2 of 2

Critics will also point to the book's frequent mention of the continuing, though steadily diminishing, homosexual temptations and interests that healed homosexuals experience as proof that "healing" is not possible or natural. But here again, the critics typically exceed all reasonable bounds in what they demand as a cure: Few significant human problems get so utterly "cured" that no residual concerns remain. Depressed people often remain more vulnerable to depression in the future than the general public, and alcoholics often continue to have to strive for sobriety years after they have taken their last drink.

"Coming Out of Homosexuality" is not a perfect book. To begin, Davies and Rentzel seem a bit too insistent in their dismissal of biological factors that might constitute an influence or "push" for some in the direction of homosexual preference. Since they do recognize that certain life experiences from infancy through adulthood can have a powerful shaping effect upon choice, it is unclear why the same kind of understanding would not leave open the possibility of biological influences being operative for some homosexuals.

Also, despite the authors' initial caution about goals—especially that the reader struggling with homosexuality not aim for marriage—it is ironic that the book itself seems to aim largely for marriage. Unfortunately, a sustained discussion of chaste, satisfied singleness occupies only two pages in the closing chapter of the book, while two whole chapters are devoted to finding healing in marriage. On a practical level, readers would be better benefited by hearing more about those who have been healed but not married.

Still, despite its oversights, "Coming Out of Homosexuality" has much to say to both those who think leaving homosexuality is something that can be easily done and those who reject the possibility of it altogether. Through research and testimony, Davies and Rentzel convincingly show that God's power, though not immediately realized, is by no means impotent in healing the homosexual soul.

Copyright 1994 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

first page |  2 of 2

share this page

August 15 1994, Vol. 38, No. 9