatred and intolerance. I am ashamed and saddened to see that people like him exist in our community. "




jp to maxx wrote on May 15, 2009 1:14 PM:

" at least it is an adult woman maxx! "




MAXKATT from NY wrote on May 15, 2009 12:49 PM:

" To JP...I think the church should just get out of the sex regulation biz all together.

Have you seen the latest church/sex scandal cooking down in Florida? We've got well known and popular Reverend Cutie (who's supposed to be celibate!) rolling around in the sand with some sweet chicky. Apparently he found a calling higher than "God."

They should just let it go. Celibate! Who can do that?!? ...It's...ungodly! "




valleygirl wrote on May 15, 2009 12:07 PM:

" Kudos to you Mr. Smith! Ignore the Christophobes and Bibliophobes on here. Thank you for your Letter to the Editor. Well said. "




jp wrote on May 15, 2009 11:57 AM:

" homosexuality is nothing more than mental and sexual deviance, and should be treated as an illness.
I am not a religious person, i tend to stick to science and evidenciary structure. God has nothing to do with it. "




jp to maxx katt wrote on May 15, 2009 11:00 AM:

" you never know maxx, they just may start a parrish, homosexuality starts with catholicism!
Hundreds of Catholic priests molesting young boys, and getting caught, can't be denied! "




TO say what wrote on May 15, 2009 9:38 AM:

" You admit it then--you were born heterosexual.

Heterosexuals are born hetero; gays are born gay. Any other assertion is not only contrary, but illogical.

Thanks for the admission. I'm finished with you now. "




Paul Maguire PhD wrote on May 15, 2009 8:36 AM:

" hmmmm...sin. Fortunately, there are many faith traditions, some of which claim the bible as a guide, that have a different interpretation. Let's see...how do you feel about divorce, people with disabilities having children, euthansia and war,
etc. Do you smoke, drink, etc.? Body as a temple?

I have low tolerance for intolerance. "




Spankles wrote on May 15, 2009 2:59 AM:

" Sodomy is just wrong. "




say what wrote on May 14, 2009 5:11 PM:

" to the 'to the truth be known' blogger;
You think you've set some 'wiley trap' with that sort of logic? Oh sheesh....

Yeah, whether you're a Christian or a Darwinist I'd say we're born heterosexual. God's pretty clear on that. And Darwinism, survival of the species, obviously wouldn't support homosexualism now, would it? Duh.

So is being homosexual a 'choice'. Yes, it is. Either that or a result of a deviancy, much like other sexual deviants.

'Trapped by your own logic' ..'I'm ready to exploit it'... ha ha...yeah,...How'd that work out? "




MAXKATT from NY wrote on May 14, 2009 4:32 PM:

" I can't, with a straight face (pun fully intended), debate this with someone like LongtimeValleyRES who believes if left alone on an island gays would "parrish." "




EdwardfromAZ wrote on May 14, 2009 3:48 PM:

" Dear Jesse Smith,

You sound like a "Religious Racist".

Your beliefs are not always the same as others. Other people have rights and beliefs also. Remember, your Bible is not the word of God nor written by God. Writen by mortals like you and I and homosexuals also. So you can't state God is against homosexuals, and more than you can say the lower 48 is against Alaska. "




TO Truth be Known wrote on May 14, 2009 2:51 PM:

" You indicate being gay is a 'choice'. Really?

Tell me something. Is your heterosexuality a choice? If you say "yes"--that means you overcame temptations to be gay, and opted for heterosexuality. (Does your spouse--if you have one--know this about you?)

If you say you were 'born heterosexual' then you invalidate any argument that gays aren't born gay.

Think carefully before you respond. You've set a trap for yourself, and I'm ready to exploit it. "




EdwardfromAZ wrote on May 14, 2009 2:10 PM:

" Poor Ed wrote on May 14, 2009 12:13 PM:

" Well Ediot, I guess that's because the 2nd Amendment (btw, that's the proper way to spell it, Ed) is about the "Right to Bear Arms". Last time I checked, owning a firearm isn't a sin. ============================

Nor is being Homosexual a sin. If you don't agree so be it , your choice, but you do not have the right to inflect your views on others. Nor do I have the right to tell you you can't have a "Legally" registered firearm. But I can disagree with the need. "




EdwardfromAZ wrote on May 14, 2009 2:07 PM:

" longtimevalleyRES wrote on May 14, 2009 12:31 PM:

" Being gay is a dead end street, It is unsustainable by the fact they can't breed..If they were left alone on an island they would parrish to be gone and never seen or heard from agian..So if they are so important... go find your own Island..

