*God and the LGBTQ+ Issue
Published by Campbell M Gold in Revisionist · Tuesday 20 Aug 2024
God and the LGBTQ+ Issue
If you are happy with the Government's Information on this Subject
DO NOT READ FURTHER
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Expanding the debate further, here is an outline of the Rights and Wrongs often associated with LGBTQ+:
Rights of LGBTQ+
1. Human Rights
- Equality: LGBTQ+ individuals are entitled to the same rights and protections as all citizens, including marriage, employment, and housing.
- Non-Discrimination: Laws that prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in various settings (workplace, healthcare, education).
- Freedom of Expression: The right to express one's sexual orientation and gender identity without fear of persecution.
2. Legal Rights
- Marriage Equality: The legal recognition of same-sex marriage, allowing LGBTQ+ couples the same marital rights as heterosexual couples.
- Adoption Rights: The ability for same-sex couples to adopt children, providing equal opportunities in family formation.
- Healthcare Access: Rights to receive appropriate healthcare services, including gender-affirming care for transgender individuals.
3. Social Rights
- Cultural Recognition: The acknowledgement and celebration of LGBTQ+ identities within society, promoting acceptance and understanding.
- Support Networks: Access to resources and support groups that cater to LGBTQ+ individuals, helping them navigate challenges.
Wrongs Against LGBTQ+
1. Discrimination
- Prejudice and Bias: Many LGBTQ+ individuals face discrimination in employment, housing, and healthcare due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Conversion Therapy: Practices aimed at changing an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity, often leading to psychological harm.
2. Violence and Harassment
- Hate Crimes: LGBTQ+ individuals are disproportionately affected by hate crimes, including physical violence and verbal harassment.
- Bullying: High rates of bullying in schools targeted at LGBTQ+ youth, leading to mental health issues and, in some cases, suicide.
3. Legal Injustices
- Lack of Protection: In many regions, there are insufficient laws protecting LGBTQ+ rights, leading to legal inequalities.
- Criminalization: In some countries, being LGBTQ+ is still criminalized, leading to imprisonment and harsh penalties.
Summary
The rights of LGBTQ+ individuals centre around equality, legal recognition, and social acceptance, while the wrongs often highlight issues of discrimination, violence, and legal injustices.
The ongoing dialogue surrounding these rights is essential for understanding and promoting societal equality.
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But Something is Missing in the above - One Important Opinion is not there - God's
I reiterate - all of the above is valid in the LBGTQ+ debate, but there is one opinion that was not included - God's.
So, what does God say about this subject?
God Speaks - And His Word is the "Same yesterday, today, and forever"
The nice thing about dealing with God is that His word never changes and is the same yesterday, today, and forever - as is his guidance/directives regarding marriage/relationships. Once God has spoken, the debate is over.
Translation Note: The Biblical quotes in this material are from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible. Consequently, I recommend comparing these passages with the same in the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible for a more modern translation.
Deuteronomy 4:2
2 Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.
Deuteronomy 12:32
32 What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it.
Revelation 22:18-19
18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:
19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.
--()--
Homosexual Acts Are Sinful - God
The scriptures (the word of God) teach that homosexual acts are sinful and will be punished - God has never rescinded this.
Let's review what God says:
God Condemns Gays
Leviticus 18:22-26
22 Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination.
23 Neither shalt thou lie with any beast to defile thyself therewith: neither shall any woman stand before a beast to lie down thereto: it is confusion.
24 Defile not ye yourselves in any of these things: for in all these the nations are defiled which I cast out before you:
25 And the land is defiled: therefore I do visit the iniquity thereof upon it, and the land itself vomiteth out her inhabitants.
26 Ye shall therefore keep my statutes and my judgments, and shall not commit any of these abominations; neither any of your own nation, nor any stranger that sojourneth among you:
Leviticus 20:13
13 If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.
Judges 19: 16-25 (Homosexuality seems to be a problem, Vs 22)
16 And, behold, there came an old man from his work out of the field at even, which was also of mount Ephraim; and he sojourned in Gibeah: but the men of the place were Benjamites.
17 And when he had lifted up his eyes, he saw a wayfaring man in the street of the city: and the old man said, Whither goest thou? and whence comest thou?
18 And he said unto him, We are passing from Bethlehemjudah toward the side of mount Ephraim; from thence am I: and I went to Bethlehemjudah, but I am now going to the house of the LORD; and there is no man that receiveth me to house.
19 Yet there is both straw and provender for our asses; and there is bread and wine also for me, and for thy handmaid, and for the young man which is with thy servants: there is no want of any thing.
20 And the old man said, Peace be with thee; howsoever let all thy wants lie upon me; only lodge not in the street.
21 So he brought him into his house, and gave provender unto the asses: and they washed their feet, and did eat and drink.
22 Now as they were making their hearts merry, behold, the men of the city, certain sons of Belial, beset the house round about, and beat at the door, and spake to the master of the house, the old man, saying, Bring forth the man that came into thine house, that we may know him.
23 And the man, the master of the house, went out unto them, and said unto them, Nay, my brethren, nay, I pray you, do not so wickedly; seeing that this man is come into mine house, do not this folly.
24 Behold, here is my daughter a maiden, and his concubine; them I will bring out now, and humble ye them, and do with them what seemeth good unto you: but unto this man do not so vile a thing.
25 But the men would not hearken to him: so the man took his concubine, and brought her forth unto them; and they knew her, and abused her all the night until the morning: and when the day began to spring, they let her go.
1 Kings 14:24
24 And there were also sodomites [this refers to male cult prostitutes] in the land: and they did according to all the abominations of the nations which the LORD cast out before the children of Israel.
1 Kings 15:12
12 And he took away the sodomites [this refers to male cult prostitutes] out of the land, and removed all the idols that his fathers had made. (Sodomite - a person who has anal sex with another person)
2 Kings 23:7
7 And *he brake down the houses of the sodomites [this refers to male cult prostitutes], that were by the house of the LORD, where the women wove hangings for the grove.
(*he - 2 Kings 22: 1-2) 1 Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned thirty and one years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Jedidah, the daughter of Adaiah of Boscath.2 And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in all the way of David his father, and turned not aside to the right hand or to the left.)
Mark 10:6-9
6 But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female.
7 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife;
8 And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.
9 What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Romans 1:18-32 (Particularly Vs 26-27)
18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.
20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,
23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.
24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:
25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:
27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,
30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,
31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:
32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
Romans 13:8-10
8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
1 Corinthians 6:9-11
9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
1 Corinthians 6:17-20
17 But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.
18 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.
19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
1 Corinthians 7:2
2 Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.
1 Timothy 1:8-11
8 But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully;
9 Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,
10 For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;
11 According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.
Jude 1:5-8
5 I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not.
6 And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.
7 Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.
8 Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities.
Hebrews 13:1-5
1 Let brotherly love continue.
2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
3 Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.
4 Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
--()--
Sodom and Gomorrah (Especially Genesis 18 and 19)
To prevent any misunderstanding, I have given the Sodom and Gomorrah incident in detail - God destroyed the two cities as a consequence of homosexuality (sodomy).
Genesis 10:19
19 And the border of the Canaanites was from Sidon, as thou comest to Gerar, unto Gaza; as thou goest, unto Sodom, and Gomorrah, and Admah, and Zeboim, even unto Lasha.
10 And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the plain of Jordan, that it was well watered every where, before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, even as the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar.
11 Then Lot chose him all the plain of Jordan; and Lot journeyed east: and they separated themselves the one from the other.
12 Abram dwelled in the land of Canaan, and Lot dwelled in the cities of the plain, and pitched his tent toward Sodom.
Genesis 14:1-12
1 And it came to pass in the days of Amraphel king of Shinar, Arioch king of Ellasar, Chedorlaomer king of Elam, and Tidal king of nations;
2 That these made war with Bera king of Sodom, and with Birsha king of Gomorrah, Shinab king of Admah, and Shemeber king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela, which is Zoar.
3 All these were joined together in the vale of Siddim, which is the salt sea.
4 Twelve years they served Chedorlaomer, and in the thirteenth year they rebelled.
5 And in the fourteenth year came Chedorlaomer, and the kings that were with him, and smote the Rephaims in Ashteroth Karnaim, and the Zuzims in Ham, and the Emims in Shaveh Kiriathaim,
6 And the Horites in their mount Seir, unto Elparan, which is by the wilderness.
7 And they returned, and came to Enmishpat, which is Kadesh, and smote all the country of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites, that dwelt in Hazezontamar.
8 And there went out the king of Sodom, and the king of Gomorrah, and the king of Admah, and the king of Zeboiim, and the king of Bela (the same is Zoar;) and they joined battle with them in the vale of Siddim;
9 With Chedorlaomer the king of Elam, and with Tidal king of nations, and Amraphel king of Shinar, and Arioch king of Ellasar; four kings with five.
