homosexuality – La Vista Church of Christ

Misinformation

Jeffrey Hamilton — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:32:09 +0000

by Jeff Smelser
via Sentry Magazine, Vol. 21 No. 4, December 1995

No informed individual can rationally claim the Bible does not condemn homosexuality. There are people who try to make such a claim, but these fall into two categories: the uninformed and the biased representatives of the homosexual community. The latter are engaged in a disinformation campaign, hoping to confuse the issue with a lot of double talk and outright lies in order to neutralize their opposition. The uninformed become their unwitting allies.

The Providence Journal (Providence, Rhode Island) carried a three-part series on "Gays and Religion" (May 17-19, 1992) in which an attempt was made to leave the impression that the Bible’s stance regarding homosexuality is a matter of some controversy. Well, certainly there are those who will claim that the Bible does not condemn homosexuality. There are also those who will claim that smoking is not unhealthy, namely, the uninformed and the representatives of the tobacco industry. But we don’t expect a responsible newspaper to treat the two sides of that debate as having equally strong arguments. We expect a responsible newspaper to consider the source. A responsible newspaper would not run the headline, "Is smoking unhealthy?" above two columns, one labeled "Yes" and the other labeled "No." And yet, the Journal carried such a column asking, "Does the Bible condemn homosexuality?" with accompanying "yes" and "no" columns. In small print, there was a subtitle reading, "A summary of interpretations of key passages and doctrines," but the most prominent headline was one that announced, "The Bible on homosexuality." A Journal editor attempted to explain that this was just a representation of different interpretations and not an attempt to report what the Bible actually says. Well then, should the most visible headline have read, "The Bible on Homosexuality"? Furthermore, journalists are supposed to be well-informed so that they can distinguish between informed opinion and ludicrous misinformation. For that matter, a journalist who is doing a major series on gays and religion ought to go to the trouble to pick up a Bible and see for himself what it says.

The series on "Gays and Religion" was written by David Crumm of the Detroit Free Press, along with Frank Bruni. As one would expect, the "No" column contained factual errors, irrelevancies, and logical nonsequiturs. The "Yes" and "No" columns, as they appeared in the Providence Journal, were slightly abridged from the original version that ran in the Detroit Free Press. We will note the claims in the "No" column as they originally appeared in the Detroit Free Press.

The Claim

"The Bible is a divinely inspired guide to God's plan for the world. But its many laws, histories, letters, and poetry are complex and are to be interpreted in light of modern religious experience, human history, and God's continuing revelations to church leaders."

The Fallacy of the Claim

Well, that’s a bunch of double talk. It first pays lip service to the notion of divine inspiration, but then makes the "divinely inspired guide" subject to human evaluation and reinterpretation based on human experience. If one really thought he had a divine revelation from his Creator, would it make sense for him to modify its contents based on his own thinking? Isn’t that a little like a car owner who knows nothing about mechanics, but decides to modify the instructions in the owner’s manual and substitute hand lotion for motor oil because, in his experience, hand lotion is a wonderful lubricant? To be sure, the parallel would be closer if it were the car itself that decided to reinterpret the manufacturer’s instructions.

In reality, the people who engage in this sort of double talk do not really believe in inspiration. They believe Scripture is subject to human revision because they believe it was flawed from the beginning by all the shortcomings of its human authors. Thus, we see that once one cuts through all the double talk, this point really is the crux of the controversy. Obviously, what the Bible says about homosexuality is not controversial. The only issue is, what do we think about the Bible? Ironically, this is the one claim in the original piece that the Providence Journal entirely omitted.

The Claim

"There are less than a dozen verses that mention sexual acts between men among the 31,173 verses in the Bible. It's not a big concern of the Bible's authors."

The Fallacy of the Claim

That’s like arguing that there are fewer than a half-dozen verses that mention sexual acts between men and animals (all of which clearly condemn such), surmising that "it’s not a big concern of the Bible’s authors," and therefore, concluding that the Bible does not condemn bestiality!

But the claim is not only logically ludicrous but also factually misleading. Passages which clearly refer to sexual acts between men include the following: Genesis 19:5, 7; Leviticus 18:22; Leviticus 20:13; Judges 19:22-24; Romans 1:27; I Corinthians 6:9; I Timothy 1:10; and Jude 7. That’s a total of eleven verses. But, in addition to these, there are another 6 verses that refer to such acts in veiled terms. Furthermore, why do we limit the list to sexual acts between men? Why not include Romans 1:26, which condemns sexual acts between women? (You will find out why momentarily!) Then again, the impression is left that the remainder of the Bible is neutral with reference to homosexuality. What about Genesis 19:6, right between verses 5 and 7? This verse is part of the description of Lot’s refusal to accommodate his neighbors' homosexual intentions. In fact, Genesis 19:1-29 tells of the circumstances of God’s destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah on account of their sin. Is it fair to count 27 of these verses as being neutral toward homosexuality, just because sex between men is not specifically mentioned in each and every one of these verses?

Do you see why we say only the uninformed or the biased advocates of homosexuality will make any claim that the Bible does not condemn homosexuality? Into which category the writers of the newspaper article fall, God knows. But it’s one or the other, or both!

The Claim

"The Bible's authors had no sense of homosexuality as a basic sexual orientation and the Bible never clearly refers to lesbians. A proper understanding of God's gift of human sexuality is something the church is learning about in modern times ..."

The Fallacy of the Claim

There are actually a couple of claims involved here. One boils down to the same old presupposition discussed earlier: namely, that the Bible is nothing more than the opinions and understandings of its human authors.

The other claim is simply patently false. Romans 1:26 clearly refers to what is today called lesbianism. The passage says, "For this reason God gave them over to degrading passions; for their women exchanged the natural function for that which is unnatural." Lest there be any doubt that sexual relations between women are meant, let it be noted that the next verse, which condemns male homosexuality, continues as follows: "...and in the same way also the men abandoned the natural function of the woman and burned in their desire towards one another, men with men committing indecent acts... "

Now, why did the reporter claim the Bible never clearly refers to lesbians? In a telephone conversation with David Crumm, this factual error was called to his attention, and Romans 1:26 was cited. Mr. Crumm’s response was, "What does it say?" He didn’t even know the passage existed! Before you deem that excusable, remember that he was working on a major story that was to run as a series over several days. Mr. Crumm interviewed a dozen or more theologians and the like. In all of that research, it would have been a very easy matter to pick up one of the many Bible encyclopedias or Bible dictionaries and readily discover the reference to female homosexuality. Nothing more than the research skills of an eighth grader would have been required. Again, only uninformed people or biased advocates of homosexuality claim the Bible does not condemn homosexuality.

Whether by accident or intent, the Providence Journal managed to avoid this blunder when it carried Mr. Crumm’s material. The claim that there is no biblical reference to lesbians in the Bible was omitted in the Journal’s rendition of Crumm’s material.

The Claim

"The Code of law in Leviticus was intended for the ancient Hebrews and doesn't apply today. Leviticus forbids the sin of sex between men but it also condemns as evil many things that are commonly accepted today..."

The Fallacy of the Claim

It is true that the law of Moses in general was intended for the ancient Hebrews and is not binding today. But does it follow that the Bible does not condemn homosexuality when there are four passages in the New Testament that explicitly condemn the practice?

Furthermore, one of the two contexts in Leviticus that condemns homosexuality happens to be a passage stating things that God finds abominable among all men, not just the ancient Hebrews. Leviticus 17 and 18 contain descriptions of practices which God abhorred even among the Canaanites, and because of which God punished them (see Leviticus 18:24-30). Included among these was homosexuality (Leviticus 18:22). The letter described in Acts 15:22-29 and written with the guidance of the Holy Spirit apparently makes reference to Leviticus 17 and 18 in Acts 15:29, recognizing that while Gentiles were not under the Law of Moses, there were certain prohibitions mentioned in the Law of Moses, specifically those of Leviticus 17 and 18, which pertain to all men.

The Claim

"The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19 is a story of God's punishment, but the crime was not homosexuality, God was angry because the men of Sodom had tried to rape two angelic messengers he had sent to Lot's house. This was partly a violation of the code of hospitality, a very important set of social customs in ancient society that ensured the protection of visitors. It also was evil because men were trying to abuse angels sent by God. Almost nothing is said about Gomorrah in this story, except that it was situated in the same valley as Sodom. There is no record of God destroying anyone because of homosexuality."

The Fallacy of the Claim

Well, Jude 7 tells us that not only Sodom but also Gomorrah and the cities about them were destroyed because they had "given themselves over to fornication and gone after strange flesh״ (ASV). One can only attempt to sustain his claim that the real sin was in hospitality if he is willing to refute Jude’s analysis of the situation, which again is to deny inspiration. Certainly, there are some who are willing to do this. But let it be clear that the line of demarcation between those who view homosexuality as acceptable and those who do not is the line between those who believe the Bible is God’s word and those who don’t.

The Claim

"It is incorrect to translate the Greek words of I Corinthians or I Timothy 1:10 to condemn all "homosexuals.” Paul probably was referring to the Greco-Roman practices of sex between men and boys or of male prostitution, both of which concerned Paul because they were casual or abusive. In Romans 1:24-27, Paul also is complaining about people who satisfy their sexual desires with casual sex."

The Fallacy of the Claim

To claim that Paul was only concerned with "casual or abusive" relations is utterly fanciful. Nothing in any of the passages cited would suggest such. In fact, in I Corinthians 6:9-10, the list of those who will not inherit the kingdom of God is an expanded version of the list in I Corinthians 5:11, with fornicators, adulterers, effeminate, and homosexuals in I Corinthians 6:9 all corresponding to the general term for fornication in I Corintians 5:11. Therefore a better inference than the one claimed in the newspaper article would be that any unauthorized sexual relationship, i.e., any sexual relationship other than between a husband and his wife, concerned Paul.

The Claim

"Jesus never talked about homosexuality. His main concerns were preaching about compassion caring for neighbors, and God’s love for all people. In Luke 6:37, Jesus says: 'Do not judge others, and God will not judge you; do not condemn others, and God will not condemn you.'"

The Fallacy of the Claim

Jesus condemned fornication. Fornication is any illicit intercourse, including homosexuality. Remember, Jude explained that the sin which brought God’s wrath upon Sodom and Gomorrah was fornication, and specified that the fornication being committed in these cities involved going “after strange flesh," that is, pursuing unnatural sexual relations. He condemned homosexuality every time he condemned fornication.

Civil Rights or Sinful Rights?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 17:21:38 +0000

by Ron Nelson
via Sentry Magazine, Vol. 21 No. 2, June 1995

The Centerfold is a gay and lesbian newspaper distributed in Central Florida. In the September 1992 edition, the managing editor had this to say in an article entitled, "Moral Breakdown or Value Readjustment, The 1992 Election":

"When the United States politicians speak about ’Family Values,’ It could be compared to Hitler speaking about ethnic inclusion ... The United States, ever since the Pilgrims, has never been able to deal with human sexuality realistically. What it has allowed, quite to the detriment of the nation and society, was to allow religions to mould, and inevitably warp what, in many countries, is healthy sexually ... The United States’ treatment of minorities, including gays and lesbians, has been abysmal, second only to the treatment of blacks in South Africa. All because we, as a society, have a double standard when it comes to our sexual makeup, who we are as human beings. What religion and government have tried to do, either jointly or individually, is to attempt to make us less sexual by repressing sexuality or couching it in a Victorian sterility. That’s why we have sexually repressive individuals who become serial killers. That’s why we have the highest abortion rate in modern times; that’s why we have more teenage pregnancies than other countries. We have forgotten the proven adage which tells us, when you repress a human emotional/sexual need, you create an aberration which lashes out at those who have repressed ... They do not speak with any knowledge of the real forces behind human sexuality. They embrace the Bible ... those blind believers see these words of hatred and discrimination as a credo which they should defend, even if they, in their defense of the Bible, justify outright hatred and harm on the part of others ... we’re not experiencing a moral breakdown..."

