Homosexuality in the Church
Ariesa Griffin
THEO330: Theology of the Family (B01)
12 September 2024
1
Outline
I. Introduction
A. Background on the debate surrounding homosexuality in the church.
B. Thesis statement: This paper will examine the biblical perspective on homosexuality,
analyze contemporary arguments for and against its acceptance in the church, and explore the
pastoral and ethical implications for Christian communities.
II. Biblical Perspectives on Homosexuality
A. Old Testament passages
1. Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13
2. The story of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19)
B. New Testament passages
1. Romans 1:26-27
2. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 and 1 Timothy 1:10
C. Traditional interpretations of these passages
III. Contemporary Arguments for Acceptance of Homosexuality in the Church
A. Reinterpretation of biblical passages
B. Cultural context arguments
C. Scientific and psychological perspectives on sexual orientation
D. Arguments based on love, inclusion, and social justice
IV. Arguments for Maintaining Traditional Church Teachings on Homosexuality
A. Biblical authority and traditional interpretation
B. Natural law and complementarity arguments
C. Concerns about redefining marriage and family
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D. Slippery slope arguments
V. Pastoral and Ethical Implications
A. Challenges for churches in addressing homosexuality
B. Balancing truth and compassion
C. Ministry to LGBTQ+ individuals within the church
D. Responding to cultural shifts and legal changes
VI. Conclusion
A. Summary of key points
B. Reflection on the ongoing challenges and the need for continued dialogue
C. Call for churches to engage this issue with both biblical fidelity and compassionate ministry
3
Introduction
Homosexuality is a prominent issue in Christian churches, where shifting societal
attitudes toward same-sex relationships challenge theological, pastoral, and ethical responses.
This paper will review the scriptural attitudes, consider the modern argument for and against
homosexual inclusion in the church, and assess Christian fellowship's pragmatic and moral
significance. This paper describes various issues churches face in being faithful to God's word
and extending Christ's love to everyone. Identifying potential views and outcomes clarifies that
this issue is complex and calls for a more inclusive and humane approach.
Biblical Perspectives on Homosexuality
The conventional Christian attitude toward homosexuality could be understood as
outlawing same-sex sexual relations, which influenced the position of the church for centuries.
Leviticus 18:22, says, "Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that
is detestable" (LEV. 18:22). Leviticus 20:13 forbade this practice and was worthy of death. These
Holiness Code verses have been traditionally interpreted as direct prohibitions of same-sex
sexual activities.
The story of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19 details how male inhabitants of Sodom
propositioned Lot, to "know" his male guests, implying homosexual intercourse. God's
destruction of the cities has been interpreted as His wrath towards homosexual activity. Some
academics posit that the sin of Sodom was raping strangers, not engaging in sodomy with men.1
In the New Testament, Paul addresses homosexuality in Romans 1:26-27. He labels
same-sex relations “indecent' and a result of people forgoing 'the truth for a lie'” (NIV). Paul
stated, “In the same way, the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were
1 TL, Price, and TN Cleveland. "Almost lynched in Sodom: a new perspective on Genesis 19: 1-5." (2022).
4
inflamed with lust for one another" (NIV, Romans 1: 27). The passage has been interpreted in a
way that paints homosexual behavior as a deviation from the way God created things.
Other New Testament verses include 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, where “men who practice
homosexuality” are stated to be among those who shall not inherit the kingdom of God, as well
as 1 Timothy 1:10. In these scriptures, the Greek words malakoi and arsenokoitai describes
active and passive homosexual partners. Paul states that these are people who are engaged in sin.
The historicist readings of these passages have considered homosexuality to be sinful and
an abomination to God. Mohler agrees, proclaiming it is not a cultural understanding but evil
because it goes against the will of God. Homosexual acts and desires are rebellion against God's
good and perfect plan for his created order.2 Today's understanding of sexual orientation is
different in the biblical age. Similarly, Greek tragedies depicted same-sex activity but not with
attraction or preference.3 The above has raised speculations about whether such texts can be
applied narrowly within contemporary same-sex relationships.
However, it is crucial to consider cultural and historical context. Biblical references to
homosexual practices describe pagan ritual prostitution or abusive relationships and not what the
modern world calls homosexuality. This context is essential for a comprehensive understanding
of the issue.
