If you are seeking to do God’s will and want biblical guidance on your lifestyle choices, a homosexual relationship is not going to be an option. The nation of Israel was given the Law of Moses to guide them in being set apart as God’s holy people, distinct from other nations.
While the Law of Moses is not directly applicable to believers today, it reveals God’s perspective on moral behavior. Among the commandments given, God explicitly condemned homosexuality:
“Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable.” (Leviticus 18:22)
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New Testament Teaching: Homosexuality in the Context of Sin
In the present dispensation of grace, New Testament letters introduce doctrines applicable to believers. Homosexuality is consistently addressed as a sinful behavior, but it is never singled out as uniquely grievous. Instead, it is listed alongside other sins that entangle humanity.
“We also know that the law is made not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels, the ungodly and sinful, the unholy and irreligious, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers, for the sexually immoral, for those practicing homosexuality, for slave traders and liars and perjurers—and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine that conforms to the gospel concerning the glory of the blessed God, which he entrusted to me [Paul].” (1 Timothy 1:8-10)
We are all born with a sinful nature and wrestle with temptations unique to our inclinations. Whether it be lust, greed, covetousness, or prejudice, every Christian is called to recognize their sinful tendencies and turn to Christ for deliverance. Homosexuality is no exception to this universal struggle.
The Call to Repentance
Does this mean homosexuality is no worse than other sins? Yes—and no. All sin is equally offensive to God, but each sin carries its own consequences and challenges. For example, a gossiper who openly proclaims their refusal to stop gossiping would rightly be subject to church discipline. The same is true for someone who persists in any type of sinful behavior, including homosexuality.
Repentance begins with acknowledging that a behavior is sinful. Without this recognition, we risk straying from the narrow road that leads to life. Jesus warned, “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14)
Living a Holy Life
Christians must strive to overcome temptation and live in a way that pleases the Lord. Thankfully, God equips us with tools to succeed:
- God’s Love and Forgiveness: Through Christ’s sacrifice, we are forgiven and stand in grace. Regularly giving thanks for this unmerited favor helps us remain grounded.
- The Holy Spirit: As believers, we are indwelt by the Spirit, who guides, convicts, teaches, and empowers us to live holy lives.
- God’s Word: The Bible serves as our ultimate handbook for living in righteousness.
- Fellowship with Believers: The body of Christ provides camaraderie and encouragement to persevere.
- Peace from God: Obedience to the Spirit yields an indescribable peace that surpasses understanding.
When it comes to sexual relationships, the Bible clearly affirms marriage as a union between one man and one woman. For those desiring intimacy, marriage provides a God-honoring outlet (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:4-6).
Alternatively, the Bible affirms the virtue of remaining single. Paul wrote:
“I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.” (1 Corinthians 7:7)
This is a viable option for someone struggling with their sexuality. Instead of pursuing a romantic relationship, they can dedicate their life fully to Christ and His service.
Addressing Homosexuality in the Church
The church must handle issues of homosexuality with grace and truth, distinguishing between inclination and action. Experiencing same-sex attraction is not sinful; acting upon it is. Moreover, committing a sinful act but confessing and repenting is the normal process of restoration for any believer.
The real issue arises when someone refuses to acknowledge their behavior as sin and chooses to persist. In such cases, church leadership must lovingly confront the individual with biblical truth. This process must be prayerful, gracious, and aimed at restoration. However, if the individual remains unrepentant, church discipline may be necessary as a last resort (1 Corinthians 5:1-5).
“Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. 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.” (1 Corinthians 6:9-11)
The goal is always reconciliation, but the church cannot condone behavior that blatantly disregards God’s Word.
God’s Standards for Sexual Purity
What about other forms of sexual immorality? The same principles apply:
- Be married and stay committed (Hebrews 13:4).
- Be single and remain pure (1 Corinthians 7:8-9).
God’s standards may seem harsh to some, but they are always right and just. His ways are designed to lead us to life, even when they conflict with our sinful nature.
Choosing Between Sin and Sacrifice
Ultimately, we must decide whether to live for ourselves or for God. Paul exhorts us:
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:1-2)
The Christian life is a call to sacrifice. It is not easy, but it is worth it. God’s grace empowers us to live holy lives, and His Spirit equips us to overcome temptation. As we strive to honor Him, we find peace, joy, and fulfillment that the world cannot offer.
All Scripture quoted from:
New International Version (NIV)
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