Homosexuality

An Open Letter to Beth Moore

Michelle Lesley

We have answered some of the most commonly asked
questions about the Open Letter to Beth Moore here.

If you are unfamiliar with the events surrounding this letter, please read
An Open Letter to Beth Moore – Timeline of Events.

Dear Mrs. Moore,

Hello – we hope this finds you doing well.

We as female Bible teachers ourselves write this letter to you in hopes of receiving clarification of your views on an important issue: homosexuality.

In the last few years, particularly since 2016, you have been very vocal in your opposition to misogyny and racism. Anytime a story with so much of a whiff of these issues comes to the forefront you are very quick to speak out. The actions of the Covington kids, for example, you said “is so utterly antichrist it reeks of the vomit of hell” in a January 19, 2019 tweet; a tweet you deleted, without apology to the kids, once the full video was shown that portrayed a very different reality than what initial reporting suggested.

It is this Johnny-on-the-spot readiness to engage issues related to misogyny and racism that makes your virtual silence on the issue of homosexuality so puzzling.

To your credit, in your book To Live is Christ: The Life and Ministry of Paul, you wrote, “I met a young man who had experienced freedom from the bondage of homosexuality” (pg. 119). This book was first published in 1997 and then republished in 2008 but it seems since then you have said very little if anything publicly about this issue.

Another factor prompting our open letter to you is the very public mutual affection and admiration between you, Jen Hatmaker and Jonathan Merritt.

Jen Hatmaker and you regularly exchange affirming posts of one another on social media. In just one recent example, Hatmaker on September 17, 2018 wrote “Beth Moore will enjoy my respect and devotion forever. She is worthy of being a mentor to an entire generation. And friends, I wish you knew how deeply and profoundly she has loved me these last two years” (Source). In an interview two years before this post, October of 2016, Jen Hatmaker said she was a “left-leaning moderate,” came out as fully supportive of homosexual marriage (saying it can be “holy”) and said practicing homosexuals can be part of the regenerate body of Christ (Source). It was then that LifeWay decided to pull all of her books from its shelves.

More recently, on April 9, 2019, Jonathan Merritt tweeted, “I no longer believe @BethMooreLPM is a human. I think she is an angelic being having a human experience.” (Source). Jonathan Merritt has admitted to having at least one homosexual encounter about a decade ago (Source). Today, by his own admission he rejects biblical inerrancy, says a “liberal Protestant” would be an accurate description of him, and says his sexual orientation he no longer views as “broken” (Source). In a crass response to Dr. Owen Strachan tweeting, rightly so, that there should never be an occasion in which men “cuddle” with one another, Merritt on May 1, 2019 tweeted in response, “C’mon, Owen. You can be my little spoon” (Source). Merritt also openly affirms that “queer” and LGBTQ people are included in God’s Kingdom and it is a “carrot of false promises” that the Gospel can make such people straight (Source, Source). He supports “Drag Queen Story Time” in which drag queens read stories to young children in public libraries (Source 27:40 mark). He even appears to doubt the exclusivity of Christ (Source).

Both Jen Hatmaker and Jonathan Merritt are known for their belief that practicing homosexuals can be Christians. Given that this is such a deeply held conviction that both share and this conviction (wrong though it is) has cost them both in their standing amongst theologically conservative evangelicals, and that they both praise you so highly, it raises the natural question as to where you stand on this issue.

Given his beliefs, Merritt publicly saying that he believes you to be “an angelic being having a human experience” strongly suggests that his high praise of you is, at least partially, rooted in your views on this issue that you have shared with him privately. It seems most unlikely that he would be praising you so highly if you had told him that as a homosexual man he will perish for all of eternity unless he repents. It likewise seems unlikely that Hatmaker (a married, straight woman) would praise you so highly if you told her that her affirmation of homosexuality and homosexual marriage is sinful and that she must repent.

When all of this is coupled with your total silence on homosexuality (in stark contrast to your very vocal stance on gender/racial/abuse issues) it naturally raises the question as to what your beliefs on it truly are.

With these factors in mind, and knowing that millions of people follow your teachings, we would like to ask you:

1. Do you believe homosexuality is inherently sinful?

2. Do you believe that the practice of the homosexual lifestyle is compatible with holy Christian living?

3. Do you believe a person who dies as a practicing homosexual but professes to be a Christian will inherit eternal life?

4. Do you believe same sex attraction is, in and of itself, an inherently sinful, unnatural, and disordered desire that must be mortified?

5. Why have you been so silent on this subject in light of your desire to “teach the word of God?”

We ask these questions to you out of genuine concern. As Bible teachers, all of us are held to a very high standard and will give an account for how we handle God’s word. As you know, homosexuality is widely discussed and debated amongst evangelicals and society at large.

Many families are affected by this issue. The most loving thing obedient Christians can do for them is to clearly communicate God’s truth. We look forward to your clarification on these pressing issues. Thank you.

