The larger conversation that is not being had is " why is it so important for homosexuality to be seen as being chosen "? The reason is because, before something can be seen as being wrong, it first must be seen as being chosen, and, therefore subconsciously worthy of contempt and hatred through subjective comparison.
People like you help other people like myself see that homosexuals are nice, kind humans not some sinful or problematic peopl. Keep going love from Iran.
almost 4 years ago, at 57 years old and in 20+ year marriage to a woman, I had to face the fact that I was gay (an incredible bout of depression DEMANDED I learn to be honest about myself). When I met with my Pastor, the FIRST things he said was "let's get one thing, I've known you for 15 years. You are NOT gay! You might be same sex-attracted but you are not gay!" I was so incredibly confused and, honestly, deeply hurt that this man who was a true and respected friend to me would so callously invalidate a truth I had battled against for decades upon decades. It had cost me dearly to be open about who I was and what had felt my whole life and this man was totally invalidating that, insulting my sacrifices and inferring that I was ignorant my own self. That was the last time I spoke with him. Now, seeing your video, I think I realize that he was simply using outmoded terminology that was incongruent with my experience. Thank you for sharing this. So HAPPY to have found you content!
As someone thinking of joining the Catholic church, I'm really appalled by their pressure to use "same-sex attracted" instead of "gay." As someone that is gay, maybe just let me use the word I want to use when talking about myself and my feelings? That'd be great.
Thanks for this helpful post, Justin. For years now, I have gravitated toward the term "same-sex attracted" because it helps me not to think of anyone living with this experience as belonging to a separate category of personhood...whereas I became aware some years ago that using the term "gay" had led me to subtle forms of thinking that way. So especially as someone who speaks publicly on these things from time to time, it's really helpful for me to better understand the baggage that comes with the term "same-sex attracted" and the potential for miscommunication. I will do my best to be much clearer and more careful going forward.
Thanks for this. As a gay but celibate man who is also a retired minister in a conservative church this has given me a lot to think through. Thanks again.
As an out and proud agnostic gay man, this really helped me understand some of the nuances around how some Christians actually view homosexuality. I still don’t agree with it, but I understand it better now and can better help the other side understand my point of view. Good job 👍
I was about to point out that many non English cultures have had understanding of gay people for a long time, but then i returns the vid and you specify "not an English word for it" so... good job.
Gets me wondering...... should we still be using the word "straight". Whilst it's meaning is generally understood widely, does it perhaps reinforce the idea that anything else is odd or different in a bad way?
What you shared on this video is so very helpful to me as a gay man and as an elementary educator, especially since gov. Ron DeSatan has signed the don't say gay bill into law in Florida. I live in Texas and feel that gov. hot wheels is not far behind the Florida gov.in punishing teachers for helping their LGBTQ+ students to feel safe and supported while at school. You are truly a blessing to the gay Christian community.
@GeekyJustin My pastor equated the last chapters of Judges, an area of the Bible that deals with the Israelite tribes killing each other because they did, "What they thought was right," to the "choice" of your sexuality and the way our society makes people believe that a man can't be a woman. A transphobic, homophonic, bigoted ideal expresses by a good man all because he was taught to believe that being gay was more than just attraction, but a sinful, sex-filled lifestyle. I feel like I can never come out to anyone in my church or my Dad without being told, "You're not bi, that lifestyle is sinful and disgusting," or, " Aromanticism does not exist." Everything about my Christian life could be ruined with the words, bisexual and aromanticism. Do you have any suggestions, Justin?
There are nine known genes on four different chromosomes that, when switched on, cause males to feel different kinds of same-sex attraction. It is 100% natural, a result of environmental conditions of the prenatal mother, and not something that can be prayed away. While occurrence of homosexuality is rare in first-born sons, the chances of having a gay son increases by 30% for each subsequent male child.
So excited to see a new post by you! And you produce what everyone needs to hear. Please keep educating so that one day we can all be accepting and worship together. You are amazing Justin! Please don’t stop the videos. You are making a difference!
