SIGNS OF A TURNED HEART continued. 12b. YOU WILL HAVE A COMPASSIONATE HEART continued.

What should parents do with an older teenager who, for whatever excuse, declares themselves homosexual? Should they be allowed to remain in the family home? What impact would that have on the other siblings as well as the godly atmosphere of the home?

The same question can be asked concerning drugs, alcohol, and pornography. Or even a husband or wife involved in adulterous affairs.

The parents (in a spirit of meekness) should seriously admonish the guilty party toward repentance (2 Timothy 2:25). They must give understanding to the offender of how God views their rebellious conduct--firstly against God, and secondly the parent’s family values. The parents must also give clear understanding that they have a God-given mandate to protect the sanctity of the family home as well as the other siblings in the home.

To protect the sanctity of the family’s Christian values, the offender must understand that unless they repent, they cut themselves off from the family home, which of course, you do not want to happen.

If they are working and making their own money, they must know that unless they repent within a reasonable period provided by the parents they must move and out and put their rebellious sin under their own roof.

You will tell them that you will continue to always love them and pray for them. You could also arrange to meet with them as parents at regular times at a certain place, e.g. a coffee bar to encourage them to turn away from their sin. But not in your own home.

They should also see your compassionate heart and know that their actions bring great grief and weeping to your heart.

To be continued.

Be encouraged.

Colin Campbell