Standing Firm in Faith: Celebrating the Victory of the Human Sexuality Report
By Rev. Michael DeVries

As I reflect on the momentous decision of Synod 2024, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude to God for His faithfulness and guidance. The approval of the Human Sexuality Report and the reaffirmation of the Christian Reformed Church’s (CRC) commitment to uphold the biblical teaching on marriage as a union between one man and one woman is not just a victory for those of us who hold to traditional views—it is a victory for the gospel and for the future of our church.

This decision has not come without sacrifice. It has stirred up difficult conversations, challenged relationships, and, for many, required a renewed sense of courage. Yet, as we stand firm in the historic Christian teaching on human sexuality, we do so with the conviction that we are honoring God’s Word, caring for the well-being of the church, and proclaiming the truth of the gospel to a culture in desperate need of clarity and hope.

A Biblical Vision for Marriage

The CRC’s commitment to the biblical vision of marriage is not simply a cultural or traditional stance—it is rooted in the very pages of Scripture. From the opening chapters of Genesis, we see that God’s design for marriage is grounded in the creation of male and female, with the unique and complementary union of a man and a woman reflecting God’s image (Genesis 1:27). Jesus Himself reaffirmed this when He spoke of marriage as a lifelong covenant between one man and one woman (Matthew 19:4-6).

The church’s decision to affirm this biblical teaching on marriage is not a departure from compassion or love—it is a profound expression of both. In a world that often confuses love with mere affirmation of personal desires, we are called to a higher love—a love that speaks the truth in grace and invites people into the fullness of life that God intends for them. This love is not always easy, and it is certainly not always popular, but it is faithful to the gospel.

By upholding the biblical vision for marriage, we are protecting the sacredness of this covenant relationship. Marriage is not simply a social construct or a human invention—it is a divine institution, given by God for the mutual joy of a husband and wife, the nurturing of children, and as a reflection of Christ’s relationship with the church (Ephesians 5:31-32). It is a gift from God that must be honored and protected, even when the cultural winds shift in different directions.

A Faithful Response to Cultural Pressures

We live in a time of rapid cultural change, particularly when it comes to issues of sexuality and gender. The pressure to conform to the broader culture’s redefinition of marriage and sexual ethics is immense. Churches, denominations, and even entire faith communities have capitulated, abandoning historic Christian teachings in the name of relevance or inclusivity.

In light of this pressure, Synod 2024’s decision to make all CRC ministers affirm the biblical teaching on marriage is an act of courage. It signals to the world that the Christian Reformed Church is committed to standing on the authority of Scripture, even when it is countercultural. We do not change our theology to fit the times; instead, we hold fast to the timeless truth of God’s Word, trusting that His ways are good and life-giving, even when they are difficult.

This is not to say that we are indifferent to the pain or struggles of those who disagree with this stance. Many people within and outside the church wrestle with issues of sexuality, and we must approach these conversations with compassion, humility, and grace. But true love does not shy away from the truth. Instead, it points people to the beauty of God’s design and the hope of redemption through Christ.

Protecting the Integrity of the Church

One of the most important aspects of Synod 2024’s decision is that it protects the unity and integrity of the CRC. By requiring all ministers to affirm the traditional Christian teaching on marriage, we are safeguarding the theological coherence of our denomination. Without a shared commitment to the authority of Scripture and the historic teachings of the church, we risk fracturing into competing factions, each pursuing its own vision of truth.

This decision also provides clarity for our churches. There is no ambiguity about where the CRC stands on marriage and human sexuality. For pastors, elders, and congregations, this clarity is essential. It allows us to shepherd our people with confidence, knowing that we are standing on the solid foundation of Scripture. It provides assurance that our churches will continue to be places where the gospel is preached faithfully, and where the truth of God’s Word is upheld.

Moreover, this decision helps to protect our witness to the world. In a society where sexual confusion and brokenness abound, the church has a unique role to play. We are called to be a light in the darkness, offering a different vision for human flourishing—one that is rooted in the truth of God’s design. By standing firm on this issue, we offer the world an alternative to the shifting sands of cultural trends and human preferences. We offer them Christ.

Moving Forward in Hope

As we move forward from Synod 2024, we do so with a renewed sense of mission and purpose. The CRC’s decision to affirm the biblical teaching on marriage is not the end of a battle—it is the beginning of a new chapter in our calling to be a faithful, missional church. Now, more than ever, we are called to proclaim the gospel in both word and deed, offering the world not just a moral stance, but the hope and healing that come through Jesus Christ.

This decision will require continued prayer, wisdom, and discernment. There will be challenges ahead, and we must continue to engage in difficult conversations with humility and love. But we do so with the assurance that God is with us, and that He has called us to be faithful to His Word.

We also move forward with a renewed commitment to pastoral care. Many within our churches and communities struggle with questions of sexuality and identity. They need to hear the truth, yes, but they also need to experience the love of Christ through us. Our pastoral care must be marked by both conviction and compassion, offering support, guidance, and the hope of transformation in Christ.

Conclusion

The decision of Synod 2024 to affirm the Human Sexuality Report and require all CRC ministers to uphold the biblical teaching on marriage is a moment of great significance for our denomination. It is a victory for the gospel, a triumph of truth, and a testimony to the faithfulness of God’s Word. As we stand together in this decision, let us do so with humility, love, and unwavering trust in the Lord.

We are called to be a people set apart—distinct in our witness to the world, faithful in our proclamation of the gospel, and steadfast in our commitment to God’s Word. May the Christian Reformed Church continue to shine as a beacon of truth, grace, and hope in a world that so desperately needs it.

To God be the glory,
Rev. Michael DeVries

Chat GPT prompt:

write an article for the Reformed Journal from a woman CRC minister who has to leave the Christian Reformed Church because of the decision of Synod 2024 to not allow anyone to affirm same sex marriages in the church