Contemporary Arguments for the Acceptance of Homosexuality in the Church
2 R. Albert, Mohler Jr. "The Compassion of Truth: Homosexuality in Biblical Perspective," in Trained in
the Fear of God: Family Ministry in Theological, Historical, and Practical Perspective, ed. Randy Stinson and
Timothy Paul Jones (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic & Professional, 2011), 89–99.
3 Louie Eugene, Burrus III.HCritiquing Common Themes in LGBT-Affirming Psychologies with Orthodox
Christian Frameworks. The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 2021.
5
More recently, studies and homiletic addresses have suggested a reinterpretation of
Scriptures that are construed to condemn homosexuality. These arguments have been articulated
in the scholarship of several disciplines and theoretical frameworks, suggesting new ways of
reading texts to support exclusive interpretation within the Christian churches.
One of the most essential arguments concerning interpreting scripture. Most of the
passages that have been used to argue against gay relationships have been misunderstood or not
considered in their contexts. For example, while the laws that are found in Leviticus would
originally have applied to pagan rituals in the ancient Near East, they do not address loving and
faithful homosexual relationships as people understand them in the modern world.4 This
interpretation asserts that specific passages in the texts fit the Near Eastern context in which they
were written and should not be generalized to modern gay and lesbian relationships.
Opponents of the cultural context view suggest that there is a clear distinction between
the biblical critique of homosexual practice and the contemporary conception of homosexuality
as orientation.5 Some argue that the condemnations expressed scripturally were aimed at vices
such as pederasty or temple prostitution, which were endemic in Greco-Roman and ancient Near
Eastern cultures. Per this perspective, such texts cannot be read in a literal manner to understand
them in the context of consensual, monogamous, gay/bi/queer relationships today.
4 Ani Ionuţ, Constantin. "An Analysis of the Methods of Interpretation of the Leviticus 11 Dietary Laws in
Second Temple and Early Christian Non-Canonical Sources." Master's thesis, Andrews University, 2022.
https://www.proquest.com/openview/6ef0800a9754453e77d64b73850e194b/1?pq-
origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y
5 Christopher CH, Cook. "The causes of human sexual orientation."HTheology & SexualityH27, no. 1 (2021):
1-19. https://www.tandfonline.com/action/showCitFormats?doi=10.1080/13558358.2020.1818541
6
Increased knowledge regarding biological and psychological factors related to sexual
orientation has also led to calls for acceptance. Sexual orientation is an inherent attribute.6 Some
theologians and church leaders opine that it would be unfair for God to punish individuals based
on something they cannot change. In this perspective, if homosexuality is an innate aspect of the
human person, then it can be viewed as one more aspect of the creation of God and not in any
way sinful.
Arguments that appeal to love, belonging, and fairness is central to this narrative.
Christians should consider love, justice, and inclusion as the general biblical principles as they
seek to understand the scriptures.7 They also remind people that Jesus' ministry was about love
and acceptance for people that society rejected. In this view, the marginalization of gay
individuals in the church denies them equal membership in the Christian association, which is
contrary to the gospel. Some critical arguments supporting this view include Christ's sayings on
love and acceptance and biblical stories that portray God as compassionate to the
underprivileged.
These various arguments for the acceptance of homosexuality in the church have gained
ground in many Christian assemblies causing notable changes in policy and practice in some
denominations. Even though they are still contentious and dismissed by those who continue to
uphold literalist readings, these voices have generated new ways of engaging with questions
concerning the relationships between religion, sexuality, and rights within Christianity.
6 Morgan, Carpenter. "Intersex human rights, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex characteristics and the
Yogyakarta Principles plus 10."HCulture, Health & SexualityH23, no. 4 (2020): 516-532.
https://doi.org/10.1080/13691058.2020.1781262
7 Burrus III, Louie Eugene.HCritiquing Common Themes in LGBT-Affirming Psychologies
with Orthodox Christian Frameworks. The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 2021, 290
7
Arguments for Maintaining Traditional Church Teachings on Homosexuality
As society becomes more accepting of gays and lesbians, many churches cling to the
teachings of the old religion. The first basis is the religious scripture and literal interpretation of
the Bible. Authors such as Mohler have similarly argued that the Bible regards homosexuality in
the same evil light in both the Old and New Testaments. They opine that by interpreting the
passages in line with the new culture, one is subverting the authority of scripture and creating
precedence for interpreting any other tenet in the Bible. The perspective is also connected to
natural law and arguments based on complementarity. Homosexual relationships are antithetical
to the created male and female complementarity as the foundation of human relationships.8 The
view assumes that the physical and mental differences that are found in people are ordained by
the creator and necessary for proper sexual function and procreation.
