Ocean View Church runs life group for concerned individuals on homosexuality, transgenderism

Ocean View Church hosts a life group for for families or individuals affected by the brokenness of homosexuality. (Photo taken from the official website of Ocean View Church)

Ocean View Church holds a life group to reach out to those families "hurt" by homosexuality or transgenderism.

The church’s announcement posted that the theme for this group is “Reclaim, Restore, and Rebuild.” They added that Doug and Pam Stoltz lead the said group.

The church noted that these members might suffer from a painful and struggling journey.

Ocean View Church emphasized that they designed this life group to guide and help in a safe place. They are studying the book of Nehemiah as a way to reconnect relationships.

Share, Care, Prayer

In the life group's section, the church stated that the Life group is a perfect place for becoming like Jesus and having a closer connection with individuals with the same purpose. They are formed in small groups for adults who gather regularly, as mentioned on the website.

Moreover, the members of life groups desire to grow in their spiritual journey and have healthy relationships with others, as further explained on the website.

Becoming a part of the life groups at Ocean View Church is a way to be motivated to live out the truths they are learning in the Bible, as revealed on the website. The church stated that through joining these groups, members could also have the opportunity to encourage others.

Extending God’s Grace

According to the study by Alex Montoya, Associate Professor of Pastoral Ministries, although homosexuality is considered against God’s law, Christians should never forget that Jesus called them to extend His grace.

As further revealed, the truth is that Jesus died to expand the grace of the cross to them. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross could guarantee God’s forgiveness to homosexuals, as emphasized on the website.

Moreover, the website stressed that God gives them peace and hope for eternal life. Montoya added that the church needs to bring homosexuals into the fold of Jesus. But, Montoya stated that the first thing the church should discover is how they could be compassionate to them.

Church’s Response on Homosexuality

Montoya’s research revealed that some churches could be guilty of being like the Pharisees toward sinners of their time. He said that they showed absolutely no concern and care for those who were lost.

But Jesus taught compassion for these people, including homosexuals, he explained.

The same website emphasized that Tim Wilkins said that he discovered that when it comes to this issue of gender, believers are concerned in one of two aspects.

Wilkins explained whether Christians are dedicated to eliminating the “pro-gay movement” or extending God’s advocacy by introducing them to His Son, Jesus Christ.

Meanwhile, Albert Mohler wrote that homosexuals are hurting individuals and need compassion more than a condemnation of the church. He explained that they are waiting to see if Believers have anything more to say after stating that they are sinning against God.

Church's Stance

The same website emphasized that it is no doubt that the church deals with a significant issue in how they could respond to homosexuality in its society and the church. Montoya added that the church must overcome these obstacles before others criticize or persecute them for doing nothing.