Thank you Justin for treating this topic with respect and sensitivity. I myself am a Christian and I've always been told to say that I have same-sex attractions and not identify as a gay man. I went to 2 years of EX gay ministry in San Rafael, Love and Action, but I still struggle with the feelings of Attraction towards men but I do not act on them anymore. I choose to be celibate because it's the only way I can find a way of reconciling my faith and my attractions to members of the same sex. I've always been taught that homosexuality is a sin and that I need to repent. I can have the feelings but I cannot act on them. I've struggled my whole life in and out of the gay community trying to find a place to fit in somehow but could not. I always felt like a square peg trying to fit in a round hole. So I just kind of gave up and now I'm just celibate. It's the only way I can feel at peace with myself and God. I still maintain contact with a couple of gay friends and I do activities like hiking and going to the movies. Sometimes it's a lonely life and I get tired of being alone. But I'm 64 years old now and there's lots of people that are alone and my age. But I thank you for the compassion in this video. I will call myself gay, not same sex attracted. I don't want to be the "Dave" that people use to ostracize others who might be in the same situation I am. Love, compassion, understanding, and acceptance of everyone regardless of who they love. Always treat people with respect and love.❤
Thank you for taking the time to bring understanding and nuance into clouded corners, with compassion and clarity. It's great to see you on RUclips again! Missed your videos.
Hi Justin, happy to see a new video from you! It's so important to dispel the confusion and make the distinction between the terminology like these. Would you consider posting this on your Instagram so it can be publically shared on people's stories? Thanks!
Thanks for explaining. I used to just say “gay” but then I was told that it offends some gay Christians who would rather say “same-sex-attracted” (which is just an inefficient mouthful, let’s be honest) but I always felt like I had to clarify to people who aren’t Christians, “their language, not mine!” because it just felt so unloving whenever I said it.
You used the term 'polite society', and then said 'even at your church'. That is fascinating to me because my very first thought when hearing the word 'church' is absolutely about an impolite society, based on prejudice, ignorance and a sort of hypocritical judging of and by one's peers, often I think to hide from one's own misgivings. I don't mean any offence by my comments. It may well be a late 20th century British perspective compared to an American perspective. I was still troubled by evangelicals as a teenager in Africa and honestly, I would describe it as a form of child abuse. So, for me, I find it very troubling that someone who identifies as a religious leader in some, and perhaps a majority of cases, are the least among us that should be dictating the terms upon how someone should live their own life. You're right about the lack of empathy, it's a cruel arrogance and goes against the true teachings of humanity's major religions. Personally, I have no time for people who espouse being religious and putting this before behaving in a kind and friendly way. If you believe in God, let him judge, you don't need to, you need to follow the teachings, and start with 'Love thy neighbour as yourself'. And if you can't, well, insert your expletive of choice, and Off! Thank you for your kind and friendly message, really appreciate it.
It makes me sad that this is the reputation of the modern church, but you're certainly not alone in your feelings, even in America. Too many modern-day churches have come to represent the polar opposite of the life and teachings of Jesus. It's the worst kind of irony.
This was very helpful Justin thank you. Honestly I termed myself as same sex attracted because I am attracted to men and not women, but I am celibate. However, with your education in this video it makes since that if people must need an explanation then I’m just simply terming myself a gay Christian who is celibate for my “identity” is through Christ Jesus. This video gives me a lot of relief, thank you brother and amen!
Love this video! I learned so much about the history of this term. I know you are not a political person but could you do a video about the Don't Say Gay bill in the future. I know a lot of people who are misunderstanding what this bill is and are using it to justify their homophobic behaviors by believing the bill will keep gays from grooming their children. Florida has passed their bill but other southern states are following their example. I would love to hear an LGBTQ Christian perspective on this situation.
Beening same-sex attracted can be very difficult most people think you're from another planet because of misunderstanding and ignorance Christians can't relate so mostly I keep it underwraps I've been celabate for many yrs I knew from a young age that marriage to a man was out for me It's not easy to be different and if I could I wouldn't want to deal with this gay identify
To me "same sex-attracted" just sounds like more "scientific" term for "gay", but still sounds "more human" than the "medical" term "homosexual". However, I can understand why some gays needed to distance themselves from the term "gay" for the broader meaning it might had brought with it over the years - as gays themselves kind of made it into a lifestyle. Today I think the same is happening with the term Queer, whose users seam to want to put it in front if the term Gay, making it sound like to be Gay is to be Queer. And I as a gay person refuse that. I am gay (phisicaly and emotionaly same sex attracted and not in celibate) but I am not queer.
