Thursday, August 28, 2008
First Baptist Church of Dover/Rockaway
Homosexuality
A homosexual is a person who is sexually attracted to those of his own sex. A lesbian is the term used for a female homosexual.

This is a very complex problem and greatly misunderstood by a large segment of society. The complexity defies stereotyping, such as the effeminate man and the masculine woman, although some do manifest such characteristics. Unfortunately, it is a life-style practiced by millions which has invaded all levels of society.

Such behavior cannot be dismissed simply as an alternative life-style or a different sexual orientation. Neither can it be argued that any were "born this way". Attempts to explain such behavior as sickness avoid the real issue.

God doesn't love the homosexual any less than He does anyone else. Such behavior, however, is a departure from God's expressed order. Though many homosexuals may feel that they have not chosen their sexual orientation, the fact remains that they have responded improperly to this orientation; it is this "response" which must be dealt with in light of Scripture.

No doubts are left as to what is a proper sexual relationship:

  • "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh" (Genesis 2:24).
  • "As for you, be fruitful and increase in number; multiply on the earth and increase upon it" (Genesis 9:7).
  • "Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him" (Psalm 127:3).
  • "The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. The wife's body does not belong to her alone, but also to her husband. In the same way, the husband's body does not belong to him alone but also to his wife" (1 Corinthians 7:3,4).
According to these Scriptures, it should be obvious that God has ordained the establishment and perpetuation of the human race through the sexual union of a man and a woman. Of great importance in God's established order is that the family - consisting of father, mother and children is the basis for society, and families are the greatest strength of any society. There is a preponderance of evidence in the Scriptures to substantiate this order. One should not assume, however, that all are going to marry and reproduce. Celibacy and singleness are also a part of God's order.

There are also many Scriptures which do not approve the practice of homosexuality. The Bible includes homosexuality in the list of carnal immorality along with adultery, fornication, prostitution, lust, etc. It is not to be singled out as a "special sin" especially offensive to God beyond any other sin. God deals with all sin through the Cross. It is only as any of us willing to confess sin that God is able to deal with our rebellious, proud and guilt-laden hearts.

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