On July 16th, 2012, the CEO of Chick-Fil-A, Dan Cathy, made a statement of his view on gay marriage during the interview with Baptist Press. He did say that “the company” supports a “traditional family” followed by another similar statement on “The Ken Coleman Show”, a syndicated radio show. This sparked, perhaps unexpected, a huge controversy, boycott, threat, and loss of market share.
In order to show support Chick-Fil-A Appreciation Day was created for Aug. 1st and so many both supporters as well as protesters showed up.
The statement Dan Cathy made was not of his own… yes, it is the view he embraces but a biblical view he stated. So when people are against this statement, in actuality, they are against the biblical teaching of marriage. It is not a misinterpretation but restatement of God-ordained marriage. Absolutely no one or no government has a right to redefine what God has clearly ordained. However, also to keep in mind that Dan Cathy’s statement is his “personal” view and not the entire Chick-fil-A view since the company staffs gays, lesbian and bisexual employees.
What saddens me is how those who are crying for “tolerance” are acting intolerable to views different from themselves. Thus, on my facebook page I have used Anderson Cooper “coming out” verse Dan Cathy “coming out” as an example. I have yet to hear or saw postings on facebook, viral video clips, news or organized events boycotting or protesting Anderson Cooper for declaring himself as a gay. Rather a positive applause and warm embracing surrounded his “coming out.” This is exactly opposite of one who declares biblical view in this culture. Thus, like one article said, “Chick-Fil-A is getting a lesson of corporate outspokenness.”
Daniel in the Old Testament was pressured to conform to the culture he was placed in. Nebuchadnezzar pressured him to conform through language, literature, and lifestyle but Daniel lived out his conviction as he “purposed in his heart” (Dan. 1:8).
I pray that all believers would be bold enough to speak out and stand up (not hurtful or judgmental way) for their biblical conviction when the opportunity is given like Daniel and Dan Cathy.