Most societies traditionally accept and believe that heterosexuality is the expected and accepted norm, and that LGBTQ+ people exist outside of this social construct. Christianity is and has been one of the main faiths that has been a key component of many societies for centuries and homosexuality is not exempt from this belief.
The interpretation of Christianity on homosexuality has been the source of much debate for many. Surveys and studies have been conducted amongst members of the faith on how they feel about the controversial topic and the numbers show that most are in favor of upholding the traditional view that homosexuality is biblically wrong and goes against the teachings of the bible. This view is backed up by established Christian churches, pastors and theologians who cite biblical passages as proof that non-heterosexual relationships are deemed unacceptable by the Lord.
The bible mentions homosexuality solely in negative terms and views it as morally wrong – this view has caused a rift in many Christian communities as there are those who accept it as part of human nature and do not believe it to be an abomination. Members of these communities cite the fact that Jesus taught to love unconditionally, the golden rule which states to do onto others as you would have done unto you and that the bible does not explicitly condemn or banish homosexuality.
It’s not just religious groups and individuals who are taking a stance on homosexuality in Christianity. The LGBTQ+ community is incredibly vocal in its opinions on how the faith should view their lifestyle and how it is being interpreted by its followers. Organizations like the Human Rights Campaign are advocates for the rights of LGBTQ+ people and lobby for their acceptance within religious circles.
Despite the strong opinions from both sides, there remains no clear answer on the role that homosexuality plays in Christianity. The debate is far from over and will continue to rage until both sides can come to an agreement on the views held within the faith on the matter.
The History of Homosexuality in Christianity
There have been many attempts to understand the presence of homosexuality within Christianity throughout its history. Although it has only recently become something of a talking point, Christian scholars have been discussing its impact since the fourth century. Philosophically, this is seen in The Enneads of Plotinus, which argues that homosexual behavior is part of the general downwards motion of the soul and is a sign of its depravity. Later, Augustine of Hippo wrote that homosexuality was not an instance of sin itself, but could lead one to commit sins such as adultery.
In more modern times, the Christian debate has shifted towards whether homosexuality is considered sinful. Although the matter is far from settled, the answer seems to depend largely on which denomination one follows. For example, the Catholic Church officially opposes same-sex relationships, while the United Church of Christ accepts them as normal. Another example is evangelical Christianity, which generally views homosexual activity as a sin.
Regardless of the specific view of any particular denomination, all Christians agree that sexual intercourse of any kind should always be between two people who share a committed, loving relationship. Traditional Christian teachings often emphasize the importance of chastity, regardless of the sexual orientation of either partner.
Nevertheless, accepting homosexuality within a Christian context can be difficult. Opponents often attempt to use Bible passages such as Romans 1:26-27 as evidence that God does not approve of same-sex relationships. However, supporters of homosexuality within Christianity often point to other passages, such as 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, which speaks of salvation for “abusers of themselves with mankind”.
Scriptural Interpretation Of Homosexuality
Scripture plays a large role in the interpretation of homosexuality in Christianity. Relying on scripture, some Christians use passages from the Bible to support the belief that homosexuality is wrong and sinful. On the other side, other Christians look at the same verses and draw a different conclusion; one of acceptance and inclusion. Though interpretations may differ, it is important to look at the context of the passages and understand them in the appropriate message they are trying to convey.
One of the most contentious passages of scripture concerning homosexuality is Romans 1:26-27. Critics of the Christian view point out that this verse and others like it, were likely influenced by the societal norms of the time in which they were written. This suggests that these verses may not necessarily be binding for Christians today, as understanding of human sexuality has developed over time.
Another controversial passage is Leviticus 18:22, which states, “You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination.” While this passage seems to explicitly forbid homosexual behavior, many Christians point out that this verse does not condemn homosexuality itself, but rather the act of having sex outside of the bounds of a committed, loving relationship.
Regardless of one’s interpretation of these scriptures, it is clear that the traditional Christian view of homosexuality is far from the only option. As societies have accepted more and more non-heterosexual lifestyles, more Christians have been willing to accept them in the Church. Although there is still disagreement over the issue, it is undeniable that the traditional view of homosexuality in Christianity is not necessarily reflective of all its followers.
Arguments In Favor Of Homosexuality In Christianity
The arguments for allowing homosexuality in Christianity center on its view of people as inherently valuable and human beings created by God. Those who support a more inclusive view often look to the Bible’s other teachings which emphasize the importance of love, kindness, and compassion. Supporters also look to Jesus’s example of inclusion for all people and his willingness to accept others who were deemed sinful or marginalized by society.
Another point in favor of homosexuality in Christianity is that it is not explicitly condemned by other religions. In fact, some branches of Judaism understand homosexual relationships as permissible, while in Islam the answer is more complex. While Islamic teaching is generally against homosexuality, the Quran does not explicitly denounce it and some scholars, such as Imam Ikram Sabri, have argued that homosexual relationships can be tolerated with certain restrictions.
Those who are in favor of including homosexuality in Christianity also point out that there is little in the faith’s scriptures and traditions which explicitly forbids such behavior. In fact, some theologians and scholars have gone so far as to argue that God intended for human beings to have the ability and freedom to explore their sexuality if they so choose.
Arguments Against Homosexuality In Christianity
The arguments against homosexuality in Christianity most often focus on the traditional interpretation of the Bible, particularly passages in the Old Testament. Critics of homosexuality in the Church point to these passages as evidence that God does not approve of such relationships. Opponents of a more inclusive view also cite the traditional view of the Church, arguing that it is important to remain true to the faith’s long-held teachings.
Critics of homosexuality in Christianity also point to the fact that most of the major denominations have not officially accepted same-sex marriage or ordained openly gay clergy as evidence that this is an issue that remains controversial within the faith. In addition, many opponents of homosexuality in the Church point to the potential for same-sex relationships to be exploitative, both emotionally and sexually.
Conclusion
The debate concerning homosexuality in Christianity is one that is still raging and it does not seem likely to reach any kind of consensus soon. On the one hand, some view homosexuality as immoral and sinful, while on the other, many see it as no different from heterosexual relationships. Both sides remain deeply entrenched in their beliefs, but as more and more members of the LGBTQ+ community continue to come out and make their voices heard, it seems only a matter of time before the Church must grapple with this issue in a more meaningful way.
