Means of Grace

    What was your motivation behind this project?  Homosexuality is such a mystifying, complex and confusing challenge in the Church and our culture. I have taught widely and counseled in this field for many years. It has captivated my interest for many reasons throughout my life. I was approached to write Means of Grace after having taught at a national conference for Christian campus ministers. I loved the idea of writing a primer that would be a helpful tool for thousands who love and serve people, and are often "first-responders" to persons struggling with same-gender attractions and confusion. Through decades of ministry now I have fielded hundreds of phone calls from pastors, youth workers, teachers, counselors, parents and others who were searching for Christ-centered, informed resources (books and counselors). They want resources that help them better understand the complexities of this subject in order to increase their effectiveness. People have hearts to help, they often just need a little understanding or be shown how to help. The cardinal rule in the helping professions is "First, do no harm." Among many things, this guide will help you avoid making some mistakes out of ignorance, misinformation or false conclusions. People need greater clarity on this topic and I believe Grace will help to provide it.

    What do you hope folks will gain from this project?  To help demystify homosexuality for my readers, to help them feel more comfortable in caring for people dealing with these issues. And doing so in a biblically orthodox, scientifically sane, pastorally sensitive manner. I pray you open your heart, read carefully, ponder and listen to the Lord. He has not been silent. We can always grow and benefit from more wisdom and insight, more love, grace and compassion in our hearts and service to others. I pray this book grabs yours hearts and helps you do just that.

    How were you personally impacted by working on this project?  It gave me an opportunity to reflect back over many years of working with thousands of precious people in a very specialized, challenging ministry ... for such a time as this. I have imagined the faces of many of the courageous men and women I've been privileged to come alongside and provide pastoral care for. They like I, are pilgrims seeking transformation in Christ. I was left in humble awe of what God has done through the years changing people's hearts ... including my own. It is the first book of several I hope to write, including my own journey. I was also profoundly moved by the support of many who wanted this book written and the group of men who read and commented on my manuscript ... who in turn provided commendations for the book that moved me to tears ... men I have known and hold deep respect for. Their love and support humbles me.

    Who are your influences, sources of inspiration or favorite authors / artists?  The late Dr. Robert Frost who was my spiritual father. Dr. Paul Boatman and Dr. Tom Ewald of Lincoln Christian University. Frank Worthen, who helped found EXODUS. Dr. Richard Foth. Rev. John Manning. C.S. Lewis, Dr. Ruth Tiffany Barnhouse, Dr. Elizabeth Moberly, Dr. Joseph Nicolosi, Brennan Manning, Merle Jordan, Henri Nouwen, Thomas Oden, Thomas Hopko and many more from antiquity to the present.

    Anything else you'd like readers / listeners to know:  "As a pastor of a church that looks to Scripture to define the boundaries of our sexuality, I have looked for those who teach on the subject of same sex attraction with a balance of grace and truth. Kent is one of those faithful brothers. Additionally, following his message, many felt free to approach him with questions and fears. Kent was very accessible, staying to speak with everyone who needed help. He is a counselor with a shepherd’s heart." - Shawn Craig of CCM recording artists Phillips, Craig & Dean and Pastor of the South County Christian Center, St. Louis, MO

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