In a world where consumerism, materialism, and gluttony are pervasive, it seems that every day is treated as an opportunity to indulge, and holidays like Christmas have become occasions of excess rather than moments of gratitude. Yet, in the hustle of buying the latest gadgets, preparing lavish meals, and creating elaborate decorations, the deeper meaning of these celebrations risks being overshadowed. As Christians, we are reminded that Christmas is not just another day of festivity or an excuse for indulgence—it is a sacred time to give thanks and reflect on the greatest gift humanity has ever received: Jesus Christ.
The Reason for the Season
The world may often overlook the significance of Christmas, reducing it to commercial exchanges, but for believers, Christmas is a time to honor the birth of Jesus, God’s ultimate gift to the world. This is not just a day to exchange gifts, but a time to remember the immense love that God showed by sending His only son to save a broken world. John 3:16 states: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” This verse beautifully encapsulates the core of what Christmas represents—God’s gift of salvation, freely given to all who would receive it.
The Problem of Consumerism and Gluttony
It is no secret that, particularly during the holiday season, we see an increase in spending, overindulgence, and sometimes even stress as people attempt to create a “perfect” Christmas. From overspending on presents to overloading on food, the season can easily become a frenzy of excess, often leaving people feeling more drained than fulfilled. Instead of bringing joy and peace, it often creates anxiety, debt, and dissatisfaction.
What was meant to be a time of reflection and gratitude has, for many, morphed into a pressure-cooker of social expectations. This is in stark contrast to the simple, yet profound, reason for Christmas: the birth of Christ, who came to give us eternal life, not fleeting material possessions.
A Call to Give Thanks and Return to the Heart of Christmas
Christmas should remind us of the importance of gratitude, not just for earthly blessings but for the eternal gift of salvation through Jesus. Romans 6:23 says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” This gift is freely offered to all of us. It is not something we can buy, nor something we deserve, but a testament to God’s infinite love for us.
Instead of focusing on the material aspects of the season, we are invited to reflect on Jesus’s life, His teachings, and most importantly, His sacrifice. As Christians, we are called to celebrate Christmas by remembering why Jesus came to this earth—to pay the price for our sins and offer us the gift of eternal life. This is the heart of the holiday, the reason behind all the joy, lights, and music. Without Christ, there would be no Christmas.
The Greatest Gift of All
The poem “The Greatest Gift” beautifully highlights the core message of the gospel: God’s love for us was so great that He sent His son to die in our place, offering us salvation and eternal life. This is the greatest gift the world has ever known—far more valuable than any material possession we might receive during the holiday season. It is a gift that cannot be earned, only accepted, through faith in Christ.
To receive this gift, we are invited to trust Jesus as our Savior and call upon His name. Through repentance and belief, we are born again, and our sins are forgiven, as Jesus already paid the price on the cross. This is the good news we celebrate during Christmas—a reminder that no matter how flawed or unworthy we may feel, God’s love for us is boundless.
Bringing the Focus Back to Christ
As the holiday season approaches, let us challenge ourselves to return to the true meaning of Christmas. Yes, it is a time for gathering with loved ones, enjoying good food, and exchanging gifts—but most importantly, it is a time to reflect on the immeasurable love of God shown through the birth of Jesus. Rather than getting lost in the distractions of consumerism and excess, we can choose to celebrate Christmas with a heart of gratitude, worship, and remembrance of God’s eternal gift.
In a world that constantly encourages us to seek more, Christmas reminds us that we have already been given the greatest gift—Jesus. Let us remember that Jesus is the reason for the season, and let that truth shape how we celebrate.
John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” ~ Proverbs 4:23 (NIV)
This is part 3 of a 5-part series on guarding your heart in relationships. As women, we are nurturing by nature and referred to in the Bible as the “weaker vessel” (1 Peter 3:7). This isn’t a reflection of value but a design that calls us to be helpers to men, wired to bring support and care into relationships. Men instinctively know this about us, and while this dynamic can bring balance and beauty, it also leaves room for misuse when not approached with God’s wisdom and guidance.
Navigating relationships as a woman is both rewarding and challenging. The desire for meaningful connection is God-given, but it is essential to protect your heart from those who might exploit your trust and affection. This article will help you recognize emotional manipulation, safeguard your heart, and keep your relationships aligned with God’s design.
Understanding the Issue
In Christian communities, marriage is often emphasized as the goal of relationships. Traditionally, men are seen as leaders in pursuing this commitment. However, some misuse this dynamic, taking advantage of women’s nurturing nature to gain emotional support, companionship or even material benefits without the intention of genuine commitment, dodging the responsibility and accountability God places on the man.
This behavior distorts the biblical model of relationships, which calls for love, mutual respect, and service. Scripture, especially passages like 1 Corinthians 13 and Ephesians 5:25, reminds us that relationships should reflect Christ-like love. When someone enjoys the benefits of a relationship—such as emotional support or marital privileges—without accountability, it can leave women feeling devalued and disrespected.
How Women Can Protect Themselves
Guarding your heart requires awareness, boundaries, and trust in God’s plan for your life. Below are practical steps to help you stay vigilant and protect yourself from emotional manipulation.
1. Recognize Red Flags Early On
Understanding warning signs can save you from heartache.
Signs to Watch For:
• He avoids discussing long-term plans or commitment.
• He benefits emotionally, practically, or financially but does not reciprocate.
• He dodges conversations about defining the relationship or its future.
What to Do:
• Trust patterns, not promises. Actions speak louder than words.
• If he consistently avoids clarity, prayerfully consider whether the relationship is aligned with God’s will.
2. Set Healthy Boundaries
Boundaries are essential for protecting your emotional and spiritual well-being.
Practical Steps:
• Define your boundaries early and communicate them clearly.
• Avoid giving “marital privileges” without a commitment, such as deep emotional investment, financial support, or physical intimacy.
• Stand firm when someone pressures you to compromise your values.
3. Avoid Rushing into Emotional Investment
Deep emotional connections should develop gradually, based on proven sincerity.
Suggestion:
• Take time to assess his character and intentions.
• Observe his response to your boundaries. Respect is a crucial indicator of genuine love.
• Trust God’s timing and allow relationships to grow organically.
4. Seek Accountability and Godly Counsel
Sometimes emotions can cloud judgment. Trusted counsel can help you see clearly.
Why It’s Important:
• Trusted friends, mentors, or spiritual leaders provide objective insights.
• A godly community helps you stay grounded in biblical principles.
5. Embrace Your Value and Worth in Christ
Your identity is rooted in Christ, not in a relationship or another person’s validation.
Reminders:
• Reflect on Psalm 139:14: “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
• When you know your worth in God’s eyes, you won’t settle for less than His best for you.
What to Look for in a Healthy Relationship
A godly relationship should reflect the principles of love, respect, and mutual commitment. Seek these qualities in a potential partner:
• Respect: He honors your boundaries and values your emotions.
• Clear Intentions: He communicates openly and aligns his actions with his words.
• Sacrificial Love: He demonstrates Christ-like love through selflessness and support.
• Accountability: He welcomes godly counsel and community oversight.
Taking Control of the Situation
If you notice red flags or feel uncertain about someone’s intentions, take proactive steps to protect your heart:
1. Clarify Your Own Needs: Align your relationship expectations with God’s principles.
2. Evaluate Actions Over Words: Look for consistency between what he says and does.
3. Have a Direct Conversation: Express your concerns openly and see how he responds.
4. Be Willing to Walk Away: If he doesn’t respect your boundaries or intentions, trust God’s plan and let go.
Conclusion
Relationships are designed to reflect God’s love—honest, sacrificial, and committed. Emotional manipulation undermines this purpose and can leave women feeling used and devalued. By staying vigilant, setting boundaries, and seeking godly counsel, you can protect your heart and honor both God and yourself in your relationships.
It’s essential to remember that you cannot change a person—only God can transform hearts. Men are not “build-a-bear” projects, and it’s not your responsibility to fix or mold someone into who you hope they could be. Trying to do so often leads to frustration and heartache.
The fear of being alone or not finding someone can make it tempting to settle for less than God’s best. But settling out of fear compromises your values and leads to unfulfilling relationships. Trust God’s timing, knowing that He has good plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11).
Never forget: your worth is found in Christ, not in a man’s approval. True love reflects God’s design, where respect, integrity, and godliness thrive. Stay rooted in His Word, embrace your identity in Him, and let Him guide you toward relationships that bring joy, growth, and lasting love.
In Mark 7:8, Jesus speaks with profound clarity: “You disregard and neglect the commandment of God, and cling [faithfully] to the tradition of men.” This verse cuts to the heart of an ongoing tension that has existed since the days of Christ: the elevation of human traditions over the divine Word of God. Jesus’ confrontation with the Pharisees reveals a dangerous practice where man-made traditions overshadow and even invalidate God’s commandments.
Traditions: A Challenge in Jesus’ Time
Mark 7:2-9 paints a vivid picture of this confrontation. The Pharisees and scribes, having observed Jesus’ disciples eating with unwashed hands, found fault with them. They weren’t just concerned with hygiene, but with the breaking of religious customs—the “tradition of the elders”—which had become a cornerstone of Jewish religious practice. They viewed this tradition as equal to, or even above, God’s commandments.
Jesus’ response is striking. He calls them hypocrites, quoting Isaiah: “This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me.” He condemns their practices, stating, “For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men.” This indictment is as relevant today as it was then. The Pharisees placed their traditions on a pedestal, and in doing so, lost sight of the heart of God’s law. They honored God with outward rituals, but their hearts were far from Him.
