Unpacking the Scriptures: What Does the Bible Say About Homosexuality?

The Passages Most Often Cited

When discussions turn to biblical perspectives on same-sex relations, several passages from both the Old and New Testaments consistently emerge. Understanding these verses, both in their original context and through various interpretive lenses, is crucial for grasping the heart of the debate.

Leviticus: Ancient Laws and Purity Codes

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

These verses, found within the Mosaic Law, are often presented as unequivocal condemnations. They are part of a broader set of purity codes and prohibitions that governed ancient Israelite society, addressing everything from dietary restrictions to sexual conduct and religious rituals. Traditional interpretations view these as timeless moral commands against male same-sex sexual acts.

But wait, what about the surrounding context? These prohibitions exist alongside commands about eating shellfish, wearing mixed fabrics, or avoiding certain farming practices. This raises a critical question: How do Christians decide which Old Testament laws remain binding and which are cultural or ceremonial, superseded by the New Covenant? This question forms a significant part of the interpretive challenge.

Romans 1: Paul's Treatise on Human Depravity

Perhaps the most prominent New Testament passage is found in Paul's letter to the Romans, specifically in verses 26-27:

"For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error."

Paul's words here are part of a larger argument in Romans 1, where he describes humanity's turning away from God, leading to various forms of idolatry and moral decay. He paints a picture of societal breakdown resulting from exchanging "the truth about God for a lie." This passage is often interpreted as a clear condemnation of all same-sex sexual activity, framed as a consequence of rejecting the Creator.

However, many scholars and theologians highlight that Paul's concern here seems to be rooted in idolatry and the "lusts of their hearts," rather than simply sexual orientation. Some argue that Paul was condemning specific acts associated with pagan cultic prostitution or exploitative, excessive sexual behavior prevalent in the Greco-Roman world, rather than consensual, loving same-sex relationships as understood today. The term "unnatural" (para physin) is also debated, with some arguing it refers to deviation from God's intended order, while others suggest it meant "contrary to common custom" or simply "against their own nature" for those who knew better.

Genesis 19: The Story of Sodom and Gomorrah

The narrative of Sodom and Gomorrah is frequently cited as divine judgment against homosexuality. In this story, angels visit Lot in Sodom, and the men of the city demand that Lot "bring them out to us, that we may know them." Traditionally, "know them" has been understood as a demand for homosexual intercourse, leading to the city's destruction.

Yet, a growing number of biblical scholars argue that the primary sin of Sodom was not homosexuality, but rather a profound lack of hospitality, violence, and injustice. Ezekiel 16:49, for example, states: "Now this was the sin of your sister Sodom: She and her daughters were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned; they did not help the poor and needy." Lot's offer of his virgin daughters to the mob further suggests that the core issue was the violent intent to rape and humiliate the visitors, representing a grave violation of ancient Near Eastern hospitality codes, regardless of the gender of the victims. It was an act of extreme inhospitality and brutality, rather than consensual same-sex relations, that drew divine wrath.

Other New Testament References

Brief mentions in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 and 1 Timothy 1:9-10 also appear in lists of behaviors that exclude people from inheriting the kingdom of God. Terms like malakoi (often translated as "effeminate" or "soft") and arsenokoitai (variously translated as "sodomites," "abusers of themselves with mankind," or "homosexual offenders") are used. The precise meaning and scope of these terms in their original context are subjects of ongoing scholarly debate, with some arguing they refer specifically to exploitative sexual practices rather than same-sex orientation itself.