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Christianity and gay people

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While some Christians view it as a sin, others advocate for acceptance and love. This cultural context can shape how we understand certain passages.

Historical context: Understanding the historical background of a text can also be helpful in interpreting it. Many churches wish to be open and welcome to lesbian, gay, and bisexual people, but do not believe that they can affirm homosexuality or same-sex relationships.

The shift from conservative understandings of Sabbath and circumcision were far greater issues at the time Scripture was being written than our modern questions regarding orientation and gender identity. It’s important to approach the topic with humility and a willingness to learn.

  • Be respectful: When discussing homosexuality, avoid language or actions that are hurtful or dismissive.

    Whilst these have not been universally adopted, many countries have decriminalised homosexuality; acted to prevent discrimination of employment, healthcare, and housing to lesbian and gay people; and some have introduced legislation for same-sex marriage.

    Such developments have often received a mixed reaction from Christian denominations, and there continue to be lived-out tensions as clergy and lay people struggle to “love God and love your neighbour” when their disagreements often feel insurmountable.

    This can be a physical space, such as a support group or a church, or an online community.

    Educate Yourself: Educate yourself about LGBTQ issues and the challenges faced by LGBTQ Christians. It’s important to study the context and the original language to fully understand these verses and their meaning.

    • How can Christians show love and compassion towards LGBTQ+ individuals?

    Regardless of personal beliefs about homosexuality, Christians are called to love their neighbors and treat others with compassion and respect.

    It also implies that LGBTQ+ individuals are somehow responsible for their own discrimination.

    Another harmful belief is that homosexuality is a sin or immoral.

    christianity and gay people

    Jesus hung out with everyone. He ate with sinners. Challenge harmful beliefs and attitudes when you encounter them.

    Offer Support: Offer support in practical ways, such as volunteering at LGBTQ organizations or offering to help with everyday tasks. Here are a few ways you can show your support:

    • Listen and learn: Take the time to listen to the experiences of LGBTQ Christians and learn from them.

      It can also be helpful to seek out the perspectives and experiences of LGBTQ+ Christians themselves, as well as organizations that work towards LGBTQ+ rights and equality.

    Homosexuality

    Discourse around homosexuality, which is sometimes referred to as “same-sex attraction” and more frequently understood today as lesbian, gay, or bisexual identities, remains divisive and difficult for churches to discuss.

    The Bible teaches us to love and accept all people, regardless of their sexual orientation, and to treat others as we would like to be treated.

    When interpreting biblical passages about homosexuality, it is important to approach the text with an open mind and a willingness to understand the historical and cultural context, the original meaning of words, and the overall message and themes of the Bible.

    One emerges with a clean face, the other with a dirty face. In addition, the recent coming out of prominent worship-leader and musician Vicky Beeching, and her subsequent autobiography, has also provided an opportunity for churches and small groups to consider again the question of sexuality and sinfulness. And there is no real other interpretation that makes the best sense of the evidence both in the early Christian literature and especially in the Old Testament.”

    Kevin DeYoung explains that Paul, a scholar and former Pharisee, coined the term.

    Jesus isn’t asking us to parse Greek and Hebrew words in order to discern truth. This belief is often based on religious teachings, but it can have harmful consequences for LGBTQ+ individuals who may feel rejected or ostracized by their communities.

    It is important to challenge these harmful beliefs and attitudes by educating oneself about LGBTQ+ issues, listening to the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals, and speaking out against discrimination and prejudice.

    However, according to Scripture, Jesus was without sin, and should have thrown the stone in accordance with the Law. But Jesus chose to not apply the Scriptures literally in order to save a life.

     LGBTQ+ Theology 101

    How Should We Read the Bible?

    Consider an anecdote:

    A young man knocks on the door of a great Talmudic scholar.

    There must always be a posture of willingness to learn and be challenged in our assumptions. Treat others with the respect and dignity they deserve as fellow human beings.

    By approaching differences in belief with love, humility, and respect, Christians can build bridges across divides and work together towards a more inclusive and compassionate community.

    How to Respond to Homosexuality with Love and Compassion

    Listen and Validate: When someone comes out to you, the most important thing you can do is listen to them and let them know that their feelings are valid.

    But the principles we apply to these questions remain the same.

    By practicing active listening and empathy, we can foster deeper connections with others and promote a culture of love and acceptance, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The church must always be willing to reform.

    Helmut Thielicke said, “He who speaks to this hour’s need and translates the message will always be skirting the edge of heresy.