The Danger of Tradition Today
In the present age, many Christians find themselves at a similar crossroads. The traditions of men can still creep into our faith, subtly undermining the pure Word of God. Colossians 2:8 warns us to be vigilant: “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” Tradition, when unchecked by Scripture, can lead us into a form of religion that has the appearance of wisdom but lacks the power to transform.
One of the greatest dangers of these traditions is that they often seem harmless or even beneficial. After all, they may have been passed down for generations and become ingrained in our communities and culture. But as 1 Peter 1:17-19 reminds us, we were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, “from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ.” Our salvation is not found in human traditions but in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
The Pharisees’ Blindness: An Ongoing Struggle
When Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for their traditions, He pointed to the deeper issue of the heart. The Pharisees had developed a system of religion that was all about outward appearances, with rules about washing hands and cleaning vessels (Mark 7:4). But their focus on external purity blinded them to the internal transformation that God desires. As Romans 10:3 states, “They being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God.”
This is a profound warning for believers today. If we are not careful, we can also fall into the trap of relying on human traditions or self-imposed practices to define our righteousness. But no amount of religious ritual can make us right with God—only faith in Jesus Christ, submission to His Word, and His finished work on the Cross can do that. No amount of external works or accolades will suffice, for obedience is better than sacrifice.
God’s Commandments are Sufficient
Deuteronomy 12:29-32 gives a stern warning: “Whatever I command you, be careful to observe it; you shall not add to it nor take away from it.” God’s Word is complete and sufficient. We are not to add to it with human traditions, nor are we to take away from it through selective obedience. The Scripture is clear: anything that detracts from the purity of God’s Word is not to be followed.
Traditions often evolve over time and may start with good intentions, but they can lead us away from the truth of the Gospel. In Matthew 15:1-9, Jesus again confronts the Pharisees, accusing them of transgressing the commandments of God in favor of their traditions. Their interpretation of the law had become twisted, allowing them to bypass God’s true commands—such as honoring father and mother—while upholding human rules that seemed religious.
Direct Access to God Through Christ
One of the most beautiful gifts that Christians have is direct access to God through Jesus Christ. As believers, we are not bound by the traditions of men that create barriers between us and God. The veil has been torn (Matthew 27:51), and we can approach the throne of grace with confidence (Hebrews 4:16). Through the sacrifice of Jesus, we have the privilege of a personal relationship with God. We no longer need a human intermediary to offer sacrifices or perform rituals on our behalf.
Because Jesus is our mediator, we have the incredible privilege of direct communication with God through prayer. He intercedes for us (Romans 8:34), making our prayers effective and heard by the Father. This divine access reminds us that our relationship with God is intimate and unbroken, secured through Christ’s finished work on the cross, as He alone died for our sins.
Conclusion: Cling to God’s Word, Not Man’s Tradition
The Word of God is living and powerful (Hebrews 4:12). It is our guide, our light, and our foundation. We must be careful not to allow human traditions—however well-meaning they may seem—to overshadow the authority of Scripture. Galatians 1:8 gives a sobering warning: “But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed.” This shows the seriousness with which we must guard the purity of God’s Word, for Jesus Himself warned, “Get away from Me; I never knew you, you who practice disobedience” (Matthew 7:23). To neglect the truth of Scripture and substitute it with human traditions is to risk eternal separation from God.
As born-again believers, our allegiance is to Christ alone, not to any denomination, human traditions, or rituals. Let us examine our hearts and lives to ensure that we are following the Word of God rather than the traditions of men. Only by doing so can we worship God in spirit and truth (John 4:24), honoring Him with our lives and not just our lips. Our faith must be rooted in a personal relationship with Jesus, guided by His Word, and not defined by external affiliations or practices.
One of the most common and important questions that every Christian hears is, “can I be gay and a Christian?” I believe this is a question that our generation so desperately wants to know the truth about. BUT…
Many people answer this question from a judgmental place void of love. In this video I answer this question full of love but full of the truth. Why? It is time for Christians to engage the questions of our culture and world to provide answers that nobody else fully understands or knows.
Whether you identify as a member of the LGBTQ community, a Christian or somewhere in between this video will challenge, encourage and bless you.
My desire is that you would encounter the real Jesus as you watch this video and that the truth set you free. – Sincerely, Ross Johnston. The transcript from the video can be found below…
Ross Johnston was born via artificial insemination and brought up in a LGBTQ household, Ross’s personal testimony can be found here: Testimony.
The below transcript is from Ross Johnston’s video, can I be gay and Christian:
I’m gay, and I’m a Christian—or I’m a Christian, but I’m struggling with same-sex attraction, and I don’t know how to get free. You see, here’s the truth: these are the top two questions that I get on all of my social media platforms every single day, and I truly believe these are questions of a generation—questions that are desperate for answers that are full of the truth and full of love.