Kind regards,

Susan Heck
With the Master

Debbie Lynne Kespert
The Outspoken Tulip

Michelle Lesley
Michelle Lesley- Discipleship for Christian Women
A Word Fitly Spoken Podcast

Martha Peace
Martha Peace

Elizabeth Prata
The End Time

Amy Spreeman
Berean Research
Naomi’s Table
A Word Fitly Spoken Podcast

Readers, if you would like to add your signature to this open letter, please comment below. (My regular comment parameters still apply.
Please read before commenting.)
Supportive comments will be considered signatures.

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585 thoughts on “An Open Letter to Beth Moore”

    1. Well said and thank you for writing this. Beth Moore is seriously awed in her beliefs. I agree with .a y of the comments ready made. God bless you

      Like

      Reply

    4. It is unfortunate that by not responding to this inquiry here, and in other places where it has been asked of her in the past, Beth has shown us where she stands. Holding one another accountable….. Y.R.

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      Reply

  2. All I can say is “BRAVO” ladies! She is leading so many astray. I look forward to a future post to see what she says, though I probably can guess what her answer will be. She’s a false teacher so nothing will surprise me, but it might surprise some who still believe she is “biblical”. God bless you women!

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

      1. While I am not a woman (obviously 😁😁) I agree it’s time she answers some questions not just on this issue but others as well.(claiming to have direct revelation from God,saying Catholics are Brothers and sisters in Christ just to name a few)I will be waiting to see how this plays out.Jim Scaggs pastor Parkway FwBC Sebring FL.Scaggs.jim@gmail.com

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      2. Pastor Jim, thank you so much for your support! Just to let you know, we are not adding men’s signatures to the letter at this time because one of Beth’s standard responses lately to any man who requests biblical accountability from her is to say he’s sexist or a misogynist. We’re trying to circumvent that excuse by demonstrating that it’s not sexism, women want biblical accountability from her, too.

        If you’d like to help us out by encouraging all the ladies you know to sign, that would be great. And, if your church is in the Southern Baptist Convention, we are encouraging all SBC pastors/leaders to contact President JD Greear and LifeWay with these concerns about Beth.

        Thanks for stopping by! :0)

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  14. Mrs. Moore,
    I have seen several of your most recent controversial tweets on Twitter including one where you stated you are going off like a bottle rocket, if that is the case then I ask you to include your beliefs on homosexuality as you go off.
    Since you have positioned yourself in the SBC spotlight with your social media comments of late I think its imperative you reply to this inquiry and state your position. After all if you are truly ready to just go off like a bottle rocket why wouldn’t you include your stance on very relevant question?

    Kind Regards
    Theresa Miller

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  16. Thank you, Mrs. Moore for clarification on these extremely important question (s). I eagerly await your answer.

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      2. Thank you for writing this letter to Beth Moore. I’m praying she will return the Bible’s truth.

        Like

    2. I’m in agreement with this open letter. There are too many women who are being lead astray from true biblical womanhood by Beth Moore. They also will be held accountable for not seeking the truth of God’s word.
      Thank you Michelle for standing for the truth!
      Nicole B. Guillory

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

    4. Very interested in a response from Beth Moore. There should be absolute clarity on these important issues! Please add my name to this list. Thank you.
      Heather Fernandez

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    12. Thank you for standing strong on this issue and being such a great resource for Christian women! Please add my name. Christine Frost

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      Reply

    1. I fully agree and this letter is well written, gracious, and spot on! I would love my name to be added to the list of signers. Thank you!

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  29. That was a wonderfully stated open letter. Hopefully someone will bring it to BM’s and she will respond. However, we know that she has been in support of the Pope’s views, Christine Caine, Joyce Meyer, and others. But, perhaps she will stop and consider how her words are being viewed, and are they appropriately reflecting her heart-felt beliefs. It is amazing that both male and females know her name and who she is! Guess all her materials will really fill many of the Lifeway storage bins when they close all the stores.

    Sent from my iPad

    >

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  34. I agree completely. Bible teachers are accountable to teach the Word of God, not their opinion of it. I don’t know most of these ladies who authored this open letter except for Susan Heck who is my Pastor’s wife & one of my Bible teachers through “With the Master”. Her teaching is excellent expository teaching and her lifestyle is exemplary as a Godly woman who walks worthy of her calling as a chosen child of God.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  38. This is my second reply, because I’m not sure you received my first one – but if you did, please disregard this one. I linked to your letter from another post. I appreciate the letter – it is well written and asks an important question which I too would like an answer for, since Beth Moore is such a popular women’s study leader/speaker. I agree with you letter. I also wonder, has Beth Moore responded?

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. Hi Michael- Unless you used a different account the first time, I’m sorry, but I did not receive your first comment.

      No, Beth has not responded, and I don’t really expect her to. Her usual M.O. on things like this is to ignore them in hopes that they will go away. If she does respond, I expect her answer will be vague, off-topic obfuscation which will not provide a black and white answer to the questions.

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply

      1. Thank you for your response Michelle. Sorry to hear she usually doesn’t reply back, or is evasive if she does. At a time when we need great clarity around the issue of homosexuality and gender issues, one would hope she would give it – but alas, many fear to interact around that or others issues that might cost one followers or friends.
        I appreciate your site and the clarity here – it is refreshing – may you be blessed in your writing and service to Christ!