Just recently found you and appreciate all your doing to educate people. Your presentation is highly effective. I appreciate you going the extra mile. 💜
This topic has come up again recently in my life. There are many transgender men who identify as gay because they are men who are attracted to men, but not necessarily same-sex attracted. So even now, there are significant differences between "Gay" and "Same-sex attracted".
There are two different versions of the song, but you're right; I said the "gay" lyric was in the 1957 Broadway version, but it was actually a few years later in the 1961 film version. Thanks for the correction!
I use the term Gay celibate to refer to myself because I am not interesting in sexual relationships before I am in a proper relationship with another guy
Justin, im surprised that you have not said much about the term " homosexual lifestyle!" And its connotative oversimplified implication of choice and its impactive entrenchment upon the collective societal psyche.
![BLACK BAG - Official Trailer [HD] - Only in Theaters March 14](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Du0Xp8WX_7I/mqdefault.jpg)
I find it a little strange that the term "gay lifestyle" is still used even thought its incredibly outdated
The larger conversation that is not being had is " why is it so important for homosexuality to be seen as being chosen "? The reason is because, before something can be seen as being wrong, it first must be seen as being chosen, and, therefore subconsciously worthy of contempt and hatred through subjective comparison.
People like you help other people like myself see that homosexuals are nice, kind humans not some sinful or problematic peopl. Keep going love from Iran.
Some people are not born straight, that's all.
almost 4 years ago, at 57 years old and in 20+ year marriage to a woman, I had to face the fact that I was gay (an incredible bout of depression DEMANDED I learn to be honest about myself). When I met with my Pastor, the FIRST things he said was "let's get one thing, I've known you for 15 years. You are NOT gay! You might be same sex-attracted but you are not gay!" I was so incredibly confused and, honestly, deeply hurt that this man who was a true and respected friend to me would so callously invalidate a truth I had battled against for decades upon decades. It had cost me dearly to be open about who I was and what had felt my whole life and this man was totally invalidating that, insulting my sacrifices and inferring that I was ignorant my own self. That was the last time I spoke with him.
Now, seeing your video, I think I realize that he was simply using outmoded terminology that was incongruent with my experience. Thank you for sharing this. So HAPPY to have found you content!
As someone thinking of joining the Catholic church, I'm really appalled by their pressure to use "same-sex attracted" instead of "gay." As someone that is gay, maybe just let me use the word I want to use when talking about myself and my feelings? That'd be great.
Thanks for this helpful post, Justin. For years now, I have gravitated toward the term "same-sex attracted" because it helps me not to think of anyone living with this experience as belonging to a separate category of personhood...whereas I became aware some years ago that using the term "gay" had led me to subtle forms of thinking that way. So especially as someone who speaks publicly on these things from time to time, it's really helpful for me to better understand the baggage that comes with the term "same-sex attracted" and the potential for miscommunication. I will do my best to be much clearer and more careful going forward.
Huh. I never even thought about there being a different between the phrases
Thanks for this. As a gay but celibate man who is also a retired minister in a conservative church this has given me a lot to think through. Thanks again.
As an out and proud agnostic gay man, this really helped me understand some of the nuances around how some Christians actually view homosexuality. I still don’t agree with it, but I understand it better now and can better help the other side understand my point of view. Good job 👍
I was about to point out that many non English cultures have had understanding of gay people for a long time, but then i returns the vid and you specify "not an English word for it" so... good job.
Gets me wondering...... should we still be using the word "straight". Whilst it's meaning is generally understood widely, does it perhaps reinforce the idea that anything else is odd or different in a bad way?
You helped me here all the way in Karnataka, India
thank you for being honest Justin.