The editor condemns himself by his own words. The Bible says, “The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks what is in his heart ”(Luke 6:45).

The homosexual community flourishes under the sanction of the liberal media, which lacks the integrity to designate any moral absolutes. The Sodomite community is so consumed with sexual perversion that, according to a study by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (Atlanta, 1982), "The typical Homosexual Interviewed had over 500 different sexual partners. The AIDS victims considered by themselves averaged 1,100 different sexual partners; some as many as 20,000." Is it any wonder why the AIDS virus continues to originate from only 3% of the population (Wall Street Journal, March 31, 1992)? The Sodomite community is so consumed with sexual perversion that listing of their activities would be in poor taste (Con-
tact: The Family Research Institute, P.O. Box 2091, Washington, D.C. 20013].

The Sodomite community is unwilling to acknowledge that its sin is a choice of participation (Romans 1:18-32). Part of their agenda is to:

Teach the sinful lifestyle to our children;
Adopt children;
Recruit in public restrooms and parks.

The key is to focus their efforts on the 1960’s civil rights movement, claiming discrimination as a minority, thereby insulting people from every nationality. In order to claim minority rights, a group must meet the following legal criteria:

Demonstrate a pattern of discrimination;
Demonstrate a pattern of economic hardship due to discrimination;
Exist with an unchangeable and immutable status.

Sodomites fail to meet any such criteria. Masters and Johnson (UPI 4/23/79) conclude, ’We’re born men, women, and sexual beings. We learn our preferences and orientations.” According to Dr. G.A. Rekers (North American Social Science Network, Arlington, VA, 2/26/87), ’We may tentatively conclude that the main source for gender and sexual behavior deviance is found in social learning and psychological development variables... "

As Christians, may we remember that homosexuality is no different than gossiping, lying, envying, stealing, hating, or murdering (Ezekiel 18:20). May we have the courage and integrity to share the message of eternal life (Mark 16:15-16), remembering our sinful pasts (Romans 3:23; I Corinthians 6:9-11).

Such Were Some of You

Jeffrey Hamilton — Mon, 04 May 2026 21:19:02 +0000

by Heath Rogers

"Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God" (I Corinthians 6:9-11 NKJV).

The church in Corinth was located in a city that was notorious for its sinfulness. Corinth "was a cesspool of immorality. At night, it was made hideous by the brawls and lewd songs of drunken revelry. In the daytime, its markets and squares swarmed with Jewish peddlers, foreign traders, sailors, soldiers, athletes in training, boxers, wrestlers, charioteers, racing men, betting men, courtesans, slaves, idlers, and parasites of every description. To 'behave as a Corinthian' was a proverbial synonym for 'living an ungodly, immoral life,' The verb 'to Corinthianize' meant to have relations with a prostitute" (Reese, 13). The city of Corinth was home to the temple of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. The temple employed 1,000 "priestesses" (prostitutes) to "assist" in the worship of this love goddess.

Not only was the church in Corinth located in such an environment, but it was made up, at least in part, of men and women who had formerly lived the sinful lifestyle associated with the city.

There are a number of things that stand out in these verses written by Paul. The most obvious feature of this passage is the list of sins. Such lists can be found in several letters Paul wrote (e.g., Gal. 5:19-21, 1 Tim. 1:9-10). Let us first consider the contents of this list.

Fornication

This sin is defined as "voluntary sexual intercourse." Given the nature of the city of Corinth, we can understand why the Holy Spirit placed this sin first in the list. While this term refers to sexual intercourse between a man and a woman, it is somewhat of an "umbrella" term, encompassing a number of sexual acts, including adultery and homosexuality, both of which appear later in this list. The English Standard Version and the New International Version render the term as "sexually immoral."

Idolatry

An idolater is a person who worships an image that represents a false god. Such worship certainly took place in Corinth. The worship of an idol not only took away the glory and praise that belonged to the true and living God but also included other sins, some of which are listed here.

Adultery

This term refers to "voluntary sexual intercourse between a married man and a woman not his wife, or between a married woman and a man not her husband." Adultery is an act of unrighteousness because it violates the covenant between a husband and a wife, destroys the trust that one has in their spouse, and contaminates a union which God intends to be holy. Those who have divorced for a cause other than fornication (Matthew 19:9) and have remarried are in adultery and will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Homosexuality

There are two terms in Paul's list that identify those who participate in the sin of homosexuality. In the New King James Version, they are "homosexuals" and "sodomites." The King James Version renders the terms as "effeminate" and "abusers of themselves with mankind." It is unfortunate that the ESV lumps the two together with the phrase "men who practice homosexuality," because there is a difference in the meaning of the Greek words. The first term is taken from a Greek word that means "soft" or "soft to the touch," while the second term refers to a sodomite; "one who lies with a male as with a female." These words have reference to the specific roles taken in the homosexual act; the first referring to the man who is taking the role of the woman (soft or effeminate), the second referring to one who is treating another man as a woman. The NIV makes the distinction between the two as "male prostitutes" (those who allow themselves to be misused homosexually) and "homosexual offenders" (those who pursue and actively initiate homosexual practices).

Theft

To steal is "to take or appropriate (another's property, ideas, etc.) without permission, dishonestly, or unlawfully, especially in a secret or surreptitious manner." There are many kinds of things we can steal from others, and many ways they can be stolen.

Covetousness

To covet means "to want ardently (especially something that another person has); long for with envy." The ESV and NIV use the word "greedy." While there is certainly nothing wrong with wanting things, covetousness is a sin because it is a never-ending desire for more. Such an attitude makes covetousness a form of idolatry (Colossians 3:5), putting the object of one's desire and devotion in the place of God.

Drunkenness

This is referring to one who is in a state of intoxication or who habitually drinks to intoxication. While this term obviously condemns the person who is drunk, by its very nature, it condemns any means by which man forfeits his sobriety (including the use of mind-altering drugs) and even condemns the social use of alcohol. If a "drunkard" will not inherit the kingdom of God, why would a Christian want to have anything to do with that which causes him to lose his soul?

