St Helen\u2019s Bishopsgate, following much prayer and reflection, has announced a state of broken partnership with the House of Bishops of the Church of England.<\/p>\n
St Helen\u2019s and many other churches have over a prolonged period called for and prayed for Bishops, as the denomination\u2019s senior leaders, to uphold their vows to teach what the Bible says, including in the area of sex and marriage, and to deny false teaching and practice. Instead theHouse of Bishops is divided on sex and marriage; its official orthodox doctrine is expressly undermined by how some bishops speak and act, and by the failure to speak and act of many others. This has resulted in a muddled message and confusion for churchgoers across England.<\/p>\n
Despite their consecration vows, Bishops have overseen the appointment to influential leadership positions of people who openly advocate change to the Church of England\u2019s doctrine and\/or forms of service, and Bishops have permitted alternative services and events that do not uphold the Church of England\u2019s stated doctrinal position on sexual ethics.<\/p>\n
Seven years ago the House of Bishops published the Pilling Report which called for \u2018facilitated discussions\u2019 on sexuality. Earlier this month the House of Bishops published the Living in Love and Faith book, course, and library of resources which call for yet further discussion. Living in Love and Faith demonstrates the division in the House of Bishops with some sections setting out the orthodox biblical teaching but others erroneous alternative views. The overall effect suggests that the clear biblical teaching on sex and marriage is not clear. The House of Bishops is responsible for upholding biblical doctrine in the Church of England. Whilst St Helen\u2019s is encouraged by the faithful work of some involved in the LLF project, the clarity and consistency of the bible\u2019s teaching on sex and
\nmarriage is in marked contrast to theHouse of Bishops\u2019 muddled message.<\/p>\n
In good conscience, St Helen\u2019s is no longer able to remain in gospel partnership with theHouse of Bishops until they again speak and act consistently in accordance with the plain reading and plain teaching of scripture on sex and marriage, as recognised by the church down the centuries.<\/p>\n