The Bible addresses homosexuality in several passages that range across both the Old and New Testaments. The most well known passages are found in the books of Leviticus, Romans, 1 Corinthians and 1 Timothy. While the topic is directly mentioned only a handful of times, it relates to broader biblical principles regarding sexuality and God’s design for marriage and romantic relationships. Here is an overview of some of the main verses:
Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13
These two verses are found in the Old Testament book of Leviticus, which contains many of the laws and regulations for the nation of Israel. Leviticus 18:22 states “You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination.” Leviticus 20:13 says “If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination; they shall surely be put to death; their blood is upon them.” These verses clearly prohibit homosexual relations between men, declaring it an “abomination.” This shows that God designed sexual intimacy to occur between a man and a woman within marriage.
Romans 1:26-27
The New Testament book of Romans indicates that homosexual behavior is unnatural and a consequence of idolatry. Romans 1:26-27 states “For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error.” This passage shows that Scripture views homosexual acts as an expression of sinful hearts, not natural desires.
1 Corinthians 6:9-11
1 Corinthians 6:9-11 contains a list of sinful lifestyles that can exclude people from the kingdom of God. One item on the list is the Greek word arsenokoitai, which means “men who practice homosexuality.” However, verse 11 indicates that people can be washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of Jesus Christ and the Spirit of God, showing that God’s grace is open to all. The passage discusses behavior rather than identity or orientation.
1 Timothy 1:9-10
Here Paul the Apostle describes the law as useful in exposing sinful behavior. He includes “them that defile themselves with mankind” in a list of lawbreakers. This phrase likely refers to men who engage in homosexual activity. Like other New Testament verses, this passage condemns specific actions rather than innate desires or orientations.
While the Bible condemns homosexual behavior in some passages, Jesus never directly addresses the issue in his recorded teachings. He does, however, repeatedly emphasize loving others unconditionally. When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus replied to love God and love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:36-40). The Bible’s prohibitions against homosexual behavior aim to uphold God’s design for marriage and sexuality, not marginalize a group of people.
Some additional principles that relate to homosexuality according to general biblical teaching include:
- God designed sex to be expressed between a man and a woman within marriage (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:4-6).
- Sexual intimacy can only occur within the covenant of marriage (Hebrews 13:4).
- Jesus affirms traditional marriage between male and female (Matthew 19:4–6).
- Marriage reflects Christ’s relationship with the Church (Ephesians 5:31–32).
- Christians should show kindness, compassion and love toward all people (Luke 10:25-37, Matthew 7:12).
- All people have equal dignity and worth in God’s eyes (Genesis 1:27, Galatians 3:28).
- Temptation itself is not sin—acting upon it is (James 1:14-15).
- Faith in Christ offers forgiveness and freedom from sin (Acts 3:19, Romans 6:1-14).
- God can transform anyone’s heart and behaviors (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).
- Christians are called to encourage and build up one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
In summary, the Bible directly addresses homosexuality in a few passages that condemn same-sex relations as against God’s design. It does not reference sexual orientation but rather focuses on behaviors. Broader biblical principles provide a framework for God’s intent for human sexuality and marriage relationships between a man and woman. With the help of the Holy Spirit, God can transform anyone from all types of sinful backgrounds into new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).
The Bible’s teachings seek to protect marriage and the family unit as God designed it. Sexual intimacy is a gift reserved for a husband and wife to enjoy. Homosexual behavior falls short of God’s design, just as adultery, pornography and other sexual sins miss the mark of God’s intent. But Christians should be characterized by both truth and grace on this issue (John 1:14). The Church is called to uphold God’s standards and His offer of forgiveness, freedom and love to all people.