Revile

To revile means "to use abusive or contemptuous language in speaking to or about" others. A reviler is more than one who simply uses foul language. The emphasis is placed upon his desire to be abusive towards others. The NIV uses the word "slanderers."

Extortion

The word "extort" means "to get (money, etc.) from someone by violence, threats, misuse of authority, etc." This term translates the Greek word meaning "to pillage or plunder," i.e., to seize and carry off by force. The New American Standard Version, ESV, and NIV all use the word "swindlers." These are individuals who victimize their fellowmen for their own personal gain.

In light of the sins listed above, some observations and important lessons can be drawn from this passage.

Those who are unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God. Though they may claim otherwise, such individuals are not part of the kingdom while living in this world and will not be part of the kingdom in eternity. Although one sin is certainly enough to condemn a soul to an eternal Hell, this passage is not speaking of those who fall into or happen to commit one of these sins at various times during their lives. It is talking about those who habitually practice unrighteousness, whose lives are characterized by a purposeful pursuit of sin.We are not to deceive ourselves. We cannot practice unrighteousness and be counted among the righteous. We cannot enjoy the passing pleasures of sin now and then and expect to enjoy the blessings reserved for the righteous in eternity. We will reap that which we have sown (Galatians 6:7). Our brethren may recognize us as being a part of the kingdom, but the Lord knows what is in our hearts, and He has the final voice regarding who is and who is not in His kingdom (Matthew 7:21-23, 13:40-42).
There is a part of the kingdom that is yet to be inherited. While it is true that the kingdom presently exists and that Christians are part of that kingdom (Colossians 1:13, Revelation 1:9), there is an eternal aspect of the kingdom yet to be enjoyed. It will be inherited by the faithful following Judgment. "Then the King will say to those on His right hand, 'Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world'" (Matthew 25:34; c.f. I Peter 1:3-4, I Corinthians 15:50). No Christian should ever act and live as if he has arrived at his goal. Those who do such are in danger of forfeiting their home in Heaven. Otherwise, why would Paul be warning these Christians about the sins that they had formerly committed?
We can change our sinful behavior. When Paul said, "And such were some of you," he forever answered the argument that man cannot change. Most of us have heard the saying, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks," or, "I'm too set in my ways to change." The truth is that, no matter how bad a sinner one has been, he can change. That is what "conversion" is all about. To convert means to change from one thing into another. The fact that God commands man to be converted (Acts 3:19) means that man can change. Whether or not he wants to change is another matter, and is usually the reason for excuses such as those stated above.

When one visited the church in Corinth, he was worshipping alongside brethren who used to practice fornication, drunkenness, idolatry, extortion, homosexuality, etc. They had practiced these sins before becoming Christians, but they repented when they obeyed the gospel.

In our day, it has become common for some to argue that people are born with a tendency towards deviant behavior (especially homosexuality). They argue that, since God made them homosexuals, no one should insist that they stop practicing homosexuality. The idea that a homosexual cannot change, and should not be expected to change, is foreign to the Scriptures. The behaviors listed in I Corinthians 6:9-10 are choices, and sinners must choose to repent if they will be forgiven by God.

The Bible teaches that sinners must change the way they live to faithfully follow Christ.

"And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience, among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others... For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light" (Ephesians 2:1-3, 5:8).

Paul says that these Corinthians were characterized by these sins, but something happened to change their state or condition before God. Paul uses three terms to describe what was done for them. They were washed, sanctified, and justified.

Washed

The word "washed" is translated from the Greek word apolouo, which means "to wash thoroughly," "to wash off or away." Sin is such that it contaminates man and makes him unacceptable before God. David, realizing the guilt of his sin, asked that God cleanse him. "Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin" (Psalms 51:2). The blood of Jesus Christ is the only thing that has the power to cleanse us of our sins. "And from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth. To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood" (Revelation 1:5). Having been cleansed from our sins, we can stand whole and pure in the sight of God.

These Corinthians had been guilty of vile sins, but these sins were washed away when they rendered obedience to the gospel. "And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord" (Acts 22:16). "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit" (Titus 3:5).

Sanctified

The word "sanctified" comes from the Greek word hagiazo. Thayer says that this word means "to separate from things profane and dedicate to God, to consecrate." To be sanctified means to be set apart unto God. While God loves all men, Christians are set apart as God's special people. "But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy" (I Peter 2:9-10).

First Corinthians is addressed "to the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus" (1 Corinthians 1:2). The word "church" is translated from the Greek word ekklesia, which means "called out." The word "sanctified" means to set apart or consecrate. Although they had been great sinners, these Corinthians were called out of their sins, purified, and now had an identity as God's special people.

Justified

The word "justified" is translated from the Greek word dikaioo, which means to render or pronounce one as being right or just. This term indicates that God did not ignore His law when He forgave the Corinthians of their sins. Instead, God provided a way for the penalty for sin to be satisfied in the death of His Son, and was able to legally pronounce believers as being "not guilty" or "innocent of all charges."

"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus" (Romans 3:23-26).

These Corinthians continued to live in a sinful environment, and their former sins would be a continual source of temptation. However, Paul was giving them many good reasons to resist these temptations. For one, they knew that if they returned to these sins, they would not inherit the kingdom of God. Second, they needed to remember the nature of these sins and how opposed they are to God's holiness. Third, they needed to remember that they had once engaged in these sins, but they were now the people of God. They had been guilty of sin, but God had pronounced them innocent of all charges. Having been washed in the blood of Christ, they were God's special people set apart for His purpose.

We live in a sinful environment. The world continues to allure us to forsake the paths of righteousness and enjoy the passing pleasures of sin. Like the Corinthians, we must remember who we are. We have been washed, sanctified, and justified. We are not free to enjoy the sins of this world.

"Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived."

