Several prominent Christian leaders have raised opposition to same-sex marriage in light of current state legislation. Many agree with the Biblical definition of the institution, and have spoken out against the promotion of what the Bible defines as sin.

On Tuesday, Minnesota became the twelfth state to legalize same-sex marriage. Following the bill that was recently passed in his state, renowned preacher Dr. John Piper tweeted: “No, Minnesota, ‘men committing shameless acts with men’ (Romans 1:27) is not, nor ever will be, marriage. Only destruction.”

Joel Osteen also asserted that he believes that the Scriptures define marriage to be between male and female in an interview with CNN earlier this year.

Dr. Tony Evans has made clear his opposition to same-sex marriage as well in interviews with CNN, asserting that the Bible holds but one definition of marriage, between “a man and a woman, a husband and a wife, and that is a non-negotiable view.” Dr. Evans also highlighted the authority of God over His creation, stressing that God created the institutions of both marriage and government, and that the administration should not rebel against His design - “…God should not be marginalized and put on the sideline. His authority should not be negated, and we should not take human institutions that He established, which includes government – and the foundation is the family - and redefine it at our own whim.”

Despite much opposition, many Christians have not hesitated to affirm God’s intention for marriage. When asked whether he was worried about being marginalized for his strong convictions, Dr. Evans stated that he was not concerned about his reputation; he would stand with God, even if he was in the minority. He held fast that “God defines what marriage is. Society is supposed to implement His definition.”