GOD HAS NOT CHANGED HIS MIND
ABOUT HOMOSEXUALITY

Most of those who openly practice sexual immorality are not at all concerned about justifying their behavior by the Bible. David Reed is an exception. In his letter of response ("The Bible Tells Me So") to my earlier letter, Reed implies that God simply condemns religious or "idolatrous" homosexuality but approves of simple lustful or sensual homosexuality. No such distinction is made by God throughout His Word.

While sodomite prostitution was practiced on a limited scale in the first century world, Scripture condemns ALL forms of homosexuality. Neither 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 nor 1 Timothy 1:9-10 nor Romans 1:26-27 suggests that one form of sodomy is blameworthy while another is acceptable. The Bible specifically condemns homosexuality—not simply for an idolatrous connection—but because it is "unnatural," "indecent," contrary to the way God created us (Romans 1:26-27), and contrary to "the ordinance of God" (v. 32). The result of rejecting the true God will be immorality and sin of all kinds (Romans 1:18-32). All of this speaks to the so-called "gay" movement of our own day.

Moreover, homosexuality (of all kinds) is one form of porneia—a Greek term usually translated "sexual immorality" or "fornication" in our Bible. Therefore, whenever fornication is condemned in Scripture, not only is premarital and extramarital heterosexual relationships in view, but also homosexuality! (1 Thessalonians 4:3-8; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Corinthians 6:12-20). Sodomy, for example, is designated "gross immorality" and going "after strange flesh"—the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah that resulted in "the punishment of eternal fire" (Jude 7).

Personally, I love the homosexual and harbor no malice toward them. I wish to see Reed turn from his immorality and accept the forgiveness and heaven that God graciously offers. No acceptance of Jesus at age 7 (as Reed describes) will avail if one’s current sexual orientation is an offense to God. If Reed and his fellow-homosexuals want to justify their immoral practice and lifestyle, it would be wise not to seek the endorsement of Scripture. In a world of change, God has not changed His mind about this sin!

Richard Hollerman
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram)