Torn

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

By: Justin Lee

Narrated by: Justin Lee

Length: 9 hrs and 2 mins

Publisher's Summary

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.

©2012 Justin Lee (P)2013 Hachette Audio

Restored my faith in the Bible

I had lost my faith in the Bible because I couldn't reconcile my (lack of) understanding of the Bible on homosexuality and the fact that I'm gay. This book has restored my faith in the Bible and God. I highly recommend this book to anyone, Christian or not.

Open, honest and gracious

I love how the author is so gracious with his treatment of both gay and non-affirming Christians. This is a topic I’ve struggled with for sometime and being a straight Christian I have never really known where to tire with my honest questions. Every time I broached the subject with my Christian friends, I’ve been treated like I’m on the verge of devil worship for not openly opposing gays and admitting I had doubts about popular theologies.
To the author: thank you for your openness, honesty, and graciousness.

i loved this book.

i loved it.. this book really helps not only straight but gays that are struggling with their attractions and as the author it can go both ways but i choose to be as christ like and loving as possible and not blame either party.

Just my own thought

If you could sum up Torn in three words, what would they be?

I just find it incredibly sad that good people like Justin Lee have to research so much in order to try and justify themselves...they do not need justification, they are being who they were created to be, they are fearfully and wonderfully made...same as anyone else. It is sad that Christians need to be reminded of some basic facts like: love one another, unconditional love, judge not...even if they disagree...oh, and that I love them but hate the sin thing disagreeing Christians always say...well, that is seen as a hateful statement right there except by themselves and others equally blind to their own sin.

Compelling, comprehensive, beautiful!

This is not only a great comprehensive treatment of the issue of the need to re-think what it means to be gay and Christian, but also makes some poignant spot-on observations about the church in general. This is a game changer, life altering read!

Thanks from a Christian mom desperate for Info

I was looking for information that would help me be able to understand and support my teenage gay daughter.

I am so dreading the prejudice and heartache she will encounter as she lives her adult life as an openly gay woman.

While I still don't have all the answers, this book has given me so much hope, peace, and has made me feel more confident about standing up for my daughter in front of people who will unavoidably judge her.

Thank you, Justin for this book.

Amazing!

I think that EVERY Christian should read this book. Regardless of the theological conclusion they come to, there is something for them to learn here.

Great book to read on Christianity and Homosexuali

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.

a must read to love people and stop judging

Tears listening to this moving , authentic book. The author shares his experience beautifully to open hearts. In finding acceptance of others, we find acceptance of ourselves, and move closer to what God wants us to be.

Great read!

As an openly gay pastor I was extremely impressed with Justin Lee's work. I'm grateful that he shares his story to inspire others who may be dealing with the same issues.