Jun 30
2025
What's Eating You: A Look at the Rot of Envy
“What’s Eating You: The Rot of Envy” exposes envy as a destructive spiritual force, likened in Proverbs 14:30 to rotting bones. Using Cain’s downfall and warnings from Galatians and Proverbs, it shows how envy blinds, divides, and tempts toward sin. Scripture calls believers to reject comparing themselves to others and instead pursue the fear of the Lord, contentment, and gratitude. The antidote lies in intimacy with God, walking by the Spirit, and trusting His timing, favor, and perfect care for each life.
“Dangerous Affirmation: The Threat of ‘Gay Christianity’” by M.D. Perkins exposes how efforts to reconcile Christian faith with homosexuality are reshaping theology, biblical interpretation, and church life. The book reveals strategies used by LGBT activists—rethinking doctrine, identity, and the meaning of church—to influence even conservative congregations. Perkins aims to equip believers with biblical clarity, urging steadfastness amid shifting values and controversial teachings. The message calls Christians to recognize spiritual challenges and respond with conviction, compassion, and commitment to God’s Word.
In this scholarly article shared by First Stone Ministries, Dr. Robert A. J. Gagnon of Houston Baptist University systematically dismantles the argument that the Greek word arsenokoitai in 1 Corinthians 6:9 refers only to the molestation of boys. Drawing on Levitical law, early Jewish writings, linguistic evidence, and the broader New Testament context, Gagnon demonstrates that the term broadly prohibits all male-male sexual intercourse. He concludes that recent revisionist interpretations reflect a lack of biblical scholarship rather than sound exegesis.
After the ruling of the Supreme Court on June 26, 2015 Laura Leigh Stanlake, Director of Women's Ministries attended a local church service where a pastor gave a message in responding to so-called "gay marriage". There was a problem! Homosexual identity and Christianity were being integrated as one legitimate identity-- a "gay Christian" identity. Laura responded with this article in the Winter 2015 First Stone Newsletter.
Christopher West, the world's most recognized teacher on John Paul II's Theology of the Body, presents a sweeping biblical case that erotic desire was designed by God to point humanity toward Heaven. Far from being something to suppress or indulge, sexual longing is the fuel of a rocket meant to launch us toward eternal union with Christ. Shared by First Stone Ministries, this message challenges the Church to recover a beautiful, incarnational understanding of the body, gender, and God's design for human sexuality.
“When Did Idolatry Become Compatible with Christianity? Why It Matters” challenges modern Christians to recognize subtle forms of idolatry infiltrating church life and personal faith. The author traces how societal shifts and complacency can lead believers to justify or overlook idol worship, whether material, ideological, or spiritual. The article urges readers to reclaim biblical standards, remain faithful to God alone, and understand idolatry’s dangers. By confronting compromise, Christians are called to renew genuine devotion and uphold transformative, scriptural Christianity.
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. 
“Responding to Pro-Gay Theology, Part I: Social Justice Arguments” addresses how social justice themes are used to advocate for LGBTQ inclusion within Christianity. The article critiques arguments that equate homosexuality with identity and victimization, and disputes the notion that sexual orientation cannot be changed. First Stone Ministries responds with biblical references, emphasizing compassion without affirming pro-gay theology. The piece urges readers to challenge social narratives while approaching all individuals with humility and love, reflecting a traditional Christian worldview.
“Responding to Pro-Gay Theology, Part 2: Social Justice Arguments” examines religious justifications for homosexuality, such as the claim that Jesus never addressed it or that God’s presence in affirming churches signals His approval. The article argues these points rely on subjective experience rather than scriptural truth, stressing that God’s gifts are signs of grace, not automatic endorsement. First Stone Ministries urges returning to biblical authority, warning against prioritizing “niceness” or human understanding over clear scriptural boundaries and Christian conviction.
“Responding to Pro-Gay Theology, Part 3: Scriptural Arguments” explores how advocates of pro-gay theology challenge traditional interpretations of Scripture regarding homosexuality. The article examines common revisionist arguments for Genesis, Sodom and Gomorrah, Levitical law, and Romans 1—contrasting them with historical Christian teaching. It critiques alternate readings as strained or inconsistent with textual and cultural evidence, defending the view that biblical references to marriage and sexual ethics consistently affirm heterosexual unions. The piece urges a return to traditional, contextual biblical interpretation.
“Law and Grace” explores the tension between living by the law and living under grace. The article explains that while God’s laws reveal sin and set standards for practical righteousness, a believer’s standing before God depends on grace and faith in Christ, not on perfect law-keeping. Christians are called to obey Jesus and the Spirit’s convictions, which sometimes go beyond the written law. The message emphasizes spiritual transformation and daily dependence on Christ for true holiness and freedom.
“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.
Winkie Pratney's article challenges readers to view the Bible not as just another book but as a living, divinely inspired text. He points out that the Bible frequently asserts its own divine origin, with phrases like "God said" appearing numerous times throughout its pages. Pratney also notes the Bible's remarkable consistency and the profound influence it has had on individuals and cultures throughout history. He encourages readers to engage with the Bible not merely as literature but as the living Word of God, capable of transforming lives when approached with a sincere heart.
“The Great Falling Away!” by Milton Green confronts the alarming spiritual condition within modern churches. Despite outward signs—growth, supernatural gifts, evangelism—Green reveals a hidden crisis: many have departed from true faith, embracing worldly values and sinful lifestyles. He warns that the church displays a form of godliness but lacks true power, evidenced by rampant immorality and spiritual emptiness. Green urges believers to recognize apostasy, pursue heartfelt repentance, and seek restoration, so Christ’s followers can reflect holiness and authentic transformation.