To the Editor:

What I perceive to be out of order in modern society is the lack of biblical truth and application when it comes to reading and understanding the Bible. If clergy and followers alike would give serious study to the Scriptures, maybe the gay marriage issue would receive less acceptance and approval.

An example of misplaced biblical interpretation is found in the current television ad campaign using Rev. Michael Gray, in which he offers a compassionate appeal for the cause of gay marriage in Maine. While he has the support of other progressive clergy, I feel that he is ignoring years of traditional biblical teaching on this subject, in favor of his personal feeling concerning homosexuality and its accompanying social implications.

It is said in the current referendum that clergy will be under no obligation to perform gay marriage; however, this law does provide a slippery slope which could ultimately put Maine clergy into being forced to do the marriage. Also, this law provides no protection for vendors. In the paper last month was a report of a baker who refused to bake a cake for a gay wedding. The baker was taken to court. The judgment was against the baker on grounds of discrimination. Can a church be sued for refusing a gay couple its facility for the purpose of holding a gay wedding or reception?

Our personal references concerning gay marriage need to be lined up with the infallible and unquestioned authority of the Bible, something I question whether progressive clergy are willing to concede. Are we now living in the era Isaiah spoke of in Isaiah 5:20, “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness” — ?

Christians, remember when you go to vote, you do not go alone. On Judgment Day, you will be held accountable.

Laura Merrill
Durham