        Liked by 1 person

    1. My prayers for Beth and the rest of these deceived people is for God to bring them to repentance. May the Holy Lord God of all creation hsve mercy.
      Sharon Cole.. Grace Community Church.. Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply

  42. I think this is a fair question for Mrs. Moore and should be easy to answer. If her views align with what God has already said in scripture, she will want to boldly proclaim truth. Christians cannot be lukewarm on what God calls an abomination.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thank you for a well written, caring, biblical article!
      Beth Moore speaks publicly about many things, and I would love to see her publicly respond to this question…but I have a feeling it will be ignored.

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  47. Thank you for this. Mrs. Moore is known for being very outspoken so even if she chooses to stay silent, that will be our answer. Time for transparency. May God use it for our good and His glory.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  52. The Bible said, For unto whomsoever much is given ,
    of him shall be much required..Luke 12:48. ..and to
    compromised the richness of what she received and misled of the many
    is worst than a betrayal …

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    Reply

    1. I too have had concerns for a while about the influences surrounding Beth. I truly believe she loves Jesus and wants to serve Him, and any of us can be deceived if we stray from the Scriptural text and are influenced by the writings of men and women. She has admitted that she is a voracious reader and is always reading the works and opinions of others.
      The enemy is subtitle and cunning, attractive and charismatic, ready to deceive when given the right opportunity. She has also admitted in several of her Bible studies that she is a sanguine, which could/would lead her to want to be accepted by people, to be popular.

      Social media is such a dangerous place because you can block out anyone who disagrees with you and creates an echo chamber where you feel you are right because of that. It also gives a false courage and bravado, because what you can type from behind a computer screen is far different from how you would talk to someone face to face.

      I pray that Beth will take this open letter and questions in the spirit it was intended, just as I am sure her intent was when she penned “A Letter to My Brothers”.

      She has a huge influence, I myself have lead many of her Bible Studies , and encouraged other women to as well. I pray that she will ask God to reveal His truth to her through His holy Scriptute and that she will not use the commentaries of men to influence her.
      I also pray that she will directly answer the questions put for to her in this open letter

      I ask that you add my name to the letter; Heather Rollins.

      With much love, In Christ Jesus
      Heather

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  55. Pingback: For Anyone Wishing To Sign The Open Letter To Beth Moore | The Outspoken TULIP

    1. David, thank you so much for requesting to sign! I would love to add your name to the list of signatures following the article, but we are not adding men’s names at this time. We love and are deeply grateful for your, and all of our other brothers’ support in this, but one of Beth’s standard responses lately to any man who requests biblical accountability from her is to say he’s sexist or a misogynist. We’re trying to circumvent that excuse by demonstrating that it’s not sexism, women want biblical accountability from her, too.

      So what I’m doing is approving men’s comments for the comments section here, but not adding their names to the list above. I hope you understand, and thanks again so much for your support!

      If you (or anyone else) would like to help, please share this around and encourage all the Christian women you know to sign on. :0)

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  67. Beth Moore has been incredibly concerning especially as of lately. I would very much like her to respond to this as she is leading hundreds of thousands astray if not more. Thank you for your ministry and what you’re doing. I have shared this and asked for response on all platforms. -Katie Jay

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  69. Adding my name. I’d love to hear a response, but won’t hold my breath. Lots of questions to lots of leaders these days, from which only the crickets reply.
    Jennifer Buck

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  70. Many thanks to these 5 ladies for their boldness in penning this letter. Would like to add my name in support.

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    1. Darrell- thank you so much for requesting to sign! I would love to add your name to the list of signatures following the article, but we are not adding men’s names at this time. We love and are deeply grateful for your, and all of our other brothers’ support in this, but one of Beth’s standard responses lately to any man who requests biblical accountability from her is to say he’s sexist or a misogynist. We’re trying to circumvent that excuse by demonstrating that it’s not sexism, women want biblical accountability from her, too.

      So what I’m doing is approving men’s comments for the comments section here, but not adding their names to the list above. I hope you understand, and thanks again so much for your support!

      If you (or anyone else) would like to help, please share this around and encourage all the Christian women you know to sign on. :0)

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  73. I would also like to know the answer to these questions. She also never addresses the late term abortion issue when states have passed laws allowing for abortion up to the time of birth, or laws which allow babies born alive in botched abortions to die on the table. Thank you Michelle! We appreciate you!

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  74. Thank you for penning this open letter to Mrs. Moore, we as women need more doctrinally sound teachers who are bold to stand on what the Bible teaches clearly instead of all the emotional fluff! Please add my name!!

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  76. I’m adding my name. I’m very interested in Mrs Moore’s response. Thank you very much to the women who wrote the letter. You are a blessing.

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  80. Beth Moore, we would like to thank you in advance for your clarifying answer as to the question regarding your position on homosexuality and abortion. Thanks again. Cathy Kaech

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    1. Hi Chris- thank you so much for requesting to sign! I would love to add your name to the list of signatures following the article, but we are not adding men’s names at this time. We love and are deeply grateful for your, and all of our other brothers’ support in this, but one of Beth’s standard responses lately to any man who requests biblical accountability from her is to say he’s sexist or a misogynist. We’re trying to circumvent that excuse by demonstrating that it’s not sexism, women want biblical accountability from her, too.

