Many who struggle with same-sex attraction seem to think Christians hate them. Perhaps some do, in defiance of Jesus, who was soft on people and hard on sin. Following Christ's example is challenging when the people we are called to love cast us as bigots, hatemongers, and hypocrites for opposing their conduct.

The apostle Peter urges us to always be ready to give a defense of our faith "with gentleness and respect" (1 Peter 3:15-16). So perhaps this is a good time to rehearse a hypothetical conversation with a gay friend.