10 And the vale of Siddim was full of slimepits; and the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, and fell there; and they that remained fled to the mountain.
11 And they took all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah, and all their victuals, and went their way.
12 And they took Lot, Abram's brother's son, who dwelt in Sodom, and his goods, and departed.
Genesis 14:13-24
13 And there came one that had escaped, and told Abram the Hebrew; for he dwelt in the plain of Mamre the Amorite, brother of Eshcol, and brother of Aner: and these were confederate with Abram.
14 And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued them unto Dan.
15 And he divided himself against them, he and his servants, by night, and smote them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which is on the left hand of Damascus.
16 And he brought back all the goods, and also brought again his brother Lot, and his goods, and the women also, and the people.
17 And the king of Sodom went out to meet him after his return from the slaughter of Chedorlaomer, and of the kings that were with him, at the valley of Shaveh, which is the king's dale.
18 And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God.
19 And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth:
20 And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all.
21 And the king of Sodom said unto Abram, Give me the persons, and take the goods to thyself.
22 And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the LORD, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth,
23 That I will not take from a thread even to a shoelatchet, and that I will not take any thing that is thine, lest thou shouldest say, I have made Abram rich:
24 Save only that which the young men have eaten, and the portion of the men which went with me, Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre; let them take their portion.
Genesis 13:13
13 But the men of Sodom were wicked and sinners before the LORD exceedingly.
Genesis 18:20-21
20 And the LORD said, Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous;
21 I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.
Genesis 18:16-32
16 And the men rose up from thence, and looked toward Sodom: and Abraham went with them to bring them on the way.
17 And the LORD said, Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do;
18 Seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him?
9 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.
20 And the LORD said, Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous;
21 I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.
22 And the men turned their faces from thence, and went toward Sodom: but Abraham stood yet before the LORD.
23 And Abraham drew near, and said, Wilt thou also destroy the righteous with the wicked?
24 Peradventure there be fifty righteous within the city: wilt thou also destroy and not spare the place for the fifty righteous that are therein?
25 That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the righteous with the wicked: and that the righteous should be as the wicked, that be far from thee: Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?
26 And the LORD said, If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare all the place for their sakes.
27 And Abraham answered and said, Behold now, I have taken upon me to speak unto the Lord, which am but dust and ashes:
28 Peradventure there shall lack five of the fifty righteous: wilt thou destroy all the city for lack of five? And he said, If I find there forty and five, I will not destroy it.
29 And he spake unto him yet again, and said, Peradventure there shall be forty found there. And he said, I will not do it for forty's sake.
30 And he said unto him, Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak: Peradventure there shall thirty be found there. And he said, I will not do it, if I find thirty there.
31 And he said, Behold now, I have taken upon me to speak unto the Lord: Peradventure there shall be twenty found there. And he said, I will not destroy it for twenty's sake.
32 And he said, Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet but this once: Peradventure ten shall be found there. And he said, I will not destroy it for ten's sake.
Genesis 19:1-11
1 And there came two angels to Sodom at even; and Lot sat in the gate of Sodom: and Lot seeing them rose up to meet them; and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground;
2 And he said, Behold now, my lords, turn in, I pray you, into your servant's house, and tarry all night, and wash your feet, and ye shall rise up early, and go on your ways. And they said, Nay; but we will abide in the street all night.
3 And he pressed upon them greatly; and they turned in unto him, and entered into his house; and he made them a feast, and did bake unleavened bread, and they did eat.
4 But before they lay down, the men of the city, even the men of Sodom, compassed the house round, both old and young, all the people from every quarter:
5 And they called unto Lot, and said unto him, Where are the men which came in to thee this night? bring them out unto us, that we may know them. (to "know them" means to have "sex with them")
6 And Lot went out at the door unto them, and shut the door after him,
7 And said, I pray you, brethren, do not so wickedly.
8 Behold now, I have two daughters which have not known man; let me, I pray you, bring them out unto you, and do ye to them as is good in your eyes: only unto these men do nothing; for therefore came they under the shadow of my roof.
9 And they said, Stand back. And they said again, This one fellow came in to sojourn, and he will needs be a judge: now will we deal worse with thee, than with them. And they pressed sore upon the man, even Lot, and came near to break the door.