      So what I’m doing is approving men’s comments for the comments section here, but not adding their names to the list above. I hope you understand, and thanks again so much for your support!

      If you (or anyone else) would like to help, please share this around (maybe mention on F4F?) and encourage all the Christian women you know to sign on. If you’d even like to go so far as to have someone on F4F to talk about it, I’d be delighted, any time (and if not, no worries!). :0)

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    1. Hi Jeff- thank you so much for requesting to sign! I would love to add your name to the list of signatures following the article, but we are not adding men’s names at this time. We love and are deeply grateful for your, and all of our other brothers’ support in this, but one of Beth’s standard responses lately to any man who requests biblical accountability from her is to say he’s sexist or a misogynist. We’re trying to circumvent that excuse by demonstrating that it’s not sexism, women want biblical accountability from her, too.

      So what I’m doing is approving men’s comments for the comments section here, but not adding their names to the list above. I hope you understand, and thanks again so much for your support!

      If you (or anyone else) would like to help, please share this around and encourage all the Christian women you know to sign on. :0)

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      1. No worries – I am so thankful for you and this endeavor – our church is praying for Beth and for this rebellion that has sprung up. It seems that since RHE death, Beth has somehow wanted to step into that position – I hope I am wrong but ever since then it has been like a rodeo circus in public. Please let me know if I or Grace Pointe Baptist can help in any way. Love in Christ, Jeff

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      2. Thanks, Jeff. Yes, if you will just share with any of the ladies of Grace Pointe you think might be interested in signing, and share in any social media groups or with any ministries you feel would be appropriate, that would help a lot!

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  90. I was six months a Christian 26 years ago when I did my first Beth Moore Bible study. Literally from the first day I knew there was something seriously wrong with how she interprets scripture. These are not difficult questions for her to answer. If she refuses to do so her refusal will speak volumes.

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  99. I am in agreement with this and would like to add my name to this list. I am hopeful that Mrs. Moore responds with the humility and grace that you all have extended in this letter. May it bring conviction and a God honoring conversation on both sides. Thank you ladies for being bound by the scriptures and for caring about biblical teaching of women.

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  102. Laurel Pinske
    Please add my name in support, but I do have a question that may come from my ignorance of USA politics.
    I noticed when I read about the SBC meeting that homosexuality is a sin that is specifically singled out. Why not abortion? Why not divorce? Why not the abuse of giving children sex-change medication? Why not gluttony? Why not greed?
    Maybe I need to sit down and read the whole SBC statement, and if that is the case, forgive me for my haste. I’m just a little bit confused as to why this one sin seems to be so elevated above so many others, one of which involves murder of the unborn child.
    Thank you for your patience with a foreigner. 🙂
    (And I will not be offended if you just add my name and choose to answer me privately or not at all. I know you are very busy, and today’s post will probably only add to your workload. God bless. Laurel)

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    1. Hi Laurel-

      It’s absolutely no problem for you to ask those questions. I’m glad you did! I’m not sure which SBC statement you’re referring to, but the reason homosexuality is one of the major sins being addressed is because the world is making such a push for it to be embraced and celebrated and that push is making its way into the church. Most Christians know well enough that abortion is a sin. That’s not something that’s being pushed in the church. Neither is anyone I know of (inside the church or out) trying to get people to embrace and celebrate greed or gluttony.

      It’s kind of like this: when a house is on fire, the firemen aim their hoses at the house that’s on fire, not at the houses that aren’t on fire. I hope that makes sense. :0)

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  104. I agree Mrs Moore should answer the questions in the letter. She has been an unsound teacher for quite a while and it needs to be exposed.

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  105. So thankful for you, Michelle! There are lots of women I know that so appreciate your work. Please add me!

    Laura Smith

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      1. I hope you’re right, Michelle. But so far she’s using it to play the victim card. I’m pretty sure that’s all we’ll get from her. However, the volume of signatures may cause some of her followers to think, and God may consequently wean them away from her. That in itself would be worth it!

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  115. What a powerful letter with pertinent questions that must be answered. This comes at a very crucial time for me personally as my pastor just used a clip of Beth Moore this past Sunday in his message. It was beyond distressing to me as I have appealed to him in the past to be aware of her false teaching and to guard against it in our women’s ministry–to no avail. Her embracing of so many false doctrines and her failure to repent and turn aside from endorsing practices the Bible clearly calls sin certainly labels her a dangerous teacher and one to be avoided at all costs.
    Please add my name to the list. Praying this will be an effective tool that the Holy Spirit will use to bring conviction to Beth’s heart.

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  123. Michelle, would you please add my name? I would also like to know why Beth believes it is okay for her to “preach” because she “doesn’t want to be a pastor” when God’s Word clearly says, “A woman must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. But I do not allow a woman to TEACH or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet.” 1 Tim 2:11-12

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    1. Michelle, would you please use my name, Jan Bennett instead of utgal72? I was in Beth’s aerobics class for 5 years when she first moved back to Houston & there were only 2 of us so she knows me. I have also written to her with questions concerning what she’s teaching that contradicts Scripture but she never responded. I am proud to be counted among those whom she refers to as, “bullies, scoffers and mean-spirited” because, like the Bereans, I examine the Scriptures to see if what she & others teach are true or not.