If God wanted gays to be thier own race, they would be able to breed but they can't.. WHY...Cause its WRONG.. "=============That is your opinion, and I would hope "gays" are entitlled to their opinions. Rather unchristian to think otherwise. "




EdwardfromAZ wrote on May 14, 2009 2:04 PM:

" Poor Ed wrote on May 14, 2009 12:13 PM:

" Well Ediot, I ..............................................

===================================

Another person who has a problem responding to my "God" given name. So you are Godly, I doubt it .

BTW isn't there a commandment about "Thou shalt not kill" or did I translate it incorrectly? "




Truth be Known.. wrote on May 14, 2009 1:30 PM:

" If gays would keep it in the bedroom, that would be fine, but they want me to call it an "acceptable" lifestyle. I WONT. It is a sinful life style, I can not morally promote it or accept it; God says it is WRONG. The lifestyle is a CHOICE. WE all can choose to live a holy and acceptable life or we can choose to live a life that is immoral. People call TRUTH venom, well in the end we will see if that poison brings death to you or to me. I'll keep praying for your salvation. "




caps wrote on May 14, 2009 1:20 PM:

" Why was Christ killed?
Wasn't it because he was different?
Wasn't it because the ideas he introduced threatened those in power?
Wasn't he a passivist who allowed his death to serve as an example of how terrible forcing one's beliefs upon another can be?
Tell me please what has changed?

He never forced anyone into any decision. He simply proposed thoughts for consideration.

There is a difference, perhaps, between legal human rights supported by a government and the voluntary adoption of any particular religion & what it's guidelines to a rightious life might be. "




longtimevalleyRES wrote on May 14, 2009 12:31 PM:

" Being gay is a dead end street, It is unsustainable by the fact they can't breed..If they were left alone on an island they would parrish to be gone and never seen or heard from agian..So if they are so important... go find your own Island..

If God wanted gays to be thier own race, they would be able to breed but they can't.. WHY...Cause its WRONG.. "




Straight talk from a Straight wrote on May 14, 2009 12:16 PM:

" Anyone who thinks that homosexuality is a "choice", is someone who's shaky about their own sexuality, but can't admit it.

It's tiring to listen to people parrot the '...hate the sin, not the sinner' bologne when they are the ones who spew venom against homosexuality in the first place.

For the life of me, I've never understood why anyone gives a hoot what two consenting adults do behind closed doors. I consider that none of my business--just as I consider what I do behind closed doors, nobody else's business. MYOB. "




Poor Ed wrote on May 14, 2009 12:13 PM:

" Well Ediot, I guess that's because the 2nd Amendment (btw, that's the proper way to spell it, Ed) is about the "Right to Bear Arms". Last time I checked, owning a firearm isn't a sin. Oh, but you're probably one of the kooks that thinks that owning a gun and murdering people are somehow related, right? That we should also outlaw knives, icepicks and large rocks?
Supporting wars? You mean fighting against those that would kill us if they could? Huh. I don't recall the Bible preaching that we're supposed to lie down and die. "




To Dave wrote on May 14, 2009 10:46 AM:

" I am shocked at your post. Christians should never be "Open minded" to accepting sin. I agree that Christians should be loving and demonstrate that love according to God's Word, but we should NEVER accept the sin. God calls us to be separated from this world. We can only do this by distinguishing ourselves from others based on living a sanctified life. Someone accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior has a change in their life to turn away from the "old (sinful) man” they once were. Love the sinner, hate the sin. Jesus wants a relationship with all mankind. "




Victoria wrote on May 14, 2009 10:44 AM:

" Howard Bess is a man-of-God. He has helped countless Christian families with his book Pastor, I am Gay. Search for it by title. Amazon has reviews by readers.

In response to Mr. Smith - I will pray for him. And for others like him. I don't feel getting involved in a written battle is a good use of my energy.

