A Biblical Theology Discussion on Same Sex Sexual Behavior

A Biblical Theology Discussion on Same Sex Sexual Behavior

WONG Fook Kong

This article first reviews Scriptural passages most commonly used in the discussion of same sex sexual behavior (Gn 1-2; 19; Lv 18:22 and 20:13; Jgs 19; Rom 1:26-27; 1 Cor 6:9; 1 Tm 1:10). While some texts (ie, Lv 18:22; 20:13; Rom 1:26-27) have clearer teaching against homosexual behavior than others, the issues of their meaning and application for today cannot be settled based on exegesis alone. For example, just because the death penalty is clearly legislated in the Mosaic laws for certain sins (eg, Ex 21:15, 17; Lv 20:10) it does not mean that it is applicable today for those sins . The theological relationship between the Old and New Testaments has to be taken into consideration. Moreover, transposing a teaching meant for ancient Israel into the context of the modern church requires contextualization.
The view of the author is that same sex sexual behavior is a sin according to the witness of the Christian canon. Nevertheless, since Scripture does not highlight this sin above any other sins we should not do so either. In conformity with the principle of love , both sides of the debate should take a welcoming although not affirming stance toward each other.