The Bible contains several passages that are commonly cited in discussions about homosexuality, and interpretations vary among traditions. Here’s a concise overview of the main biblical references and the differing perspectives you might encounter. Core biblical passages often cited
- Old Testament law: Leviticus 18:22 and Leviticus 20:13 prohibit sexual relations between men, describing them as abominations in the context of ceremonial/moral holiness laws given to Israel.
- New Testament letters: Romans 1:26-27 describes same-sex relations as contrary to natural relations and as a consequence of turning away from God; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 lists behaviors including "men who practice homosexuality" as incompatible with inheriting the kingdom of God; 1 Timothy 1:9-10 similarly names sexual immorality and deviancy.
- Other passages: Jude 1:7 cites Sodom and Gomorrah as examples of sexual immorality; some traditions also appeal to Genesis 19 (the story of Sodom) in discussions about sexual ethics.
Differing Christian interpretations
- Traditional/complementarian view: Many evangelical and Orthodox traditions understand these texts as clear prohibitions against homosexual acts, often tying them to God’s design for heterosexual marriage and sexual ethics (often emphasizing sex within a male-female marriage as normative).
- Revisionist/affirming views: Some theologians and church bodies argue that the biblical passages have been misunderstood or taken out of historical context, suggesting that the core concern is exploitation, idolatry, or power dynamics rather than loving, committed same-sex relationships. Others advocate for inclusive pastoral care while maintaining other biblical sexual ethics.
- Catholic perspective: The Catholic Church upholds that homosexual orientation is not a sin in itself, but homosexual acts are considered disordered; the Church calls for chastity and pastoral care, while reserving the expression of sexual acts for heterosexual marriage.
- Protestant nuances: Among denominations, ranging from conservative to liberal, there are diverse positions on the ordination of LGBTQ+ individuals, same-sex marriage, and the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ people in church life, reflecting varying hermeneutics and doctrinal emphases.
Important caveats
- Translation and context matter: Some passages are debated due to translation choices, cultural context, and what exactly is being described (voluntary acts vs. broader statements about behavior, cultural practices, or exploitation).
- Biblical witness and overarching themes: Many readers emphasize the broader biblical arcs—creational design (Genesis 1–2), reaffirmation of love and justice, and the call to holiness—while wrestling with how to apply specific verses today.
- Pastoral care and conscience: Across traditions, there is an emphasis on treating LGBTQ+ individuals with dignity and compassion, even when there are doctrinal disagreements about specific sexual ethics.
If you’d like, I can tailor this to a particular tradition or denomination (for example, Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, or a specific church) and pull out the passages they highlight, plus summarize their official positions and common interpretive approaches.