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  129. I request my name to be added. Since 2016 when I saw her quick reaction to the unfortunate video that was released regarding what President Trump said years ago. I have questioned her ability to forgive. I felt her reaction was self centered, “all about her”, rather than what was best for the country. Called her ministry with objection and received no legitimate answer.
    Her alignment with progressive “Christians” is further evidence that she needs to clarify her beliefs on these specific topics.

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  130. Please add my name, Maygen Wilson. I’m so sick over the fact that so many of my brothers and sisters are Co aiming her koolaide instead of the rich meat and potatoes if the Word!! Beth, sell all your goods and follow Jesus!

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  133. Please add my name to the list of signatures. These are very important questions that need to be answered by Mrs. Moore. Thank you for coordinating this open letter. I look forward to her response.

    Lisa King

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  134. Beth, you have such a huge following. Speaking truth in love to so many who are struggling with this issue would be the courageous thing to do. The church has stayed quiet too long and now we have pride month. 😢 they can be set free from this through Jesus! I know you want that for them too.

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  146. She needs to remember that in the old testament, God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah because of homosexuality! God says it is immortal.

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  149. This letter is pathetic. Reminds me a lot of the questions the Pharisees liked to ask Jesus. God forbid Beth Moore have some friends who are LGBTQ affirming. I hope that one day you look back on this and are embarrassed at this…

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  154. Please add my name to the letter. Praying the Holy Spirit opens Mrs Moore’s eyes, and those of the women (and men) who follow her teachings without weighing her words against Scripture. Thank you so much for your clear teaching and your heart for true, Godly unity among His people.

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  161. Please add my name to the list. I would also like to know Ms. Moore’s stance on this issue. Why has she remained silent?

    Susan Haymon

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  167. 100% agree and endorse. I’m a women’s small group leader and we’ve been reading through the Bible from Genesis 1:1, taking our time. Our cardinal rules have been the three C’s (context, context, context) and NO narcissigesis allowed! That’s what Bible teaching is, right? So yes, we need some clarification from Mrs. Moore. After taking our time and working through the Mosaic law and how it applies to New Testament believers, I think I can speak for the ladies in my group to say we’d like to know where she stands on this vital issue. Please add my name. Sincerely, Camille Warren

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  168. So thankful for this opportunity to add my signature and to know there are godly Christ loving women fulfilling their calling for the purity of the gospel and God’s word!

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  178. Pingback: Beth Moore Questioned by Michelle Lesley Over Ambiguous Stance on Homosexuality

  201. Tiet Parsons, yes please enter my name to the signature list. I too would like very much to know where Mrs. Moore stand on this issue. I do hope for a clear cut reply, “let your yes be yes and your no be no.”

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  206. Thank you for doing this. After using Beth Moore studies for years my eyes were finally opened to her lack of biblical integrity in her teaching. Please add my name to the list – Donna Nelson

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  207. I am so thankful for solid women Bible teachers who are bold and courageous enough to stand up and ask these very important questions! Thank you so much ladies!

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  212. These are very basic questions that should be answered. I don’t see what the controversy is. The letter is respectful and direct.

    I’m looking forward to her response however I’m not holding my breath.

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  216. Thank you ladies. I am interested in hearing the answers to these questions as well. Please add my name.

    Terri Weiford

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  221. Pingback: Can Women Preach? and the Word of Faith – Striving For Eternity Ministries

  231. I would like my name to be added, too. (Well-written letter– and some good questions were raised. )

    -Julie Wood

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  239. I agree with this letter and would like to add my name as well. I have had a conversation with leadership with my concerns with her associations and silence on the matter. I would appreciate she make known her position. I did try to add my name earlier but do not see it added.

    -Autumn

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  243. Please add my name – Laura Flack.

    Thank you so much Michelle, for your work on this
    and for all the others that worked (and signed)!

    I’ll continue to pray for Beth’s repentance.

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  252. Amen! I’m so sad with the direction Beth is going. I pray for her regularly.
    Thank you for doing this.
    Please add my name.

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  255. Teachers are held to a higher standard. You influence many people and have taught error and refuse accountability. I pray you repent, humble yourself and turn to the Lord. Please answer the questions and be accountable for your stance.

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  259. Thank you for addressing this issue with Beth Moore. I have many questions for this woman! So many of us have followed her teachings only to find out there are many false teachings in her work! Enough to mislead and send you straight to hell!! Thank the Lord I did discern it early on and have been trying to share the truth of her teachings for years! Please add my name to the list .
    Thank you again!
    Sandie Fields

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  268. You can add my name. I used to listen to Beth Moore before I learned what discernment really was and why I needed to practice it. Since I actually stopped going with my feelings and started studying what the Word actually has to tell us, I can no longer support her as a teacher of any kind.