References:

Reese, Gareth L., I Corinthians, Moberly, Missouri, Scripture Exposition Books, 2004
Thayer, Joseph H., Thayer's Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament, Peabody, Massachusetts, 1996
Webster's New World Dictionary, Second College Edition, New York, New York, Simon & Schuster, 1980

Woke?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 02:22:09 +0000

by Terry Wane Benton

I think people in the "woke" movement need to truly wake up. It seems that depravity and everything unrighteous and evil are the fruit of the tree of this movement. You had all the markings of this movement in areas of Greece and Rome in the first century. At Corinth, it was common to see men trying to be women. Paul marked this as the sin of being "effeminate" (I Corinthians 6:9-10), or as playing the soft role when that is not actually what they were born to be. It was just another way to reveal their interest and commitment to sodomy and homosexuality. Paul said it was "unrighteous" and those who practice such "will not inherit the kingdom of God." So clear was the preaching of the gospel that it awakened the people of Corinth to their need to repent before God and to stop their sinful conduct.

"Such were some of you" (I Corinthians 6:11) indicates that there was a true "awakening" to their condition before the true and living God. God is a pure and holy being, and He holds us all accountable to a holy standard of living. We will all be judged by the word of God revealed in the Bible (John 12:48; II Corinthians 5:10). When the Corinthians heard the gospel, they were awakened to their accountability before God, their lost condition if they refused to repent, and their wonderful new opportunity to forgiveness and living hope and purpose if they did. Paul knew the gospel had the power to open the eyes of understanding (Ephesians 1:18). Corinth was what America has been decaying into, and the gospel was able to salvage some at Corinth.

The gospel has the same power today to awaken souls in depraved "wokism" segments of our country and all the world. They are lost, misguided, hopeless souls that need you to care and share the truth with them. Be a light that helps people see there is a better way, and Jesus is the Way, the truth, and the Life (John 14:6). "It is high time to awake out of sleep" (Romans 13:11). Share these needed truths far and wide! This dark world simply needs exposure to more light!

How do I deal with my daughter asking questions about homosexuality?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 01:19:49 +0000

Question:

Hi Jeff,

Over the last few months, the topic of homosexuality has come up between my twins, who are almost 12 years old. They are male and female twins. My daughter has asked questions about homosexuality. She says that some of her friends claim that they are "gay" and hold hands in school. I've had a casual conversation about how she can discuss with them how God thinks it's wrong. I also explained that their parents might not teach them, and they may just be trying to be trendy with today's world views. I didn't go too deep into the conversation, but we talked about what God says about homosexuality, and I told her that it is a choice to engage in things like that.

The other day, my son, in a joking tone, said something to her like, "Well, aren't you gay?" Mean, I know, and I told him not to joke like that, but I keep an eye on their Internet use. I saw that she is looking up content on lesbian and gay material. There are blocks on certain sites, but there always seems to be a workaround that allows them to still access them.

My question is, how should I approach a conversation about this, as I think she feels she is interested in other girls? It may be due to peer pressure from friends, general attraction, or something else, but I wish to teach her the importance of this. Is she possibly just going through "changes" in her life, sorting out new feelings, and learning how to deal with them? Should I address it now or wait until later? I have no problem with addressing the issue, but I am curious about how my wife or I should approach something like this, given that she is so young.

Thanks.

Answer:

For a girl, she is not "so young." On average, girls begin puberty about a year before boys do. The average time to begin changing for girls is 10 to 11 years old. Thus, it is time for you or your wife, or both of you, to sit down and start teaching her about what God has said about sex. You can use the material I've written (Growing Up in the Lord for Teenage Girls) or material from some other author. Just make sure that the topics are thoroughly covered with plenty of scripture citations to back up the points. Essentially, this sort of problem is best dealt with through information. Don't approach it by telling her what she must believe; rather, guide her in discovering what God said on the matter and why God is right. It takes the excitement and mystique out of the topic. Putting off discussing these matters will only make her interest in the subject a habit over time.

For a boy, the average time to begin changing is 11-12 years old. Typically, boys are curious about the subject of sex, but don't show a strong interest until they reach the time they start having ejaculations. Thus, you may have a few more years before you need to have discussions with your son. However, it wouldn't hurt to have a "light" discussion with him now, and to review and dig deeper into the topic when he gets older.

Response:

Jeffrey,

Thank you for the quick response and information. I've always enjoyed your answers, and your scriptural knowledge is so encouraging. May God continue to bless you and the work that you do.

Was It Any of Lot’s Business?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 16:18:41 +0000

by Terry Wane Benton

I got a note from someone telling me that the LGBTQ causes do not and should not concern me. That is like saying, what they are promoting in schools and through political causes does not concern me. Well, it does! You see, sin is a spiritual disease that spreads by people like me saying nothing, turning our heads while they keep spreading it. It's like letting someone contaminate the minds of children with socialism and communism while we say and do nothing about it.

They are making it our business on two fronts:

They are spreading sin among innocent, unsuspecting minds, without our permission or approval, and then trying to shame us into silence if we say something.
It is our business to identify sin in any form that it is advanced and expose it (Ephesians 5:11).

We cannot do this by saying nothing. Besides, the enemy is not living by the rule of saying nothing. They are promoting sin, which destroys the true potential of glorifying God. The gospel is for every person of every nation. Jesus made spreading the remedy of sin His business, and in turn made it our business to point out the malady (sin) and present the good news of the available cure in Jesus. When Lot was only a small minority in Sodom and Gomorrah, was it any of his business how the people had become so wicked till it was knocking on his door?

The time to recognize it is our business is not when it comes knocking on our personal doors, but long before that point. Sin is the problem, the gospel is the remedy. No one wants a remedy until they are confronted with the fact that they have a serious spiritual problem.

Why I Left the Homosexual Lifestyle

Jeffrey Hamilton — Sat, 21 Feb 2026 23:26:27 +0000

by Tony Horton
via Gospel Truths

I abandoned homosexuality because I want to spend eternity in heaven. This life is like a vapor. We're not on this earth very long (James 4:14). We are here to serve God and do His will (John 6:38), and if we remain faithful unto death, He will give us the crown of life (Revelation 2:10). It's a small price to pay when you consider eternity.

