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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 Gay Studies LGBTQ+ Studies

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

All stars
Most relevant  
Justin Lee has written an excellent narrative of his life, the struggles, the searching and many insights from side A & side B. A must read for all who have interest in the topic, one side or the other.

Excellent investigation into the subject

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My journey is quite different to Justin’s, as I have only embraced my same sex attraction in my 50’s. I come from senior leadership in a church and fully embraced a strong bible based evangelical foundation.

This book outlined much of my experience as I tried to reconcile Christ’s love and the attitude of many to gays.

Most Christian have a heart to love like Christ and don’t know how to do that with gays without feeling they need to compromise their beliefs.

Thanks for a clear and heart felt presentation if your journey and your faithfulness to review the scriptures.

I pray I’ll have the courage you have had to be in a church again one day with my wife.

Gut wrenching and real

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