Like many, I was shocked and troubled by the Ted Haggard scandal. But in a way, the recent report of his complete recovery from homosexuality is just as disturbing. Earlier this month, the Denver Post reported that after three weeks of “intensive counseling,” Rev. Haggard is convinced he is “completely heterosexual” and that his actions were fueled by something other than a genuine homosexual compulsion. In fact, he has already begun discussing career options.
After three weeks?
Some have referred to this as the fastest ex-gay conversion ever — and I don’t blame them. A basic principle in counseling is: The deeper the problem, the longer the process. We must give ourselves as much time to be healed, as it took to become sick. There is no magic wand, no quick fix. But the fact that a once-reputable minister can make such claims, especially after the heartache, shame and derision he caused, and that the evangelical church just nods and smiles and praises God, suggests a scandal of another kind. Am I the only one appalled by this?
The world is watching us Church, and in this case, I’m afraid they’re laughing.
While I agree with you that this reinforces a disturbing trend toward easy believe-ism, I don’t think you have to worry that it produces another occasion for the world to laugh at the church. The prevailing western culture view, outside the church, is that homosexuality isn’t curable. Ever. That it’s part of a person’s DNA. So if it was 3 weeks or 30 years, they wouldn’t be apt to look at it any differently, I don’t think.
I hadin’t seen the news about Haggard’s “successful” three week counseling–glad, in a sad way, you brought it too my attention. I wonder what he’s done to “recover” from the lying.
Becky
You’re right about the world’s perspective, Becky. I think they’re laughing more at Haggard’s apparent hypocrisy (condemning homosexuality, then succumbing), than his “complete recovery.” I’ve no doubt, the world is looking for any occasion to laugh at us. The problem is, now I’m laughing along with them. Thanks for the comments, RLM!
Mostly it makes me very, very sad. I don’t know how he could have fooled even the leaders of the organization he headed–other pastors, I presume. I mean, isn’t there something inauthentic about a guy who lives a lie that gives him away? Maybe not always.
But this recovery business. Who’s really buying that he’s all better now? Forgiven, if he wants it, but where’s the broken and contrite heart that is the evidence of repentance?
Not my call. It’s between him and God, but I am sad.
Becky
I don’t know. I wouldn’t be too quick to judge. He wandered from God, let himself get sucked into sin to the point where he was trapped in it. It seemed he came to a point where he was broken. If he was truly repentant (only God knows) and has been seeking God, I certainly think God could restore him quickly. I think he could now be honestly viewing the things he did with extreme distaste. I’ll bet it turns his stomach. I bet he’s thinking how foolish he was to seek satisfaction apart from Christ. But if He is filled with the wonder of God’s grace and mercy and love for him in light of what he did, I’ll bet he’s feeling good. May God continue to bring roses up out of the ash heap. May He take what Satan meant for evil and produce much good. May there be more and more healing and forgiveness. May sinners come to salvation.
Mike,
Another quality, thought provoking post… the sad thing is… I think I’m laughing.