10 But the men put forth their hand, and pulled Lot into the house to them, and shut to the door.
11 And they smote the men that were at the door of the house with blindness, both small and great: so that they wearied themselves to find the door.
Genesis 19:12-13
12 And the men said unto Lot, Hast thou here any besides? son in law, and thy sons, and thy daughters, and whatsoever thou hast in the city, bring them out of this place:
13 For we will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the LORD; and the LORD hath sent us to destroy it.
Genesis 19:23-29
23 The sun was risen upon the earth when Lot entered into Zoar.
24 Then the LORD rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the LORD out of heaven;
25 And he overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground.
26 But his wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt.
27 And Abraham gat up early in the morning to the place where he stood before the LORD:
28 And he looked toward Sodom and Gomorrah, and toward all the land of the plain, and beheld, and, lo, the smoke of the country went up as the smoke of a furnace.
29 And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the plain, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when he overthrew the cities in the which Lot dwelt.
--()--
Sodom and Gomorrah are often cited in God's Word highlighting Sin and the resultant Punishment
Deuteronomy 29:23
23 And that the whole land thereof is brimstone, and salt, and burning, that it is not sown, nor beareth, nor any grass groweth therein, like the overthrow of Sodom, and Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboim, which the LORD overthrew in his anger, and in his wrath:
Luke 17:28-30
28 Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded;
29 But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all.
30 Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.
Isaiah 3:8-11
8 For Jerusalem is ruined, and Judah is fallen: because their tongue and their doings are against the LORD, to provoke the eyes of his glory.
9 The shew of their countenance doth witness against them; and they declare their sin as Sodom, they hide it not. Woe unto their soul! for they have rewarded evil unto themselves.
10 Say ye to the righteous, that it shall be well with him: for they shall eat the fruit of their doings.
11 Woe unto the wicked! it shall be ill with him: for the reward of his hands shall be given him. For they have brought evil on themselves.
Isaiah 13:19
19 And Babylon, the glory of kingdoms, the beauty of the Chaldees' excellency, shall be as when God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah.
Jeremiah 23:14
I have seen also in the prophets of Jerusalem an horrible thing: they commit adultery, and walk in lies: they strengthen also the hands of evildoers, that none doth return from his wickedness: they are all of them unto me as Sodom, and the inhabitants thereof as Gomorrah.
Lamentations 4:6
6 For the punishment of the iniquity of the daughter of my people is greater than the punishment of the sin of Sodom, that was overthrown as in a moment, and no hands stayed on her.
Ezekiel 16:44-58
44 Behold, every one that useth proverbs shall use this proverb against thee, saying, As is the mother, so is her daughter.
45 Thou art thy mother's daughter, that lotheth her husband and her children; and thou art the sister of thy sisters, which lothed their husbands and their children: your mother was an Hittite, and your father an Amorite.
46 And thine elder sister is Samaria, she and her daughters that dwell at thy left hand: and thy younger sister, that dwelleth at thy right hand, is Sodom and her daughters.
47 Yet hast thou not walked after their ways, nor done after their abominations: but, as if that were a very little thing, thou wast corrupted more than they in all thy ways.
48 As I live, saith the Lord GOD, Sodom thy sister hath not done, she nor her daughters, as thou hast done, thou and thy daughters.
49 Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy.
50 And they were haughty, and committed abomination before me: therefore I took them away as I saw good.
51 Neither hath Samaria committed half of thy sins; but thou hast multiplied thine abominations more than they, and hast justified thy sisters in all thine abominations which thou hast done.
52 Thou also, which hast judged thy sisters, bear thine own shame for thy sins that thou hast committed more abominable than they: they are more righteous than thou: yea, be thou confounded also, and bear thy shame, in that thou hast justified thy sisters.
53 When I shall bring again their captivity, the captivity of Sodom and her daughters, and the captivity of Samaria and her daughters, then will I bring again the captivity of thy captives in the midst of them:
54 That thou mayest bear thine own shame, and mayest be confounded in all that thou hast done, in that thou art a comfort unto them.
55 When thy sisters, Sodom and her daughters, shall return to their former estate, and Samaria and her daughters shall return to their former estate, then thou and thy daughters shall return to your former estate.
56 For thy sister Sodom was not mentioned by thy mouth in the day of thy pride,
57 Before thy wickedness was discovered, as at the time of thy reproach of the daughters of Syria, and all that are round about her, the daughters of the Philistines, which despise thee round about.