So, in today’s video, we’re going to dive right into these. Now, please, before you keep watching this video, I want to say a few things to really explain and express my heart, because here’s the truth: so many times, when people talk about this topic, it comes from a place of hate and a place of judgment, and I want my heart posture to be so clear to every single person watching, whether you call yourself a Christian or you don’t.
Here are the few things that I want to lay as a foundation before we talk about and answer these questions.
Number one: I was born by artificial insemination. I grew up in a lesbian household. My mom is still currently living in that community. Why do I bring this up? So many people will say, when I share what I’m going to share today (and this will come from Christians and non-Christians), that what I’m saying is hateful, it’s not loving, etc., etc.
Here is the reality: my entire life, even up until this point, I have lived among, and all of my mom’s friends are a part of, the LGBTQ community. So many people in that community are kind, are loving, forgiving, and are amazing people. So, I want you to know that my heart posture—whatever side, wherever your beliefs are right now—I just want you to know one thing: my heart is to share the truth through the lens of love. Because here’s the second thing I want to say: I am simply asking for the next 10 to 15 minutes of your attention, whatever you call yourself, whatever you identify as, whatever your spiritual beliefs are. Because here’s what I’m believing for: that if we can actually engage these hard and challenging questions of our generation, could it actually lead to breakthrough? Could it actually lead to salvation? Could it actually lead to healing? Could it actually lead to people living the life that they are designed for?
And here’s my other desire: I am not here to Bible-bash you and just throw scripture verses at you. No. Do I believe in the Bible? 100%. Do I believe it’s the Word of God? 100%. But even if you don’t believe that, I’m going to share things today that I believe actually have the power for you to receive destiny, for you to receive hope, joy, and a purpose—maybe for the first time in your life.
And here’s the third thing—and I think this is funny, but it’s the truth—so many times, people forget that sex was not our idea. It was not man’s idea; it was God’s idea. He created it from the beginning of time, before sin, before almost anything else besides creation. And here’s why this is important: God created sex for procreation and for pleasure. So, I think we have to redefine sex in our minds as Christians and as people of the world. The truth is, sex is God’s design so that His purposes would become reality on the earth.
Because what is the first thing that He told man to do? ‘Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and govern it.’ And you can’t do that without sex. And here’s the last thing I want to say before we dive into this video. Thank you for listening to these. What I want you to know is, at the end of this video, I’m going to share something called the Good News. Now, you might have heard it, you might not have heard it, but here’s why I want you to stay till the end: because I’m actually going to share the real truth on what can actually set you free, save you, bring you healing, and bring you into the design for your life.
So, let’s dive into this.
Alright, so the first question that I want to answer today is: can you be gay and be a Christian? And here’s what I’m going to do: I’m going to explain, out of the Word of God, out of the Bible, out of the Scriptures, what is the truth. Now, here’s what I want to say: I know there are some people watching; they might not even believe in the Bible. Maybe you’ve never read the Bible, maybe you’ve never had an experience with God, or an experience with Jesus, an experience with the Holy Spirit. Just please listen, because here is the truth: there’s one thing that’s clear from scholars, who are Christians and not, that the Bible is indeed a real document that has been confirmed and that has been proven and tested to be completely real.
And so, this is what the Bible begs the question: if this document, which has been proven to be real, is the truth, then what is the responsibility and the action that is placed on my life?”
And so, here’s the first thing I want to start with: this is literally the first page of the entire Bible. It is Genesis 1:27, and here are verses 26 and 27. Here’s what I want to read: if you have your Bible, just go with me real quick.
Then God said, “Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us. They will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the wild animals, and the small animals along the ground.”
Now check this out: so God created human beings in His own image. In the image of God, He created them; male and female, He created them. Then God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the Earth and govern it.”
A few things: It was God’s desire to create you and me. You were formed in your mother’s womb by God. He loved you, He chose you, and He knew you before the foundations of the Earth. Whether your parents wanted you or whether any other person had any say in how you came to this Earth, God knew you, created you, and formed you in your mother’s womb.
Now here’s the second thing we see from right here: that God created us, every person, in His image. That’s amazing. The third thing we see is that He created male and female—two genders and only two genders. It’s literally that simple. But here’s the next thing He said: “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the Earth and govern it.” As I said earlier, God’s design is for sex to actually take place on the Earth so that His purposes can become a reality through us.
Now here’s the second thing: I want to go to another scripture. I want to go to Genesis chapter 2, so just go to the next page with me, and I want to read verses 21 through 24.
So the Lord caused the man, Adam, to fall into a deep sleep. While the man slept, the Lord God took out one of the man’s ribs and closed up the opening. Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib and brought her to the man. At last, the man exclaimed, “This one is bone from my bone and flesh from my flesh. She will be called woman because she was taken from the man.” This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.
