I really appreciated this book a lot as it helps reconcile a high view of scripture with an affirming position. It takes a careful, systematic look at the 6 passages most often cited in the non-affirming sector of the Christian church and explores the original language and context of each to show that in most cases, the Bible is not inconsistent with a same-sex, monogamous marriage. Neither my current nor past denominations are affirming, but I have chosen to ally myself with the LGBTQ community. At the end of the day, we are called to love Jesus and others and I believe that loving others means accepting all people for who they are and welcoming them as my brothers and sisters in Christ. I wish the church would stop wasting energy in judging and shaming LGBTQ people instead of walking alongside them and acknowledging that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Grace, not condemnation.

This book is good for Christian's looking for a book focused on what scripture has to say for gay and lesbian Christians. This book this packed full of well researched points siting numerous sources. It's clear, concise and convincing. This book offers a few personal stories but is largely doctrine focused. This makes it less emotionally moving and more intellectually comprehensive of scripture. This book is designed to be shared with people who hold to a literal interpretation of scripture as Gods word. As I read it I just kept thinking of all the people I know who need this book. It's a must read for all christians who see scripture as the literal word of God.
I'm thankful for Matthew's intelligence and devotion to scripture. His sermon(on youtube) on this topic was the first afirming message I ever heard. It set my life on a path to freedom from years of shame and self hate. I met Matthew at a bible study for LGBT+ Christians. His faith is so sincere and I'm inspired by his compassion for non afirming christians.
I look forward to attending the reformation project conference next month in orlando😊.

3.5*

I'm conflicted. I really appreciated the approach Matthew Vines took to this, but I think this is far more suited for more conservative Christian (who are willing to open their minds) as a starting point. As not only a gay Christian myself but a sex-positive one, this didn't quite hit for me. I agreed with a lot of things Vines said, but some of his arguments didn't quite sit right with me. Overall I did really enjoy this and I think it's great for people in the church who are questioning what they've been taught, or for LGBT Christians/allies who want to be prepared when having these conversations!