Genesis 19

There are few modern issues that have more significantly energized the so-called religious right than that of homosexuality. Religious vitriol has been spewed from both of sides of the debate. Most of these same discussions are neither entirely accurate nor biblically consistent.

As for many, this issue is deeply personal for me. I have many (probably more than most) friends in the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered) community. I have honest and transparent relationships with them. And I love them for who they are as people… not just so I can “show them the error of their ways”. With God’s help it will always be so.

Further, the church in general, has presented its position poorly. Often with unintentional ignorance or intentional arrogance and at times with downright hatred. I don’t think any of us should ever claim to have full understanding when it comes to such complex topics. We can and should however, seek to ask the hard questions of Scripture. What is the mind of God regarding homosexuality?

Hopefully these questions will help you reflect on why God destroyed the cities of Sodom & Gomorrah and begin to apply some of the overarching themes found here to your understanding of how He feels about homosexuality:

As I said “live” on Wednesday night… please try to leave your pre-conceived opinions at the door and let’s do some hard work this week. I want to especially draw your attention to the links at the end of this page because I think they can help you navigate these difficult waters.

1. Before you dive into chapter 19, what sense do you get from chapter 18, verses 20-21 about what God had already heard about the level of wickedness in Sodom & Gomorrah?

2. With regard to the visiting angels, what were the intentions of the men of Sodom?

3. Based on what you’ve read here and in Genesis 2, what are God’s thoughts on sex?

4. What parts of the LGBT discussion are still conflicting for you?

5. Assuming you understand (to some degree) the mind of God on this issue, how should you respond?

I want to include a couple other links for your consideration this week…

A statement on homosexuality from the Catholic Church.
A New Testament perspective on homosexuality.

Follow this link to read some further commentary on Genesis 19.