Why the Exodus Church Association?

Exodus Church Association

The topic of homosexuality is no longer a topic that exists on the fringe of our society, but rather it has become one of the most polarizing issues in our culture and churches today. The increased accessibility of information, in this technological era, presents us with many differing viewpoints ranging from unloving condemnation to blind acceptance intolerant of any opposition. With so many arguments and opinions, how are we to make sense of it all and how are we to respond in biblical grace and truth to the many that have been affected by homosexuality?

For over 30 years, Exodus International has been committed to mobilizing the Body of Christ to minister to a world impacted by homosexuality. Exodus is currently the world’s largest, evangelical information and referral ministry dealing with the issue of homosexuality from a redemptive, biblical perspective. Each year, the national office receives over 400,000 contacts from men and women looking for answers and assistance. To respond to this need, Exodus has a growing network of over 230 member organizations across North America. Each one is committed to standing on biblical truth and giving hope to thousands of men, women, ministry leaders, family, and friends.

Within these 230 member organizations there is a growing number of member ministries, professional counselors, and churches. In 2006, Exodus created the Exodus Church Network, an interdenominational coalition that provides safe places of worship for those dealing with unwanted same-sex attractions. In 2009, the Exodus Church Network became the Exodus Church Association. These are churches that are committed to providing foundational discipleship to those seeking freedom from homosexuality. Many have found freedom from homosexuality by becoming part of life-giving churches that focus on helping their members become mature disciples of Christ. Alan Chambers, President of Exodus International, has communicated his desire to see the church embrace and minister to those affected by homosexuality so effectively that Exodus would no longer need to exist.

This is how I found my freedom. My relationship with Christ began when I was 13 years old and I fell into a love relationship with the church. I was a leader within my youth group, member of the adult and youth choirs, nursery worker, model church participant in every way possible. However, I silently struggled with my same-sex attractions while continuing to be the model church youth. I desperately wanted answers to so many questions, but I lived in fear of someone discovering my secret. The fear was not unfounded. I heard my friends, church leaders, and pastor make disparaging comments about homosexuals and the only message I knew was that they were all destined to a Christ-less eternity. My fears were ultimately confirmed when some of the male church leaders, deacons, and even the pastor participated in a men’s beauty pageant that involved them walking a runway in women’s clothes and make-up while members of the congregation voted on a winner (the pastor won, by the way). The church’s message was clear. There was no place for someone like me. Needing answers, I embarked on a journey that would take me directly into a relationship with another man that would last for over three years. He also grew up in the church all of his life and his father was an evangelist that traveled extensively around the world. My entire homosexual experience was tied to the church in some way.

After over a decade of not finding any answers or hope, I decided to give the church another chance. I risked setting up a meeting with the senior pastor of the church I was considering attending and told him my story point blank. When I had finished, his response was one of total acceptance and unflinching commitment. Although they had no ministry that was specific to homosexuality, it was in this church that I discovered my identity in Christ, grew in spiritual maturity, and found so many answers I had been looking for. Thirteen years later, I am now an associate pastor at this same church, helping other men and women discover their true identity and purpose in Christ. This is the power of the Church!

The Exodus Church Association is committed to helping people affected by homosexuality to find churches just like the one I found. Churches that will demonstrate the love of Christ no matter what people may bring through their doors. One woman overcoming lesbianism shared, “My experience of being welcomed, invited and embraced by the men, women, and families in my church made all the difference in the world as I sought to overcome my sexual brokenness and sin.” Exodus needs the partnership of the Church to reach countless men and women that are hurting and desperate for truth. Will you make a place for them in your church family?

Jeff Buchanan

Sr. Director of Church Equipping

Article cross-posted from Exodus Church Association Website