I wasn't born gay, and neither were you. I chose to follow the homosexual lifestyle, a sexually perverted choice on my part. If I were born gay, others, such as child molesters, drunkards, adulterers, and thieves, could claim the same thing -- they were born to be child molesters, drunkards, etc. Even if you believe you were born gay, God still condemns the homosexual lifestyle. He wouldn't create you gay and then condemn you to hell for practicing homosexuality. You made the choice; you must turn from it.

Even if, after you repent, you still feel homosexual desire, fellowship with Christians, personal prayer, and studying God's word will help you refrain from sin and stay right with God. You may never have a heterosexual relationship, and you may remain single for the rest of your life, but as stated above, life here on earth is like a vapor. We aren't here long, but if we remain faithful unto death, we can look forward to heaven.

God spoke very clearly about homosexuality:

"Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God" (I Corinthians 6:9-10).

"You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination" (Leviticus 18:22).

God loves everyone, and He wants us to be saved. He patiently awaits our repentance (I Timothy 2:3-4; II Peter 3:9). When I heard the truth of God's word and obeyed the gospel, He added me to the "church of Christ" (Acts 2:38,47).

For years, I was confused by denominationalism, but when I heard the truth, my life changed. Through the power of the gospel, you, too, can transform your life (Romans 12:1-2; Romans 1:16). The only way to "cure" sin is to hear and sincerely obey the gospel of Jesus Christ (I Corinthians 15:1-6; Romans 1:16; 6:17).

I feel that my testimonial is the way I now live. I don't go into detail about my past because it is just that — my past. I was a typical homosexual. I had a few relationships and many sexual encounters. I was a barfly. I became angry if anyone condemned my way of life. I have been away from the homosexual life for almost seven years. One thing I will say about my past is that I was happy being a homosexual. I wasn't unhappy, but now that I live for God, I am happier than I was before.

For most of my life, I shook my fist in God's face, blaming Him and cursing His name when people tried to teach me the truth. I now see nothing but His love for me. I no longer curse Him, but praise His holy name. Every day I open my eyes and thank God for giving me the time to repent. I have peace that passes all understanding, the peace that comes from studying His word and having fellowship with other Christians (Philippians 4:7).

You, too, can reach this point if your heart is honest and you desire to please God. You have to make the effort and meet God on His terms, not yours.

Homosexual Propaganda

I write this article in love, but I am sick to death of listening to homosexual propaganda. The homosexual lifestyle is a death sentence. It destroys the health (AIDS) and, unless one repents (turns away from homosexuality and toward God), it will destroy the soul.

The punishment for any unforgiven sin is eternal separation from God (II Thessalonians 1:7-9). Can a person change? God's word says he can. I have not been part of that lifestyle for more than six years.

"Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God" (I Corinthians 6:9-11).

"And such were some of you." Yes, people can change. And just as it sanctifies other sinners, Christ's blood can sanctify homosexuals. God told us He loves us and wants us to be saved, and that He waits patiently for sinners to repent (I Timothy 2:3-4 and II Peter 3:9). We are free moral agents who can choose whether or not to live in sin (Romans 6).

The bottom line is that homosexuals will not enter God's kingdom unless they repent and turn to Christ.

As a former homosexual, I know enough to avoid allowing the media to fool me into thinking homosexuality is a healthy, alternative lifestyle. Many homosexuals have had so many sexual partners that they have lost count. Some say they have had hundreds of partners.

Even though AIDS is killing people (including me), the homosexual community continues to spread disease by frequenting bath houses disguised as health spas and engaging in numerous sexual encounters in one evening. Homosexuals have sex in public bathrooms and in parks. They participate in sexual activity that just hearing about would make decent people sick. The sexual acts are so perverse that it would be inappropriate to include them in this article.

Activists often say that the homosexual lifestyle is not all about sex. I say this is a lie. It is all about sex -- perverted sex.

Most homosexuals realize how perverted their lifestyle is. But society lacks sufficient conviction to encourage morality, so not enough people are willing to do anything about the homosexual plague. People fear backlash from the activists. The homosexual lifestyle has become politically correct because people lack the courage to stand up to sin. They deem it unfair to say that homosexuality is wrong or unacceptable. In fact, this article will fall mostly on deaf ears, because many people no longer have morals.

Portraying the homosexual lifestyle as wholesome and acceptable, as the media does, is simply to ignorantly parrot untrue propaganda. The truth is that the homosexual lifestyle is an alternative life of degrading and harmful sexual perversion.

Transformation

Remember, the Christian religion requires its members to use their minds. Christianity transforms the minds of its converts. Therefore, those who change their minds must also change their lifestyles to conform to God's will (read Romans 6, especially verse 6, and Galatians 2:20). The Christian, through humble submission to God's will, no longer allows his or her body to succumb to the power of sin. Rather, the converted Christian's body submits to God's power, which He gives to all who believe and obey Him.

Christianity totally transforms the lives of those who embrace it: "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God" (Romans 12:1-2). Christians have a responsibility to grow (II Peter 3:18). If we do and continue to follow God's law, our souls will be saved in the end (Matthew 25:23; John 14:1-6; II Timothy 4:6-8; Revelation 2:10).

God's nature prohibits His acceptance of anyone who has not obeyed, from the heart, the gospel of Jesus Christ. On the other hand, His nature also prohibits His rejection of anyone who comes to Him by means of that same gospel. God accepts those whom He forgives, if they continue to follow Him (Romans 5:1-11; I John 1:7-9; 2:1).

"I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh" (Galatians 5:16).

"Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you" (I Corinthians 6:8-11).

The past-tense verb "were" proves that people can change.

"Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's" (I Corinthians 6:18-20).

Ex-Gay: Alive to God and Dead to Sin

Referring to oneself as an ex-gay is a sure way to ruffle feathers in the homosexual community. It always brings a response. For the most part, the gay community believes one who claims to be an ex-gay is living in denial. Most cling to the homosexual propaganda, which says that sexual orientation is inborn and the homosexual cannot change. This is nothing but a lie.

What do we mean by the term "ex-gay"? Romans 6 explains it best:

"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life" (Romans 6:1-4).

"Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts. And do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God" (Romans 6:11-13).

