Possibly Outdated Term
The days of manual typewriters have been delegated to the dusty corners of the Smithsonian Museum. When the IBM Selectric typewriter was introduced in 1961, it changed the face of the business world. The limitation of manual and electric typewriters was keeping a dictionary or word search manual close by to correct spelling. Checking grammar still required the author to know the proper syntax of English and make needed corrections. All of this changed when the computer took the place of typewriters, evolving into an instrument that can correct spelling immediately and correct grammar upon review through various programs. Using a grammar program like Grammarly still requires a choice by the author to decide if the suggested review is necessary or not, but it offers many suggestions to improve the writing skills of those less versed in the discipline of proper grammar.
A program is only as useful as the information embedded within its design. Programs like Grammarly reflect society’s social and moral norms because they are created by individuals swayed by the winds of change that try to keep in touch with the needs of the people. One such example is found with the review of 1 Corinthians 6:9-10. The word “homosexual” was flagged, “Possibly outdated term. Some readers may consider the word homosexual outdated or clinical and may prefer other terms they regard as more modern and inclusive.” Additionally, the word “sodomites” was flagged with the following disclaimer: “Potentially offensive language. The word sodomites may offend some people. Consider using more inclusive language.” Nothing was said about the word’s fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, thieves, covetous, drunkards, revilers, or extortioners. Apparently, these words are inclusive.
The Holy Spirit inspired men to write as the will of God moved them. Paul addresses a problem in Corinth that is as old as the world: sin. The world of the early church was filled with idolatry that thrived on the sensual provocations of the flesh. Homosexuality was common in the Roman Empire, especially among the leaders. Sexual immorality was an accepted part of society. Fornication and adultery were common. Drunkenness flourished as the degradations of idol worship filled with land with debauchery, depravity, and corruption. It was in this world the early disciples faced the battle of the flesh and the spirit. Were there those in the city of Corinth that would have been offended by Paul’s use of the words “homosexual” and “sodomites”? There is no doubt these words were not inclusive in society. Paul was not writing to please the masses, but his words were clearly from a divine source with divine authority.
Society can change sin to be a more inclusive and acceptable word, but the nature of sin remains the same. Paul defined homosexuality to the Roman Christians as shameful and degrading. He said that God called it unnatural and vile passions. This will never be inclusive to the world’s view, but the divine word of God determines what is right and wrong. The moral compass of humanity never defines righteousness. Calling homosexuality a “lifestyle” does not suggest acceptance from the Lawgiver. Jesus died so that all men could find salvation in the will of His Father. Those who disregard the law of God will not inherit the kingdom of God. Sexual immorality such as adultery, fornication, homosexuality, sodomites, and transgender will keep a soul from eternal life. Those who practice such things will suffer eternal damnation. Only through the blood of Jesus will the sins of the sexual immoral be washed away, and a person is sanctified and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of God. Sin may offend you but pray you do not offend the Lord God. He is not inclusive of the whims of human reason.
The Heaton File 