So from the beginning, from creation, we see God’s design: for male and female, men and women, to become united as one through the covenant and context of marriage.
So here are a few more scriptures I want to dive into, but you need to understand the context of what’s going on here. Moses was called by God to lead the Israelites, the people of God, out of bondage and slavery in Egypt to the promised land. When he did this, he gave them what we know as the Old Testament or the Old Covenant law, which is basically ways they should live their lives to honor God.
In the Book of Leviticus, which, to be honest, a lot of people don’t like reading because it’s just a bunch of laws and can be a little bit boring, but there’s so much to be found here. In Leviticus 18 and chapter 20, there are two things that are said that are very valuable.
Number one: Leviticus 18:22 says, “Do not practice homosexuality; having sex with another man as with a woman is a detestable sin.”
Now, I want you to go with me just to the next chapter, chapter 20, and then go with me to verse 13. It says, “If a man practices homosexuality, having sex with another man as with a woman, both have committed a detestable act.”
Now here’s the thing that’s super clear about this: God is making it really clear. Now please stay with me past this—even if you do not agree—God is making it clear that living and performing homosexual acts is not His design and goes against how He created you and me to be.
Why does this matter? I like to say it like this: if you don’t walk in the design of God, you can’t walk in the blessing of God. If something is designed a certain way and you try to use it in a way that it’s not designed for, it’s going to cause issues and going to cause problems.
Because so many people will say, “Well, Jesus never talked about homosexuality. He never said it was a sin; He never spoke ill against it.” Well, I want you to go with me to Matthew chapter 19. These are the exact words of Jesus, now we are in the new testament, and this is what Jesus says. Some Pharisees—religious people—came to Him. Isn’t that interesting? And they said, “Should a man be allowed to divorce his wife for just any reason?” So, what is Jesus responding to? He’s responding to marriage. And this is what He says:
“Haven’t you read the Scriptures?” Jesus replied. “They record that from the beginning, God made them male and female.”
So, what is He doing here? He’s affirming the two genders, and He’s affirming creation. And He said, “This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one. Since they are no longer two, but one, let no one split apart what God has joined together.”
So, did Jesus say the word “homosexuality”? No. But you have to understand, once again, the context of this Scripture. He’s talking to religious leaders; He’s talking to Pharisees. They knew the Old Testament law—the Scriptures that I just talked about right before this—like the back of their hand. They knew the traditions; they knew the customs. So, they already knew that the design of God was not to live a homosexual life.
And so, Jesus is saying right here, He’s affirming what we just read in those previous Scriptures, and He’s basically saying that man and woman should come together as one, and that no one should separate that. This is amazing.
But here’s the last place I want to go. Now, listen, I know many YouTube channels are super scripted, super edited—we’re just raw and real. I want you to go with me to Romans chapter 1, and I’m flipping there live with you right now because I want to read this Scripture, and I believe this is a powerful Scripture. I want you to just go with me real quick to verse 18. We’re going to read about four verses. Just stay with me for a second.
Here’s what it says:
“But God shows His anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. They know the truth about God because He has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world—listen to this—ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see His invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature. So, they have no excuse for not knowing God.”
Wherever you’re at on your faith journey… If you just simply step outside, or wherever you’re watching this video, and you look up, you look to the side, and you see nature, you see creation—you know there’s a Designer. You know there’s a God. This is incredible. This is the foundation God is using. And here’s what else Paul said, the one who wrote the Book of Romans:
“Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship Him as God or even give Him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like.”
Now listen to this verse right here, verse 23:
“And instead of worshiping—giving attention, affection, and honor (that’s what worship means)—to the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people.”
What is God trying to say here? That as human beings, before we know who God truly is and we know our full identity, we worship—or we place all our value on—the creation instead of the Creator. And then, here’s where it goes on to say right here, this is the key verse:
“So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies. They traded the truth about God for a lie.”
And here’s what I think is so, so powerful—verse 26:
“That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other. And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved.”
Now, here are a few things I want to make as closing remarks. I want to make three points.
Number one: You also have to understand that in all of the Bible, all of the Scripture right here, there is not one man or woman who actually affirmed or encouraged living a homosexual lifestyle.
But here’s another thing you need to know: orthopraxy and orthodoxy, I’m going to break that down in simple english, non-churchy terms. What it means is, from the beginning of the New Testament Church—which was about 2,000 years ago—there was never a belief or practice allowed in the church in regards to homosexuality. This is a new concept, a new belief system that has been affirmed only in the last few decades here on earth. So for close to 17, 18, 1900 years, no Christian, no church, would actually come out and say that we affirm homosexuality and that we allow that practice among those who call themselves Christians.
