For many church leaders, the Google Ad Grant is an incredible tool for reaching new people and expanding their ministry’s digital presence. However, there’s one part of the application process that often gives pause: the non-discrimination clause. Specifically, Google asks grant recipients to affirm that they will not discriminate based on sexual orientation in their hiring practices.
If you’re like me, this clause might initially feel like a sticking point. As church leaders, we want to operate with integrity and remain faithful to biblical principles. So how do we reconcile this requirement with our convictions? Let me share how I came to terms with it and how I’ve explained it to others in ministry.
Understanding the Categories
When it comes to the topic of homosexuality, I’ve found it helpful to think about it in three categories:
- Homosexual Acts – The Bible clearly speaks against homosexual behavior. There’s no need for further elaboration here.
- Homosexual Identity – This refers to someone who identifies as part of the LGBTQ+ community, whether or not they engage in homosexual acts. As evangelical Christians, we generally take issue with this as well.
- Homosexual Orientation – This describes someone who experiences same-sex attraction but may not act on those desires.
The key question Google’s clause raises, in my view, relates to category #3. Here’s why.
Living Under Biblical Authority
In my own church, we have members who have openly shared that they struggle with same-sex attraction. They’ve chosen to live celibate lives, submitting their desires to Christ and striving to live according to biblical sexual ethics. These individuals are fully involved in our church community, even serving in leadership roles.
The world might call this “homosexual orientation,” but we see it differently. We understand it as part of the old sin nature that all believers are called to bring under submission to Christ. Importantly, we don’t require God to change someone’s attractions for them to serve or lead in our church. What matters is their commitment to live in obedience to God’s Word.
Affirming the Clause with Integrity
With this understanding, I felt confident affirming that our church does not discriminate based on sexual orientation. We invite people of all sexual orientations to bring their lives, including their sexuality, under the authority of Jesus. This is a consistent application of our belief that all people are sinners in need of grace and transformation.
A Tool for Ministry
The reality is that the Google Ad Grant has been an incredible resource for our church. It has helped us reach countless new visitors and share the Gospel with more people than ever before. For me, agreeing to this clause wasn’t about compromising biblical principles but about understanding how it aligns with our mission to reach people where they are and invite them into a transformative relationship with Christ. The non-discrimination clause is just one part of Google’s broader compliance requirements that all grant recipients must follow.
A Word of Encouragement
If you’re wrestling with this decision, I understand. It’s not a light matter. But I encourage you to prayerfully consider how this framework might help you navigate the non-discrimination clause with both integrity and clarity. The opportunity to reach more people with the Gospel is worth thoughtful engagement with this issue.
As always, I’m here to share my experience and answer any questions you might have. Let’s continue striving to honor God in every aspect of our ministry, even in the challenging decisions.
If you’re ready to move forward with the grant, make sure your church meets the eligibility requirements first. And if you’d like expert help navigating the entire process, our Google Grant management team has helped hundreds of churches get approved and stay compliant.
God bless.