Homosexuals are "coming out of the closet." They are being urged to announce publicly and forthrightly their homosexuality. Many are doing so. It is a sad reflection on a nation when sinful perverts can flaunt their degradation and depravation. What next? Should those who leer and lust for child pornography be encouraged to "come out of the closet" and be accepted? Why not? What about "flashers," those who obtain satisfaction through exposing themselves to women and children? Should they "come out of the closet" and practice their "sexual preference?"

Appeal To "Grace-Unity" Sympathizers and Apologizers: "Come Out Of The Closet"

Brother Carl Ketcherside, Arnold Hardin and others have said that several brethren agree with their views on grace, imputed righteousness and fellowship and that these brethren are their disciples, "but secretly for fear of the Jews." Well, it is time they came "out of the closet." If those of us who disagree with them are ever going to receive any help, they are going to have to expose themselves. (Pun intended.) While they consider coming 4 'out of the closet," they might ponder the words of Jesus: "For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest that they are wrought in God" (Jn. 3:20, 21).

The usual justification for remaining in the closet is that they know they will be "written up" in "party papers" like Guardian of Truth. Assume the worst. Suppose you are. It is far better to stand and defend truth than to be a covert, cowering mole (underground rat). While we are assuming, why not assume that brethren are as honest, sincere and truth loving as you are and that they may acknowledge that God is in you of a truth? Adopt Paul's attitude. Do not be concerned about those who seem "to be somewhat, (whatsoever they (are) it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man's person)." Put your views to the test. "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good" (1 Thess. 5:21).

If you are right, we need to see the light you have seen. Do not keep it under a bushel. If you are wrong, it will benefit you to have it made known so you may be converted and saved (Jas. 5:19, 20). Everyone wins when a position is defined, explained and examined as the situation demands. The losers are the closet people. They work and walk in darkness. They shudder every time the closet door is rattled. They are afraid to teach and ashamed to lie about their hidden beliefs. Meanwhile, the Bible says, "But the fearful.... and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death" (Rev. 21:8).

Good Writers: "Come Out of The Closet"

The Lord's people are blessed with a host of faithful and able teachers and preachers. There are some effective writers and authors, too, but a few are "in the closet." At least their typewriters are. It is time they opened the doors, dusted off the keys and published the fruits of their studies. Ignore the jealous barbs of those who pick at your efforts. Pray for those who smirk (sometimes in print) and sarcastically denounce any thing they themselves did not write. Then, write, and let the rest of us profit from what you have gleaned from the word of God.

Guardian of Truth XXVIII: 14, p. 436
July 19, 1984