Daniel Kirk: Making the Vision of the New Testament Moral
Apr 25, 2024
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In this engaging discussion, Daniel Kirk, an award-winning New Testament scholar, teams up with Richard Hays, a former professor who has shifted his perspective on LGBTQ inclusion in the Church. They explore Hays' new book advocating for the acceptance of LGBTQ individuals, and delve into how traditional interpretations of scripture can evolve. The conversation emphasizes the importance of compassion over rigid beliefs, encouraging listeners to rethink church ethics and support inclusivity, all while navigating the complexities of faith and modern identities.
Richard Hays, once an opponent of LGBTQ inclusion, has shifted his stance, reflecting ongoing change in the Church's moral discourse.
Daniel Kirk illustrates the personal and institutional challenges faced by advocates for LGBTQ inclusion within traditional evangelical spaces.
The ethical framework in the New Testament, emphasizing community and new creation, supports a more inclusive interpretation relevant to LGBTQ individuals.
The podcast calls for greater allyship and education, urging current and future faith leaders to create accepting environments for marginalized identities.
Deep dives
The Shift in Inclusion Perspectives
The podcast explores the recent shift in perspectives regarding the inclusion of LGBTQ individuals in Christian communities, particularly through the lens of Richard Hayes and his son Christopher's upcoming book. Daniel Kirk, a former student of Hayes, reflects on how Hayes had previously argued against LGBTQ inclusion. However, the new book signals a change in Hayes's understanding, prompting discussions on the complexities and connections in the conversations surrounding morality and scripture. This evolution shows that even established scholars can rethink their positions, highlighting the ongoing dialogue within Christianity about inclusivity.
Personal Experiences with Theological Tensions
Kirk shares personal experiences that reveal the tensions faced by individuals advocating for LGBTQ inclusion within evangelical environments. During his time at Fuller Theological Seminary, he describes how his support for LGBTQ individuals clashed with the traditional views upheld by the institution. He recounts being denied tenure due to his inclusive stance, demonstrating how institutional policies can adversely affect scholars' voices in pushing for progress. This narrative illustrates the challenges faced by allies within conservative circles as they navigate their beliefs and the repercussions that come with expressing dissent.
Interpreting New Testament Ethics
The conversation delves into the ethical frameworks presented in the New Testament, particularly in Richard Hayes's work on moral vision. Hayes identifies three key lenses—community, cross, and new creation—that shape moral understanding and ethical guidance in light of the teachings of Jesus and the early church. Kirk emphasizes that the current conversations regarding LGBTQ inclusion derive strength from these biblical frameworks, particularly how the inclusive community reflects God's acceptance. This reevaluation calls for a broader understanding of the implications of living into the new creation narrative.
Complexity of Allyship
The podcast addresses the complexities involved in being an ally to LGBTQ individuals within faith communities. Kirk reflects on the difficult journey allies undertake, acknowledging their role in amplifying the voices of marginalized groups while also confronting their own privileges. The conversation underscores the responsibilities that come with advocating for inclusion, including the need for sincerity in recognizing historical harm caused by traditional texts. Together, they stress the importance of continued dialogues and reminiscent humility in the push for a more compassionate understanding of faith.
Challenges of Traditional Beliefs
Kirk highlights the emotional and psychological damage that traditional interpretations of scripture can inflict upon LGBTQ individuals. He points out that the perception of being inherently unworthy or sinful based on one's identity leads to self-harm, marginalization, and disconnection from communities. The podcast encourages unpacking these damaging narratives, calling for a fundamental rethinking of how scripture is used to affirm or vilify individuals. This reframing illustrates the necessity for the church to build spaces of acceptance rather than perpetuate harm.
A Call to Embrace Change
The podcast emphasizes the need for evangelical institutions to adapt in light of evolving understandings of LGBTQ inclusion. Kirk suggests that changes in prominent figures, such as Richard Hayes, could catalyze a broader movement within conservative churches towards acceptance and love. He expresses cautious optimism, noting that as previously firm stances soften, many within these institutions may find courage to affirm and embrace differing identities. This belief in transformative dialogue underlines the potential for growth and healing within faith communities.
Resources for Further Exploration
The conversation wraps up by providing resources for those looking to learn more about LGBTQ inclusion in Christian contexts. Suggested readings include works by Jay Johnson and the updated queer Bible commentary, offering valuable insights into the intersection of theology and sexuality. The hosts encourage listeners to engage with these texts to broaden their understanding and challenge their perspectives on inclusion. This guidance highlights the importance of education and conversation in fostering a more accepting faith environment.
The most influential academic text arguing against the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ divine image bearers into the life of the Church is Richard Hays' "The Moral Vision of the New Testament." He has changed his mind and has a new bookdeveloping a theological framework for the full inclusion of LGBTQ people in Christian communities.
In this live stream, Daniel Kirk joined me to explore his former professor's evolution on the issue, why it's about time for Richard (and lots of other faith leaders) to say so publicly, and how to think ethically with scripture. Those familiar with Daniel's previous visits to the podcast will know that he has argued publicly for full inclusion based on the logic of scripture for years, even to the point of being denied tenure in evangelical spaces that demand silence. When this new book was announced, I wanted to have him back on to unpack things and hopefully lure more straight allies to find their voice.
Daniel Kirk (Ph.D., Duke University) is an award-winning New Testament scholar whose work takes place at the intersection of history, biblical interpretation, and real life. He is currently broadening his intellectual and vocational horizons by studying to be a Physician Assistant. Look for upcoming work to have a robust dose of science and politics mixed into the biblical conversations.
Lexington Theological Seminary is a pioneer in online theological education. Both the Doctoral and Masters programs are designed with the flexibility and contextual focus needed for the working student. You can learn more by heading here.
