Church of the Nazarene Expels LGBTQ-Affirming Theologian for Defying Doctrinal Teachings

The Church of the Nazarene has expelled Rev. Thomas Jay Oord, a prominent theologian, for affirming and advocating for the inclusion of LGBTQ individuals, a stance that conflicts with the denomination’s teachings. The decision was made by a court of the church, which found Oord guilty of conduct unbecoming a minister and of teaching doctrines inconsistent with the denomination’s doctrinal statement. Oord, based in Nampa, Idaho, was stripped of his preaching credentials and expelled from membership in the 2.5-million-member global denomination.

The court’s verdict, delivered on July 28, stated that Oord’s actions were contrary to the church’s position that “the practice of same-sex sexual intimacy is contrary to God’s will.” Oord’s trial took place in Boise on July 25, following the 2023 expulsion of Selden Kelley, another Nazarene minister who had advocated for dialogue on LGBTQ issues. Kelley was also defrocked after a guilty verdict was reached against him.

The church court, composed of four clergy and two lay members, emailed Oord the five-page verdict on July 27. Oord’s district superintendent, Rev. Scott Shaw, who testified against him during the trial, declined to comment. The court cited Oord’s book, co-authored with his daughter Alexa Oord, who identifies as bisexual, titled “Why the Church of the Nazarene Should Be Fully LGBTQ+ Affirming.” In the book, the Oords argue that some LGBTQ behaviors, including same-sex marriage, can promote well-being and represent the values of the Kingdom of God.

The court criticized Oord for defying church rules, including multiple requests to either stop advocating for LGBTQ inclusion or relinquish his preaching credentials. The verdict noted that Oord showed “absolutely no repentance or willingness to submit to the authority of the church,” and his behavior was described as exhibiting a “pattern of disregard and disrespect for authority.”

Oord expressed disappointment but no surprise at the outcome, stating he had hoped the Church of the Nazarene could be a place for those who affirm queer people and support their allies. The case highlights ongoing tensions within the denomination regarding LGBTQ inclusion and the balance between theological conviction and institutional authority.

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