While Exodus is no stranger to controversy, we are usually reluctant to make public statements critical of other organizations or leaders, particularly those for whom we have high personal regard. But the very public nature of this situation leaves us no choice but to clarify our feelings and position on the matter. … Our esteem for Dawson [McAllister, the radio host,] is not in question here. His achievements are remarkable – over 1 million copies of his books and manuals sold; a 15 year broadcasting career; a radio show boasting over 140 stations – and I’ve made no secret of his impact on me. … But respect notwithstanding, it’s troubling to see any Christian-led organization allow itself to be guided by the demands of pro-gay advocates. While Exodus is the group being marginalized in this case, it’s the freedom to express a traditional viewpoint of sexuality that’s really at stake, raising the obvious question: Who’s Next? Should all on-air ministries who teach that homosexuality falls short of God’s will expect a knock on the door, demanding they either water it down or close shop?
—Exodus International’s Alan Chambers responding after that little Hopeline incident with Clear Channel [via]
Cam
“While Exodus is the group being marginalized in this case, it’s the freedom to express a traditional viewpoint of sexuality that’s really at stake,”
—
Quick Comparison
“While the Klan is the group being marginalize, it’s the freedom to express a traditional viewpoint of race relations thats really at stake.”
Hmm, yeah, both coments sound like bigots crying that somebody isn’t letting them push their bigotry.
Devon
“Should all on-air ministries who teach that homosexuality falls short of God’s will expect a knock on the door, demanding they either water it down or close shop?”
If only…
jason
Sigh…
Bruno
Dawson has freedom of speech too. If he doesn’t want the hassle of having to defend his connections to your sham little group, that’s his right too.
Wy
As usual they miss the point. I don’t believe the message here is not that any viewpoint of sexuality is less valid. The message is that not all viewpoints – on any subject – are entitled to association with and the market share/leverage of Clear Channel. Clear Channel, like McAllister, has freedom of association.
I would hope it is also a learning moment. The next time this “Christian” organization boycotts or disassociates themselves with someone or something they see as distasteful or damaging to their viewpoint, maybe they’ll remember the feeling — doubtful, but maybe.