Ned and his family have some common characteristics with the conservative, "Focus on the Family" type of culturally repressed, homeschooled family.
Ned is, nonetheless entertaining and funny. The minister Reverand Lovejoy is also a caracature of sorts, as he deftly searches the scriptures for the right words for the right Okaaashunn.
One thing that everyone has to remember is that all Christians are no more conservative than are all gay people flamers.
Humor is a tool that society can use to heal itself and promote tolerance without lack of respect for morality.
Gay marriage will probably become a societal norm within fifty years, but what will be really interesting is when they start talking about gay divorce. Everybody needs the Lord, after all!