So here’s what I want to say: wherever you’re at on this journey, it is clear through the Scriptures, it is clear through everything—through the lens of the world, through the lens of the first church—that homosexuality is not the design of God. But I want you to know that if you don’t call yourself a Christian or you live in the LGBTQ lifestyle at the moment, please stick with me because I’m going to share something so powerful—real-life experiences to back this up.
Now, before I share those experiences, I want to answer the second question because so many people will DM me on a regular basis, saying, “Ross, I’m a Christian, I love Jesus, I want to know God, but I have same-sex attraction and I don’t know how to get free.” Well, here’s the first thing I want to ask you: Do you want to get free? And if the answer is yes, then listen to the rest of this.
Here’s the first scripture I want to talk about—this is so, so powerful, and this even answers the question, “Ross, I was born gay. Ross, I was born with these attractions. Ross, I was born with X, Y, and Z.” Listen to the words of Jesus here. Once again, it’s another religious leader, a religious person, coming to Him and asking Him this. And this is what he said:
This religious leader asked Him, “We all know that God has sent you to teach us. Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with you.” Look at the words of Jesus here. He replies, “I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the kingdom of God.”
“What do you mean? Can I go into my mother’s womb and be born again?” Jesus said, “I assure you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit.”
Regardless of what you believe you were born with, when you come to Jesus, you become born again. What does “born again” mean? “Born again” means not born naturally, but born of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit—the Spirit of God—comes and lives inside of you, so you now have access and relationship with God through His Spirit. So any desire, anything that doesn’t line up with this design—any struggle, any temptation, whatever the case may be—you become born again. That is no longer who you are.
But the Scriptures take it even further. I’m going to bounce around here real quick to 2 Corinthians chapter 5, one of the most powerful scriptures that I’ve read in a while—5:17. This is what it says:
“This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun.”
And that word used in the Scriptures here, not in English, actually means a new creature or a new prototype. When you come to Jesus, you literally become a brand new person. This is incredible—new emotions, new thoughts, new desires, new affections, new pursuits. Why? Because the power of God is to save those who believe. But not only does He save you, He gives you His Spirit. You become born again, and you become a new creation.
But here’s where else I want to go—just go with me a few books back to Romans chapter 5. This is an incredible scripture, and here’s what I want to read: it’s Romans chapter 5, verse 10. “For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of His Son while we were still His enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of His Son.”
Why does that matter? The word “saved” used here in the Greek is actually the word “sōzō.” It means to be completely free—emotionally, spiritually, physically, and mentally. Friends, what is the Bible trying to say? What is God trying to speak to you right now? When you become a Christian, when you surrender your life to Jesus, you literally get completely set free in every area of your life. You become brand new. Friend, this is not too good to be true—this is good, and it truly is true.
Now listen, if you’re still watching this video, there’s still something more powerful I want to share with you, and I want to say thank you for staying with me until this point. I believe the Spirit of God is beginning to speak to you, to heal you, to set you free. Yes, the Spirit of God—the Holy Spirit—can set you free through watching a video, through hearing the Word of God. And here’s where I want to go next.
I want to share this one scripture that just came to mind: Galatians 2:20. Paul said, “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” Friend, when you become a Christian, you don’t just change—you actually die to your old self. You don’t just change a little bit; you become born again. Why does this matter? If you just change, you can easily change back. But if you die, you can never go back. And this is great news!
So, if you have desires, or thoughts, or things that are plaguing you or tempting you, I want you to know that those are no longer your thoughts if you’re a born-again believer in Jesus. Paul said that any thought that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, you must take it captive and tear it down. So, when you get thoughts—this isn’t even just about same-sex attraction; this is about anything in our lives—any thought that is not in alignment with the will and design of God, you need to become aware of it. You need to say, “That’s not who I am.” You declare out loud your identity and who you are as a son or daughter of God, based on all the scriptures we just talked about, and watch that thing flee from your life.
But here’s the last point I want to make. I want to talk about baptism. You might be thinking, “Listen, Ross, I already know what baptism is—I get it.” No, no, no. Baptism is not just a cute Christian moment where you go under some water. Listen, this revelation shifted my life and freed me from a nine-year addiction to pornography. Did you hear that? A nine-year addiction I had, and I was completely set free by that first revelation I gave you, and what I’m going to share with you right now is truly life-changing. This is what it is—Romans 6. I want to read about eight verses here, so just stick with me. This is verse one:
“Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of His wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it? Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined Him in His death? For we didn’t just change—nope—it says we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we may also live new lives.”
Now pay attention here: since we have been united with Him in His death, we will also be raised to life as He was. We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin, for when we died with Christ, we were set free from the power of sin.
Friends, when you get baptized in water, you are joining Jesus in His death and in His resurrection. It is not just about getting dipped in some water and making a public confession of your faith—no, friend, the old you, the old self, is buried, never to be seen again, in baptism. And then you are raised to completely new life, just like when Jesus was raised from the dead.
