Rating: 
Summary: inspiration for everyone
Review: I found Dr. White's journey to be inspiring for anyone who is struggling with a seemingly impossible situation. Considering all the people and beliefs involved, he resolved everything very gracefully, in my opinion. I feel that I can't say much in favor of the book that hasn't already been said, so I'll address a few of the criticisms. Some have said that it's overly-emotional and redundant, and though this is true of some parts, it isn't hard to understand why. The life of someone who goes back and forth from denial to acceptance is bound to be a bit repetitive, and certainly dramatic. I think he provides the reader with the whole story, and that story is often frustrating and painful for a reader who has experienced pain almost identical to his. Some have said that this book does not examine the Biblical passages that refer to homosexuality very thoroughly. I beg to differ, since I don't think there is all that much to say to begin with. The Bible never addresses sexual orientation specifically, and shows no understanding of what we know as homosexuality in modern times. Also, White points out that the infamous verse in Leviticus is right alongside numerous absurd verses that are impossible to honor in this day and age. Aside from that, the idea of taking the entire Old Testament literally is absurd in itself, as it would require discounting science, such as the fact that the Earth does indeed revolve around the sun. Some reviewers have criticized White for divorcing his wife without hesitation, when, in fact, he stayed with his wife for many years after he was already aware of his homosexuality. Some might have left the marriage abruptly and without remorse. Instead, White supported his wife as much as possible, and remained supportive of his family even after he was divorced and had a partner. He was as faithful to his wife as any gay man should be expected to be. I constantly encounter people who are completely unaware that there is a such a thing as gay Christian, and that is why this book and others like it are so important. I've also encountered many gays who might practice Christianity, but have come to believe that Christian gay or Christian lesbian is an oxymoron. I hope that White can and has convinced readers otherwise. Even those gays who do not identify with Christianity or any other religion should be able to relate to White's struggle. And you don't have to be gay to be able to relate to a battle that is fought by every human being at one time or another--to accept yourself for who you are in the face of a society that can be unwelcoming of anything remotely unordinary.
Rating:
Summary: Well written
Review: I fully understand the struggle Mr. White experienced. I too have the same struggle, but he stated that "he tried" for 25 years to overcome his homosexuality. As a Christian I understand the Bible to teach that we do not live the Christian life in our own power, we must die to ourselves each day and take up the cross of Christ and let Him live the Christian life through us. I am sorry that Mr. White struggled for so many years, but it seems to me he relied on his own power, not the power of God. He stated at one point that "I finally relized that it was about me." Isn't all sin, including homosexuality about "me." That is the basis of sin, doing what the "me" wants to do. The basis of living a Christian life is letting God crucify the "me" and allowing the Holy Spirit to live through you. The Bible makes it VERY CLEAR that homosexuality is not God's plan for our lives. Mr. White simply decided he did not want to fight anymore, just as any heterosexual man would decided he has had enough of his marriage and leaves his wife for another woman. The book is about Mr. White giving in to sin, plain and simple. God would not make someone homosexual and then tell them they could not live that way. God's word is clear on the subject, 1 Corin. 6:11 "that is what some of you were, but you were washed..." God is bigger than homosexuality, he can overcome the desires!!
Rating:
Summary: A Powerful Message for all of us
Review: I had a hard time putting this book down as I found myself at Mel's side experiencing his life from early teenage years. So often he was speaking my thoughts and, in a way, revealing a lot about myself as well. I laughed, I felt anger, I cried in sadness and cried in joy celebrating Mel's welcome 'home'. This is book that has a lot to offer for the gay and for those that may know one. Its powerful message reveals how we all are victims of the misstruths.
Rating:
Summary: An awesome guide to fight the so-called religious leaders
Review: I love this book and it changed my life. From this book you'll learn that the Bible has been mistranslated and misused to attack different types of people throughout the century. Now the so-called regious leaders just love to focus on misusing the Bible to condemn the homosexuals because they fear that the truth, the light will eventually shine into their darkness. This book declares that it's time to fight back with the truth.
Rating:
Summary: A testimony to God's love and grace
Review: I read Mel's book almost four years ago and found it to be a pivotal point as I was struggling to reconcile my faith and sexuality. Mel tells his story poignantly and has made a sincere effort to tell it in a way that will offer hope and healing to others. While this book might not change the minds of those who oppose homosexuality, at least it will offer them a human face to put to something that has often been impersonally villianized.
Rating: 
Summary: Stranger at The Gate
Review: I read this book after my first Soul Force meeting...had to know more. Mel White's story is great.
Rating:
Summary: A Breath of Fresh Air
Review: I read this book with such amazement. I shared a similar struggle before I came out. So well written and helps me realize, the true love of God of a homosexual. Someone he made in His image. Thank you..Thank you..Thank you for writing this magnificent book!
Rating:
Summary: ~ how things REALLY are for Gods gay children ~
Review: I recently finished this great book. It made me laugh, cry ... filled me with hope, and fear too. It caught my eye at a bookstore (seeing how I'm a gay Christian). I thank God for Mel White and his courage! I hope to meet his someday. This book is a GREAT read of anyone affected by the oppression of his or her local church.
Rating:
Summary: To be Gay and Christian in North Ringwood, Australia
Review: I thought it would be nice for readers to receive a view from a gay man who loves the Lord Jesus Christ in Australia.
I think I always knew I was gay but found I had terribly conflicting feelings growing up within the North Ringwood Baptist Church. Reverend Ernie Felchier would preach the strength of the gospel while I would hide my terrible shame. I did learn to accept my homosexuality with time and now I jump at the opportunity to find books that deal with my struggle. Hear hear Mel White.....thank you and God bless you !!
Rating:
Summary: A moving tale of courage.
Review: I was completely transformed by this book. After years of being a closeted homosexual in an Evangelical tradition, Mel's story liberated me. I recommend this book to any Christian struggling with their sexual orientation. I especially recommend this book to members of the conservative evangelical community. Whatever one's stance on homosexuality is, one can't help but be inspired by this tale of incredible courage against incredible odds.
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