Discrimination Against Marriage equality
Let us first look at the definition of discrimination: the unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people or things. The Bible in no way condones or promotes discrimination, as the rule of Christ is love (Galatians 5:6) and to not judge others unfairly (Matthew 7:1-2). Anyone who uses their belief in the Bible to discriminate any groups of people violate the very principles for which it stands.
With that being said, the Bible is written with specific instruction to those who desire to follow it as truth. The Scriptures speak against marriage equality or same sex marriage as seen in the following passages: “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 men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. 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 also 1 Timothy 1:10-11; Leviticus 18:22; 20:13; Romans 1:26-28; Mark 10:6-9; Genesis 19:1-5, etc.).
The Bible instructions are not always in harmony with what is acceptable in society, which is where conflicts can arise. The topic of marriage equality is one of the most highly debated topics at this point in time. Many have attacked those who prescribe to a strict adherence to the Bible as an act of discrimination, as biblical beliefs often go against certain lifestyle choices. However, these attacks are often their own form of discrimination against those who prescribe to the biblical model of a family.
A free, democratic society allows for anyone to follow the convictions of their own conscience. This includes following the teachings of the Bible as well as following any other path of one’s choosing. While a Christian may not agree with a lifestyle choice, their disagreement is not discrimination. Every person has the right to choose his own path of thinking.
The New Testament teachings of Jesus are in harmony with the idea of a separation of church and state (Luke 20:25). Jesus did not call for His followers to be active in legislation or political affairs. He simply called them to deny their selfish ways and follow Him (Matthew 16:24). Jesus’ kingdom was a spiritual one. He called people to repentance from sin (John 18:36).
God calls His people to come reason together (Isaiah 1:18). It would do our society good to come and reason together in order to solve the problems. It is possible to understand each others views and agree to disagree in a respectful, loving manner. The Bible teaches, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18).
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