Outright changes in marriage and family laws can be construed as another reason to
oppose redefinition. The approval of same-sex relationships means changing the biblical concept
of marriage as a union of a man with a woman, which can cause adverse social effects, including
the devaluation of the traditional family and the departure from stereotyped gender roles.9
Finally, some of those who support traditional knowledge use fallacious reasoning, and one
commonly used is the slippery slope fallacy. Redefining these biblical teachings on
homosexuality could open the way to a general undermining of Christian sexual ethics and
8 Michael, Muonwe. "Homosexuality debate and prospects for Anglican-catholic ecumenical
relations."HOracle of Wisdom Journal of Philosophy and Public Affairs OWIJOPPA)H5, no. 1 (2021).
https://www.acjol.org/index.php/owijoppa/article/download/1356/1341
9 Elżbieta, Kużelewska, and Marta Michalczuk-Wlizło. "Same-Sex Marriage and the Catholic Church in
Europe. Any Chance for Understanding?"HStudies in Logic, Grammar and RhetoricH66, no. 2 (2021): 267-281.
https://intapi.sciendo.com/pdf/10.2478/slgr-2021-0015
8
morality. The perspective believes that if the church accepts homosexuals, then other immoral
practices Christians have deemed as sinful will also be allowed, leading to the erosion of the
church's authority in society.
Pastoral and Ethical Implications
The issues of homosexuality pose several challenges to churches. One of them is the
dilemma between telling the truth and being kind. Religious organizations must address these
challenges to support their theology and commit acts of love and inclusion for members of the
LGBTQ+ community.10 It becomes even more complicated when those affected are individual
church members or relatives It may be impossible to balance doctrinal positions while at offering
counsel.
Therefore, churches must look for ways to address the group's rights over the issue so
that they can be sensitive in handling matters and thus minister to the group. This could be
through forming support groups, counseling services, or developing special outreach programs.11
These programs offer equal opportunities as other groups of people by allowing LGBTQ+ to
embrace their faith and sexuality with the support and acceptance of their religious institutions.
As is seen in the case of same-sex marriage, where the church has been forced to grapple
with changing cultures and legal. According to Mohler, this could entail major choices relating to
whether to conduct same-sex marriages, addressing church membership, and participating in
10 Alexandra, Kauffman. "Seeking Reconciliation: An Examination of Churches' Response to a History of
LGB Discrimination." (2022). https://scholarcommons.sc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?
article=1511&context=senior_theses
11 Christopher, Yuan.HHoly Sexuality and the Gospel: Sex, Desire, and Relationships Shaped by God's
Grand Story. Multnomah, 2018.
9
public discourses.12 Churches must weigh the best response that conforms to their doctrinal
position while being aware of legal consequences that may arise.
The concern with homosexuality can lead to numerous splits within churches and
denominations. Rush notes a need to manage these differences and ensure unity and energies are
concentrated on the church's vision.13 It can include mediating between pro and con opinions in
the congregation and setting standards by which the contentious aspects could be addressed.
Secondly, this will highlight the congregation's beliefs in standards.
Furthermore, besides the issue of organizational structure, churches also have to consider
the moral dilemmas of their position on homosexuality. The above involves reflecting on the
effects of this station on the mental health and welfare of LGBTQ+ people, both in and out of the
church. It also requires them to consider how the issue is approached this issue and its impact on
their witness and truthfulness in a diverse society.
Conclusion
Homosexual presence in the church is a pressing topic and unfortunately, there is no
perfect answer to it. As for the previous readings of specific segments of the Bible, scholars have
provided reinterpretations that do not endorse homophobia. Decision-makers in churches must
12 Mohler Jr. R. Albert, "The Compassion of Truth: Homosexuality in Biblical Perspective," in Trained in
the Fear of God: Family Ministry in Theological, Historical, and Practical Perspective, ed. Randy Stinson and
Timothy Paul Jones (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic & Professional, 2011), 89–99.
https://app.logos.com/books/LLS%3AWS_BBCA443395814314A3AB69626A208759
13 Ryan Rush, Walls: Why Everybody's Stuck (and Nobody Has to Be) (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House
Publishers, Inc., 2011), 3–69. https://app.logos.com/books/LLS%3A130D7E3F9E2BDCC38C48C69B2126F2B2
10
embrace these arguments subject to the inspiration and authority of scripture, human sexuality,
and the call of pastors.
