Why in the world do otherwise intelligent (I assume) individuals continue to equate "homosexual" and "having gay sex"?

A kid who is "homosexual" is merely attracted to his own gender. The word "homosexual" does not, in any way, imply whether the kid believes having sex outside of male/female marriage is in any way acceptable nor that he is acting on his attraction. Same with the phrase "gay identified."

There are many many Christians who are attracted to their own gender who, nevertheless, choose celibacy because of their trust and obedience to Christ. The old rules barred these faithful Christians kids from taking part and denied them a useful tool in their battle against their temptations.

I used to think the gay community was exaggerating when they talked of Christians hating homosexuals. Now, I'm not so sure.

Jesus threatened the Pharisees with hell because they would not forgive the tax collectors, who had actually done many awful things. I wonder what will happen to churches who refuse to forgive teens merely for being tempted?

Perhaps the reason the Christian Church is suffering and shrinking today has less to do with the fact that we are at odds with the culture and more to do with the fact that God simply will not bless any "church" that chooses to put aside the cross and, instead, builds on a foundation of self righteousness by condemning without hope those who face temptation.

I am very glad the Boy Scouts made a change that should have been made a long time ago and very much respect President Harrison and his advisers for a carefully thought out and Gospel centered response.