There are countless other ways to show up and make a difference for justice and equality & to make our community a better place to live. "




Brianne Elizabeth Lyons wrote on May 14, 2009 10:38 AM:

" It's strange that so many "Christians" are ignoring the only two commandments of the Lord that mean diddly "Love thy God, and Love thy Neighbor as Thyself". It's also a sad and foolish state when ignorance of the meaning and context of biblical verse allows people to make accusations about what the Bible says. The bible doesn't say a thing about homosexuality. It says RAPE is wrong. and that sneaking into the Womens camp to have sex is wrong. I believe Mr. Bess is a true follower and speaks with God's own love. "




Romans 126-28 wrote on May 14, 2009 10:34 AM:

" Homophobia is the fear of homosexuality. As a Christian I am not fearful of it, but I am called to stand against it. Gays use this term when they feel threatened by anyone standing against their sinful practices. We are ALL sinners, we are not better then anyone else. God holds us to a higher standard then others CHOOSE to live, therefore they are threatened. Everyone has the ability to choose right from wrong, if you choose to do wrong then it is sin. Don’t live in sin but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Seek God! "




EdwardsfromAZ wrote on May 14, 2009 9:59 AM:

" The only "SIN" I see are these people trying to place their beliefs upon others. Sorta like Pro-life vs Pro-Choice.And never ceases to amaze me when the Pro-life have no problem fighting for 2nd Ammendment and supporting wars. "




TO Michael A. Haase wrote on May 14, 2009 9:42 AM:

" Amen, brother! I believe you are exactly right about that. The thought of Jesus as a Republican? LOL!!!!!! Never! "




DJ wrote on May 14, 2009 9:24 AM:

" To Joe W...being 'born gay' isn't a choice. OK..well, I guess being a 'born pedophile' or 'born zoophile' isn't a choice either. We'd best just let them all be themselves.

To Dave...there isn't a 'top ten list' of sins! Sin is sin, and it's the only thing God hates. And while we're all sinners, I don't see large groups of people out there pushing an agenda to make murder, lying, domestic violence etc "OK". Gays want to sin? Fine. But don't push it on me and my children as "acceptable".

To Micheal...'Hatred'? Yeah..we hate sin, not the sinners. "




Michael A Haase wrote on May 14, 2009 7:14 AM:

" I see homophobia is alive and well in the Valley, hand in hand with abject hatred of anything people don't (or more likely, WON'T) try to understand. Kudos to Howard Bess for living in such an environment and trying to make life better for others there. If the Jesus of mythology ever did come back, he would immediately be declared a bleeding heart liberal and shunned by "Christians". "




Dave wrote on May 14, 2009 7:05 AM:

" As a Christian, I'm horrified by the close-minded, open-mouthed criticism I hear from my fellow Christians so often on issues like homosexuality. No, God isn't a big fan of homosexuality, but on his list of really bad things to do, it didn't even make the top ten! What Jesus did say was most important was that we love God, and love other people as much as we love ourselves. It sounds to me like many of my brothers and sisters are feeling righteous but not acting righteous. Please Jesus, save us from your followers. "




Joe W. wrote on May 14, 2009 5:44 AM:

" Being born gay isn`t a choice. People of faith have overstepped their boundaries and have become the very thing they are fighting against----Hypocrites of the worst kind.

Prove to anyone, the mythical guy in the sky isn`t gay, using your mythical book of hate and contempt. YOU use this book against anyone slightly different than any of those you approve of, gay or not!! Your hate shines through.

"When Fascism comes to America, it will come wrapped in the flag carrying a cross."-Sinclair Lewis "




MAXKATT from NY wrote on May 13, 2009 7:36 PM:

" JP...NYC is pinned in by 3 major airports and several lesser ones. We don't panic when planes fly overhead...when they land in the river or buzz the Statue of Liberty we become concerned.

DJ...In the past couple months, there have been 5 or 6 letters/stories out here on Homo/sin, etc. Definately an issue up there. ..And we do love Hillary here. She rocks! "




Christian 4 Life wrote on May 13, 2009 3:26 PM:

" The fool hath said in his heart, "There is no God." They are corrupt; they have done abominable works; there is none that doeth good. As for those that claim to be shepherds for Jesus and promote sin, their judgment will be harsher then the rest. Sin is sin; you don’t have to think it is (sin) for it to be (sin). As a Christian, I will not promote sin by saying is OK. I will continue to love but preach REPENTANCE. I will continue to stand AGAINST gay marriage and homosexuality. No Jesus, no Life! Know Jesus, Know Life. "




Yep...Im pretty dumb wrote on May 13, 2009 2:43 PM:

" DJ's blog was responding to a previous blog, not the article per say. Funny and ironic that in your haste to slam DJ, you ended up with the mud on your own face. Oh, and hey smart guy...do you REALLY think that a book about Sarah Palin would be about....SARAH PALIN? GASP! The shock! And here I was hoping to have it be about Bea Arthur!

