Colossae | The Recovering Legalist

Boy Scouts

You have probably heard of how the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) recently changed its policy toward homosexuality. No longer will a scout be denied membership “on the basis of sexual orientation or preference alone.” This was seen as a victory for gay-rights advocates and activists across the country, especially those who are open about their sexual preferences and activity.

However, as reported in the New York Times, this will most likely NOT be the last policy change. The very ones who led the Scouts to make this change want to see more changes made, and this is only the tip of the iceberg…

The policy change, effective January 2014, is unlikely to bring peace to the Boy Scouts as they struggle to keep a foothold in a swirling cultural landscape, with renewed lobbying and debate already starting …The Scouts did not consider the even more divisive question of whether to allow openly gay adults and leaders. This drew criticism from advocates for gay rights, who called the decision a breakthrough but vowed to continue pressing the Scouts to allow gay members of all ages.

It seems to me that the decision made by the Boy Scouts was not one made simply for the good of the boys, but as a result of political, social, and financial pressure…

The top national leaders of the Boy Scouts, who pledge fealty to God and country, had urged the change in the face of vehement opposition from conservative parents and volunteers, some of whom said they would quit the organization. But the vote put the Scouts more in line with the swift rise in public acceptance of homosexuality, especially among younger parents who are essential to the future of an institution that has been losing members for decades. (New York Times)

As to the Lord

There will always be those who want to pressure us into doing things, but we must keep in mind that when all is said and done, politics, societal changes, membership roles, and public opinion are not God. Believers must determine who they want to please more: God, or man.

The Apostle Paul taught the church at Colossae a truth that is very applicable to today. He said that “whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ” (Col. 3:23-24).

By all accounts, against years of precedent, the BSA changed its policy to reflect a need to please men. By doing so it has voluntarily subjected itself to future attacks which will completely undermine the moral foundation on which the organization was built. “Fealty to God” has been exchanged for the fear of man.