Dr. Glenn Davies, the Anglican Archbishop of Sydney bluntly told Anglican supporters of same-sex marriage, that they should leave the church rather than “betray God’s word”.
Addressing the 51st Synod of the Diocese of Sydney, in his final address to the Anglican church’s parliament, Davies delivered a scathing denunciation of progressive elements within the church that they had “entered treacherous waters” and called on those who supported same-sex marriage to leave.
“I fear for the stability of the Anglican Church of Australia. These developments have the potential to fracture our fellowship and impair our communion. I have stated this on numerous occasions at the annual National Bishops’ Conference, but sadly to little effect,” said Davies, who is the Synod president.
“My own view is that if people wish to change the doctrine of our church, they should start a new church or join a church more aligned to their views – but do not ruin the Anglican Church by abandoning the plain teaching of Scripture. Please leave us.
“We have far too much work to do in evangelizing Australia to be distracted by the constant pressure to change our doctrine in order to satisfy the lusts and pleasures of the world.”
Davies directed his strongest criticism at church branches that had moved to bless same-sex unions, such as the Wangaratta diocese in Victoria. That decision has now been referred to the church’s internal appeals tribunal.
Davies said to bless same-sex unions would be to “betray God’s word”. He conceded “our view of marriage is not a popular one in Australia” and was also now contrary to the law.
“Nonetheless, God’s intention for marriage has not changed. We honor him when we abide by his instruction. We cannot bless same-sex marriages for the simple reason that we cannot bless sin,” Davies said.
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