I want to share something I saw recently from Steve Harper, a retired professor at Asbury Theological Seminary—the seminary now most aligned with the GMC. Speaking of his decision to remain in the UMC, He recently wrote: 

“I have learned that progressives believe in the inspiration and authority of Scripture as much as any conservative does. Our differences are about hermeneutics [the interpretation of the Bible], not revelation. . . . My witness to those who will stay in the UMC is that you will remain in a denomination that is biblical. You do not have to join the GMC to be faithful to Scripture. . . . My witness to those who will remain in the UMC is that you have not compromised or diminished your faith by commending acceptance, inclusion, and the common good. You have, in fact, decided to personify Micah’s exhortation to “do justice” (Micah 6:8). . . . In sum, my witness to those who will remain in the UMC is this: if you want to be in a denomination where biblical authority, a credible theology of human sexuality, and a commitment to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and your neighbor as yourself is in full force—you need not leave.” [1]

[1] Steve Harper, “Along the Way: Parting Words & Words of Witness,” Oboedire, March 17, 2022, https://bit.ly/3NICmF9.