58 Thou hast borne thy lewdness and thine abominations, saith the LORD.
Amos 4:11
11 I have overthrown some of you, as God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah, and ye were as a firebrand plucked out of the burning: yet have ye not returned unto me, saith the LORD.
Matthew 10:15
15 Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.
Luke 10:12
12 But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable in that day for Sodom, than for that city.
Matthew 11:23-24
23 And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.
24 But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee.
Luke 17:28-30
28 Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded;
29 But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all.
30 Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.
2 Peter 2:6-9
6 And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly;
7 And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked:
8 (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;)
9 The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:
--()--
The Bible and Homosexuality - An Examination
The relationship between the Bible and homosexuality has been a subject of considerable debate and discussion within religious and academic circles. Various passages throughout the Scriptures are often cited in support of differing viewpoints on this complex issue.
Biblical Passages
Old Testament
Two prominent verses from the Old Testament often referenced in discussions about homosexuality are found in the Book of Leviticus. Leviticus 18:22 states, "Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination." Similarly, Leviticus 20:13 asserts that those who engage in homosexual acts deserve severe punishment.
New Testament
In the New Testament, additional passages contribute to the discourse. Romans 1:26-27 discusses same-sex relations, indicating that such behaviour is contrary to natural order. Furthermore, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 and 1 Timothy 1:9-10 list various behaviours deemed sinful, including those associated with homosexual practices.
Interpretations and Contexts
Interpretations of these passages vary significantly among scholars and religious communities. Some view these texts as definitive condemnations of homosexuality, while others argue that they must be understood within their historical and cultural contexts. Modern theological perspectives may advocate for a more inclusive interpretation, emphasising love, acceptance, and the evolving understanding of human sexuality.
Conclusion
The discourse surrounding the Bible and homosexuality remains multifaceted and complex. As societal attitudes continue to evolve, the interpretations of Biblical texts are likely to undergo further examination and reinterpretation. This ongoing dialogue is essential for fostering understanding within both religious and secular contexts.
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The Quran and Homosexual References
The discussion about homosexuality in the Quran is often referenced in various interpretations and contexts.
Here are some passages that are frequently cited regarding homosexuality:
1. Surah Al-A'raf (7:80-81)
And (We had sent) Lot when he said to his people: 'Do you commit an abomination such as no one has ever done before you? Indeed, you approach men with desire instead of women. You are a people behaving ignorantly.'
2. Surah Hud (11:78-79)
And his people came to him, rushing toward him, and they had been long accustomed to committing evil deeds. He said, 'O my people, these are my daughters; they are purer for you. So fear Allah and do not disgrace me concerning my guests. Is there not among you a man of reason?'
3. Surah Al-Ankabut (29:28-29)
And (We had sent) Lot when he said to his people: 'Indeed, you commit lewdness such as no one has ever preceded you with from among the worlds. Do you approach men with desire, and cut off the road (to the innocent), and you commit in your meetings, and you exceed in your transgression?'
4. Surah Ash-Shu'ara (26:165-166)
Do you approach males among the worlds, and leave what your Lord has created for you of your wives? But you are a people transgressing."
Summary
These passages are often interpreted as condemning homosexual acts, particularly in the context of the story of the Prophet Lot and the destruction of his people for their immoral behaviour. However, the interpretation and application of these texts can vary widely among scholars, communities, and individuals within the Islamic tradition. Many modern interpretations call for a more nuanced understanding of these verses in light of contemporary discussions on sexuality and human rights.
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The Quran and Homosexuality - An Analytical Perspective
The relationship between the Quran and homosexuality is a subject of significant discourse and interpretation within Islamic theology and contemporary society. Central to this discussion are several verses that address the actions of the people of Lot, which are often cited in discussions surrounding homosexuality.
Key Quranic Passages
The Quran contains specific references that are interpreted as condemning homosexual acts. Notably, in Surah Al-A'raf (7:80-81), the narrative emphasises the moral transgressions of Lot’s people, highlighting their inclination towards same-sex relations.
Similarly, Surah Hud (11:78-79) and Surah Al-Ankabut (29:28-29) reiterate the disapproval of such behavior, framing it as a departure from natural and societal norms.
Moreover, Surah Ash-Shu'ara (26:165-166) explicitly questions the motivations behind engaging in homosexual acts, positioning them as contrary to the divine design for human relationships.
Interpretative Variations
The interpretation of these verses varies significantly among scholars, communities, and individuals within the Islamic tradition. While traditional interpretations often view these texts as prohibitive of homosexual behavior, contemporary scholars advocate for a nuanced understanding that considers cultural, historical, and ethical contexts.
