Australia is gearing up for a voluntary postal vote in which an optional survey will be administered to all Australian citizens over the age of 18, in regards to whether or not the country should legalize same-sex marriage.
Amidst the controversial vote, Brian Houston, senior pastor of Australia-based Hillsong Church, published a statement on August 18 in regards to the upcoming decision.
He began by urging all Christians to take part in the survey, which will be conducted via mail-in ballots over the course of the next month and a half.
“Whatever your view on this issue, it is undeniably one that is important to the fabric of our social structure,” he writes. “Changing the definition of marriage has wide-reaching ramifications and should not be taken lightly by any society. All Australians should be a part of this process, not just a select few.”
The megachurch pastor made his beliefs on the matter crystal clear, stating “faith and biblical teaching” as measures for determining what the Bible constitutes as marriage.
“I believe God’s word is clear that marriage is between a man and a woman. The writings of the apostle Paul in Scripture on the subject of homosexuality are also clear, as I have mentioned in previous public statements.”
Houston addresses the tension that lies between “both sides” of the same-sex marriage debate, noting that some who advocate for “change to the definition of marriage have confused faith convictions with bigotry,” while opposing views—and often Christians—have a way of using their faith to “alienate” and “condemn” those who are gay.
“As a Christian pastor, I will always teach and preach according to Scripture and my personal convictions, but I cannot make other people’s choices for them. God created humanity with a free will, and I care about all people including those who believe differently to me.”
Houston closes his statement by emphasizing the importance of Christians voting on this matter if they hope to see an outcome that is “consistent with their beliefs.”
“I believe that many Australians who are often referred to as the ‘silent majority’ feel strongly on this subject but allow louder and often more aggressive voices to control the public dialogue.”
He says the public survey is offering every person the opportunity to have an “equal voice” in the matter, and Christians in particular should not waste it.
Brian Houston has previously been open about his stance and (seldom) teachings on same-sex marriage. He is confident that the outcome of the survey—so long as it doesn’t hinder the rights of Christians and their faith—will not have an effect on Hillsong Church.
