Gender, Sex and the Kingdom of God

From the Standing Theological Committee of ECO

Introduction - Dana Allin, Synod Executive of ECO

One of ECO’s foundational convictions is to uphold the biblical teaching on sexuality.  From the outset, we firmly believed, and continue to uphold, the view that scripture  unequivocally defines sexuality within the covenant of marriage between one man and  one woman. Though our position was counter-cultural at its inception, during the last  decade our culture has drifted even further from a foundational biblical perspective,  accompanied by an increased hostility towards those defending an orthodox position. 

One thing I love about the spirit of our denomination is the desire to both uphold  biblical faithfulness while embodying a gracious witness to the world. We steadfastly  refuse to accommodate to the prevailing cultural trajectory or withdraw or seek to be  adversarial. Our stance aligns with the example set by Jesus, who welcomed all into  his presence without affirming behaviors and attitudes contrary to his word and  character. Instead, he worked to transform individuals and society to reflect the nature  of his Kingdom with directness, kindness, and an invitation into Kingdom  centeredness. 

Recognizing the incredible challenge ahead, especially for biblically faithful churches  like those in ECO, we understand the importance of discipling our congregations,  leaders, and younger generations. ECO’s desire is to cultivate a deeply formed biblical identity amid a culture that constantly promotes conflicting messages. Simultaneously,  we are called to engage with our culture in a loving and gracious manner, bringing the  transformative work of Jesus Christ to bear upon it. 

I am particularly grateful to our Standing Theological Committee for crafting the  document Gender, Sex, and the Kingdom of God, which provides a comprehensive  explanation of The ECO Essential Tenets regarding God's design for marriage. While  this document serves as a foundational resource, we acknowledge that additional  resources are necessary. In the coming months, we will actively seek external  resources and, if necessary, create internal ones to assist our congregations in  navigating the increasing complexity surrounding the issue of sexuality.

Our desire is to make available resources that will help shape your congregation with a  biblically informed sexual ethic and empower you to be a compelling witness to the  world. Gender, Sex, and the Kingdom of God serves as a significant first step in this  process. Modeled after the Barmen Declaration, it encompasses affirmations,  renunciations, and confessions, providing robust support for our theological  convictions while setting a tone of gracious Christ-like communication of truth. 

We look forward to ongoing dialogue and engagement as we collectively navigate the  challenges and opportunities before us. May our prayerful commitment to biblical  faithfulness and grace always be a testimony to the transformative power of Jesus  Christ in our lives. 

In Christ's service, 

Rev. Dr. Dana S. Allin, Synod Executive 

Click on this link to read the document in full.