What does the Bible say about homosexuality? Is it a sin?

1. Summary of the Question

The question, “What does the Bible say about homosexuality?” involves understanding how Scripture addresses same-sex relationships and behaviors. This topic requires careful exploration of specific biblical passages that reference homosexual acts, considering the broader biblical themes of love, holiness, and repentance. This answer will focus on what the Bible communicates about homosexuality by emphasizing a holistic approach that aligns with God’s love for purity, righteousness, and His call for humanity to live according to His design.

2. Context and Background

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To understand what the Bible says about homosexuality, it is essential to consider the historical, cultural, and literary context of the passages that address this topic. In ancient Israel and the Greco-Roman world, where biblical texts were written, sexual norms were different from today. The Bible’s teachings on sexual ethics, including those about homosexuality, were framed within the context of maintaining purity and distinctiveness for God’s people.

In the Old Testament, the Israelites were called to be separate from the surrounding nations and their practices, which often included sexual immorality. The New Testament continues this theme of moral purity for those in Christ. Understanding these contexts helps clarify why the Bible discusses these issues and how these teachings align with God’s overarching narrative of redemption and holiness.

3. Biblical Foundation (NASB 2020)

Several key passages in the Bible address the issue of homosexuality directly:

• Leviticus 18:22 (NASB 2020): “You shall not lie with a male as one lies with a female; it is an abomination.” This verse appears in a section of Leviticus that outlines prohibitions against various forms of sexual immorality. The context here is God’s covenant people living in purity, distinct from other nations.
• Romans 1:26-27 (NASB 2020): “For this reason God gave them over to degrading passions; for their women exchanged natural relations for that which is contrary to nature, and likewise the men, too, abandoned natural relations with women and burned in their desire toward one another, males with males committing shameful acts and receiving in their own persons the due penalty of their error.” Paul’s discussion in Romans addresses humanity’s rebellion against God’s design, pointing to same-sex acts as one example of such rebellion.
• 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 (NASB 2020): “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor those habitually drunk, nor verbal abusers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God.” Here, Paul lists those who live in unrepentant sin, including those practicing homosexuality, as those who cannot inherit the kingdom of God.

These passages indicate that the Bible views homosexual acts as contrary to God’s design for human sexuality, which is established as being between a man and a woman in a covenantal marriage (Genesis 2:24).

4. Addressing Other Perspectives

Some argue that the Bible’s references to homosexuality are culturally specific and do not apply to committed, monogamous same-sex relationships today. They suggest that the biblical texts condemn only abusive or exploitative forms of homosexual behavior, not all forms. However, the holistic reading of Scripture consistently presents a sexual ethic grounded in the complementarity of male and female. The traditional perspective holds that this interpretation is more aligned with the biblical narrative and God’s original design for marriage and sexual relationships.

5. Clarifying Misunderstandings

One common misunderstanding is that the Bible’s stance on homosexuality means God hates those who identify as LGBTQ+. This is not the case. The Bible teaches that God loves every person and calls them to repentance and new life in Christ (John 3:16, 2 Peter 3:9). It is crucial to distinguish between same-sex attraction (which is a temptation and not a sin itself) and engaging in homosexual acts (which the Bible describes as sinful). Another misconception is that being a Christian means agreeing with all of one’s desires; however, Scripture calls all believers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Jesus (Matthew 16:24).

6. Practical Application and Relevance

In today’s society, where views on sexuality are diverse, Christians are called to uphold biblical truth while extending love and grace. This means recognizing that the biblical sexual ethic calls everyone—regardless of sexual orientation—to pursue holiness and obedience to God. It is also essential to support those who experience same-sex attraction by offering community, encouragement, and biblical counseling that helps them navigate their faith journey with integrity.

Christians should also speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and avoid treating homosexuality differently from other sins mentioned in Scripture. The goal is not condemnation but leading people to the transforming power of Jesus Christ, who offers forgiveness and new life.

7. Encouragement and Conclusion

God’s love and grace are available to all, regardless of past sins or struggles. The Bible calls every believer to live according to His design and to turn away from what separates them from God. Understanding what the Bible says about homosexuality is not about judgment but about inviting everyone into a deeper relationship with Christ that transforms every aspect of life. Encouraged by God’s grace, believers should walk in truth, offer hope, and love others well, recognizing that we all need His grace daily.