What you shared on this video is so very helpful to me as a gay man and as an elementary educator, especially since gov. Ron DeSatan has signed the don't say gay bill into law in Florida. I live in Texas and feel that gov. hot wheels is not far behind the Florida gov.in punishing teachers for helping their LGBTQ+ students to feel safe and supported while at school. You are truly a blessing to the gay Christian community.
@GeekyJustin My pastor equated the last chapters of Judges, an area of the Bible that deals with the Israelite tribes killing each other because they did, "What they thought was right," to the "choice" of your sexuality and the way our society makes people believe that a man can't be a woman. A transphobic, homophonic, bigoted ideal expresses by a good man all because he was taught to believe that being gay was more than just attraction, but a sinful, sex-filled lifestyle. I feel like I can never come out to anyone in my church or my Dad without being told, "You're not bi, that lifestyle is sinful and disgusting," or, " Aromanticism does not exist." Everything about my Christian life could be ruined with the words, bisexual and aromanticism. Do you have any suggestions, Justin?
There are nine known genes on four different chromosomes that, when switched on, cause males to feel different kinds of same-sex attraction. It is 100% natural, a result of environmental conditions of the prenatal mother, and not something that can be prayed away. While occurrence of homosexuality is rare in first-born sons, the chances of having a gay son increases by 30% for each subsequent male child.
I grew up with the same situation. People demanded that I call myself same-sex attracted rather than gay. It was so dumb.
So excited to see a new post by you! And you produce what everyone needs to hear. Please keep educating so that one day we can all be accepting and worship together. You are amazing Justin! Please don’t stop the videos. You are making a difference!
Thank you Justin for treating this topic with respect and sensitivity. I myself am a Christian and I've always been told to say that I have same-sex attractions and not identify as a gay man. I went to 2 years of EX gay ministry in San Rafael, Love and Action, but I still struggle with the feelings of Attraction towards men but I do not act on them anymore. I choose to be celibate because it's the only way I can find a way of reconciling my faith and my attractions to members of the same sex. I've always been taught that homosexuality is a sin and that I need to repent. I can have the feelings but I cannot act on them. I've struggled my whole life in and out of the gay community trying to find a place to fit in somehow but could not. I always felt like a square peg trying to fit in a round hole. So I just kind of gave up and now I'm just celibate. It's the only way I can feel at peace with myself and God.
I still maintain contact with a couple of gay friends and I do activities like hiking and going to the movies. Sometimes it's a lonely life and I get tired of being alone. But I'm 64 years old now and there's lots of people that are alone and my age. But I thank you for the compassion in this video. I will call myself gay, not same sex attracted. I don't want to be the "Dave" that people use to ostracize others who might be in the same situation I am. Love, compassion, understanding, and acceptance of everyone regardless of who they love. Always treat people with respect and love.❤
Thank you for taking the time to bring understanding and nuance into clouded corners, with compassion and clarity.
It's great to see you on RUclips again! Missed your videos.
Hi Justin, happy to see a new video from you! It's so important to dispel the confusion and make the distinction between the terminology like these. Would you consider posting this on your Instagram so it can be publically shared on people's stories? Thanks!
Confirmed bachelor
Wonderful research and historical context to help explain this really tragic misunderstanding that does matter. Thank you Justin.
Thanks for explaining. I used to just say “gay” but then I was told that it offends some gay Christians who would rather say “same-sex-attracted” (which is just an inefficient mouthful, let’s be honest) but I always felt like I had to clarify to people who aren’t Christians, “their language, not mine!” because it just felt so unloving whenever I said it.
You used the term 'polite society', and then said 'even at your church'. That is fascinating to me because my very first thought when hearing the word 'church' is absolutely about an impolite society, based on prejudice, ignorance and a sort of hypocritical judging of and by one's peers, often I think to hide from one's own misgivings. I don't mean any offence by my comments. It may well be a late 20th century British perspective compared to an American perspective. I was still troubled by evangelicals as a teenager in Africa and honestly, I would describe it as a form of child abuse. So, for me, I find it very troubling that someone who identifies as a religious leader in some, and perhaps a majority of cases, are the least among us that should be dictating the terms upon how someone should live their own life. You're right about the lack of empathy, it's a cruel arrogance and goes against the true teachings of humanity's major religions. Personally, I have no time for people who espouse being religious and putting this before behaving in a kind and friendly way. If you believe in God, let him judge, you don't need to, you need to follow the teachings, and start with 'Love thy neighbour as yourself'. And if you can't, well, insert your expletive of choice, and Off! Thank you for your kind and friendly message, really appreciate it.