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  272. Thank you for writing this letter. Given Beth Moore’s public profile and association with Hatmaker and Merritt clarification is needed. Please add my name.

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  275. Wanting to get the word out about Beth Moore for a long time. Ladies pay attention. Through scripture and in kindness and this is. Thank you Michelle

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    1. As bereans we are called discern what is of God and what is not of God and Biblically sound. I believe that Beth Moore has crossed the line the line and entered into false doctrine. She has turned to another Jesus and I believe she must repent. She is leading so many astray…I truly believe this letter is necessary.

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  305. Add my name. This is a critical issue for Mrs. Moore to address and answer to. She has a large following and has much influence. I do pray for her to truthfully respond and then for God to grant her repentence of the unbiblical things she has said and done. We all sin at times, but not all of us have as much influence over the lives of other Christians as she has had. Humility in this would be honoring to our Lord.

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  312. I agree this issue needs to be addressed by Ms. Moore. There are far too many confused people thinking they can live this lifestyle and be saved. I encourage Ms. Moore to make a stand for truth.

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  321. Pingback: An Open To Beth Moore about Homosexuality with Michelle Lesley – Striving For Eternity Ministries

  330. Please add my name. Christine Combs. I have tried for years to persuade other SBC’ers , including pastors , to listen. Brushed off as divisive. Thankful that there are others who see it as well.

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  336. Beth my dear,
    You are not being persecuted and it is not loving to allow people to die in their sin separate from Jesus Our Lord. You are being admonished by a loving family for leading people away from the Truth and True Love of God as written in God’s Word. Loving homosexuals does not preclude teaching them the whole truth to save them from self destruction and possibly eternal destruction.. everyone in any sin needs to be told the truth about sin . That’s Love..Jesus purpose for dying was to forgive us and give us Truth and The Holy Spirit and cleanse us.. empower us to be overcomers of the world, The Flesh, and the devil. That’s true Love.

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  350. My prayer is that this request will be heard and responded to in the spirit it has been given. I would like to add my name, not as an attack, but rather as a call to all of us to examine the messages we pass to others in the name of Christ. A dying world needs clarity — something I need to be mindful of in my witness. Cyndy Adeniyi

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  358. Thank you for your faithfulness in contending for the truth of God’s Word. I am in agreement with all of the above and hope we receive a full answer from her.

    Please add my name. Thank you! 🙂

    Blessings,
    Emily George

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  359. Thank you ladies for coming together to bring this issue to Beth Moore’s attention. I am supportive of your efforts here, so much she has yet to say. Really sad how many are following her every word, words which are not edifying the word of God. Sad. It’s all feelings.

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  360. Thank you for addressing the need to be clear on this subject by all influential Christian speakers. Please add my name. I pray they will stick to Biblical teaching.

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  364. Not sure if you’ve received this twice but Please add me. -Kris Schlagel

    I have tried contacting Beth Moore and living prof in the past and have just been told they will not answer at this time or completely ignored. Praying for softened hearts.

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  366. Thanks to all who wrote this letter and have taken lots of heat from Mrs. Moore’s supporters. If she is to be a headline Women’s speaker for the SBC, she is to take a stand on this issue.
    Gayle Smith

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  370. Praying for you Mrs. Moore! We care about you and that’s why this is so important for us to know!

    Thanks Michelle for your faithfulness! I am so encouraged by your efforts, it is rare! I would like to sign!

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  371. Please add my name.
    I appreciate those of you that stand for the truth.
    Thank you,
    Rachelle Journey

    “Discernment is not simply a matter of telling the difference between what is right and wrong; rather it is the difference between right and almost right.”
    -Charles Spurgeon.

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  378. Yes, I would like to know what Beth Moore’s stance is on this issue. Before we purchase one more of her Bible studies or books or attend one more conference with her, we should know where she stands unequivocally.

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  383. Beth, please come back to an upright walk with the Lord and repent of your sins. You have such an opportunity to influence woman all around the world, but it must be done according to Scripture and not your own agenda or for profit. Lisa PS

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  386. Thank you, Michelle, for taking the time and making the effort to hold Beth Moore accountable. I appreciate you and all the writers of the letter. I’ve witnessed first-hand the huge blind spot that people can have regarding her unbiblical teachings. Please add my name. Mitzi Turpin

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  389. Thank you, Michelle for so courageously speaking out and calling Beth Moore to account. It seems harsh and unloving to many, but is the most loving thing one can do. ‘Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who rejects reroof leads others astray.’ (Prov. 10:17)
    I pray Beth will respond with a clear biblical answer. She is held to a much higher account because of her teaching. If the Spirit is convicting her, I pray that she not suppress the truth, but humbly acknowledge her sin and turn from it. The Lord is faithful and just to forgive, but she MUST be truthful and walk in obedience to His written Word on all accounts. Subtle obscurity is not honest, nor is it loving to those who follow her and hold her is such high regard.
    ‘But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word. (Isaiah 66: 2b). Walk in the Spirit of Truth, Beth, not the spirit of this age.

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  394. I’m not sure Beth Moore believes she is accountable to the authentic body of Christ. Rather, she seeks affirmation from fringe and eroding evangelicalism. Even so, I would like my name added to this important effort in seeking doctrinal clarity from her.

