If you’re going to Google, “What does the Bible say about homosexuality?” Most of the answers you’ll get are against the traditional Biblical view. If you’re not careful, you’ll receive answers that are contrary to the Bible. Thus, in this post, let us take a deeper look at what the Bible truly says about homosexuality.

What is homosexuality?

Homosexuality refers to romantic or sexual attraction between people of the same gender. In simpler terms, it’s when a person feels drawn to someone who is the same sex or gender as them. For example, a man being attracted to another man or a woman being attracted to another woman.

In our society today, homosexuality has expanded to not just include gays and lesbians, but also bisexuals, and transgenders, thus we have the acrostic, LGBT. Now, it has become LGBTQ, which means queer. Later it became LGBTQIA, intersex, and asexual.

Here’s an overview of what these letters stand for:

• Lesbian: A woman who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to other women.
• Gay: A person who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to people of the same gender, typically used to describe men attracted to men.
• Bisexual: A person who is emotionally, romantically, or sexually attracted to people of more than one gender.
• Transgender: A person whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
• Queer or Questioning: “Queer” is an umbrella term used by some people to describe sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions that don’t conform to societal norms. “Questioning” refers to individuals who are exploring or questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity.
• Intersex: Intersex individuals are born with physical sex characteristics (such as chromosomes, hormones, or genitals) that do not fit typical definitions of male or female.
• Asexual: A person who experiences little or no sexual attraction to others. Some people also use “Ally” for the “A,” representing individuals who support LGBTQIA communities even if they don’t identify as LGBTQIA themselves.

What our modern society says about homosexuality

In modern society, attitudes towards homosexuality vary widely across different cultures, regions, and communities. However, there have been significant shifts in societal acceptance and understanding of homosexuality in many parts of the world over the past few decades. Here are some general trends and perspectives:

• Increasing Acceptance: In many countries, there has been a growing acceptance of homosexuality as more people come to understand it as a natural variation of human sexuality. This acceptance is reflected in changes to laws, policies, and social norms that aim to protect the rights and well-being of LGBTQIA individuals.
• Legal Recognition: Many countries have legalized same-sex marriage and enacted anti-discrimination laws to protect LGBTQIA people from discrimination in employment, housing, healthcare, and other areas. Legal recognition of LGBTQIA rights has been a significant milestone in the fight for equality.
• Visibility and Representation: LGBTQIA individuals and issues have gained greater visibility in mainstream media, entertainment, and politics. This increased representation is supposed to challenge stereotypes, reduce stigma, and promote understanding and acceptance of LGBTQIA.
• Generational Shifts: Younger generations tend to be more accepting of homosexuality compared to older generations, reflecting changing societal attitudes and values over time. This generational shift has played a role in shaping public opinion and influencing social change.
• Intersectionality: Recognizing the intersectionality of identities, including race, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status, is crucial for understanding the diverse experiences of LGBTQIA individuals. Marginalized communities within the LGBTQIA spectrum may face compounded discrimination and unique challenges.

Overall, while progress has been made in many parts of the world, the journey towards full acceptance and equality for LGBTQIA individuals is ongoing. Efforts to promote education, awareness, and empathy are essential in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Why Christians should know what the Bible says about homosexuality

Now, you might want to ask, why should we study homosexuality? I don’t struggle with it. It’s not my personal problem, right? Well, it’s essential to articulate why Christians should know what the Bible says about this topic. Here are some points to consider, including and expanding on the ones you’ve mentioned:

• Biblical Authority and Truth: Christians believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God and the ultimate authority on all matters of faith and conduct. Understanding what the Bible says about homosexuality helps Christians align their beliefs and behaviors with Scripture.
• Moral Clarity in a Changing Culture: As society’s views on sexuality evolve, Christians need a clear understanding of biblical teachings to navigate these changes without compromising their faith. This includes knowing how to respond to cultural shifts that conflict with biblical values.
• Protection of Christian Values: LGBTQ activism is increasingly influencing laws, educational curricula, and social norms. Christians should be informed about these movements to protect and advocate for their values and beliefs in the public square.
• Impact on Children and Families: There are growing concerns about LGBTQ influences on children. Understanding biblical teachings can help Christian parents educate their children about sexuality from a biblical perspective and address the challenges posed by societal changes.
• Navigating Legal and Social Challenges: As evidenced by cases where Christians face legal repercussions for their beliefs, understanding what the Bible says about homosexuality can prepare Christians to stand firm in their faith and navigate legal and social challenges.
• Christian Witness and Evangelism: Knowing the biblical stance on homosexuality equips Christians to share their beliefs with compassion and clarity. It also helps in engaging with LGBTQ individuals in a way that reflects Christ’s love while upholding biblical truths.
• Church Integrity and Unity: More and more so-called Christian denominations and churches today are willing to change their stance on homosexuality just to accommodate what people want instead of what they need. A firm grasp of biblical teachings helps maintain doctrinal integrity and unity within the church, ensuring that it remains faithful to its scriptural foundation.
• Support and Guidance: Christians are called to support and guide those struggling with same-sex attraction. Understanding the Bible’s teachings enables Christians to offer love, encouragement, and biblical counsel to individuals seeking to live in accordance with their faith.
• Counteracting Secular Influence: As society becomes more secular, it’s crucial for Christians to present a biblical worldview on sexuality. This involves promoting God’s design for marriage and sexuality, which is viewed as life-affirming and integral to human flourishing.
• Engaging with Media and Education: The representation of LGBTQ characters in media and the inclusion of LGBTQ-affirming curricula in schools highlights the need for Christians to be well-versed in biblical teachings. This knowledge helps us engage with media and educational systems effectively and advocate for our values.
• Addressing Misconceptions and Labels: Christians often face negative labels for opposing same-sex marriage and other LGBTQ issues. Understanding the Bible’s perspective helps believers articulate their position thoughtfully and respectfully, countering misconceptions and fostering meaningful dialogue.

What Does the Bible Say About Homosexuality?

Now that you have a general idea of what homosexuality is all about, how it is gaining popularity and support in our society, and the reason we should study this topic, it’s time to dive deep into the Bible and see what it truly says about homosexuality. Here are 5 important things the Bible say about homosexuality:

1. Homosexuality is a Sin

The Bible explicitly describes homosexual behavior as sinful. We read these two passages:

• You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination. Leviticus 18:22
• If a man lies with a male as he lies with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination. They shall surely be put to death. Their blood shall be upon them. Leviticus 20:13

The word abomination here comes from the Hebrew word, “Toebah.” Strong’s Dictionary defines it as, “properly something disgusting (morally), that is, (as noun) an abhorrence; especially idolatry or (concretely) an idol: – abominable (custom, thing), abomination.”

Abomination is such a powerful word against homosexuality. For God, homosexuality is disgusting, abhorrent, and abominable. In short, it’s something that we should never engage in!

We also read in 1 Timothy 1:8-11:

⁸ But we know that the law is good if one uses it lawfully, ⁹ knowing this: that the law is not made for a righteous person, but for the lawless and insubordinate, for the ungodly and for sinners, for the unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, ¹⁰ for fornicators, for sodomites, for kidnappers, for liars, for perjurers, and if there is any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine, ¹¹ according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God which was committed to my trust.

Sodomy is a form of homosexuality. The Apostle Paul included sodomy in the list of sins that are against the law of God.

2. God Created Two Genders, Male and Female

In Genesis 1:27, we read:

²⁷ So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.

As you can see, God created male and female. There are only two genders. Along with the creation of male and female, God instituted the biblical marriage, which is the union between male and female. We read in Genesis 2:24:

Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.

In Mark 10:6-9, we read Jesus Christ’s approval of the Genesis account:

⁶ But from the beginning of the creation, God made them male and female.’ ⁷ For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, ⁸ and the two shall become one flesh’; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh. ⁹ Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.”

This shows us that even Jesus (Yahshua), He also agrees to the sanctity of marriage, which is the union of a man and a woman. These passages emphasize the intention of gender complementarity and marriage. We read a consistent biblical theme, from the Old Testament to the New Testament, that marriage is designed to be between one man and one woman. 

3. Homosexuality is a Perversion of God’s Original Design for Sex

We read in Romans 1:26:27:

For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature.  Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.

God created man and woman for a purpose. He created both biological sex to serve specific functions. Men and women are different in their physical and emotional makeup. God designed these sexual differences because He wants us to enjoy His gift of companionship, partnership, and even the pleasure from sex.

When we deviate from the original design of God, we are disobeying Him. We are also defying His original design. As a result, we are rebelling against Him and questioning His wisdom in creating two sexes.

4. No Homosexuals Will Enter the Kingdom of God

We read in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10:

Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, ¹⁰ nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.

This verse tells us that homosexuals, along with other sinners, will not inherit the earth!

The same idea is said in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10

⁹ Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, ¹⁰ nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.

These are not my words. It’s the word of the Bible! No matter how hard some Christians deny the truth in the Bible, it doesn’t change the fact that homosexuality is indeed against the Word of God.

Of course, I’m not singling out homosexuality here. The Bible does not only focus on homosexuality but on a range of behaviors that are inconsistent with a righteous life. Thankfully, there’s a transformative power of God to redeem and change our lives. This leads us to the next point.

5. Homosexuality, Like Other Sins, Can Be Overcome

What’s amazing about our Heavenly Father is that He doesn’t just tell you what to do but He also gives the necessary help to help you accomplish what He wants you to do.

Homosexuality is like other sins. It should and must be overcome. That’s why after listing all the unrighteous acts in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, it offers us a hope that we can overcome these sins.

We read in 1 Corinthians 611:

And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.”

Did you notice that? Paul said that some of the Corinthian brethren were fornicators, revilers, extortioners, adulterers, and yes, homosexuals. However, instead of simply accepting their weakness and sin, they did their best to overcome it!

