Homosexuality has been one of the most contentious topics in debates around the world over the last decade. Even those who profess to be faithful Christians hold different views on this issue[1]. The question “Does God hate gays?” is not new. While some Christians view it as a sin or a moral failing, others believe that individuals should be free to love whomever they choose, regardless of gender. Unfortunately, many members of the LGBTQ community have been subjected to hate crimes and discrimination.
Some religious organizations, including the Westboro Baptist Church, have taken a strong stance against homosexuality, asserting that God dislikes gay people. Additionally, a so-called congregation in the US advocates the phrase “God hates fags.” They protest gay bars, pride parades, LGBT events, and gay burials, among other activities. Others argue that although God disapproves of a lifestyle, He still loves the individual. Which of these is biblical?
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What Does The Bible Say About Gays Or Homosexuals?
What does God say about gay people? For most Christians, a common initial inquiry would be, “What does the Scripture say about the desire for someone of the same sex?” Proverbs 6:16–19 says, “There are six things the LORD hates; seven are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies, and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.”
Notably absent from this list is homosexuality. God hates fornicators and murderers, which are words that should be given attention because they are more in line with the scripture. The Bible does say God dislikes sinners in general (Psalm 5:5), but it never specifically mentions gay people as being among those He despises.
However, this does not imply that God’s Word encourages same-sex relationships or attraction. Numerous biblical texts teach us that being a homosexual is sinful (Leviticus 18:22; 1 Corinthians 6:9; Romans 1:26–27). Romans 1:26–27 says being gay is a consequence of persistent revolt against God.
According to the Bible, God “gives over” those who persist in their doubt by permitting them to act on their evil desires and suffer the repercussions. 1 Corinthians 6:9 says that same-sex couples cannot enter God’s kingdom. Homosexuality is both aberrant and immoral. It disrupts the “natural order” as well as God’s perspective on sexuality.
The Bible tells us that all people have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory and that no one is exempt from this reality. While homosexuality is not singled out as a greater offense than others in the Bible, God’s view on sin is clear—it is not what He desires for His people.
In the book “God and the Gay Christian” by Matthew Vines, he contends against some of the Bible’s teachings. Matthew stated that in the cultural context, Leviticus condemns sex between two men because same-sex relations undermine patriarchal society and that God is “operating within imperfect institutions,” just as he did with divorce, polygamy, and slavery.
Perhaps Vines would contend that God’s hands were bound by the culture of that specific time in history and that he never actually hated gay people. However, what makes this argument wrong is implying that the Bible’s author, God, does not comprehend sexual orientation.
There were numerous discussions regarding the relevance and applicability of the Old Testament law. To the extent that the New Testament reaffirms it, however, Christians are still obligated to follow it. Paul uses a compound Greek term, arsenokoitai, made up of two words from the Leviticus section of the Septuagint, the Greek version of the Old Testament, to confirm Leviticus 20:13 in 1 Corinthians 6:9 and 1 Timothy 1:10. He writes to forewarn people about the mucky roots and dire outcomes of abusing human sexuality, which is a divine gift.
Does God Hate Gays?
So, does God hate gays? To be clear, the Father does not detest anyone. Man was created in the likeness of God (Genesis 1:26–27). God’s highest point of creation is man (Psalm 8:5). God’s affection for mankind is so great that He has obligated us in life to revere Him and obey His commands (Ecclesiastes 12:13–14).
Paul cautioned, however, that “the wrath of God is revealed from heaven” (Romans 1:18). God’s response is the inevitable result of poor human decisions and actions, as the “lust of their souls leads to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves” (Romans 1:24).
That’s why it’s God’s ultimate goal for everyone to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9). Because of this, He requires all people on earth to adore Him so and follow Him wherever He goes (John 14:15). We were unworthy, but God’s love for us is demonstrated by sacrificing his Son (John 3:16; Romans 5:8). God’s abundant compassion is on display in the provision of the gospel plan of salvation (Romans 6:3–4; Ephesians 2:8–9).
Nobody’s perfect, but God still adores sinful humans. Despite David’s adulterous relationship with Bathsheba, God continued to adore him (2 Samuel 11). Saul’s murder of so many Christians didn’t change God’s love for him (Acts 9). He had compassion for Jonah even after he had left Nineveh (Jonah 2). God’s love for those people did not absolve Him of any responsibility toward them.
Does God Approve Of Homosexuality?
God disapproves of homosexual behavior. He disapproved of it during the patriarchal era (Genesis 2:24). He disapproved of it during the Mosaic Period (Leviticus 18:22). He disapproves of it in the Christian age in which we currently reside (Matthew 19:4–6; Hebrews 9:15–17). Some assert, “All God desires is for me to be joyful.”
Yes, God wants happiness for us, but He also requires us to be obedient, even inviting us to deny ourselves in order to follow Him (Luke 9:23; Matthew 7:21–23). Numerous homosexuals assert, “God created me this way.” In reality, same-sex relationships are characterized as “against nature” (Romans 1:26–27), so God did not literally create anyone in this manner.
However, all human beings have the opportunity to receive God’s forgiveness through Jesus Christ. Whoever places their faith in Christ will be accepted as a child of God and will be forgiven for all sins (John 1:12; 3:16–18; Ephesians 2:1–10). God’s mercy extends to all sinners, which includes homosexuals as much as it does adulterers, fornicators, deity worshipers, thieves, and greedy people, among others.
Additionally, pursuing a Christian partnership with someone of the opposite sex is seen as a way to live out God’s love and honor His design for human relationships. It provides an opportunity to experience the joy and fulfillment of a loving, committed relationship while also serving as a witness to others about the transforming power of God’s love in their lives.
According to the Bible, marriage is a sacred covenant between one man and one woman, designed to reflect the loving relationship between Christ and His Church. This union is intended to be a lifelong commitment, characterized by love, respect, and mutual submission.
Conclusion
Does God accept homosexual behavior? No. Is it possible to be a devout Christian and practice homosexuality? The Bible does not give a definitive answer. However, it does make it clear that while Christians must maintain their biblically based stand that seeking same-sex relationships is sinful, we must also maintain a biblically based tone in delivering our message.
Ephesians 4:15 commands, “Speak the truth in love.” 1 Peter 3:15 has also taught us to declare the truth and to guide with respect and gentleness. Our message should emphasize the repentance and salvation from sin that Christ offers. It’s not too late for members of the LGBT community to accept that God wants them to live according to His commands.