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  397. This is a very well written letter asking for clarification on a serious issue facing the church. This is a sin that clearly is condemned by our Lord in Scripture (1 Cor. 6:9-11). It a sin that has devastated many families and could seriously compromise the testimony and witness of the church. It is heartbreaking to see the division over a lifestyle that is so clearly prohibited in Scripture. Paul’s warnings in 2 Timothy 3:1-5 ring so true in our day. Certainly a prominent women’s teacher such as Beth Moore needs to clearly state her position. Thank you for your willingness to take on this issue and ask the hard questions. Please add my name!

    Carole Kaetz

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  398. Our home Bible study group of ladies studied many of Beth Moore’s studies in the past. We eventually discontinued studying any of Beth’s studies. Her association with false teachers became unacceptable to us.We do pray for Beth that she will teach truth and not compromise God’s truth with anything else.One of the ladies in our group did send an email expressing our decision but we did not receive a response that we could accept.

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  401. This is very gracious and I am in agreement. I do hope that Beth at least acknowledges this letter.

    add my name.
    – Lisa Ente

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  402. I’ve been aware of the problems with Beth and have been warning ladies (and men) about her for over 15 years. I’m so thankful that you have openly asked her for a response to this issue that needs Biblical clarity in the days we’re living in. Please add my name to the list. Raynie Sivillo

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  404. Thank you to all of you ladies for admonishing Beth in love. Regardless of the outcome, you have done the biblical thing, and I am very grateful to you for that. May God be glorified. I would also ask for an open letter to be written requesting that she state her beliefs about women in church leadership. As many are already aware, she has handled herself immaturely and unbiblically about this topic, especially to Owen Strachan recently. I would like to see her clearly state her position, her intentions, and the biblical support for her beliefs about this topic as well.

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  410. It’s very clear in Romans what is an abomination to Our Great God. Unless you do not have a high view of God but a low view of Him who made all things and a high view of man who sins daily.

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  411. I saw this being shared from everyone on twitter! Read it when you first posted it! I didn’t know we were able to stand behind you on this letter! Exciting! Please add me to the list! The name is Kira Ulmer! Thank you so much!

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  416. Thank you for sending this letter to Mrs. Moore. I have been concerned about many things about her. Praying she will prayerfully consider her position on this, apply biblical truth and respond.

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  429. I am a Pastors wife and currently disciple women. I realized a few years ago that Beth Moore books did not feel right. Please consider my name added to the list. I pray Beth Moore would cast her boldness and influence to the biblical Christ.

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  430. I would like to keep my name on this worthwhile letter. Thank you for your time and effort. Also today’s post is wonderful:)

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  432. Jesus wisely refrained from answering questions directly sometimes. He answered by using parables, by quoting Scripture, and sometimes, he just kept quiet. If Jesus did this, why do some people feel they have the right to back Beth Moore into a corner, and then expect her to reveal every thought, even though her answers may be misunderstood or purposely twisted by some? Why feed into that kind of division? Jesus showed us by example that there are alternate ways to handle provoking questions.

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    1. Hi Jen-

      Could you please cite any of those instances, chapter and verse, so we can take a look at them and see if any of them are analogous to this letter?

      Can you name a time when Jesus was specifically asked by someone if a certain action was a sin and He refused to answer?

      I can think of several instances in which Jesus was asked about sin and He unashamedly gave a clear answer:
      When asked if it was biblical to divorce for any cause, Jesus answered plainly (Matthew 19:3-9).
      When asked if the blind man or his parents had sinned, Jesus answered plainly (John 9:1-3).
      When asked if it was biblical to pluck and eat grain on the Sabbath, Jesus answered plainly (Matthew 12:1-8)
      When asked if it was biblical to heal on the Sabbath, Jesus answered plainly (Matthew 12:9-13)
      And none of those questions were as simple as “Is homosexuality a sin?” You can bet your bottom dollar Jesus would have unashamedly answered that question with a resounding “yes”.

      “why do some people feel they have the right to back Beth Moore into a corner”

      As to “having the right,” this question has been answered at the link at the very top of this article. It’s #3.

      As to being backed into a corner, if Beth feels that she is backed into a corner, she is the one who has put herself there. If anyone asked her if lying or adultery or racism or sexual abuse were a sin, she’d have no problem clearly and unashamedly answering “yes”. Homosexuality is a no-brainer. It’s just as clearly declared by the Bible to be a sin as adultery and lying, and far more clearly than racism or sexual abuse, which Beth has had no problem publicly and explicitly denouncing. Have you stopped to ask yourself why a professed Christian who says she believes the Bible and has been a Bible teacher for 40 years, and whose own denomination (Southern Baptist) will not allow membership to homosexual-affirming churches or allow homosexual-affirming authors to be carried in its store (LifeWay), has been so reluctant, ashamed, and “backed into a corner” about clearly affirming the Bible’s teaching on homosexuality? Why would that be? If someone publicly asked me these questions, I could answer them in about 30 seconds with no hesitation. Indeed, I’ve addressed them all publicly and unashamedly on this blog without anyone having to ask me. Why hasn’t Beth? What is she so afraid of?

