Can a Christian be Gay?

This entry will be quite controversial to some. Nonetheless, it’s an important topic that Christians should be able to affectively discuss with others. Many non believers have some type of dislike for Christians because of the “hate” they have for homosexuals. Some feel that Christians are not open to other lifestyles and don’t accept those that are different. In response, some Christians try to bend specific beliefs to pander to these misunderstood ideas. Some churches and denominations are freely accepting homosexuals into their congregations and even clergy. The question now arises: is it acceptable, or even possible, for a Christian to be a homosexual? How would you answer this?

The first point to address is that homosexuality is a sin. Verses such as Leviticus 18:22, Romans 1:26-27, and 1 Corinthians 6:9 clearly state that homosexuality is a sin. Some argue that the original language doesn’t condemn homosexuality, but this is not true at all. These verses are clear in their Hebrew and Greek form that it is wrong. Some Postmodernists state that it depends on how a person interprets the passages individually. This is also untrue. Throughout the books of the Bible, it is consistently referred to as sin.

The next detail that must be considered is the differences between temptation and action. We’re all tempted every day. Even Christ was tempted. It is stated in Hebrews 4:15 that Christ was tempted in every way yet without sin. Therefore, it is not a sin to be bombarded with constant challenges to our spiritual holiness. We’re in constant battle with Satan as he slams us with temptation after temptation. Yet, it is the desires and action of the temptation that becomes the sin. For example, a person may be tempted to lust after someone other than his or her spouse. When does this become a sin?

Enticing thoughts find their way into everyone’s head at some point, but it is what we do with those thoughts that create sin. Temptation, when not met with holy resistance, can turn into a desire which turns into action. The point being made is that temptation comes to everyone in many ways. All is dependent on how we treat that temptation. When we see someone attractive, do we push the thoughts aside or do we begin to lust after that person? Which would be the Godly thing to do?

This applies to homosexuality. Being that it is a sin, there is the ability, through God, to resist it. Therefore, we can look at it as a choice. I don’t mean to begin the argument of whether or not someone is born with it or if it is a choice in that aspect. I simply mean the act and desires of homosexuality. Just as any other sin, we have the ability to fight it or to give into it. With this being said, it’s important to understand that in God’s eyes, sin is sin. There is not one greater than the other when it comes to our accountability before him. This even means simple desires. Christ states in Matthew 5:27 that anyone who even looks at another person in lust has already committed adultery in the heart. God is so holy that all sins must be accounted for. This even means homosexuality. But know this: homosexuality is no worse than lying, cheating, murder, heterosexual promiscuity, or even disrespect to parents. We are all in the same situation: we must fight all temptation of all sins because we will be accountable for what we have done.

This is how we can answer the question: Yes, a Christian can have homosexual feelings and temptations. It is just as possible for a Christian to have those feelings as much as a Christian can be tempted to steal, to hate, and to cheat. Once again, we see that temptation comes to everyone. Not all people are enticed with the same sin, but we all experience some type of temptation.

Now, is it acceptable for a person to be a practicing homosexual in the church? Considering that it is a sin, no, it is not acceptable. There are serious problems with a Christian living an openly gay lifestyle, and the support of such a thing is just as destructive to our goals as Christians. Consider these examples: If a person you know decides to become an openly practicing thief, would you support that or believe it to be in line with Christ’s teachings? What if a family member decided to publicly announce his plans to be an adulterer? He wants to bring married women over to dinner on the weekends for his dates. Would this be acceptable or would we feel that he is misguided and living contrary to God’s commands? Therefore, we can’t “accept” that homosexuality is a part of a Christian’s lifestyle. We can’t serve the Lord and willing, purposefully live in sin. For that Christian, it is technically saying, “God, I am your child, but I want to sin more than obey you.”

Yes, Christians can have homosexual temptations. This is not the sin, but giving in to these desires is. A Christian can’t live an openly gay life and serve the Lord. So, contrary to popular belief, Christians do not hate homosexuals, but just as any other sin, the desires must be condemned. If we see someone living in sin, it is our duty to pray for them and assist them in understanding their offense and need of a savior. If you have any homosexual friends or acquaintances, pray for God to convict them and create an opportunity for you to witness. Maybe this issue has come up in discussion. Maybe it is an issue you are fighting within spiritually. With God willing, you can see that sin is sin and when we are tempted, God always provides a way out. But above all else, turn to God and his word for your guidance. He will make your paths straight.