LGBTQIA+ & Theology
The truth about what the Bible says
At the heart of many faith traditions is a belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every human being. Scripture speaks to the importance of love, justice, and compassion—values that form the theological foundation for LGBTQIA+ inclusion.
The divisions we create between people are not reflective of God's vision for humanity. We are called to love and affirm one another, transcending categories of gender and sexuality, as all are created in God’s image.
Jesus' teachings further emphasize inclusion and love without conditions. His ministry consistently reached out to those on the margins, advocating for the outcast and showing radical acceptance of people whom society rejected. In this light, LGBTQIA+ inclusion is not only a matter of social justice but a fulfillment of the gospel’s call to love our neighbors unconditionally and advocate for the dignity of every person.
"There is no excuse for anyone taking the position that there is no more truth to be revealed, and that all our expositions of Scripture are without an error. The fact that certain doctrines have been held as truth for many years by our people, is not a proof that our ideas are infallible. Age will not make error into truth, and truth can afford to be fair. No true doctrine will lose anything by close investigation."
~ Ellen White, co-founder, Seventh-day Adventist Church
Common Misconceptions
As Adventists, we often turn to scripture for wisdom and guidance. But maybe you’ve heard the usual responses and still have lingering questions.These misconceptions often stem from a lack of understanding of LGBTQIA+ experiences and evolving interpretations of scripture. Theological perspectives are shifting to become more inclusive and affirming as a deeper understanding of both the Bible and human identity grows.
Understanding the "Clobber Texts"
Biblical scholars and theologians argue that the traditional readings of these passages may not align with modern understandings of sexual orientation and gender identity. The Bible's call to love one another and to avoid judgment should guide our responses, encouraging a more inclusive and affirming approach that honors the dignity of all individuals.Framing difficult discussions in terms of love and respect can help shift the focus from condemnation to compassionate understanding.
In community, inclusivity—not conformity—is our strength
Terminology
LGBTQIA+ is an acronym that stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, and asexual. The "+" symbolizes additional identities beyond the acronym, encompassing diverse and evolving expressions of gender and sexuality.
Often used to describe a woman who is attracted to other women, the term "lesbian" can also include nonbinary individuals in some interpretations. Additionally, some nonbinary people identify as lesbian.
Typically used to refer to a man who is attracted to other men, the term "gay" was once commonly applied as a broad label for all LGBTQ+ individuals. However, more inclusive terms such as "LGBTQ+" or "queer" are now preferred to represent the entire community.
Refers to someone who is attracted to more than one gender. A person identifying as bisexual doesn’t need to have had equal experiences with people of different genders—or any sexual experience at all—to claim this identity. While traditionally described as attraction to “both” genders, the understanding of bisexuality has evolved to include attraction to individuals beyond the gender binary
Is someone whose gender identity does not align with the gender they were assigned at birth. Here are a few key points about transgender experiences:
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The term can serve as both an individual identity and an umbrella term that includes various gender identities, such as nonbinary identities.
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Transgender people come from diverse experiences and backgrounds, and not all choose to or can undergo a transition. Each person’s transition journey is unique.
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"Trans" is a commonly used shorthand for transgender.
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Queer may be used as an umbrella term for the LGBTQIA+ community, generally only by community members and trusted allies. Because of its history as a hateful slur, the word "queer" can be triggering for many LGBTQIA+ elders—even as younger generations reclaim it proudly. As with all terms, you should not assume others' comfort level and you should ask your LGBTQIA+ family members or friends before you use it.
This refers to an individual who is exploring or questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity and has not yet adopted a specific label to describe these aspects of themselves.
Intersex is a physical condition in which an individual's sex traits or reproductive anatomy do not fit typical definitions of male or female. It’s an umbrella term encompassing a range of variations in characteristics like genitals, chromosomes, or reproductive organs, which may be present at birth or emerge later in life.
Asexual, or "Ace," refers to someone who experiences little to no sexual attraction. Although many asexual individuals seek emotionally intimate relationships, they typically do not view sex as a means of expressing that intimacy.
