A lecturer at a Christian college has come under fire for saying the church has been “invaded” by homosexuality.
Aaron Edwards, who teaches at Cliff College, has faced heavy criticism for the remarks, prompting the college to issue a firm response.
Taking to Twitter on Sunday, 19th of February, Edwards said: “Homosexuality is invading the Church.
“Evangelicals no longer see the severity of this b/c they're busy apologising for their apparently barbaric homophobia, whether or not it's true.
“This is a "Gospel issue", by the way. If sin is no longer sin, we no longer need a Saviour.”
The comments were met with accusations of homophobia, but Edwards responded by saying he was merely expressing a “conservative view” in regards to theology and doctrine, and that his comments were not “an attack on individuals”.
The outcry has prompted a response from Cliff College. The institution took to Twitter shortly after Edwards initial comments, saying: “We have become aware that one of our lecturers posted some comments on this platform this morning regarding human sexuality.
“The language used is inappropriate and unacceptable and does not represent either the views or the ethos of Cliff College.
“Cliff College, with the Methodist Church in Britain, is committed to being a safe and hospitable place, where those with differing convictions are welcomed and challenged to live together as faithful disciples of Christ.
“We aim to do this with mutual respect and a generosity of spirit that springs from our biblical and evangelical conviction of God's love for each and for all.”
Cliff College is attended by students from a range of denominational backgrounds, but historically the institution was a Methodist lay training centre. They continue to report to the Methodist Council, who ultimately claim responsibility for the college.
The Methodist Church welcomed the introduction of same-sex marriage last year.