Christian Parents Caught On Tape Beating Their Gay Son [Video]

A Christian couple was caught on film beating their gay son — because they do not agree with his lifestyle. The disturbing footage was posted on Reddit, with the title “how not to react when your child tells you that he is gay.”

Although the family members are not named, the man being beaten is identified as 20-year-old Daniel. As the clip begins, Daniel explains to his father, step-mother, and grandmother, that he is homosexual. A woman, who was later identified as his step-mother, promptly tells Daniel that he has disgraced the family.

Daniel attempts to explain that being gay was not a conscious decision. His step-mother disagrees. The conversation continues to escalate to the point where Daniel is physically attacked. At times, the audio is difficult to understand. However, the words “disgrace” and “faggot” come through loud and clear.

As evidenced in the clip, the Christian parents are angry simply because son is gay. In many Christian denominations, homosexuality is forbidden. Although it is unclear which denomination Daniel’s parents belong to, it is clear that they do not tolerate homosexuality.

Although it may be disturbing, Daniel’s story is not unique. Many families are torn apart, as parents feel they must choose between their children and their religious beliefs.

Christian author Rachel Held Evans addresses the issue in a blog titled “If My Son Or daughter Were Gay.” In the article, Held underlines the fact that she would support her children despite her religious beliefs:

“I would want that child to know without a doubt that he or she is loved unconditionally. I would want her to know nothing could separate her from the love of God in Christ. I would want her to know that she isn’t broken, she isn’t an embarrassment, she isn’t a disappointment.”

Held cites the very real impact of Christian parents rejecting their gay children, regardless of their age:

“There have been too many secrets, too many bruises, too many suicides, and too many broken families already. Let’s be careful with our words, our assumptions, and our attitudes.”

In stark contrast, Christian writer Pastor David Murray admits that he understands Herd’s motives. However, he feels she missed the point. Murray believes Christian parents have an obligation to warn their children about the “sinfulness of homosexual desires… the immorality of homosexual actions.”

Herd and Murray both identify themselves as Christians. However, their opinions about homosexuality are clearly at odds. Unfortunately, this is the underlying issue behind the controversy. Both writers certainly read the same Bible and worship the same God. However, they each have opposing views.

Although the writers seem to disagree, both encourage Christian parents to talk to their gay children — not beat them.

Daniel’s parents also identify themselves as Christians. Unfortunately, they chose to use a heavy hand when dealing with their son’s homosexuality.

[Image via Wikimedia]