The one who is an ex-gay has chosen to cease dwelling in sin and to live for God. What about temptation? Can an ex-gay stumble and return to his sinful living?

First, we need to understand temptation:

God doesn't tempt man (James 1:13).
Resist Satan, and he will flee from you (James 4:7).
God will help us endure (I Corinthians 10:13).
Pray for strength (Matthew 6:13).
Enduring temptation helps us grow (James 1:2-4).
Weak Christians may fall (Luke 8:13).
God will deliver us (Revelation 3:10).
Christ was tempted (Hebrews 4:15).
Christ will help those who are tempted (Hebrews 2:18).

Why is man tempted?

Because of his own lust (II Peter 2:18).
Satan seeks to destroy us (I Peter 5:8-10).
Satan tempts us (Luke 22:31-32).
The world is a temptation (I John 2:15-17).
Riches are a temptation (I Timothy 6:9-10; Matthew 13:22).

Effort and Dedication Are Required

It took time for you to train your mind to accept sodomy. It will also take time to train your mind in the Lord's ways: "Casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ" (II Corinthians 10:5). Even if you still feel illicit desire after you repent, fellowship with Christians, personal prayer, and studying God's word will help you refrain and stay right with God.

I have been away from the homosexual lifestyle for many years now, and I'm happier than I've ever been. God has given me the peace that passes all understanding, which comes from studying His word and fellowship with Christian friends (Philippians 4:7). You, too, can reach this point if you have an honest heart and you have the desire. You have to make the effort and meet God on His terms, not yours.

Why the Term "Ex-Gay" Threatens the Gay Community

It shows that change is possible and that one remains homosexual by choice. Change is real, but God doesn't change the unwilling. We are free moral agents who have a choice. You have to want to change. Homosexuality cannot be zapped away, and there are no miracles here. It requires dedication and repentance. You have to pick up your cross daily and walk with God.

"For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us" (Romans 8:18).

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory" (II Corinthians 4:16-17).

“Woke” – A Biblical View

Jeffrey Hamilton — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:26:36 +0000

https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Woke-A-Biblical-View.mp3

Download Audio

by Garry Floyd

Text: James 3:17

“Woke” philosophy is not a single, formal philosophy. It’s a modern cultural and social framework that blends ideas from civil rights activism, social justice theory, and academic critical theories. The term has evolved a lot, which is why it’s often confusing and controversial.

Here’s a clear, balanced breakdown.

Origin of the term “woke.”
- Originally, African American slang meaning “awake to injustice,” especially racism.
- Popularized in the early 2010s through Black Lives Matter and social justice activism.
- Over time, it expanded to include gender, sexuality, class, disability, and power dynamics.
- At its core, being “woke” meant awareness of systemic injustice.
Core ideas commonly associated with “woke” thinking
- These ideas appear often, though not everyone who supports social justice agrees with all of them.
  - Systemic power and oppression
    - Society is structured in ways that advantage some groups and disadvantage others.
    - Inequality is seen as systemic, not just individual behavior.
  - Identity-based analysis
    - A person’s race, gender, sexuality, etc., shape their experience of power or oppression.
    - Concepts like intersectionality argue that overlapping identities compound disadvantage.
  - Lived experience as authority
    - Personal experience, especially of marginalized groups, is treated as a key source of truth.
    - Skeptics argue this can sometimes override empirical debate.
  - Language as power
    - Words and narratives shape reality and social hierarchies.
    - Emphasis on inclusive language, pronouns, and reframing traditional terms.
  - Moral urgency
    - Silence or neutrality is often seen as complicity.
    - Calls for active allyship and public accountability.
Intellectual influences
- “Woke” philosophy draws heavily from:
  - Critical Race Theory
  - Postmodernism
  - Marxist and neo-Marxist social critique
  - Feminist theory
  - Queer theory
- These frameworks tend to:
  - Question objective neutrality
  - Critique traditional institutions
  - Focus on power rather than universal norms
Common criticisms
- Critics from across the political and religious spectrum argue that “woke” philosophy can:
  - Reduce individuals to group identities
  - Promote ideological conformity and social punishment (“cancel culture”)
  - Undermine free speech and open inquiry
  - Replace shared moral standards with shifting social norms
  - Treat disagreement as a moral failure rather than a dialogue
How supporters would describe it
- Supporters typically say it is about:
  - Justice, fairness, and dignity
  - Correcting historical and ongoing harm
  - Listening to marginalized voices
  - Creating more inclusive institutions
Why is the term so polarized
- Supporters often use “woke” positively (awareness, compassion).
- Critics use it negatively (ideological overreach, coercion).
- Media and politics turned it into a catch-all label rather than a precise idea.
In one sentence
- “Woke” philosophy is a modern social framework focused on identifying and correcting perceived systemic injustices, especially through identity and power analysis, but it is debated for both its moral aims and its cultural consequences.
- Woke-ism is worldly knowledge not aligned with godly wisdom.
Where the Bible affirms some concerns of “woke” thinking
- The Bible is not indifferent to injustice.
  - God condemns oppression
  - Scripture consistently rebukes exploitation, abuse of power, and injustice:
    - “Learn to do good, seek justice, correct oppression.” — Isaiah 1:17
    - “Woe to those who decree iniquitous decrees.” — Isaiah 10:1
    - “Let justice roll down like waters.” — Amos 5:24
  - Biblical alignment: The Bible agrees that injustice can be structural, not just personal (corrupt courts, rulers, systems).
- God values the marginalized
  - Widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor receive special protection in Scripture.
  - Jesus repeatedly draws near to the socially rejected.
  - “Whatever you did for one of the least of these… you did for Me.” — Matthew 25:40
  - Biblical alignment: Christians must not dismiss the suffering of marginalized people or excuse injustice.
Where “woke” philosophy diverges from biblical teaching
- This is where the tensions become significant.
- Identity vs. Imago Dei
  - Woke framework: Human worth is often framed primarily through group identity (race, gender, sexuality).
  - Biblical framework: Human worth is rooted in the image of God, shared equally by all.
    - “So God created man in His own image.” — Genesis 1:27
    - “There is neither Jew nor Greek… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” — Galatians 3:28
  - Biblical critique: Scripture acknowledges differences but refuses to ground moral worth in identity categories.
- Power-based morality vs. sin-based morality
  - Woke framework: Moral guilt is often assigned based on power status (oppressor vs. oppressed).
  - Biblical framework: Moral guilt is universal and rooted in sin, not social position.
    - “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” — Romans 3:23
    - “The heart is deceitful above all things.” — Jeremiah 17:9
  - Biblical critique: The Bible does not divide humanity into innocent oppressed and guilty oppressors—all stand in need of grace.
- Lived experience vs. revealed truth
  - Woke framework: Personal experience is often treated as authoritative and immune from challenge.
  - Biblical framework: Experience matters, but God’s Word is the final authority.
    - “Your word is truth.” — John 17:17
    - “Test everything; hold fast what is good.” — I Thessalonians 5:21
  - Biblical critique: Experience must be interpreted, not enthroned.
- Speech control vs. truth in love
  - Woke framework: Language is regulated to prevent harm; dissent can be labeled violence.
  - Biblical framework: Speech is to be truthful, loving, and free, not coerced.
    - “Speaking the truth in love.” — Ephesians 4:15
    - “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” — II Corinthians 3:17
  - Biblical critique: Truth spoken humbly may still offend, but truth is not sin.
- Cancellation vs. redemption
  - Woke framework: Moral failure often leads to social exile with little path to restoration.
  - Biblical framework: Discipline always aims at repentance and restoration.
    - “If your brother sins… you have gained your brother.” — Matthew 18:15
    - “Such a one… forgive and comfort him.” — II Corinthians 2:7
  - Biblical critique: The gospel does not erase sinners—it redeems them.
Ultimate worldview conflict: Justice without the Cross
- At its deepest level, “woke” philosophy seeks justice without redemption.
  - No doctrine of original sin
  - No Savior
  - No grace is sufficient for both victim and offender
  - But Scripture teaches:
    - “Mercy triumphs over judgment.” — James 2:13
    - “God made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us.” — II Corinthians 5:21
  - Biblical conclusion: Justice divorced from grace becomes self-righteousness.
A Christian posture: neither blind rejection nor full adoption
- Christians should:
  - Reject indifference to injustice
  - Reject identity-based moral hierarchy
  - Reject coercive ideology
  - Affirm truth, grace, repentance, and forgiveness
- As Micah summarizes:
  - “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” — Micah 6:8
One-sentence biblical summary
- The Bible affirms justice and compassion for the oppressed, but rejects any worldview that replaces the image of God, the universality of sin, and the necessity of redemption with identity, power, or ideology.

