If you need a reminder, Mr. Phelps was the leader of the Westboro Baptist church. They have become infamous for their professedly hate-filled anti-gay stance and inflammatory posters seen especially when they have picketed the funerals of fallen American soldiers.
The central issue around which this controversy revolves remains whether we as a nation will accept as normal the practice of homosexuality and make same-sex marriages legal.
In my opinion, the worst problem with the impact of Mr. Phelps’ caustic behavior is that it has muddied the waters. Rather than influencing us to calmly and rationally consider the validity of the arguments being put forward by those on either side of the issue, we are nearly compelled to distance ourselves from anything that may even remotely be identified with Phelps or the Westboro folks. Some even who would identify themselves as Christians may be inclined to ignore or reject the teachings of scripture on the matter lest they be associated with Phelps’ views.
The situation reminds me of one that is recorded in the 16th chapter of the book of Acts. While Paul and Silas were spreading the gospel of Jesus in Philippi, a young lady possessed with an evil spirit followed them around calling out, “These men are bond-servants of the Most High God, who are proclaiming to you the way of salvation.” Though her message was the truth, Paul commanded the spirit to come out of her. An undesired association was put to an end.
Fornication, adultery, promiscuity, sensuality, lying, stealing, hypocrisy, arrogance and yes, the practice of homosexuality are all still sinful behaviors according to the word of God. This remains true regardless of how popular these practices may become, or how acceptable society may deem them. Nothing of God’s view of these practices has changed regardless of what Fred Phelps has said or done.
Jesus is all about love and truth. His love for us compelled him to give his life in our place. The horror of the nature of his death teaches all who will listen, the truth about our sins. The cross is at once, a perfect demonstration of Jesus complete love for each us as well as his complete hatred of the sins that separate us from God.
May these two profound truths fully impact each of us regardless of what others may say.