They didn’t stay as sinners. They did their best to become righteous in the eyes of God. Through Christ who strengthens them, these people transformed and left their sinful behaviors behind, including homosexuality.

How do you overcome homosexuality?

God never identifies a sin without also providing a way to overcome it. This principle is evident in the Bible, where even the first-century Christians in Corinth faced various sexual sins. Paul admonished them, stating: “Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you” (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

Past Struggles and Present Transformation

The Corinthians struggled with fornication, adultery, homosexuality, sodomy, theft, alcohol abuse, extortion, and other sins. However, Paul highlights their transformation: “But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Corinthians 6:11).

Through genuine repentance and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, the Corinthians changed their lives. They found forgiveness through baptism (washed), were set apart as God’s chosen people (sanctified), and were brought into a harmonious relationship with God (justified). They ceased committing those sins. What was possible for them is possible for anyone today, offering hope for those struggling with homosexuality.

Controlling Desires

Colossians 3:5 (CEV) says, “Don’t be controlled by your body. Kill every desire for the wrong kind of sex.” To kill wrong desires, control your thinking. Filling your mind with wholesome thoughts helps dismiss wrong desires (Philippians 4:8; James 1:14-15). The struggle may be intense initially, but it becomes easier. God promises to help you be “made new in the force actuating your mind” (Ephesians 4:22-24).

God’s Love and the Call to Repentance

God loved all the Corinthians, including those who were homosexual, just as He loves all sinners (1 John 3:16; Romans 5:8). However, He hates sinful acts. God loved the world enough to send Jesus Christ to die for us, but repentance requires aligning our lives with God’s standards. Without God, such a change is impossible, but “with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).

How should Christians treat people in the LGBTQIA Community

It’s important to distinguish between homosexual behavior and homosexual inclinations or attractions. The difference lies between active sin and the passive condition of being tempted. Homosexual behavior is sinful, but the Bible does not say it is a sin to be tempted. Struggling with temptation may lead to sin, but the struggle itself is not a sin.

Susceptibility and Responsibility

A person may be born with a greater susceptibility to homosexuality, just as some have tendencies toward violence or other sins. However, this does not excuse choosing to sin by giving in to sinful desires. Just as a person with a tendency to rage must control their anger, those with homosexual inclinations must control their actions.

The Reality of Temptation

The temptation to engage in homosexual behavior is real for many. Those struggling with homosexual attraction often endure years of wishing things were different. While people may not control their feelings, they can control their actions (1 Peter 1:5-8). We all have the responsibility to resist temptation (Ephesians 6:13). Transformation comes from the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2), and walking by the Spirit to avoid gratifying the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:16).

No Sin Greater Than Another

The Bible does not describe homosexuality as a “greater” sin than any other. All sin is offensive to God. Without Christ, we are lost regardless of the sin entangling us. God’s forgiveness is available to homosexuals just as it is to adulterers, idol worshipers, murderers, and thieves. God promises strength for victory over sin, including homosexuality, to all who believe in Jesus Christ for salvation (1 Corinthians 6:11; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Philippians 4:13).

Christian Compassion and Love

We need to emphasize that Christians are called to love and show compassion to all individuals, including those who identify as LGBTQ. We need to realize the importance of separating the sin from the sinner, advocating for a Christ-like approach to ministry and relationships.

Support for Those Struggling

Discuss how churches and Christian communities can provide support, counseling, and resources for individuals struggling with same-sex attraction, helping them to live in accordance with their faith.

The Role of the Church

The Church plays a crucial role in helping individuals who are struggling with homosexuality. It is the Church’s responsibility to uphold biblical teachings while also being a place of grace, mercy, and healing.

• Upholding Biblical Teachings with Compassion: Christians should not go out condemning those who engage in a homosexual lifestyle. Instead, they should approach others with love and compassion. This approach does not mean tolerating sin, but rather recognizing that God gives everyone free will. Each person is responsible for their own decisions. Our role is to provide guidance on what is right and wrong, leaving the final decision to the individual.
• Balancing Truth and Grace: While it is essential not to shy away from our responsibility to teach biblical truths, it is equally important to offer support and compassion to those seeking help. The Church should be a sanctuary where individuals can find the truth of God’s Word and the support needed to live according to His will.
• Offering Support and Healing: Providing correct teaching and support involves creating an environment where people feel safe to share their struggles and seek guidance. The Church should offer programs, counseling, and community support to help individuals overcome their challenges and grow in their faith.

In summary, the Church must balance truth and grace, offering clear biblical teachings while extending love and support to those who seek help. This approach reflects the heart of God, who is both holy and compassionate.

Learn what the Bible says about homosexuality

In summary, the Bible says that homosexuality is a sin and thus, we must overcome it. We must not accept it as a modern lifestyle, rather we teach people what is right and pleasing in the eyes of God. In this case, it is more loving to speak the truth in love rather than comfort people with a lie.

Thankfully, the Bible gives us hope that we can overcome homosexuality like other sins. With the help of our Father in Heaven and our High Priest, Yahshua, we can do all things.

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