The Christian group Exodus is facing the possible removal of their application from Apple smartphones due to a petition raised by an LGBT group who has labeled the application the “gay cure” app. The LGBT group has released a video stating that the app is hateful and should be removed by Apple less the group has to go to more extreme measures. The response of Exodus has been that they are not attempting to cure homosexuality but rather are promoting the love of Christ to those afflicted by unwanted same-sex attractions. They simply want to receive the same tolerance from the LGBT group which they ask to receive from others. However, the debate is not in Exodus’ favor as last November a Christian app called the Manhattan Declaration which documented the sanctity of life and the historic institution of marriage was removed after an LGBT activist group complained to Apple.
The issue of working with homosexual clients while adhering to one’s Christian beliefs is a topic faced by every Christian counselor. Above all, the most important factor is to stress the love of Christ which is what Exodus is trying to do. A primary problem arises when an individual suffering from unwanted same-sex attraction is seeking help and is unable to find it because those who do embrace same-sex attraction believe that is wrong to show others how to resist it. Perhaps this to aptly denies the prospect that there it is not a choice to be made, thus breaking down their belief system.
The issue here is not whether homosexuality is wrong or right, but whether tolerance should be available not only to homosexuals but also to those who would like to resist homosexual urges. By denying individuals who are afflicted by same-sex attraction the ability to seek out knowledge about how to resist this unwanted lifestyle, the LGBT group is being intolerant of the idea that someone could experience the same desires that they have and yet not give into them. The Exodus group has provided this population with information that they otherwise may not be able to receive and thus should receive the same tolerance which they have given to the LGBT group.
