F. Charles Fensham (1925–1989)

This is not an easy book to read. It examines Christian theology as it relates to sexual and gender minorities. It contains a very unpleasant history that includes misrepresentation, misinterpretation, and violence. It is a history in which the followers of Jesus, who taught the importance of love, demonstrate a judgemental viciousness that is contrary to that teaching.

Fensham analyzes scripture within its original context, its subsequent translation into Latin and vernacular languages, its historical and current abuses. He also does the same with both a theological and historical survey.

The humility with which he approaches his topic engages the reader and makes it possible for the reader to become informed of this violent past and its "justification" without becoming, defensive or overwhelmed. His approach is to state the facts, frequently without emotion, and then to ask questions of the facts and of the reader. His approach allows this same reader to confront a past that continues to influence the present.

The book concludes with a proposal for moving forward. The proposal is one with which Christian communities are familiar and in which they have engaged when they have confronted other historic, theological and cultural injustices. It ends on a note of hope.… (more)