      “reveal every thought”

      This is hyperbolic and disingenuous. No one has asked her to do any such thing. We have asked her five simple questions, four of which could be answered with a yes or no if she didn’t care to expound.

      even though her answers may be misunderstood or purposely twisted by some

      She has no problem clearly articulating her position on racism and sexual abuse. If fear of her answers being misunderstood or twisted is the reason she’s not answering on homosexuality, why does she feel so free to spontaneously declare her position on these other two sins?

      And let’s take it back to your example of Jesus. We see plenty of people misunderstanding and twisting His answers, but He never shrank back from giving a biblical answer or from denouncing sin. Far from it. In fact, He unashamedly pointed people back to the Scriptures, saying, “It is written…” and “Have you never read…” and things like that. If Beth wants to be like Jesus, why doesn’t she unashamedly point people to what Scripture says about homosexuality?

      “Jesus showed us by example that there are alternate ways to handle provoking questions.”

      Why are they “provoking”? That’s the whole point here. No doctrinally sound pastor or teacher should feel “provoked” by these simple questions about the Bible – only someone who is ashamed of Scripture and feels that if she publicly sides with the Bible’s teaching she’ll lose followers or popularity. The Jesus she follows and teaches about has called us to be loyal to Him and His Word even if it costs us our lives. Is being true to Him not worth giving up a little bit of worldly fame and fortune?

      Again, please cite the instances in which Jesus was asked whether or not something was a sin and He refused to answer clearly or at all.

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      1. There needs to be a balance here, of having a deep love for God’s truth and a deep love for His command to love others. It saddens me to see so many people clinging to their own interpretation of God’s word more than His command AND EXAMPLE to love others. Don’t get me wrong, I love God’s word. I love truth. It gives us light in a very dark world, but more than anything, I love God’s heart and His example of how to love.
        As with Beth, it seems you’d like to back ME into a corner now by answering your very specific questions? Ha ha. I’m not biting either. I am accountable to One, as is Beth. Assume what you like about both of us.
        Jesus answered questions with parables many times. He answered questions with God’s truth many times. He refused to answer questions when it was wise to do so. Scour your Bible. You’ll find them.
        Our Savior chose to eat with sinners, causing others (the lofty Pharisees) to make assumptions and whisper about Him. Did that stop Him? No. He continued to love. He also sent away every person who judged the woman caught in adultery and forgave her because of His beautiful, merciful heart. Was He condoning all those sins? No, but thankfully, He showed us that He loves people more than He hates their sins. It would serve us well to look to Jesus how to love sinners instead of bickering about what constitutes a sin.
        To answer one of your questions, a question is “provoking” if it could easily divide people, especially believers. Does God want us divided, or does He want us united in love, despite the sins of others (and our own sins, lest we forget)? A fruit of the spirit is peace.
        In summary, love should not ignore truth, but neither should truth overshadow love.
        Can we agree on the most important commandment?

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      2. Jen- You made specific accusations in your original comment. If you’re a Christian, the Bible is your authority for what to think and believe (just like it is mine and every other Christian’s), not your own opinions and feelings about love and provocation and truth and all the other things you’ve mentioned. Neither your opinions nor mine matter, it’s what the Bible says that matters. If Beth is such a good Bible teacher, she should have taught you that.

        So asking you to back up what you’re saying with specific Scriptures (not nebulous allusions to Scripture) is not “backing you into a corner”. It’s saying, “We’re both Christians. The Bible is our authority for the Christian life. Let’s look at it in context and submit to what it says.” If you feel “backed into a corner” it is because you don’t know your Bible well enough to back up what you’re saying with rightly handled Scripture.

        Can we agree one of the most important tenets of biblical Christianity, that the Bible – not our own thoughts, opinions, and feelings – is our authority?

        Let me know when you find those specific instances (chapter and verse) of Jesus refusing to answer direct questions about sin, and we can discuss them.

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      3. You can fill in the gaps of silence with your assumptions. Assumptions can be wrong. Has Beth taught ANYTHING contrary to Scripture? If so, THEN we have something to discuss.

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    1. Mark, thank you so much for requesting to sign! I would love to add your name to the list of signatures following the article, but we are not adding men’s names at this time. We love and are deeply grateful for your, and all of our other brothers’ support in this, but one of Beth’s standard responses lately to any man who requests biblical accountability from her is to say he’s sexist or a misogynist. We’re trying to circumvent that excuse by demonstrating that it’s not sexism, women want biblical accountability from her, too.

      So what I’m doing is approving men’s comments for the comments section here, but not adding their names to the list above. I hope you understand, and thanks again so much for your support!

      If you (or anyone else) would like to help, please share this around and encourage all the Christian women you know to sign on. And, if you’re Southern Baptist (esp. pastors/leaders) please contact SBC president JD Greear, LifeWay president Ben Mandrell, and/or other SBC leadership, introduce yourself, and politely explain why Southern Baptists deserve to know where the world’s best known and most influential Southern Baptist, as well as LifeWay’s best selling author, stands on this issue. :0)

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