What kinds of sex are included in Leviticus 18:22?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Sat, 27 Sep 2025 15:56:13 +0000

Question:

According to Leviticus 18:22, "Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable" (NIV).

My Question: Is it oral or anal sex, or something else? What if the person is a transgender woman, meaning male to female?

Answer:

"You shall not lie with a male as one lies with a female; it is an abomination" (Leviticus 18:22).

The phrase "one lies with" is used in the Hebrew text to denote the sexual actions that typically take place while lying down. All sexual behavior between two people of the same gender is forbidden. For a detailed list, see "What are all the types of sexual sins?" Since two males cannot physically have intercourse, it directly implies that anal and oral sex and mutual masturbation are under consideration.

Transgenderism is a form of deceit or lying. It is a male pretending to be a female (or a female pretending to be a male), going so far as to have surgical alterations and using artificial hormones to change the shape of the body. A transgender female is still a male. A transgender male is still a female. Their DNA is evidence of this. See "What Does the Bible Say About Transgenderism?" Regardless of pretending to be a different gender, having sex with someone of the same gender remains sinful.

Is It “Taking It Out Of Context”?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 22:09:45 +0000

by Bill Jackson

A few days ago, some publicity was given to a gentleman in our area who was posting religious messages on a well-traveled highway, but on property owned by his religious group, and with their consent. The point of the article was that his messages were resented by much of the populace, and this was especially so when he posted a condemnation of homosexuality, based on Romans 1:26-27. The writer then made the point that “there is a difference among many scholars” as to whether this condemns homosexuality or not.

The writer then cited a professor at a local theological seminary who had replied that “the verses should be seen in the bigger argument Paul makes, over three chapters. In these chapters, Paul doesn’t build a case against homosexuality, but rather against humankind’s rebellion against God. The chapters lead in the direction of grace and forgiveness. Romans shouldn’t be taken verse by verse out of context and used as condemnation of anyone.” Those are his words: Romans has no message of condemnation of anyone!

I wrote the gentleman, wondering if he had found something in his study of Romans that I had missed. He was prompt and gracious in replying, but was no more decisive than when the reporter quoted him. It is amazing that one who is a teacher of preachers in one of the larger denominations could have missed the points in Romans 1 that speak of

The wrath of God (Romans 1:19);
Those given up by God to uncleanness (Romans 1:24);
Those who change the truth of God into a lie (Romans 1:25);
Those who worship the creature and not the Creator (Romans 1:25);
Those with vile affections among women who follow a course against nature (Romans 1:26);
Men burning in lust toward other men, and due to receive recompense for their error (Romans 1:27);
Those given over to a reprobate mind (Romans 1:28);
Those filled with all unrighteousness, with this and 21 other sins specified;
And these are worthy of death and face the judgment (Romans 1:32).

How could this teacher have missed it?

It is freely granted that Romans deals with the plan of God whereby all men can be justified before God. But, within that context, the sins of men are dealt with, so that the reader may see why the forgiving plan of God was needed! How could any man state that “Romans doesn’t condemn anyone, and it’s taking it out of context if one points to any condemnation?” We would, and have, direct the professor to see the wording “women changing the natural use to that which is against nature….men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burning in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly….” Does the learned professor think Paul is speaking of chess or horseshoes?

It all proves that men will freely change any matter from God, freely insert their own wills into any area wherein God has spoken, freely sanction what they will, and freely mislead others under the influence of their false teaching. The pity of it all!