The Truth About Marriage: A Reflection on Same-Sex Marriage and the Teachings of Russell M. Nelson
By Bobby Darvish, Iranian-American Ex-Muslim, Former Vegan, Former Democrat, Former Socialist, Former CAIR-Columbus Executive Director, Former Muslim Forum of Utah President, Christian Conservative LDS, Freemason, and Sons of MRA Member
Marriage has always been central to the fabric of society. As an Iranian-American who has journeyed through Islam, socialism, veganism, and liberalism to find truth and stability in Christ and the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I now see marriage as more than just a legal or cultural institution. It is a divine covenant, one created and sanctified by God. This understanding, so eloquently expressed by President Russell M. Nelson, underscores why same-sex marriage is incompatible with the eternal principles of the gospel.
The Eternal Nature of Marriage
President Russell M. Nelson, a prophet of God and a man of great medical and spiritual wisdom, has taught that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God. He once declared:
“Male and female are created as complementary partners to bring children into the world and to raise them in love and righteousness. This is a sacred trust and a central purpose of mortal life” (Nelson, 2017).
As a former Muslim and one-time liberal activist, I understand the arguments in favor of same-sex marriage. Advocates claim it is about equality and human rights. Yet, when we dig deeper, we find that redefining marriage undermines its divine purpose: the creation and nurturing of families under God’s eternal plan.
Personal Reflection on Changing Beliefs
In my former life as a socialist and leader within the Muslim community, I espoused progressive views, including support for same-sex marriage. At the time, these views seemed compassionate and just. But my journey to Christianity and membership in the LDS Church revealed the flaws in such ideologies.
Islam, for all its faults and contradictions, also opposes same-sex relationships. However, it does so without the redeeming framework of love, repentance, and eternal progression. In contrast, the Christian gospel recognizes the divine potential in all people while standing firm on moral truths.
The Social Consequences of Redefining Marriage
Same-sex marriage advocates argue it has no impact on traditional marriages. Yet research shows that the redefinition of marriage weakens societal norms surrounding family structure. Studies have demonstrated that children fare best when raised by a mother and a father, benefiting from the unique contributions of both genders (Regnerus, 2012).
Moreover, the legalization of same-sex marriage often leads to conflicts with religious freedoms. Bakers, photographers, and adoption agencies have been sued for adhering to their beliefs. President Nelson warned of such conflicts, emphasizing that we must stand firm in defending marriage as ordained by God, even when it is unpopular.
A Freemason Perspective on Morality
As a Freemason, I also reflect on the ancient wisdom that underscores moral order. Freemasonry respects the family unit as foundational to civil society. My dual commitment to Freemasonry and the LDS faith has deepened my conviction that tampering with God's design for marriage is not only spiritually dangerous but socially destructive.
Conclusion
As a former leader within Islam and now a committed Christian, I know what it means to confront the cultural and political pressures that seek to reshape timeless truths. President Russell M. Nelson's teachings on marriage are a clarion call to uphold God's law in the face of worldly opposition.
This is not about hatred or exclusion but about recognizing the sacred, eternal purposes of life, marriage, and family. We must strive to share this truth with love and compassion while standing immovable in our commitment to the divine plan of happiness.
Citations
- Nelson, Russell M. “The Love and Laws of God.” Brigham Young University Devotional, September 2019. Available at https://speeches.byu.edu.
- Regnerus, Mark. “How Different Are the Adult Children of Parents Who Have Same-Sex Relationships?” Social Science Research, July 2012.
- The Family: A Proclamation to the World. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1995. Available at https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org.
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