Torn Audiobook By Justin Lee cover art

Torn

Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate

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Torn

By: Justin Lee
Narrated by: Justin Lee
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AN UPDATED EDITION OF THIS BOOK IS AVAILABLE IN PAPERBACK

An evangelical Christian examines the impact of sexuality, the LGBTQ+ movement, and the future of the church in this thoughtful, deeply researched guide to navigating and mending the social and political division in our families and churches.

As a teenager and young man, Justin Lee felt deeply torn. Nicknamed "God Boy" by his peers, he knew that he was called to a life in the evangelical Christian ministry. But Lee harbored a secret: He also knew that he was gay. In this groundbreaking book, Lee recalls the events—his coming out to his parents, his experiences with the "ex-gay" movement, and his in-depth study of the Bible—that led him, eventually, to self-acceptance.

But more than just a memoir, Torn provides insightful, practical guidance for all committed Christians who wonder how to relate to gay friends or family members—or who struggle with their own sexuality. Convinced that "in a culture that sees gays and Christians as enemies, gay Christians are in a unique position to bring peace," Lee demonstrates that people of faith on both sides of the debate can respect, learn from, and love one another.

This description refers to a 2012 edition of the book.

©2012 Justin Lee (P)2013 Hachette Audio Christian Living Christianity LGBTQ+ Studies Spiritual Growth Inspiring Thought-Provoking Heartfelt

Critic reviews

"Radiates a genuine concern and belief in progress through slow, personal evolution...Both LGBT individuals and Christians will benefit from the modeling of a kinder, more accommodating navigation of this culture war."—Publishers Weekly

"Lee's writing is approachable, and he shows compassion for those on all sides of this debate."—Kirkus Reviews

"Disarmingly vulnerable...poignant..."—Christianity Today
Personal Testimony • Thoughtful Exploration • Engaging Narration • Biblical Perspective • Compassionate Approach
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A very different perspective on a widely controversial topic. Justin’s story and the way he sought answers has me rethinking my position on the topic of same sex marriage, which I never thought I would… his method of study and devotion to Christ is admirable. I still don’t know where I stand on this issue, 100%, but this book has definitely given me a different perspective and I’m thankful for it.

Very thought-provoking.

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I cannot believe how much I learned by opening my heart to truly listen. Highly recommend this book to every christian ready to listens

My heart is changed

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it was an amazing experience. I loved hearing the authors intent of the words. I recommend audible to anyone. however I would love to have access to the book to read along sometime.

I loved the book and my 1st audible experience

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Thank you for writing this book! It is one that the church should use and have on hand always. If the church loved like you talk about, like Jesus did, this world would be different. I will be sharing this book with others.

Loved this Book

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This book is moving — an important contribution that will build bridges across many perspectives and generations. Although it contains a study of key scripture, it is really an honest revealing of a life. Thank you, Justin Lee, for writing it.

Wonderful “listen”

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I am glad to have listened to this book. Although I am a straight, married Christian, I feel it is important to study for myself what the biblical truth about homosexuality. It was great hear Justin's story and his interpretation of the Bible verses that referred to homosexuality. I am most interested to know his view of Ephesians 5 (the verse most folks point to when describing Biblical marriage) or Adam and Eve story, and what implications those verses have on his view of Biblical relationships. Because he didn't explore such topics in this book, I felt the book was complete. However, I would certainly recommend this book to others interested in exploring this topic.

Great book to read on Christianity and Homosexuali

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This is a great book from a man, Justin Lee, who was born Gay and is a Christ-Follower. He writes about his life to where he is today, Founder and Head of the Gay Christian Network. What I like most about the book is how he talks about his experience of the tension Christians have when dealing with LGBT community, who more often than not, act in a condemning rather the graceful way to those people. He describes both what he experienced but also the tension he felt as he tried to resolve his understanding of being Gay and what that meant in light of his Christian beliefs.

Being a Christ-follower myself and "straight", I saw some of myself in both the bad and good responses to the LGBT community. I disagree with his theological position, but understand how he got there. What I most like is how he is trying to break down the walls between the Church and the LGBT community so that we can actually talk to each other without throwing condemnation or angry words around.

No matter what side of the conversation you are on, this book is well worth the read/listen.

Well Done

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This is first and foremost Justin’s personal life story, and he is quick to admit that his is perhaps a bit unusual among LGBTQ individuals. He also is quick to acknowledge the challenges that many Christians today may have with moving towards a fully-affirming stance towards same-sex relationships. With that in mind, his story is incredibly informative and helpful in personalizing what this issue means to so many Christians. He is also deliberate about walking through the very real, meaningful, and heartfelt challenges many Christians may encounter with a theology affirming of same-sex relationships. His primary objective is not necessarily to change people’s opinion, although I’m sure he would like to do so. Instead, it is to increase the civility, respect, and above all, divinely-mandated love around the topic, regardless of belief. I am so appreciative of Justin, his thoughtfulness, and his bravery in telling his story.

Regardless of one’s beliefs about same sex attraction, this is a must-read.

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I found Mr. Lee's story provocative. I disagree with Mr. Lee's interpretation of God's word I appreciate the insight this book is given me to the issue.

Thought-provoking

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This is an excellent book to facilitate bridging the gap between differing views on LGBTQ issues. I believe if we all read this book, we might actually be able to begin moving in the right direction.

A must read for every Christian

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