When this revelation hits your heart, I believe the Holy Spirit is saying a few things right now:
Some of you have been baptized before, but you didn’t understand this fully. I encourage you—go get re-baptized. Because when you get re-baptized with this revelation, it shifts everything.
If you’ve never been baptized, you need to do this immediately. This is powerful. You need to die to your old self, be raised, and join Jesus in His death and resurrection, becoming a completely new creation—set free from any temptation and any sin in your life.
Now, here’s where I want to begin to wrap things up, but just stick with me for a few more minutes. There are a few testimonies that I think are going to absolutely wreck your heart in the best way possible, and I just want to share these because they are truly transformative.
These are really good friends of mine who I know personally, and they love sharing their testimonies because the Word of God says that we overcome the devil, or the enemy, by the blood of the Lamb (the blood of Jesus), the word of our testimony, and not loving our lives unto death. So, receive this for your life—receive this for your child, for a friend, a family member, a coworker, whoever it is.
The first one is my friend Samuel. I’ll put all their Instagram handles down below so you can go follow them. Samuel used to be a former gay stripper. Yes, you heard that right—a gay stripper, living the club life, living a homosexual lifestyle. He encountered the presence of Jesus and now is completely saved, preaching the gospel, and leading many out of the LGBTQ community. This is powerful. What Samuel experienced is not just about changing behavior—it’s about transformation, it’s about dying to the old self and rising anew with Christ.
The second story is about my friend Joshua. He was in the adult entertainment industry for multiple years, and then he had an encounter with Jesus. He was suicidal; he wanted to give up on his life. He had the money, he had the fame, he had everything the world told him he wanted, but he was never satisfied. He met Jesus, and now he travels across America preaching the gospel.
The third story is about my friend Ellie, who I just met recently. She was living in a same-sex relationship with another woman for multiple years. She walked into a worship service, and she felt the presence of God. She said, “I…” And in that very moment, she actually broke up with her girlfriend. She repented, came to Jesus, and said, “Jesus, I want you more than anything—more than anything my flesh may tell me, more than anything the world may tell me.” And she gave her life to Jesus.
The last one is my friend Grazana. She literally would speak at Pride festivals and was living a homosexual lifestyle for multiple years. She came to a gathering that she did not want to be at. She felt the presence of God, heard the gospel, gave her life to Jesus, and is now in Bible College pursuing God.
The testimonies that I just released can be yours. Just receive them by faith that God is saving those—it’s Isaiah 61—out of the most hopeless, godless, and darkest situations, that they may rebuild the ancient ruins.
And here’s the last thing that I want to share today, and I promise this—the video will be finished. Please share this video with as many people as you can and encourage them. But I want you to know right now that there is hope for you. There is destiny. You can have life, you can be healed, and you can be saved. The Bible makes it clear that if you would confess with your mouth and believe—believe in your heart—that Jesus is Lord and rose from the dead, you will be saved.
But before we do that, I want you to know the quick 60-second story that transformed my life. When God created Adam and Eve, the first two people, the Bible says in Genesis that they walked in the garden with God—no separation. But then, one day, they disobeyed God because God gives us free will and free choice to live life how we want. And because they chose to go against God, it separated man and God. Why? Not because God hated them or hates you, but because He is holy, and He can’t have a relationship with someone who is not holy like Himself.
So what did God do? He sent His son, Jesus, to this earth. Jesus was just like you and me, friend—real body, real emotion, real pain—He went through life. But the Bible says He was tempted in every way, but never sinned, never disobeyed God. He was perfect. And one day, He was hung on a cross—real nails went through His hands, and real blood came out of His body. The Bible says He was beaten beyond recognition. He became the sacrifice for your sins and mine, for the disobedience in our lives.
And when Jesus died on that cross, friend, He forgave us of our sins. He forgave us of all the trespasses and all the disobedience in our lives. He cleansed us, He washed us, and He gave us access back to God. But not only that, He rose from the dead on the third day, signifying that you and I can now be raised to new life when we surrender our life to Jesus. We get free by His blood because we cannot be forgiven on our own merit. We cannot be forgiven by our own works because we are human—we are not perfect; we are flawed. But God sent Jesus to become that perfect sacrifice for you and me.
So here’s what I want to do: If you want to surrender your life to Jesus, if you want to know who God really is, if you want to walk in the identity as a son or daughter of God that you were created for from the beginning of time, I simply want you to say this prayer of faith with me out loud.
Just say, “Jesus, I give you my life. I believe you are the Son of God. You died on the cross, shed your blood, and broke your body for me. I repent, and I turn from all my sins and all my mistakes. From this day forward, I make you my Lord, and I receive you into my heart.”
