Sep 18
2023
Recommended Books: Church and Theology
First Stone Ministries has selected a focused collection of recommended books for those seeking a deeper biblical and practical understanding of homosexuality and sexual brokenness. Titles include Stephen Black's personal testimony of freedom, Robert Gagnon's scholarly examination of Scripture and homosexual practice, Joe Dallas's rebuttal of pro-gay biblical interpretation, Sam Black's guide to pornography ministry in the Church, and the American Family Association's resource on cultural compromise. Together these books equip both individuals and church leaders with truth-centered guidance.
First Stone Ministries highlights two key resources on homosexuality from complementary perspectives. Stephen Black's Freedom Realized draws on his personal journey and decades of ministry to offer a biblically grounded path to freedom from homosexuality and gay identity labels. Jeffrey Satinover's Homosexuality and the Politics of Truth brings a scientific and psychological lens, examining how political forces have shaped public understanding of homosexuality while making a compelling case for the possibility of genuine change.
In “Everyone Needs This Ministry – A Letter from a Pastor,” ordained minister Jason Murray endorses First Stone Ministries for its unwavering biblical fidelity and compassionate outreach to the broken. He recounts personal transformation through their confidential, Scripture-based counseling and leadership. The ministry enabled growth in grace and holiness, providing what Murray’s pastorate alone could not. After years engaged with First Stone, he urges all Christians to know and support ministries like this for genuine healing and maturity.
In this article, Stephen Black calls on Church leaders to reject the growing trend of affirming "gay Christian" identities and same-sex attraction as legitimate orientations. He argues that genuine love requires both mercy and justice — not compromise — and that true grace is always transformational. Drawing on Scripture and the example of Christ, Black warns that embracing cheap grace theology ultimately harms the very people the Church claims to love, leaving them in spiritual bondage rather than leading them to freedom.
“Affirming Biblical Orthodoxy on Homosexuality as Sin” presents First Stone Ministries’ conviction that the Bible unambiguously identifies homosexual acts as sinful. The article contrasts historic Christian teaching with recent efforts to legitimize same-sex relationships within the Church. It urges believers to avoid adopting labels like “gay Christian” and instead embrace identity in Christ. Emphasizing compassion alongside biblical authority, the article warns against cultural compromise and underscores the spiritual, psychological, and social consequences of redefining sexual morality.
In "The Gospel According to Jesus Christ and the 'Gay Christian?'," Stephen Black of First Stone Ministries argues that the concept of 'gay Christianity' is inconsistent with biblical teachings. He emphasizes that the gospel calls for repentance from all forms of sin, including homosexual behavior, and warns against teachings that suggest one can maintain a homosexual identity while being a faithful Christian. Black underscores the necessity of adhering to scriptural truths and cautions against adopting man-made theologies that, in his view, compromise the integrity of the gospel. 
“Why Many Go Back: Giving Some Answers Why Defectors Embrace Homosexuality” analyzes reasons why certain individuals revert to homosexuality after professing change through Christian faith. First Stone Ministries contrasts those who remain steadfast in repentance with those who adopt a “Christian” gay identity. The article explores personal motivations, societal pressures, and theological confusion contributing to returns. It emphasizes the importance of spiritual vision and biblical conviction for lasting transformation, warning of cultural narratives that undermine perseverance in traditional Christian sexual ethics.
In “Crisis in Leadership,” Jack Frost reflects on how leaders often face intensified spiritual opposition in seasons of transition or influence. He identifies core areas where attacks commonly occur—like unresolved sin, relational discord, or pride—and emphasizes the importance of spiritual health, prayer, and community support. Frost encourages leaders to anchor in the Father’s love, maintain integrity with authority structures, and engage in confession and unity. Through deep discipleship and alignment with God’s purpose, leaders can endure and thrive amid crisis.
“Homosexuals and the Church” discusses the essential role of the church in ministering to individuals with same-sex attraction. Through stories of transformation and expert commentary, Bob Davies highlights the need for love, support, and accountability for those seeking change. The article warns against silence or condemnation, urging congregations to offer practical help, build strong relationships, and foster an atmosphere of grace and truth. Compassion, scriptural faithfulness, and community support are vital for lasting healing and spiritual growth.
In this article, First Stone Ministries' Jeff Janes confronts the harsh, dismissive language Christians often use toward homosexuals — language he describes as a form of ritual sacrifice that destroys rather than redeems. Drawing on Micah 6:8, Matthew 9 and 22, and Hebrews 2, Janes calls the Church to replace self-righteous condemnation with the mercy, gentleness, and love of Christ. He argues that homosexuality is rooted in unmet relational needs — "father hunger" — and that genuine healing comes through compassionate, Christ-centered discipleship.