Some Biblical Perspectives on Same-Sex relationships...

Biblical Perspectives On The Question

“Should the marking of same-sex civil partnerships be a matter of pastoral freedom?”[1]

Introduction

Broadly, there appear to be five answers to answering the above question:[2]

1. No, the Bible is unequivocal in its condemnation of all same-sex relationships.  The Church cannot bless what the Bible condemns.[3]
2. Yes, because there are different interpretations of the Bible’s view of same-sex relationships.  Where difference of interpretation is possible, difference of practice should be permitted.[4]
3. Yes, because the Bible says nothing about permanent, faithful and stable same-sex relationships.[5] Where the scripture is silent, pastors should be permitted freedom of conscience.
4. Yes, because although the Bible describes same-sex relationships as sinful, they should still be permitted as a pastoral accommodation in a broken world.
5. Yes, because many same-sex relationships are evidently good.  Although the Bible does appear to condemn same-sex relationships, it is sometimes necessary to set aside certain parts of the Bible to remain true to God, who is revealed to us in the self-giving love of Jesus.[6]

Inherent in these approaches are two different understandings of the Bible.[7]

• All scripture is inspired by God and is the supreme authority in all matters of life and faith[8] There is still a place for allowing later scriptures to interpret earlier ones, but this is dependent upon strong indications within the scriptures themselves.[9] Those who hold to this position might adopt any of the first four approaches outlined above.

• The Bible is foundational to our understanding of God.[10] However to be true to the essence of the gospel, certain passages must be set aside.[11] Furthermore the Church must build on insights which do not arise directly from the Bible.[12] Those who hold to this position might tend to the fifth approach outlined above.