LOL...what keen intellect... "




Koolaid wrote on May 13, 2009 2:20 PM:

" The world is so full of so-called christians who are quick to judge others for whatever they feel is a sin. There is only one God, one judge, and everyone alive commits some kind of sin, so worry about the sins you are committing and yiour own judgement day. I don't agree with half of the things people do, or how they live their lives, but I spend quitew a bit of time trying to keep myself sin free, and I can't control anyone but myself. I will continue to pray for them and myself. "




jp to DJ wrote on May 13, 2009 1:16 PM:

" DJ, we're talkin about New Yorkers here, you know, the ones who fall to the ground in panic when an airplane flies over them.
remember, new york is full of "settlers" "




Yep wrote on May 13, 2009 12:32 PM:

" Looks like DJ hasn't even read the opinion piece on this page, which pre-empts (and gives cause for) this blog. If Jesse Smith isn't representative of a homophobic, and if other comments that have made these blogs from self-described 'Alaskans' isn't, then DJ has a skewed understanding of what homophobics are.

No surprise there, I guess. He/She's usually off-point and not bright enough to catch it.

As far as Palin discussing Valley homophobes in her book...it's doubtful. It would take too much focus off her favorite subject: Sarah Palin. "




Ryan H. wrote on May 13, 2009 12:28 PM:

" This article is great. The author hates the first amendment of the constitution nearly as much as he hates homosexuals, and it really comes across in his article.

For someone ignorant enough to believe that a book written 2000+ years ago by iron age barbarians is the infalible word of god, the article is suprisingly well written. Heres some food for thought.

How come most of the hardcore, bible-beating, homophobes turn out to be queer? "




DJ wrote on May 13, 2009 11:28 AM:

" Maxkatt,
Pathetic attempt at trying to tie to unrelated topics together. Not to mention the stupidity of the accusation. 'Homophobia'?! I don't see anybody in here scared of homosexuals. And last time I checked, in this country we're free to disagree.
...you New Yorkers...no wonder you decided Hillary Clinton was an ideal person to represent your state... "




MAXKATT from NY wrote on May 13, 2009 7:50 AM:

" $7 million book deal for Palin. I wonder if she will touch on the rampant homophobia in her hometown? "




All lpeople have rights wrote on May 13, 2009 6:41 AM:

" I listen to my heart not my bible. My heart has a connection with God and I feel it every day. The bible is a good tool, but my heart much better with the God connection. My heart is connected to my soul and it says that you should not discriminate against any person either black, white, christian, non-christian, gay etc. So I listen to my heart and it never sends me in the wrong direction. The bible is man made, my heart is God made. Listen to your heart, it's easy. "




Joseph Zelsinsk wrote on May 12, 2009 6:59 PM:

" To Christians being Homosexual may be a sin but to those who are not Christian it may not be. I am neither Christian or Homosexual. To me I do not care what folk do in their bed. The author seems to want to restrict the publishing of opinions he does not like and that is not the American way. Argue against the point of view if you want, that is your, right but but to argue against the publishing of opinions counter to your own is simply wrong. Remember that if you can restrict someone opinion yours may be next "




Save the baby kill the adult wrote on May 12, 2009 6:37 PM:

" If Christ were to walk around today, he wouldn't embrace these so-called Christians who claim to follow the tenets of the faith. I think that Rev. Bess is truly following the teachings of the Messiah by loving others as you would want them to love you.

Jesse Smith, would you give up your wordly goods as Christ commanded? "




TO C Johnson wrote on May 12, 2009 2:54 PM:

" Fear of extinction--because homosexuals exist? Surely you jest. BTW, this world's been grossly over-populated for decades.

We are more likely to die through the toxic manifestations of the earth we've poisoned, famine, or the fights we pick with other countries resulting in wars--and possibly, eventually through nuclear destruction--than because of gays.