The "+" represents all sexual orientations and gender identities not explicitly included in the acronym's letters. The "+" serves to acknowledge and include the diverse range of identities within the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing its inclusivity
Common Misconceptions
The verses often cited to condemn homosexuality (such as in Leviticus, Romans, and Corinthians) are frequently misinterpreted. Many scholars argue these passages refer to specific practices like idolatry, abuse, or exploitation, rather than consensual, loving same-sex relationships. Additionally, the concept of sexual orientation as we understand it today did not exist in biblical times.
LGBTQIA+ identities and relationships are found across nature, including in many animal species. Theologically affirming perspectives argue that God's creation includes a diverse spectrum of identities, and that love and partnership can exist in different forms. Calling someone "unnatural" is often a misunderstanding of both science and scripture.
The binary interpretation of gender is increasingly being challenged. Many theologians emphasize that the "male and female" reference in Genesis is descriptive rather than prescriptive. Further, intersex people, who exist outside this binary biologically, are evidence that gender diversity exists within God’s creation. Moreover, some biblical texts (e.g., Isaiah 56:3-5, Matthew 19:12) affirm those who do not fit into traditional gender categories.
Extensive scientific research confirms that sexual orientation and gender identity are not choices but rather are inherent aspects of a person’s being. The notion of "choice" has been harmful and led to the promotion of practices like conversion therapy, which is widely discredited and recognized as dangerous. From a theological perspective, many affirming Christians believe God created LGBTQIA+ people as they are, and being is not sinful. It is part of the diversity of Gods creation.
LGBTQIA+ Christians exist in all denominations and actively practice their faith. Many find their identities to be a source of spiritual strength, not a barrier. Progressive theological perspectives highlight that God’s love and grace extend to all people, and that LGBTQIA+ individuals can fully participate in Christian life, ministry, and ceremonies. Rejecting LGBTQIA+ people contradicts core Christian teachings on love, acceptance, and community.
Affirming Bible Verses
Galatians 3:28
"There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." This verse emphasizes that in Christ, all distinctions, including gender and societal status, are irrelevant. Everyone is included equally.
Romans 13:10
"Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law." The principle of love is central to Christian ethics. If a loving relationship causes no harm, it cannot be considered sinful.
Matthew 7:1
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged." This teaching from Jesus discourages judgment of others, suggesting that we should not condemn or judge others’ relationships or identities.
Matthew 22:37-40
“Jesus replied: "‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." Jesus prioritizes love above all other commandments, suggesting that love, including between same-sex couples, should be honored.
1 John 4:7-8
"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." This passage highlights that God is love, and anyone who loves reflects God’s nature, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Isaiah 56:3-5
"Let no foreigner who is bound to the Lord say, ‘The Lord will surely exclude me from his people.’ And let no eunuch complain, ‘I am only a dry tree.’ For this is what the Lord says: ‘To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths, who choose what pleases me and hold fast to my covenant—to them I will give within my temple and its walls a memorial and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that will endure forever.’" This passage is often seen as inclusive of those who don’t fit into traditional gender or sexual categories, as eunuchs were sexual minorities in ancient times.
Acts 10:34-35
"Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.’" God’s acceptance is not limited by cultural or societal boundaries, indicating that all people are welcomed, regardless of identity.
Micah 6:8
"He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." This verse focuses on justice, mercy, and humility—values that affirm loving, compassionate relationships rather than rigid rules.
John 13:34-35
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Jesus’ primary commandment is to love one another, and this love is the defining feature of Christian discipleship, not sexual orientation.
James 2:8
"If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, 'Love your neighbor as yourself,' you are doing right.” This verse reaffirms the centrality of love and how it is the key to righteous living, encouraging acceptance and love for all.
Understanding the "Clobber Texts"
God commands men and women, made in the divine image, to “be fruitful and multiply” (Gen. 1:28). Some Christians take this to mean that sex should only be between fertile heterosexual couples and aimed at conception, but this view has several flaws.
