Ever wondered what the Bible really says about LGBTQ issues? You probably have an opinion, but do you know the scriptures behind it?
1. Genesis 19:5-7 (NIV)
“They called to Lot, ‘Where are the men who came to you tonight? Bring them out to us so that we can have sex with them.'” This passage is often cited in discussions about homosexuality, though many scholars argue it addresses issues of hospitality and violence rather than consensual same-sex relationships.
2. Leviticus 18:22 (NIV)
“Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable.” This verse is commonly referenced in debates about same-sex relations, but its context within ancient purity laws is often overlooked in contemporary discussions.
3. Leviticus 20:13 (NIV)
“If a man has sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable. They are to be put to death; their blood will be on their own heads.” Another Levitical law, this verse is part of a larger set of purity codes that some argue are not applicable to modern Christians.
4. Romans 1:26-27 (NIV)
“Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural sexual relations for unnatural ones. In the same way, the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another.” Paul’s writings in Romans are often interpreted as condemning same-sex relations, though some scholars suggest he was addressing specific cultural practices of his time.
5. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 (NIV)
“Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men.” This passage lists behaviors deemed sinful, including same-sex relations, but interpretations vary on whether it refers to exploitative relationships or consensual same-sex love.
6. 1 Timothy 1:9-10 (NIV)
“We also know that the law is made not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels, the ungodly and sinful, the unholy and irreligious, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers, for the sexually immoral, for those practicing homosexuality.” Similar to 1 Corinthians, this passage is often debated regarding its translation and cultural context.
7. Genesis 1:27 (NIV)
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” Some use this verse to support traditional gender roles, while others argue it highlights the diversity and sacredness of all human beings.
8. Matthew 19:4-6 (NIV)
“Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’?” Often cited in support of heterosexual marriage, yet some scholars see this as a reflection of cultural norms rather than a prescriptive mandate.
9. Galatians 3:28 (NIV)
“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 is embraced by many LGBTQ Christians as evidence of spiritual equality and inclusivity in Christ.
10. Acts 8:26-40 (NIV)
The story of the Ethiopian eunuch baptized by Philip is seen by some as an example of early Christian inclusivity, embracing those who are different.
11. Isaiah 56:3-5 (NIV)
“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 seen by some as a promise of inclusion and honor to those outside traditional gender roles.
12. Matthew 8:5-13 (NIV)
The story of the Roman centurion and his servant is sometimes interpreted as a positive portrayal of a same-sex relationship, emphasizing Jesus’ healing and acceptance.
13. Ruth 1:16-17 (NIV)
“But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.'” Ruth’s commitment to Naomi is often celebrated as an example of deep, covenantal love that transcends conventional relationships.
14. 1 Samuel 18:1-3 (NIV)
“After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself.” The relationship between David and Jonathan is viewed by some as a model of deep, affectionate friendship, possibly even romantic.
15. Song of Solomon 1:2 (NIV)
“Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth—for your love is more delightful than wine.” While traditionally seen as a heterosexual love poem, some interpret the celebration of love and desire as inclusive of all loving relationships.
16. John 13:34 (NIV)
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” This commandment to love one another is central to many LGBTQ-affirming interpretations of Christian teachings.
17. Romans 12:10 (NIV)
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” This call to mutual love and respect is seen by some as inclusive of all forms of loving relationships.
18. Ephesians 4:2-3 (NIV)
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” These verses encourage loving and peaceful relationships, which can be applied to support LGBTQ inclusivity.
19. Colossians 3:14 (NIV)
“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Love as the highest virtue is often cited to advocate for the acceptance and unity of all people, including LGBTQ individuals.
20. James 2:8 (NIV)
“If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself,’ you are doing right.” The principle of loving one’s neighbor is fundamental to arguments for LGBTQ inclusion and equality.
21. 1 John 4:7-8 (NIV)
“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.” The emphasis on love as the essence of God supports interpretations that affirm loving, committed LGBTQ relationships.
A Spectrum of Interpretations
These Bible verses show a wide range of interpretations and applications when it comes to LGBTQ issues. Whether critical or positive, each passage provides a basis for ongoing dialogue and reflection within the Christian community. What are your thoughts on how these scriptures should be understood today?
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The post “Let Us Love” – 21 Bible References to LGBTQ You May Not Have Spotted first appeared on Pulse of Pride.
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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