Churches must respond to the matter of homosexuality not only with scriptural integrity
and accuracy but also with the proper care and concern for people. This includes entering into
civil discussions with the opposite side, articulating detailed, scriptural sexual creeds that go
beyond homosexuality, and providing platforms for people to narrate their experiences and
challenges concerning their sexuality and religion. The Christian church should demonstrate
grace and extend resources to homosexual individuals even if they do not endorse same-sex
marriage. Churches should always ask how to love all those in the community regardless of
sexual orientation yet stay loyal to scripture. The approach gives the churches the right to
oversee this issue delicately but truthfully.
As the culture shifts and people of faith are still asked questions about the roles of the
Churches and the Bible concerning the LGBTQ+ community, Churches need to be prepared to
answer these questions with more sensitivity and understanding. Ensuring their approach is
grounded in careful biblical study, sincere prayer, and a commitment to love all people ensures
that churches can respond to these challenges while staying faithful to their calling to be the 'salt
and light' of the world.
Bibliography
Burrus III, Louie Eugene.HCritiquing Common Themes in LGBT-Affirming Psychologies with
Orthodox Christian Frameworks. The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 2021.
Carpenter, Morgan. "Intersex human rights, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex
characteristics and the Yogyakarta Principles plus 10."HCulture, Health & SexualityH23,
no. 4 (2020): 516-532. https://doi.org/10.1080/13691058.2020.1781262
11
Constantin, Ani Ionuţ. "An Analysis of the Methods of Interpretation of the Leviticus 11 Dietary
Laws in Second Temple and Early Christian Non-Canonical Sources." Master's thesis,
Andrews University, 2022.
https://www.proquest.com/openview/6ef0800a9754453e77d64b73850e194b/1?pq-
origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y
Cook, Christopher CH. "The causes of human sexual orientation."HTheology & SexualityH27, no.
1 (2021): 1-19. https://www.tandfonline.com/action/showCitFormats?
doi=10.1080/13558358.2020.1818541
Kauffman, Alexandra. "Seeking Reconciliation: An Examination of Churches' Response to a
History of LGB Discrimination." (2022).
https://scholarcommons.sc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1511&context=senior_theses
Kużelewska, Elżbieta, and Marta Michalczuk-Wlizło. "Same-Sex Marriage and the Catholic
Church in Europe. Any Chance for Understanding?"HStudies in Logic, Grammar and
RhetoricH66, no. 2 (2021): 267-281. https://intapi.sciendo.com/pdf/10.2478/slgr-2021-
0015
Mohler Jr. R. Albert, "The Compassion of Truth: Homosexuality in Biblical Perspective," in
Trained in the Fear of God: Family Ministry in Theological, Historical, and Practical
Perspective, ed. Randy Stinson and Timothy Paul Jones (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel
Academic & Professional, 2011), 89–99. https://app.logos.com/books/LLS
%3AWS_BBCA443395814314A3AB69626A208759
Muonwe, Michael. "Homosexuality debate and prospects for Anglican-catholic ecumenical
relations."HOracle of Wisdom Journal of Philosophy and Public Affairs (OWIJOPPA)H5,
no. 1 (2021). https://www.acjol.org/index.php/owijoppa/article/download/1356/1341
Price, TL, and TN Cleveland. "Almost lynched in Sodom: a new perspective on Genesis 19: 1-
5." (2022).
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Tyler-Price-6/publication/364365545_Almost_Lync
hed_in_Sodom_A_New_Perspective_on_Genesis_191-5/links/
634ff88c12cbac6a3ed8c473/Almost-Lynched-in-Sodom-A-New-Perspective-on-Genesis-
191-5.pdf
Rush Ryan, Walls: Why Everybody's Stuck (and Nobody Has to Be) (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale
House Publishers, Inc., 2011), 3–69. https://app.logos.com/books/LLS
%3A130D7E3F9E2BDCC38C48C69B2126F2B2
12
Yuan, Christopher.HHoly Sexuality and the Gospel: Sex, Desire, and Relationships Shaped by
God's Grand Story. Multnomah, 2018.