First, the text promotes procreation but doesn’t limit sex to that purpose. It also excludes couples who can't have children, which ignores the goodness of creation. Plus, humanity already fulfilled this command in Genesis 11:8-9 after the Tower of Babel.
People often say, “God created Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve,” but God created Steve too. The idea that women are “helpers” (Gen. 2:18, 20) only for reproduction reduces them to their ability to have children, overlooking the worth of women who can’t reproduce and the fact that childless couples can still find fulfillment.
Marriage and children isn’t the only way to live a full life. Jesus never married or had kids, and Paul, in 1 Corinthians 7:8, even encourages others to stay single like him.The story of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19 isn’t about consensual sexual relations—it’s about inhospitality, threats, and attempted r*pe. Ezekiel clarifies this, saying the sin the sin of Sodom was not helping the poor and needy (Ezekiel 16:49).
For more context, we can look at Judges 19, which mirrors the events in Genesis 19. In both stories, strangers seek shelter: in Sodom, Lot welcomes two angels, and in Gibeah, a man takes in a Levite and his concubine. In both cases, the locals demand to “know” the male guests, implying sexual violence. Both Lot and the man in Gibeah offer their daughters instead, but the mob refuse. In Judges, the concubine is thrown out and abused all night. These accounts focus on sexual violence, not homosexuality.Additionally, Ezekiel 16:49 makes it clear that Sodom’s primary sin were inhospitality, greed, and neglect of the poor, not same-sex relations.
Translated literally, they say a man shouldn’t lie with another man as with a woman. However, what exactly “the lyings of a woman” means is unclear, as the phrase only appears in these two verses. There are several interpretations from a progressive perspective:
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Some argue the text bans male-male relations because it was common among the Canaanites. However, there’s no solid evidence for such practices, especially in a religious context.
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Another theory is that the law is about preventing male r*pe in war, but the text doesn’t indicate this limitation.
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Others believe it's about procreation, but the Bible doesn’t ban relations between men and women who can’t reproduce, like the elderly or infertile.
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Another argument is that male-male relations prevent heterosexual intercourse and lower the birth rate, but that’s not logical, as gay men can still father children.
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Some suggest it’s about health, particularly anal intercourse, but heterosexual anal sex is not banned, and there are no prohibitions related to other health risks, like vaginal tearing.
Ultimately, Leviticus might be more about maintaining categories and social order. In biblical culture, everything had a place, and men and women had distinct roles. Mixing these roles, such as a man “lying with a man as with a woman,” might have been seen as blurring those lines. But this is still just an interpretation.
Other points to consider:-
Leviticus says nothing about lesbians.
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These laws were for Israelites in Israel, not for everyone.
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The laws apply to Jews, not Gentiles, and Christians are not bound by them unless repeated in the New Testament.
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The phrase “the lyings of” also appears in the context of incest, so Leviticus may be focused on familial relations.
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If the commandment only forbids anal intercourse, other forms of male-male intimacy wouldn’t necessarily be banned.
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A modern interpretation could view this as a critique of rigid gender roles rather than condemning same-sex relationships altogether.
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Paul writes to a Gentile congregation he hasn’t yet met, explaining that even without the Torah, they should have recognized God through creation or conscience. Instead, they “worshiped the creature rather than the Creator” (Rom. 1:25). As a result, Paul says, God allowed them to follow “dishonorable passions,” where both men and women engaged in what he calls “unnatural” sexual behavior (Rom. 1:26-27).
The first issue is what “natural use” means. Some think it refers to heterosexual sex being more “natural,” but this interpretation overlooks the fact that the Bible doesn’t prohibit heterosexual anal or oral sex.
The second issue is that while Paul claims to use nature as his framework, it's likely that he was thinking culturally instead—not biologically. Same-sex behavior isn’t “unnatural,” as it’s observed in over 1,000 animal species.
