The New Testament says that homosexuality is a “shameful lust” (Romans ), a “shameful act,” an abandonment of “natural relations” (Romans ), a “wrongdoing” (1 Corinthians ), and “sexual immorality and perversion” (Jude ). First published in , The Fourth R shares the latest thinking from religion scholars and writers—in non-technical language aimed at a general audience. Annual subscription to six issues of The Fourth R is included in Westar membership. Mainline Christian denominations in this country are bitterly divided over the question of homosexuality.
Since , scholars have debated the translation and modern relevance of New Testament texts on homosexuality. [1] Three distinct passages – Romans –27, 1 Corinthians –10, and 1 Timothy –10 – as well as Jude , have been taken to condemn same-sex intercourse, but each passage remains contested. The dominant view of western Christianity forbids same-sex relations. This verse is one of the clobber passages that people cite from the Bible to condemn homosexuality. This essay first looks at the various ways the verse is translated into the English Bible and then explores some of the strategies used to create an affirming interpretation of what this passage means for the LGBTQ community.
From Genesis’ creation account to Jesus’s affirmation of one-flesh union between male and female, from Levitical prohibitions to corresponding declarations in the New Testament, the biblical witness addresses same-sex relations as incompatible with God’s intention for human sexuality. Hence, the church cannot affirm same-sex relationships without abandoning the gospel. Learn more about the key Greek terms used in 1 Corinthians and 1 Timothy in chapter seven of God and the Gay Christian. Previous point.
There are some key Bible verses about homosexuality to understand the biblical view of gay relations. The most commonly quoted Bible verses are Leviticus and Leviticus , which state that it is an abomination for a man to lie with another man as he would with a woman. Revisionist scholars have published several recent books that argue the Bible does not condemn same-sex behavior. In other words, if we can disregard rules like the ban on eating shellfish in Leviticus , then we should be allowed to disobey other prohibitions from the Old Testament. Today, I have to follow only the latter rule, since the former is no longer needed to protect me.
The New Testament offers good news for everyone struggling with sexual identity. Jesus wants to replace our sinful lifestyles with His own righteousness so that we become more like Him. Return to: Questions about Sin What does the New Testament say about homosexuality?. .
Natural law The authors of the New Testament had their roots in the Jewish tradition, which is commonly interpreted as prohibiting homosexuality. .
Biblical Encyclopedia / Topical Bible Entry: Homosexuality Below is a comprehensive exploration of what Scripture-encompassing both Old and New Testament writings-says about homosexual activity, along with relevant discussions from Jesus’ teachings on marriage and sexual ethics. All quotations, unless otherwise noted, are taken from the Berean Standard Bible. Scripture references are. .
What Does the New Testament Say about Homosexuality? Result of Godlessness - Romans This is a direct discussion by Paul of the descent of a society into depravity once it has rejected God (Romans ). .