To Melt a Golden Calf

For decades now, outspoken evangelical Christians have been at the forefront of resisting the cultural shift towards accepting same-sex relationships. From the church pulpit to the political podium, condemnation of homosexuality has come to define the identity of evangelicalism. But what if it didn't have to be this way? What if same-sex relationships could be affirmed through an authoritative, infallible reading of the Bible? From an evangelical missionary who once fought in the...
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For decades now, outspoken evangelical Christians have been at the forefront of resisting the cultural shift towards accepting same-sex relationships. From the church pulpit to the political podium, condemnation of homosexuality has come to define the identity of evangelicalism. But what if it didn't have to be this way? What if same-sex relationships could be affirmed through an authoritative, infallible reading of the Bible? From an evangelical missionary who once fought in the culture wars against gay rights only to undergo a reluctant reversal, To Melt a Golden Calf stands out as a concise, biblical, and balanced defense of same-sex relationships. Drawing from bedrock Christian beliefs, Peter Aelred seeks to untangle the complicated questions around homosexuality, not for reasons of cultural accommodation, but for the sake of the Gospel itself."I was touched by the compassion, challenge, and honesty with which he speaks to his theological family of origin. I suspect that many "evangelical Christians" will simply dismiss him as another one who has succumbed to the ways of the world, but for those who have had even an inklingthat one could be a committed and faithful Christian and not believe that same-sex relationships are inherently sinful, this will be a powerful read." --Rev. Bruce Reyes-Chow, church planter, writer, and Moderator of the 218th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA)"While I would emphatically disagree with his conclusions, To Melt a Golden Calf is nevertheless an important book for Christians to read. Aelred is not the typical 'liberal' advocate traditionalists are used to encountering in the battle over homosexuality and the definition of marriage. Aelred's arguments will soon be coming to an evangelical church near you." --Wallace Marshall (M.Div., PhD.), Director, Reasonable Faith"Aelred turns our attention to often overshadowed issues regarding the Christian ethics of same-sex relationships. His arguments are both grounded in Scripture and historically-reflective, humbly but powerfully challenging evangelicals to rethink certain beliefs and practices in the name of Jesus."--Dr. Jennie Ikuta, professor of political philosophy and author of Democracy and the Quest for Human Flourishing"Biblically and theologically informed, Aelred courageously calls for Christians to get off the sidelines of history."--Dr. Karl Giberson, Scholar-in-Residence of Science & Religion at Stonehill College and author of more than 10 books on science and religion, including Saving the Original Sinner"Aelred introduces nuance and layers of complexity to an otherwise exhausting, polarized conversation. The intended effect succeeds in muddying the waters towards a posture of humility regarding how the evangelical church can move towards a more loving unity internally and with the LGBT community. Whether you agree or disagree with him, Aelred gives us some new ways to talk about sexual orientation and the church. This is a breath of fresh air." --Samantha Curley, Executive Director, Level Ground"Avoiding the trap of eisegesis, Aelred looks to the incarnational life of Christ to reframe biblical faithfulness to justice and mercy."--Nick Palacios, President, OneTable Fuller Theological Seminary