Dodgers To Honor Drag Queen “Nuns”
This week, Noah is sharing an article he was asked to write for Reformed Perspective. I appreciate Noah's insights and agree with his conclusions. I also, however, wanted to add a brief pastoral note. When it comes to "culture war" issues, it is very tempting to dehumanize people with different perspectives.
On this topic, I have a unique perspective. My old rugby team often worked with the Seattle chapter of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. We had an annual kickball game and often ran into them at other events. They are my friends and I love them. I also deeply disagreed with them on many topics.
As we engage in cultural analysis and critique, we also have to keep the individuals in mind. We are allowed to disagree with the Dodgers and with groups like the Sisters. At the same time, we are called to love them as individuals who need God's mercy. Holding both approaches together is difficult, but helps us to love the way Jesus loves us. - Pastor Tim
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In recent weeks, the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team has found itself embroiled in controversy. It all began when they extended an invitation to the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a self-proclaimed queer and drag order of nuns, to receive their Community Hero Award. This order, despite its similarity to traditional nuns, distorts various Christian practices, particularly those associated with Catholicism. One of their slogans is to “go and sin some more.” Understandably, conservative Christian groups voiced strong objections, leading to the Dodgers rescinding the invitation. This decision sparked controversy among progressive groups. The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence released a statement asserting that their organization is based on love, acceptance, and celebrating human diversity. But their performances seem to contradict this claim, as we will explore further. Due to pressure from progressive factions, the Dodgers organization ultimately reversed its decision, issuing a Twitter statement that expressed apologies to the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and their friends and family. As it stands, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence will now participate in the pride night event and receive an award from the Dodgers for their work in the community.
MOCKERY OF CHRISTIANS
When examining some of the practices of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and their relevance to Christianity it uncovers some alarming things about the group. Each year, they organize a two-part Easter event for both children and adults. During this event, drag queens and LGBTQ+-affirming individuals that are dressed provocatively provide education and entertainment. However, after the children's segment concludes, a contest called "hunky Jesus and foxy Mary" takes place. This contest is extremely blasphemous and completely mocks our Lord Jesus Christ. Drag queens dress in skimpy outfits, imitating Jesus and even simulating crucifixion, with another drag queen pole dancing on the "Jesus" figure. Moreover, they deride Jesus' words. At the event, they introduce a character called "Fesus," hatched from an egg, who claims to be the alpha and omega. Fesus mockingly proclaims, "I was born 30 seconds ago, yet I was created with no beginning, no middle, and no end. Sent from the heavens to slay and take away the sins of the world." This parody of Jesus intends to ridicule Christian beliefs, as evidenced by the laughter heard from the crowd. You can view a more detailed version of the schedule here. Additionally, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence maintain strong ties to the LGBTQ+ movement and embrace many ideologies associated with the progressive movement.
BIBLICAL STANCE ON HUMAN SEXUALITY
The Bible provides clear guidance on human sexuality. The practices and ideologies exhibited by the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence stand in direct opposition to what Scripture teaches. Both the Old and New Testaments condemn men from dressing and acting as women. Deuteronomy 22:5 states, "A woman shall not wear a man's garment, nor shall a man put on a woman's cloak, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the LORD your God." Similarly, 1 Corinthians 11:14-16, explained by Paul, declares, "Does not nature itself teach you that if a man wears long hair, it is a disgrace for him, but if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For her hair is given to her for a covering. If anyone is inclined to be contentious, we have no such practice, nor do the churches of God." The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence proudly identify as drag queens and queer, practices that our Creator has denounced. In an earlier passage, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 warns, "Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God." Scripture unequivocally addresses the topic of human sexuality in a straightforward manner.
FIGHTING BACK
As Christians facing societal pressures, we can adopt several practical strategies to counter opposing ideologies:
1. Remain steadfast in our convictions and resist succumbing to worldly pressure.
It is crucial that we do not compromise our beliefs to seek the approval of others. Galatians 1:10 reminds us, "For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ." The Dodgers organization, in this instance, appears overly concerned with pleasing people. However, as Christians, our focus must be on faithfully following God's commands. The Bible forewarns us about facing persecution and being judged, as expressed in 1 Corinthians 4:3-4, where Paul affirms, "But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me." When we stand firm in the truth revealed in God's Word, we should expect judgment and slander. Yet, we should adopt Paul's attitude toward such judgment, recognizing that our ultimate accountability lies with God alone.
2. Engage in catechesis, educating ourselves, our children, and our churches.
By employing the the Heidelberg Catechism we can develop a solid understanding of what we believe and why we believe it. While catechizing can present challenges, it is an immensely rewarding endeavor. We have witnessed many individuals from younger generations, such as Millennials and Gen Z, be greatly influenced by the world's thinking. Because of this, we are faced with two options- either we can catechize ourselves or be catechized by the world. People know exactly what they are supposed to say regarding politics, social justice, the economy, and more, as these ideas have been ingrained in them. To shield ourselves from these influences, immersing ourselves in the Word of God is the most effective defense.
3. Consider boycotting companies that actively promote values contrary to our beliefs.
Recent examples, such as Target and Bud Light, garnered backlash for endorsing woke ideologies. According to a report by Fox, Target and Bud Light suffered a combined loss of $28 billion, with even larger figures expected since then. This serves as an avenue for Christians to demonstrate that they do not support these companies actions.
4. Pray for those who oppose us.
In the famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructs us, "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:43-44). While the progressive movement may not be our literal enemies in battle, one could argue that we are ideologically at odds with them. Jesus commands us to love them and pray for them. Loving them does not imply tolerating their beliefs, but rather sharing the truth with grace. Let us make it a practice to pray specifically for the LGBTQ+ community this pride month. Pray that they would come to repentance and turn from the path that leads to destruction. Create a list of individuals you know or organizations that support this lifestyle and commit to praying for them daily throughout the month.
By adhering to these strategies, we can navigate the challenges presented by opposing ideologies and remain faithful to the teachings of Christianity. As we stand firm in our convictions, catechize ourselves and others, consider boycotts, and pray for those who oppose us, we can boldly uphold biblical values while extending love and grace to those around us.
-Noah