It makes me sad that this is the reputation of the modern church, but you're certainly not alone in your feelings, even in America. Too many modern-day churches have come to represent the polar opposite of the life and teachings of Jesus. It's the worst kind of irony.
This is incredibly educational
Awesome video Justin!
One of the most insightful channels (if not the only one) on homosexuality/being gay.
I am so pleased to discover it.
This was very helpful Justin thank you. Honestly I termed myself as same sex attracted because I am attracted to men and not women, but I am celibate. However, with your education in this video it makes since that if people must need an explanation then I’m just simply terming myself a gay Christian who is celibate for my “identity” is through Christ Jesus. This video gives me a lot of relief, thank you brother and amen!
“Or watched rupauls drag race” lol. Although I don’t fit a lot a stereotypes, I sadly am guilty of rupaul-show attracted
Great stuff Justin. Keep it coming. You are a calm and intelligent voice that needs to be heard.
Very interesting and enlightening. Thank you. Well done.
Wow! What a fantastic and informative video! Thank you!!
Hello Justin! could u please make a video discussing 1 Corinthians 6:9-11. it would be highly appreciated. God bless you!
Thank you Justin. Well said !
Thank you for such an informative and educational presentation. I truly appreciate it very much.
Really helpful and informative.
Great video, thank you!
Love this video! I learned so much about the history of this term. I know you are not a political person but could you do a video about the Don't Say Gay bill in the future. I know a lot of people who are misunderstanding what this bill is and are using it to justify their homophobic behaviors by believing the bill will keep gays from grooming their children. Florida has passed their bill but other southern states are following their example. I would love to hear an LGBTQ Christian perspective on this situation.
Good to see new content, Justin. Thanks for your work!
Thanks for clearing this up so clearly.
You can be LGBT and Christian no problem 👬
Beening same-sex attracted can be very difficult most people think you're
from another planet because of misunderstanding and ignorance
Christians can't relate so mostly I keep
it underwraps I've been celabate for
many yrs I knew from a young age that
marriage to a man was out for me It's
not easy to be different and if I could
I wouldn't want to deal with this gay
identify
God bless you
To me "same sex-attracted" just sounds like more "scientific" term for "gay", but still sounds "more human" than the "medical" term "homosexual". However, I can understand why some gays needed to distance themselves from the term "gay" for the broader meaning it might had brought with it over the years - as gays themselves kind of made it into a lifestyle. Today I think the same is happening with the term Queer, whose users seam to want to put it in front if the term Gay, making it sound like to be Gay is to be Queer. And I as a gay person refuse that. I am gay (phisicaly and emotionaly same sex attracted and not in celibate) but I am not queer.
You gave me the context of the gay lifestyle
Just recently found you and appreciate all your doing to educate people. Your presentation is highly effective. I appreciate you going the extra mile. 💜
Missed you!
This is an amazing explanation and one that I have seen in actuality with conservative christians!!!!!
I wish I could find more of this kind of content on the internet. Thank you.
This topic has come up again recently in my life. There are many transgender men who identify as gay because they are men who are attracted to men, but not necessarily same-sex attracted. So even now, there are significant differences between "Gay" and "Same-sex attracted".
The song say, "I feel, pretty and witty and bright."
There are two different versions of the song, but you're right; I said the "gay" lyric was in the 1957 Broadway version, but it was actually a few years later in the 1961 film version. Thanks for the correction!
I use the term Gay celibate to refer to myself because I am not interesting in sexual relationships before I am in a proper relationship with another guy
Justin, im surprised that you have not said much about the term " homosexual lifestyle!" And its connotative oversimplified implication of choice and its impactive entrenchment upon the collective societal psyche.
Thanks.
You have been missed
Great job, Justin!
I am attracted to same sex only ever since I was young but I am still staying single since I was borne and now I am 28 years old.
One day when Dave is 40….