What Does the Bible Say About Homosexuality?

Summary

In this discussion, John Piper addresses the issue of homosexuality from a biblical perspective. He argues that it is wrong based on biblical teachings, specifically citing Romans 1 and 1 Corinthians 6. Piper explains that homosexuality distorts God's design of sexuality, which is meant for a man and a woman. He also suggests that same-sex attraction is a form of idolatry, where self is prioritized over God. Despite his stance, Piper empathizes with those struggling with homosexuality, acknowledging brokenness in all individuals and encouraging them to seek God's guidance in overcoming sin.

Takeaways

• 📖 The Bible explicitly states that homosexuality is wrong, which is the primary reason to avoid it.
• 📚 Romans 1:24-29 clearly mentions that homosexuality is wrong and should be avoided, according to the teachings of Paul.
• 👑 In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Paul states that those who practice homosexuality, among other sins, will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven.
• 👫 God designed sexuality to be between a man and a woman, forming one flesh, and any deviation from this is considered a distortion of God's creation.
• 🔄 Homosexuality is viewed as a corruption and dysfunction of the natural order established by God.
• 🛐 The act of homosexuality is linked to idolatry, where individuals exchange God's glory for self-worship, leading to same-sex attraction.
• ⚠️ Same-sex attraction is considered a dysfunctional form of idolatry, though it is not the only manifestation of self-idolatry.
• 💔 Struggling with homosexuality is seen as part of the brokenness of humanity, not necessarily the worst sin imaginable.
• 💪 Individuals struggling with same-sex attraction have the choice to either sin or seek to overcome their brokenness.
• 🙌 The speaker emphasizes empathy for those struggling with homosexuality and acknowledges that everyone has their own forms of brokenness to deal with.

Q & A

Why does John believe homosexuality is considered wrong according to the Bible?

John believes homosexuality is considered wrong because the Bible explicitly states it as a sin, particularly in passages like Romans 1:24-29 and 1 Corinthians 6:9-10. He views these scriptures as authoritative and sees them as clear directives from God to avoid such behavior.

What does John suggest is the simplest reason to avoid homosexuality?

The simplest reason John suggests to avoid homosexuality is that the Bible explicitly says it is wrong. This, for him, is a fundamental reason and a starting point for understanding why it should be avoided.

How does John interpret Paul's message in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 regarding homosexuality?

John interprets Paul's message in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 as stating that those who practice homosexuality, along with other sins like greed and covetousness, will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven. He emphasizes that knowingly persisting in such actions indicates a rejection of God's authority.

According to John, how does the Bible define God's design for sexuality?

John believes that the Bible defines God's design for sexuality as the union between a man and a woman, who are created to complement each other. This union, where they become 'one flesh,' is seen as the correct and intended expression of sexuality.

What does John mean when he says homosexuality is a 'dysfunction' of God's creation?

John refers to homosexuality as a 'dysfunction' of God's creation because he views it as a distortion or corruption of the natural order established by God, where sexual relationships are intended to be between a man and a woman.

How does John connect idolatry with homosexuality in his interpretation of Romans 1?

John connects idolatry with homosexuality by suggesting that when people exchange the glory of God for idols, they often end up idolizing themselves. He sees same-sex attraction as a manifestation of this self-idolatry, where the love for one's own sex reflects a deeper exchange of God for the self.

Does John believe that homosexual temptations are unique in terms of idolatry?

No, John does not believe that homosexual temptations are unique in terms of idolatry. He acknowledges that other forms of self-idolatry exist and that homosexuality is just one way this idolatry can manifest.

What advice does John give to those struggling with homosexual temptations?

John advises those struggling with homosexual temptations to recognize their feelings as a form of brokenness rather than sin itself. He encourages them to choose not to act on these temptations, seeking to be chaste and to move towards God's design for their lives.

How does John compare his own struggles with sin to those experiencing homosexual temptations?

John compares his own struggles with sin, such as anger and self-pity, to those experiencing homosexual temptations. He views all these tendencies as forms of brokenness that can either lead to sin or be managed in a way that avoids sin.

What is John's overall message to people wrestling with their sexuality?

John's overall message is one of empathy and understanding. He acknowledges that everyone has brokenness, including himself, and emphasizes that it is not sinful to feel broken. However, he encourages people to navigate their brokenness in a way that aligns with God's teachings and avoids sin.