Some Christians really irritate me. You know the kind, those who can work “Jeeezuss” into every conversation. Those who can find a way to give God the credit for everything from a free parking space to a beautiful day. Don’t get me wrong, I always
Two years ago we bought a house in a marginal, but up and coming, neighborhood. On one visit to check out the house we eventually bought, we were greeted by one of the neighbors. He was friendly enough, but it was clear he was “checking
Part of a series of essays on the Bible and homosexuality. The Bible and homosexuality In biblical times, same-gender sexual interactions could take many forms. For example: Kings of conquered tribes were sometimes raped by the invading army as the ultimate symbol of defeat and
Part of a series of essays on the Bible and homosexuality. The story of Sodom and Gomorrah Genesis 19 describes how two angels visited Sodom and were welcomed into Lot’s house. The men of the city gathered around the house and demanded that Lot send
Part of a series of essays on the Bible and homosexuality. The holiness code Leviticus 18:22 states: Thou shall not lie with mankind as with womankind: it is abomination. The term abomination (to’ebah) is a religious term, usually reserved for use against idolatry; it does
Part of a series of essays on the Bible and homosexuality. Temple prostitution in Deuteronomy Deuteronomy 23:17 (KJV) states: There shall be no whore of the daughters of Israel, nor a sodomite of the sons of Israel. This is an “error” by the authors of
Part of a series of essays on the Bible and homosexuality. The story of the Levite Judges 19 describes an event much like that at Sodom. This time, an unnamed Levite visited the town of Gibeah with his slaves and concubine. He met an old
Part of a series of essays on the Bible and homosexuality. Temple prostitution in 1 Kings 1 Kings 14:24 and 1 Kings 15:12 again refer to temple prostitution. The original word qadesh is mistranslated as “sodomite” (homosexual) in the King James Version, but as male
Part of a series of essays on the Bible and homosexuality. Paul’s criticism of sexual activity Romans 1:26 and 27, at first glance, appear to condemn gay and lesbian activity. Paul criticizes sexual activity which is against a person’s nature or disposition. But in Greek
Part of a series of essays on the Bible and homosexuality. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 | The original Greek Do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived! The sexually immoral, idolaters, adulterers, male prostitutes, men who engage