Contemporary Discourse
In modern times, the dialogue surrounding homosexuality in relation to the Quran has evolved. Many Muslims and scholars are increasingly engaging in discussions about sexual orientation and human rights, striving to reconcile faith with contemporary understandings of identity and diversity.
Conclusion
The topic of homosexuality in the context of the Quran remains a complex and multifaceted issue. The interpretation of the relevant verses and their implications for contemporary Muslim communities continue to provoke thoughtful analysis and debate, reflecting the evolution of religious understanding in a changing world.
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Indian Scriptures Often Cited Regarding Homosexuality
In the context of Indian scriptures, particularly those from Hindu tradition, various texts are often referenced in discussions about homosexuality. The interpretations of these texts can vary significantly, and many modern scholars and practitioners advocate for a more inclusive understanding. Here are some scriptures and ancient texts that are often cited:
1. Manusmriti (Laws of Manu)
- Manusmriti 11:176
- "A man who is a homosexual (one who lies with another man) should be punished with the same punishment as one who has sexual relations with a woman who is not his wife."
- Manusmriti 8:371
- This verse discusses the consequences for various sexual transgressions, which some interpret as condemning homosexual acts.
2. Kamasutra
- The Kamasutra, written by Vātsyāyana, is primarily a text on love and sexual behavior. While it does discuss various forms of sexual expression, including same-sex relationships, it does not explicitly condemn them. However, some interpretations emphasize heterosexual relationships as ideal.
3. Other Texts
- Bhagavata Purana
- In some interpretations, the stories within the Bhagavata Purana that discuss sexual relationships may imply a disapproval of homosexuality, although these interpretations are debated among scholars.
Summary
The discourse surrounding homosexuality in Indian scriptures is multifaceted, reflecting a range of interpretations and cultural contexts. Several ancient texts are frequently referenced in discussions about sexual orientation, particularly within Hindu tradition.
Manusmriti
The Manusmriti, a foundational text of Hindu law, contains verses that address sexual conduct. Notably, Manusmriti 11:176 states that a man engaging in homosexual acts should face similar consequences as one who commits adultery. Additionally, Manusmriti 8:371 discusses various sexual transgressions, which some interpret as prohibitive towards homosexual behaviour. These verses have historically been cited as evidence of a negative stance towards homosexuality within ancient Indian legal frameworks.
Kamasutra
In contrast, the Kamasutra, authored by Vātsyāyana, serves as a treatise on love and sexual relationships. While it encompasses a wide array of sexual practices, including references to same-sex relationships, it does not explicitly condemn them. The text primarily focuses on the nature of human relationships and the complexities of desire, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of sexuality.
Other Texts
Additional scriptures, such as the Bhagavata Purana, contain narratives that some scholars interpret as implying disapproval of homosexuality. However, these interpretations are often debated, and many emphasise the importance of context in understanding such texts.
Conclusion
The interpretation of ancient Indian scriptures regarding homosexuality varies significantly, influenced by cultural, historical, and societal factors. Contemporary scholars and activists advocate for a re-evaluation of these texts, urging a compassionate understanding of sexuality that aligns with modern human rights perspectives. This ongoing dialogue highlights the dynamic nature of scriptural interpretation in relation to evolving societal norms.
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Appendix
Understanding Sodomy - A Brief Overview
Sodomy is a term that historically refers to sexual acts that deviate from what is often considered conventional or normative sexual practices. While the term has evolved, it is commonly associated with anal intercourse, particularly between men. However, in broader contexts, sodomy can encompass a range of sexual behaviours that are perceived as non-procreative or unnatural.
The term's origins can be traced back to the biblical city of Sodom, which, according to religious texts, was destroyed due to its inhabitants' immoral conduct. This historical context has led to the term's being laden with moral and legal implications, especially in various cultures and legal systems.
In contemporary discussions, the definition of sodomy varies widely. In some jurisdictions, it remains a criminal offence; in others, it is no longer subject to legal restrictions. Social attitudes toward sexuality, gender, and sexual orientation also influence the understanding of sodomy.
It is essential to approach the topic of sodomy with sensitivity and an awareness of the diverse perspectives surrounding sexual practices. As societal norms evolve, the discourse around sodomy continues to develop, reflecting broader changes in attitudes toward sexuality and individual rights.
25/07/2022
End
Source:
KJV Bible
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