A variety of attitudes exist when one deals with the question of homosexuality. Anything from "I used to be against it but now I don't know" to "what does it matter anyway." There seems to be a real lack of concern for solid, biblical principles when it comes to matters of this magnitude.
It is the intent of this publication to deal with this subject in a fair and direct manner. The Bible gives us all we need to live godly, and it ables us to be "wise unto salvation" (2Timothy 3:15). Let us hold fast to these truths as we begin our study.
Homosexuality is not a new thing. As far back as the Bible records in Genesis 13 and 19 (verses 5-11), we have record of cities known for this sin. Their names are Sodom and Gomorrah. We know that God spared not these cities but turned them to ashes "making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly" (2 Peter 2:6). These cities and others were destroyed because of their great mistreating of God's law against such behavior. One such law found in Leviticus 20:13 states: "If a man lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death." Are we to say that God no longer requires such standards as these? It's obvious from these verses that God will not tolerate such utter disregard for purity.
From the city named Sodom, there comes a word which is used to describe those who engaged in these homosexual activities. The word is "Sodomite." (The feminine Hebrew form of this word is "harlot" [cf. Genesis 38:21,22; Deuteronomy 23:17; Hosea 4:14]). Referring to such we find in 1 Kings 14:24, "And there were also sodomites of the nations which the Lord cast out before the children of Israel." Here as well as in other places, we can find pagan worship involved in homosexuality. There were both male and female serving in these heathen temples involved in terrible sexual immorality. These were giving their bodies in the name of religion. In the very next chapter (verse 12), God saw it was right to remove the sodomites out of the land.
The Bible is so clear in this matter even with just a few verses it is impossible to misunderstand or be undecided on this subject. Yet there is more to discuss on this issue. Let's now turn our attention to Romans chapter one. Paul begins this letter "a servant ... separated unto the gospel." As Christians, we are to be different from the world. He goes on to say that through this separation to the gospel "the righteousness of God is revealed" (verse 17). Now let's look at what Paul is directed to say about unrighteousness. "For the wrath of God is revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness." The text begins a spiral away from God.
1. Because of the things God has made, they are without excuse (verse 20).
2. They see yet they do not glorify God (verse 21).
3. Unthankful (verse 20).
4. Leaving God out of their thoughts.
5. Hearts hardened toward right.
6. Self worship (verse 21).
7. Dismissing God, accepting anything else (verse 23). God gave them up to their "vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly...Who knowing the judgement of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them" (verses 26,27,32).
What a vivid picture we have of the depravity of those committing these acts. Though the world today calls it acceptable, a choice, even a "God given lifestyle," the Bible declares homosexuality is not a disease nor is it a genetic condition. It is sin. And just like liars, backbiters, murderers (sinners), they can repent, turn and become a Christian. "And such were some of you... (1 Corinthians 6:11). Here listed with many other sins is the homosexual. They are commanded to stop in order to inherit the kingdom of God.
Someone once said, "Homosexuality cannot exist where people love God and respect His word. Rejection of God is the root; homosexuality is the fruit." As we continue to see through the pages of scripture homosexuality is not a Christian option. God simply does not tolerate ignorance in this matter. It is a sin "contrary to sound doctrine; According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God" (1 Timothy 1:9,10,11).
It is a sin against the laws of nature. God created Adam and Eve not Adam and Steve, or Ann and Eve. In Matthew 19:8 Jesus takes us back to the very beginning and says the intention of God was ONE MAN FOR ONE WOMAN. Christian, do not let Satan feed you a lie. In his subtle way he changes and perverts everything he touches and this is no different. He is still using his trickery to devour and destroy.
Let us all determine to stand firm on these biblical truths. There is no substitute for biblical standards. God has given us the answers to what is right and what is wrong. His word should be a burning ember desiring to speak out against the perversions that seek to destroy our homes, churches, and country.
In conclusion, homosexuality is not a choice when it comes to matters of righteousness. When confronting those who are continuing in this sin, we should not approach it with a "holier than thou" attitude. It is a sin and can be forgiven. Love for the soul is an absolute with this or any such activity. We must stand firm, speak against, compel with love to grasp once again the truth of God's word.
"Homosexuality" by Phil Williams © 1995
