As a co-host of the Heretic Happy Hour podcast and out bi man, I have often been asked how we reconcile faith and sexuality, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. This topic has sparked many passionate discussions, and our recent episode was no exception. We were joined by an incredible panel including Brandan Robertson, Jennifer Knapp, and Flamy Grant. Each brought unique perspectives and deep insights, shedding light on the intersection of faith, identity, and acceptance.
Brandan Robertson, a writer, activist, and pastor, shared his journey of reconciling his sexuality with his Christian faith. He emphasized the importance of addressing the “clobber passages” in the Bible—the verses traditionally used to condemn LGBTQ+ individuals. For Brandan, this process is crucial for queer Christians who are struggling to find their place within their faith. He noted, however, that engaging in debates with those who are firmly rooted in conservative interpretations often proves futile. Instead, he believes in the power of personal stories and lived experiences to change hearts and minds. It’s about showing the spirit of God in queer lives and letting that testimony speak for itself.
Jennifer Knapp, a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, echoed Brandan’s sentiments. She spoke about the necessity of living authentically and the healing that comes from embracing one’s true self. Jennifer highlighted the transformative power of coming out and how it allows individuals to fully develop spiritually, ethically, and personally. She argued that the real testament to the validity of LGBTQ+ Christians is not in justifying their existence through theological debates but in demonstrating the wholeness and joy of a life lived openly and honestly.
Flamy Grant, winner of last year’s “Heretic of the Year” award, offered a vibrant perspective on this discussion. She candidly expressed her exhaustion with the endless debates over LGBTQ+ inclusion in Christianity. For Flamy, the focus is on celebrating the joy and beauty of queer identity. She sees her role as a drag queen as a way to be unmissable and unapologetic about who she is. This, she believes, is her calling: to be a visible and joyous representation of the LGBTQ+ community, challenging norms and spreading love through her art.
Our conversation naturally turned to the broader implications of these personal journeys. We discussed how the deconstruction movement within Christianity has opened doors for marginalized voices, including LGBTQ+ individuals. This movement encourages people to question long-held beliefs and to embrace a more inclusive and compassionate faith. Jennifer pointed out that the witness of LGBTQ+ Christians is part of a larger tapestry of voices that are reshaping the church into a more loving and accepting community.
One of the most poignant moments in our discussion came when Flamy Grant talked about the emotional impact of her performances and interactions with fans. She shared how the meet-and-greet lines after her shows often become spaces of profound connection, where young queer individuals find affirmation and support. It’s in these moments, Flamy said, that the true power of representation is felt. It’s about more than just being seen; it’s about being embraced for who you are and knowing that you are not alone.
As we wrapped up the episode, it was clear that our panelists all agreed on one fundamental truth: the best defense of LGBTQ+ inclusion in Christianity is not through arguments or debates but through the lived witness of our lives. By embracing our true selves and living out our faith with authenticity and joy, we show the world what it means to be both queer and Christian.
The Heretic Happy Hour podcast has always been a space for challenging conversations and radical honesty. This episode was a testament to that spirit, reminding us all that love and acceptance are at the heart of the gospel. As we continue to navigate these complex and often painful discussions, we can find hope and inspiration in the stories of those who have walked this path before us.
So, to our listeners who might be grappling with these issues, remember that you are not alone. There is a community of believers who see you, love you, and stand with you. As we move forward, let’s continue to create spaces where everyone can experience the fullness of God’s love. And if you ever need a place to voice your thoughts or hear others’ experiences, the Heretic Happy Hour is here for you.
Also, if you’ve been digging my work on here, and want to see me be able to continue writing as close to full-time as humanly possible, please take a look at my Patreon page at www.patreon.com/mjdistefano. Even $1 a month helps bigly!
Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In