Say this last thing: “Holy Spirit, fill me now. Holy Spirit, fill me with power. In Jesus’ name.”
If you prayed that prayer, please comment below or send me a message. I want to talk to you, I want to pray with you, and I want to share some next steps with you.
Secondly, if you enjoyed this video—if it encouraged you, if you learned something from it, if you felt breakthrough or healing—would you share this with two to three friends? I believe this video will reach the generation for the glory of Jesus. And make sure you subscribe to the channel down below.
I love you guys, and I’ll see you soon.
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The video below is Scott’s testimony of how the Lord met with him and transferred him into the Kingdom of his beloved Son, Jesus. This message is a timely word for those of the LGBTQ community who are struggling with their Identity. There isn’t a hole deep enough where God’s love isn’t able to reach. 👇
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*** Transcript of Ross Johnston YouTube video can I be gay and Christian- website: http://www.rossjohnston.co / Photo by Kampus Productions at Pexels
I identify as a born again Bible believing Christian, spirit filled, Bible reading, tongue talking, doer of the Word, who has accepted Jesus as their Lord and Saviour, and soon coming King – this is my reality.
It hasn’t gone unnoticed that people of the Christian faith are not included in treating people with dignity, respect and inclusion. We are all equal as human beings, regardless of age, sexual orientation, mental health and faith, and what is pertained for one individual should be across the board for all people, not just the chosen few, who are in vogue. Like everyone else, we should be able to express who we are, which is a huge part of our identity too, and should not be ostracised and mocked because of it, the ‘safe space’ is for everyone. The hypocrisy is astounding.
Please note that Jesus our Saviour, will be returning soon andwe all will need to give an account of our lives: the thoughts, deeds, actions, words and motives done in the flesh, and who can stand before God? If you did not know, Jesus is our redeemer who came to save us from our fallen and sinful nature. If you don’t know Jesus yet and how He came to restore our relationship with God in heaven, who loves you and wants you to be reconciled to Him, I say to you today: Jesus is the way, the truth and the life, no one comes unto the Father but by Him, Jesus is the only one mediator between God and man, and only God can forgive sins.
What is sin? It is knowing the right thing to do and not doing it. Sin includes things like sexual immorality, addictions, drunkenness, drugs, watching porn, lying, stealing, unforgiveness, hate, anger, gossiping, and much more. These separate us from God, who is holy and righteous and just. He weighs the motives of our hearts and all of us have missed the mark.
The call to salvation is for everyone. Regardless of your wealth, status, sexual orientation or religious background, Jesus invites you to turn from sin and accept His gift of salvation. No amount of money, social standing, or religious observance can save you. It’s not about comparing yourself to others; the only comparison that matters is with God, and we all fall short, we all have sinned. God doesn’t want our religion; He wants a relationship with us. Good works cannot save you; there is nothing you can do to earn salvation. It’s by grace alone, so no one can boast. Our works are like filthy rags to a holy God. The Bible says the wages of sin is death, eternal separation from God in hell—a fate you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy. We are created with a God-shaped vacuum that nothing else can fill but Him.
Jesus Christ paid the price for our sins on the Cross so we can be restored to God, our heavenly Father. There needed to be a sacrifice, and God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, Jesus, who was sinless, to take our place. It’s like a mother giving away her new-born baby or you giving away your only child to pay someone else’s debt, someone who couldn’t care less about you or love you back. God was willing to do that for you and me.
Jesus Christ was crucified, with nails driven through His hands and feet and a crown of thorns pressed onto His head. He was whipped until His skin was torn off, becoming unrecognizable. As He hung on that Cross, He did it for your sins. He took our sins upon Himself, including the very sins that have destroyed our lives. He was destroyed for those sins on that Cross. He bled and died for our sins, which were buried with Him in the grave. Three days later, Jesus Christ was raised from the dead. Jesus is alive!
Now is the time to respond. Romans 10:9 says, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” This declaration and belief bring salvation. John 3:36 warns, “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.”
Embrace this good news today and pray: “Dear God, thank you for loving me. I confess that I have sinned against you. I believe that Jesus, Your Son, died on the cross to pay for my sins. I believe that Jesus was raised from the dead. I ask that you forgive all my sins. I confess that Jesus is my Lord and Savior. Thank you for Your gift of eternal life! I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Remember, it’s not the prayer that saves you; it’s the heartfelt belief and confession, repentance and choosing to trust in Jesus for a righteous life, from now on. Now is the time for salvation. Turn from darkness to light, from sin to salvation, and follow Jesus.
Ask God for forgiveness of the wrong things you have done, repent (turn from them) and leave your old sinful ways behind, and begin a new and righteous life trusting in Christ Jesus, every single day, ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit to help you, and read your Bible and obey it, repent to God daily, connect to God through prayer and ask the Holy Spirit for revelation, guidance, wisdom and discernment.
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