In fairness, that IS the “pattern for marriage” (or, more to the point, definition of marriage) that Jesus gives:

“Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” (Matthew 19:4–6, NIV)

It is true that the Bible records marital relationships different from Jesus’ definition — which of course is based on humanity’s first couple: Adam and Eve. And it’s true that God allows for these variant marriages — if, by allow, we mean that He didn’t always intervene to stop them and that the Law of Moses made certain provisions for these variations.

But it is also true that the original marriage instituted by God in the Garden of Eden — and later affirmed by Jesus — reflects the type of marriage supported by the “hardcore conservatives” you criticize.

While I certainly believe we should affirm the civil rights of all Americans as well as the freedom of religion, thought, and speech for all Americans, and…

While I wholeheartedly affirm the inherent human dignity and value of all people in general (whatever their gender, sexual identity, orientation, belief, etc)….

It is nevertheless reasonable for Bible-believing Christians to conclude that the marriage defined by Jesus in Matthew 19 reflects the standard Jesus’ followers should strive for.

You may not agree with that position. But it’s not an unreasonable one.

Love and Blessings to all!