A Strong Delusion (Paperback)

~ (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

What is the "gay Christian" movement, and why is it now being accepted as an alternative lifestyle within many churches? Author and counselor Joe Dallas, in a loving and biblical manner, spells out what pro-gay theology is and how to confront it, then examines the believer's personal response and the need for bold love and commitment. He also gives detailed responses to the main scriptural arguments posed by the pro-gay movement, and evaluates the movement's impact on culture and the church.

Product Details

• Paperback: 245 pages
• Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (September 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1565074319
• ISBN-13: 978-1565074316
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 10.1 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 3.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (29 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #180,235 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

70 of 90 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Ex-gay Minister Turns and Debunks "Gay Christian" Theology, June 6, 2001

By	Roger Edwards (Norman, OK United States) - See all my reviews

The author, formerly homosexual and now happily married with children, lends powerful doses of credibility and authority to the issue -- both through his own story of torment, temptation and ultimate salvation, and through his considerable scriptural research. Combining that with a keen media awareness and his inside experience in a major "gay" church, he lists and then convincingly demolishes all the common arguments by which some Christians excuse homosexual behaviors as unsinful and even God-given. He reveals holes in Mel White's and other liberal theological interpretations that are big enough to fly a 747 through, by using his own exegeses of original-language text and those of other Biblical scholars, whose references are duly cited. In a clear, well-organized and persuasive writing style, the author:

=== Strips away the facade of popular slogans, catchy rhetoric and selective Biblical interpretations used by "gay Christian" activists;

=== Strongly emphasizes the innate nature of same-sex attraction -- it is not a choice, any more than an innate predisposition to any other condition;

=== Encourages compassion and love toward for those with same-sex attraction;

=== Properly denounces hateful acts and thoughts as unworthy of Jesus' loving legacy;

=== Offers hope, advice, spiritual resources and encouragement for those who are struggling with their religious identities and same sex attractions, and for parents, family and friends of those in that position.

A lot of hatred and resentment exists for no good reason on *both* sides of this issue; and those on *both* extremes who carry that hatred will never read this book in full. However, anyone who cares about this issue with an open mind -- no matter their orientation or opinion -- should read it word for word, start to finish. Even those deeply entrenched in the "gay Christian" ideology should read this, in the name of tolerance and respect for others' ideas. One may even come away with a healthy measure of skepticism about the beliefs he or she has developed.

51 of 65 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Christianity and culture; a question of ethics, December 13, 2000

By	Bruce H "bruce-h" (Toronto, Ontario, Canada) - See all my reviews

I read this book after the issue of homosexuality came up in the Bible study group I lead.

The issue of sexuality is a difficult one. I first heard about the author and the book on an American radio show called, "The Bible Answerman," and thought, "This is just what I'm looking for.

Dallas begins with his personal testimony and then an exposition of contemporary comments from secular gay leaders and gay Christian leaders. Next, he goes over the history of the movements; both secular and Christian. After that, he goes in specific argumentation on three broad categories; sociological/scientific, generic religious, and Christian/Biblical.

Some of his points that really deserve to be underscored. 1. The distinction between identity and behavior The pro-gay movement has succeeded in welding these two together but it really makes no sense. I mean imagine applying to another category of sin, let's say murder. Can you imagine someone saying, "I kill people for fun! It is part of who I am, man!"

2. Homophobia and effects of the conservative position

Dallas points out that disagreeing with a person's behavior does not mean fearing or hating that person.

3. Supposed scientific evidence confirming homosexuality is biologically determined.

Dallas outlines most of the major studies commonly cited by those holding to the pro-gay position and shows that they are at worst, false and at best, inconclusive. Dallas also makes the point that behavior x being genetically influenced/determined does not make x moral.

Dallas finishes by saying that the Church (not a specific denomination but Christians in general) have failed in trying to reach out to homosexuals. He says the Church has also failed trying to help repentent homosexuals. Dallas finishes his book by saying that Christians must recognize that biblical sexual ethics are absolute and clear but we must help those stuck in sin and a quote from a pastor is particularly appropriate here. "My message to the homosexual is: We love you. Come and struggle with us against sin . Don't give in to it."

39 of 51 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Very valuable work on a sometimes tough topic, February 8, 2004

By	John Thornton (Midwest) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

As a man who worked for 10 years as an ICU RN, many times caring for AIDS patients, and who now works as a biblical scholar and theologian, I highly recommend this book. The issue of homosexuality and Bible interpretation is often a tough one with people dividing into polarized camps. People often quarrel about the meaning of ancient Greek or Hebrew words and fail to see that people today are suffering and dying. This book offers an insider's view of the "gay" church movement and the gay advocate positions. This book also offers clear teaching about the different views each side has and why one may be drawn toward either end. I believe that this book will offer hope and healing toward people who have sometimes been shunned or castigated. Yes this work takes the Bible seriously and accurately, but that means that everyone is in one camp. We are all sinners saved by God's grace, through Jesus. This book is well worth the money, if you are brave enough and open minded enough and ready to see reality.