Understanding the Bible’s Stance on Homosexuality
The Bible is clear in its teachings on homosexual sex. While some may argue that the Old Testament laws are no longer applicable, the logic of opposite-sex marriage and the prohibition on homosexual sex are reaffirmed multiple times throughout the Scripture.
Jesus’ Framework
Jesus’ teachings on sexual morality were stricter than the Old Testament law. He emphasized God’s creation of humans as male and female and the one-flesh design for marriage. In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus says, “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”
Ancient Cultural Context
In ancient Greek culture, sex between males was common, but it was often exploitative and promiscuous. The Roman culture was more restrictive, but men were still free to sleep with male slaves and prostitutes. However, as Louis Crompton argued, the exploitative nature of much gay sex in the ancient world does not open the door to reinterpreting the New Testament.
New Testament Teachings
The New Testament explicitly prohibits homosexual sex. In 1 Timothy 1:9-10, Paul writes, “The law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine.”
Paul’s Tone
Paul’s tone is not one of judgmental homophobia. Instead, he presents himself as a broken sinner, saved only by God’s grace. In 1 Timothy 1:15, he writes, “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.”
Offensive Truth
The Bible’s teachings on homosexuality are undoubtedly offensive. However, the reality is that the Bible is offensive from beginning to end. Jesus’ words are particularly shocking, as he asserts that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has committed adultery in his heart.
Conclusion
We cannot read the Bible and not be offended—condemned even—unless we come as broken sinners. If we come like that, we are tenderly embraced. The Bible’s teachings on homosexuality are clear, but they are also a call to repentance and redemption.
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