The Bible does not directly address the modern concept of a lesbian sexual orientation. However, it does contain some passages that have been interpreted as relevant to female same-sex relations.
Old Testament
The Old Testament law prohibited sexual relations between women: “You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination” (Leviticus 18:22). This verse explicitly condemns male same-sex relations but does not mention female same-sex relations. However, the broader context of Old Testament teachings on sexuality suggests that lesbian relations would also be considered sinful.
Genesis 1-2 sets forth God’s plan for human sexuality as a union between one man and one woman in the context of marriage. Passages such as Leviticus 18:1-30 and 20:10-21 identify a number of sexual acts, including same-sex relations, as “detestable” or morally wrong. The Old Testament views intimate physical relations as designed for marriage between one man and one woman.
New Testament
The New Testament continues the Old Testament’s view of proper human sexual relations. Jesus cited the Genesis creation account to affirm God’s plan for marriage as a union between one man and one woman (Matthew 19:4-6). The New Testament epistles also assume heterosexual marriage as the proper relational context for intimate physical relations.
The most extended passage on same-sex relations is Romans 1:18-32. In this passage, Paul criticizes human sinfulness and God’s wrath against immoral idolatry. He describes same-sex behavior as “dishonorable,” “impure,” “shameful,” and “unnatural” (Romans 1:24, 26-27). Both men and women turned away from natural relations with the opposite sex to engage in same-sex acts. According to this passage, same-sex relations of any kind are a result of denying God and exchanging his truth for lies.
Two additional passages make explicit mention of female same-sex behavior. Romans 1:26 says, “Their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature.” Also, 1 Corinthians 6:9 includes “homosexuals” (Greek malakoi) in a list of people who will not inherit God’s kingdom.
Interpretations and Applications
There are different views among Christians on how to interpret and apply these biblical passages to modern understandings of sexual orientation and same-sex relationships.
Traditional view: The traditional view is that the Bible clearly prohibits all homosexual behavior. Same-sex relations distort God’s wise design for sexuality and violate biblical moral standards for sexual purity. From this perspective, Scripture does not distinguish between sexual orientation and behavior. Any sexual expression outside a lifelong commitment between one man and one woman is considered sinful.
Revisionist view: Some Christians hold a revisionist view and argue that biblical condemnations do not apply to committed same-sex relationships between partners of the same sex and sexual orientation. They claim that the moral purity laws in the Old Testament were meant for ancient Israel, not modern cultures. The New Testament passages refer to specific forms of exploitative homosexual behavior in the Greco-Roman world, rather than contemporary same-sex partnerships.
Agreement and disagreement: Both traditionalists and revisionists agree that God’s ideal for sexuality is heterosexual monogamy as expressed in the Genesis creation account and Jesus’ affirmation of marital monogamy. Where they disagree is on how flexible this standard may be in light of modern concepts of sexual orientation and identity. There is still much debate among Christians regarding how to apply biblical principles faithfully in a modern context.
Practical Implications
Within the diversity of Christian perspective on homosexuality, some practical implications include:
- Many churches hold a traditional view that homosexual relations are sinful, so gay church members are called to either practice celibacy or try to reconcile their sexual desires with biblical principles through pastoral counseling or prayer.
- Churches who support the revisionist view are more affirming of gays and lesbians. They offer ministry programs to integrate them into church life and support monogamous same-sex partnerships.
- Most Christians across perspectives call for respect, compassion, and sensitivity in how the church treats gay persons in their communities.
- There is general agreement that homosexuality is not something that people consciously choose, so gays should not be ostracized, ridiculed, or condemned.
- Many churches have support groups for gays and lesbians who want community and spiritual guidance as they seek to conform their desires to biblical principles or pursue a monogamous same-sex relationship.
In summary, interpretations vary among Christians on what the Bible teaches about homosexual orientation and same-sex relationships. There is consensus that gays and lesbians should be treated with love and respect, even in the midst of disagreements over biblical interpretation and sexual ethics.
The Bible’s teachings on sexuality are rooted in the Genesis ideal of marriage between one man and one woman. Passages in the Old and New Testaments identify homosexual acts as contrary to God’s wise design for sexual relations. There is debate regarding how to apply these passages to modern concepts of sexual orientation and same-sex partnerships. Christians across perspectives are seeking greater understanding and ways to minister sensitively to gays and lesbians in light of biblical principles.