Parton’s version of love, which includes condoning immoral sexual behavior (“be who you are,” she’s said), is unaligned with God’s vision for humanity. Like so many secularized spiritual leaders, Parton equates love with agreement, but the two are not reciprocal. Love doesn’t mean we must accept sinfulness as good to avoid hurting someone’s feelings.
It’s a reminder to be careful when looking to cultural Christians to light the way. For example, we love to hear Stephen Colbert testify about following Christ, but when he rants against the overturn of Roe v. Wade, it’s clear he’s misguided.
Similarly, in the same week that Parton mentioned her upbringing in church, The Advocate (a large circulation magazine) called her an “LGBTQ+ icon.” And her rhinestone-studded flashy outfits, big hair, and infamous chest have inspired many a drag queen. That’s not her fault, but she does seem to indulge it.
Also, yes Dolly Parton has always been beautiful, but I can't think of a single time her being overtly sexual, and rarely is she sexualized by others in my experience. Who the fuck is this guy
Ericka Andersen is a freelance writer and the author of "Reason to Return: Why Women Need the Church & the Church Needs Women." She is a columnist for World magazine and reporter for Christianity Today.