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Published: Tuesday, Jun. 12, 2012 / Updated: Monday, Jun. 11, 2012 01:39 PM

Homosexuality: Here’s what the Bible says

Ever since I began to write this column, I have endeavored to adhere to a basic tenant of the Baptist belief system – mainly that the Bible is the final authority in all matters of faith and practice. This stems from an application of 2 Timothy 3:16 and basically the entirety of Psalm 119.

Often, when people approach me with questions regarding current hot topics, they are given scriptural answers that are supplemented with common sense and logic, not the other way around.

Perhaps nothing is more “hot topic” than homosexuality. There are a plethora of opinions and beliefs that abound about this subject; however, if one is of the belief that the Bible is true and is God’s eternal Word, there will be a general consensus that God condemns this type of lifestyle. As Christians, we need to be prepared to teach our families and those we disciple exactly what the Bible teaches about this, and how we are to approach this topic.

First of all, know what the Bible teaches about this and where to find it. Two important passages to keep in mind are Genesis 18 and 19 and Romans 1. Secondly, the way we respond should mirror the way Christ responded. Love for our fellow man is crucial, but not to the point that we shirk from what needs to be addressed.

Caustic, venomous speech can be detrimental to our overall message, but an overlooking of sin is equally harmful. Pray and strive for a biblical balance.

Thirdly, recognize that unbelief in the Words of God will be punished more harshly than the sins of Sodom and Gomorrah. Matthew 10:14-15 makes this abundantly clear. While it is proven that homosexual lifestyles are unhealthy and dangerous, this particular sin was laid upon Christ at Calvary, along with other sexual sins like adultery and premarital sex.

As a minister, I am reminded that I need to preach the whole council of God, and in the same balance that He mentions it in His Word. Christians are benefited when they can accurately and lovingly articulate the teachings of any topic found in Scripture. Let us not get sidetracked and avoid the most crucial message: that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again – according to the Scriptures.