Regarding your fearful assessment, I guess I should harbor a terror that my heterosexual French poodle is waiting opportunistically in the wings, with hopes of clawing his way to the top of the food chain, if the gays take over the planet. "




The Christian wrote on May 12, 2009 1:21 PM:

" Christ came to seek and save the lost. To change them /us back from the sin that overcame them/us in the Garden. To think Christians are not compassionate to others is mean and hateful; the way you seem to say we are. There are a few bad apples but overall Christians love others and want to express that love but to say we are not loving because we will not accept the sin is not OK. The sin will never be acceptable, even to Jesus. Jesus said "Go and sin no more". Will you? "




C Johnson wrote on May 12, 2009 1:07 PM:

" In biology (latin for living stuff-ology) a hetero species exhibiting homosexual traits is behaving unnaturally (that means 'against nature'). To live (as a species) is to reproduce, thus homosexual coupling is a dead end.
It is essential to our survival that we discriminate (select) between right and wrong, natural and unnatural, good and bad, moral and immoral, yum or yuck....
If you tolerate (accept, encourage, nurture, etc) homosexuality, are you or are you not approving a method for becoming extinct?
Just wondering while between the no nukes, global warming, pro choice and antiwar blogs... "




Jessa wrote on May 12, 2009 10:12 AM:

" It's truly a shame to see someone who seems to have at least some educational background be so ignorant. Where exactly does it say in the Bible that homosexuality is a sin? And, as the people above say, why did God create homosexuals then? They are part of the population - they are as human as you and I, so treat them as such. It's that whole idea of "All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you also must likewise do to them."—Matthew 7:12. "




Duh are we really Christians wrote on May 12, 2009 9:07 AM:

" Few of us are the Bible scholars we should be. Even if we study it's out of the context of the time in which it was written. Modern Bibles are generally translations of translations (e.g. King James) with something lost in each translation and sometimes then paraphrased in a way that further alters the intent. I've used several Bibles that don't agree on things. I suggest contacting Pastor Bess directly to see exactly why his scholarship has taken him to a different understanding than yours before passing judgment on him or his opinions. "




observer wrote on May 12, 2009 8:56 AM:

" What other beleifs do you want to force on others? What other rights would you restrict to make yourself feel better? Free will. We all have it. Live your life and beleive what you want maybe then heaven wil not be overcrowed and you will have more room to enjoy paradise! "




Romans 126-28 wrote on May 12, 2009 8:43 AM:

" Read it for yourself: For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women changed the natural use into that which is against nature. And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their l*st one toward another, men with men, working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompense for their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind...God will not be mocked people. Repent! "




jp wrote on May 12, 2009 8:41 AM:

" there is a plague that is infesting this earth, it is Homosexuality.
There are more Homosexuals everyday, because now they teach in schools that Homosexuality is "ok" Once deemed a mental illness, now downplayed by the media . there are now enough homosexuals in medicine, that they can control the outcome of any study.
Homosexuality is not normal, and is still a mental disorder , and now they have portrayed it as something to be admired and "cool"
I guess the normal people are just getting out-numbered by a bunch of Homos. "




khbalaska wrote on May 12, 2009 8:38 AM:

" Wow, what a 'Christian' attitude! "




LOVE but hate SIN wrote on May 12, 2009 8:15 AM:

" It is very interesting that people think that Christians pointing out sin is like casting stones. As Christians we are to LOVE but in that love we are to teach repentance. We can only do that by sharing what God's word states. Homosexuality is a SIN. We can love the sinner and hate the sin. You don't have to like it but it is God's word, not ours. The lifestyle is a CHOICE. Accept Christ as Lord and Savior and live a life away from this sinnful nature. "




to alaskarain wrote on May 12, 2009 7:34 AM:

" Has nothing to do with judging the people. Only God can do that. Rather it's about recognizing sin for sin. 'Love the sinner, hate the sin.' "




Alaskarain wrote on May 12, 2009 6:03 AM:

" The stones you cast will be smaller then the stones cast at you for casting stones in the first place. Judging others is where the true sin lies. "




Duh wrote on May 11, 2009 11:21 PM:

" Great post. I guess God made murderers, adulterers, pedophiles and thieves, too.

I do so love it when people warp the Bible to conform to what they want. As if we were supposed to live as we choose and God was supposed to work around us instead of us living according to Him. Even funnier are the people that clearly are clueless about Christianity yet try to support sin with it. Fail. "




can you say wrote on May 11, 2009 9:34 PM:

" BIGOT...I guess God made homosexuals...go cry to him. The ignorance of so called "christians" is scary. Twain was right. if Jesus ever comes back, the last thing he'd want to be is a christian. "