The Bible and Homosexuality
“Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites”.
1 Corinthians 6:9
The list of sins found 1 Corinthians 6:9 &10 includes most of the common sins of the flesh (Galatians 5:19–21; Ephesians 5:3–7). If people persist in cherishing any of these sins, they can not inherit the kingdom of God. Those who live lives of slavery to the sins of the flesh not only give up their own chance of the glorious inheritance but pass on to their offspring their physical and spiritual weaknesses.
The Bible is clear that homosexuality is a sin. “For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due” (Romans 1:26, 27).
Also, in the Old Testament, the Lord warned against homosexual behavior. “You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination” (Leviticus 18:22). The scriptures outline many sexual perversions and teach that the only pure sexual relationship is the one between a husband (man) and a wife (woman).
Those who are struggling with any weakness should be treated with love regardless of their sin whether it be lying, stealing, pride, homosexuality, etc. They should be encouraged with the truth that, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).
The repentant ones can be sure that they can have total victory over any sin, including homosexuality through the power of God that is available to all who seek it. For they “can do all things through Christ who strengthens” them (Philippians 4:13). They should claim by faith that they are “more than conquerors” (Romans 8:37). Human inclinations may be weak, “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57).
Check out our Bible Answers page for more information on a variety of topics.
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
