Christians tend to get a bad rap when it comes to the homosexual agenda; rightfully so in some cases. I am not oblivious to the record of hypocrisy that exists in certain denominations. But I am also aware of faithful, devoted congregants who have gone on to change the world for the better.

Some are spreading the Gospel to unreached people groups in Kazakhstan. Others dedicate themselves to poring into the lives of college students, and there also are a select few who seek to proclaim grace and truth in the clash between the church and gay rights. That’s my goal in these next 719 words.

Let’s get a couple of things straight.

First off, yes, I am a Christian. Therefore, I am well aware many of you will disagree with me. That’s OK; I disagree with you. One of the primary issues I want to address is why disagreement is not a disparaging response.

Next, my goal is to dialogue, not shove religion. I humbly ask for your permission to hear me out. Whether you agree, disagree, consider me brave for standing up for my faith or think I’m another narrow-minded Christian, I welcome your comments online.

But labeling me “arrogant” or a “bigot” solely on the basis of antagonism is awfully hypocritical; because I could give you the same response. Christians and homosexual people – those who disagree – must learn to communicate. Let this be a step in the right direction.

Finally, let us acknowledge words in print sound much more stiff-necked than spoken language (did you notice earlier in the paragraph?) I’m not mad. Do I feel passionate about this issue? Absolutely. But that doesn’t mean I hate those who disagree with me. It’s actually quite the opposite. One of the most loving things, I, as a Christian could do, is disagree with the homosexual agenda.

According to the Bible, which I acknowledge as the infallible word of God, God intentionally created everything; zebras, neutron stars, c-minor, anything that has or ever will be was brought forth to bring glory to its Creator.

And that includes the holy matrimony of marriage, the joining of one man and one woman as one flesh. Jesus reaffirms this in the New Testament; now, the church is commanded to love God and love people by spreading the Gospel to the ends of the earth.

By the way, “church,” does not include the travesty known as the Westboro Baptist Church. I’m talking about those who study, delight in, and most importantly, obey what the Bible says.

At some point in our journeys, we must answer this noble question: what is love? (Baby, don’t hurt me.) Seriously, though. How would you define love? And for the sake of this conversation, what is the biblical definition of love?

In contrast, what’s the societal definition of love? For me, love is not explicitly defined on the altar. Love is Jesus’ example of endeavoring for another’s well-being at a tremendous cost to himself; the strongest of all affections.

In order to love homosexual people, Christians must stand firm on their conviction that homosexual behavior is harmful and sinful. Because “(love) does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.” In his earthly ministry, Jesus continually referred to himself as “life.”

In other words, his commandments weren’t meant to vexate. Like a good shepherd, his commandments are meant to guide from harm and toward a life of eternal significance. Christians acknowledge homosexual behavior ultimately harms those involved. Henceforth, Christians would be society’s narcissists if they complied with what they believe to be pernicious.

Now, does this mean I will give you and your partner a nasty look if we cross paths on campus? Absolutely not. I will if you’re both wearing maize and blue, though. Notwithstanding, I can disagree with someone without scorning them.

As a matter of fact, Christians are commanded to love people regardless of their conduct, especially those with whom they are at a discord. Because the only appropriate response to grace is to show grace; loving in the truth – the essence of what it means to be a Christian.

Some of you disagree with me; does that mean you also hate me? Maybe for a few, but I hope that most wouldn’t equivocate disagreement and hate speech.

Yet, this happens too often with the Christian stance on gay marriage. People assume that Christian opposition is rooted in animosity, solely because they stand firm on their conviction. That’s a jump in logic, folks.

If Christians hate homosexual persons solely because of contrariety, then you must assume to disagree with someone is to hate them. And that’s not necessarily true. Disagreement and hate are not synonymous. Frankly, in this case, it’s quite the opposite.

If Christians believe that marriage is exclusively designed for one man and one woman – and that anything else is detrimental – wouldn’t it only be loving, for me to disagree?

Derek Kim is the East Lansing Reporter at The State News and a journalism junior. Reach him at derek.kim@statenews.com.