Some suggest Paul is referring to heterosexual men engaging in same-sex acts or that the passage is about orgies due to the context of lust and shameless behavior. Neither view is particular, highlighting how unclear Paul’s language is.
Interestingly, Paul also uses “contrary to nature” (para physin) in Romans 11:24 to describe how Gentiles, though naturally wild, are grafted into God's people. In that case, something “unnatural” creates a positive result.Ultimately, the verses are set within a broader condemnation of idolatry and people abandoning their faith. Paul’s focus is on lustful, degrading behavior as part of pagan worship, not committed, loving relationships.
In Paul's first letter to the Corinthians, he lists those who won't inherit the kingdom of God, including "fornicators," "idolaters," "adulterers," "malakoi," and "arsenokotai," along with thieves and drunkards. However, the exact meaning of some of these Greek terms is unclear, and we don’t know why Paul included them in his list.
“Pornoi” refers to improper sexual behavior, often translated as “fornicator” or “sexually immoral,” but definitions of what's improper have changed over time.
The Greek word “malakos” means “soft” and can refer to someone seen as passive or self-indulgent. It could also imply someone who is less focused on physical strength, which isn't inherently negative.
“Arsenokotai” is a more complex term. It comes from “arsen” (male) and “koite” (bed), and is often translated as “sodomites” or “perverts.” The exact meaning is debated, but it likely refers to exploitative sexual relationships, such as prostitution or pederasty. It’s not clear that it refers to consensual same-sex relationships.
Some believe "malakoi" refers to the passive partner and "arsenokotai" to the active partner in male-male relationships, but it’s unclear why Paul would create a new word if this were the case.This "Pastoral Epistle," written in Paul’s name, gives us another vice list. It includes two familiar terms, "pornois" and "arsenokoitais," along with a new one, "andrapodistais," which likely means "kidnappers" or "slave dealers"—those who captured and sold people into slavery.
When viewed together, these terms might not refer to consenting relationships but rather to forced, commercial transactions: the "fornicator" seeking enslaved individuals for sexual purposes, the pimp supplying them, and the enslaver who sold them.
If we look back at 1 Corinthians with this in mind, "pornoi" could be men seeking slaves for sex, "malakoi" the enslaved boys, and "arsenokotai" those who sold or provided them—focusing on exploitation, not consensual relationships.In Genesis 6:1-4, the “sons of God” saw that the “daughters of men” were beautiful and had sexual relations with them. This story, which happens just before the Flood, may have inspired the idea of heavenly beings rebelling and falling to earth. It’s similar to Greek myths of the Titans, who were defeated and cast into the underworld.
The Jewish text 1 Enoch expands on this, describing these fallen angels teaching humans war, cosmetics, and writing—skills that disrupt genuine communication. Jude 6 references this, saying the angels who left their realm are now imprisoned, awaiting judgment day.
Jude also alludes to Genesis 19, mentioning Sodom and Gomorrah’s sexual immorality and pursuit of "other flesh." While Genesis 19 is about an attempted rape of angels, Jude flips the idea to angels having inappropriate relations with women, which goes against their nature. As Jesus said, angels don’t marry. This text has nothing to do with homosexuality.
For additional information and talking points related to the “clobber texts” check out:
by Alicia Johnston is for those seeking a deeper understanding of how to care for and affirm LGBTQIA+ members. This book addresses the question: Is there something in the Bible that can guide us?
The answer is "Yes!" Readers will gain insight and tools to engage with this topic, addressing conservative concerns while demonstrating biblical support for affirming LGBTQIA+ individuals and loving, monogamous same-sex marriages. The discussion covers marriage, the Sabbath, Levitical laws, and Jesus' teachings.
The verses often cited to condemn homosexuality (such as in Leviticus, Romans, and Corinthians) are frequently misinterpreted.
Many scholars argue these passages refer to specific practices like idolatry, abuse, or exploitation, rather than consensual, loving same-sex relationships.
Additionally, the concept of sexual orientation as we understand it today did not exist in biblical times.
