Gay Marriage & Polarization

Brad Hirschfield discusses the church’s stance on gay marriage in his article Lincoln, Darwin, and Gay Marriage. He warns against the Presbyterian Church USA and others using purely scripture to make and justify their stances. He compares the issues on the forefront of church’s platforms to Lincoln and Darwin. Both of these men did things that were ultimately proved correct and right, but greatly and harmfully polarized people at the same time. In Lincoln’s case, slavery was ended, but at the same time his actions resulted in the most profound division in American history and “he took America… into the bloodiest war we ever fought.” Darwin’s ideas also were well intended and correct but also “created a bloody culture war.” Hirschfield relates this to the modern argument over gay marriage where he believes the topic is needlessly dividing the church and the nation. He insinuates that even if the “right” side wins, the collateral damage will not be worth it.
He points out that the use of scripture to back up the two sides of the conflict will likely make the disagreement more harmful as each side becomes more stubborn. He advises the two sides to approach “these issues with greater humility.” David Chappell notes that Martin Luther King Jr. was inspired by Reinhold Nieburh and his “emphasis on the need for ‘coercion’ to achieve justice.” This along with the belief of both sides that they are supported by God has potential to lead to a serious polarizing conflict.
I agree with Hirschfield that heatedly debating many issues such as gay marriage does more harm to the nation than good. Our nation is in a place where Americans need to come together on large issues especially the economy than bicker amongst ourselves on things like gay marriage and creationism. As Hirschfield notes, both sides can compile scriptures making them believe “God is leaning their way” as did those in favor of slavery before the civil war. A great cultural war appears to approaching the US over these issues. Should Americans continue to keep these issues on the forefront of politics and church agendas? Will the continued discussion lead to a modern culture war? How severe will this conflict be?