Today, as I read the open letter to members of the ELCA written by Al Quie of Minnetonka and Bob Lee of Staples, I found myself thinking that the latest vote by the Governing Body of the ELCA is sadly one more step in the ELCA’s slow march into hell.

In my lifetime, I’ve already witnessed women

serving in leadership roles in the church, strictly prohibited World in I Timothy as well as I Corinthians. Divorce has become rampant which is very clearly prohibited in Mark 10, Luke 16, Romans 10 and I Corinthians 14. In fact, I know of members of the ELCA clergy who have committed some of these abominations. (The Old Testament has so many rules about shellfish, shaving and poly/cotton blends that I find it best to stick to the rules in the New Testament. I just don’t have many opportunities to use the word abomination in daily conversation.) Then, there are all those verses about virgin brides or, more importantly, nonvirgin brides. Some strong wording about stoning, I think. And, what are we doing about adulterers and drunks these days?

Sometimes, irony can be very effective at making a point.

Mr. Quie and Mr. Lee, for years I have consistently refused to manipulate God’s Word to refute remarks made by fine Christian people such as yourselves. I maintain, and still do, that God did not intend His Word to be used to beat each other down, but rather to build each other up. However, as you can see from above, the Bible can be very easily manipulated to condemn just about anyone, for just about anything. Your letter is simply another example of hate filled bigots using the Word of God under the guise being true to the Word, to further some twisted agenda. All with the final outcome that would position men (and women) like you at the top of Heaven’s guest list, and more worthy of God’s love than others.

You’re neither.

Members of the ELCA, for what it’s worth, I’d suggest hiring pastors based on their credentials, faith and fit with your congregation. These men and women have spent years in study and contemplation of faith to reach the point of ordination. They’ve obviously more than demonstrated their commitment to the faith.

I’d also suggest being suspect of people who are overly obsessed with what happens in other people’s bedrooms and why they find themselves so intent on discussing this in a public forum. Clearly, their creepy obsession with sexuality indicates some very serious issues.

In my opinion, they’re the ones you should be concerned about in your congregations.
Bernie Erickson
Fargo N.D.