People on both sides of the issue often misunderstand the sin of
homosexuality. In trying to argue that there are acceptable types
of homosexual relationships, some try to define the sin of
homosexuality by limiting it to specific forms of sexual behavior
between those of the same gender such as pederasty (sex between men
and boys). Defining unhealthy same-sex behavior in this manner,
however, does not reflect the spirit or language of the
Bible.
On the other side of the issue are those who fail to recognize the
difference between experiencing same-sex attractions and choosing
to pursue homosexual lust and/or behavior. Generally speaking,
those who feel same-sex attraction experience desires that are not
initially chosen. They are conditioned. The attractions usually
stem from early influences and are developed outside of a persons
conscious awareness (see Do people choose to have sexual
attractions for the same sex? ).
Feeling sexual desires for the same gender is not the sin of
homosexuality. Romans 1:26-27 elaborates:
"Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their
women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. In the same
way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were
inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts
with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for
their perversion."
Phrases such as "inflamed with lust" and "men committed indecent
acts with other men" show that the homosexuality the apostle Paul
had in view was lust and behavior, not merely feeling sexual
attraction for same gender. Many who have felt unnatural sexual
attractions for those of the same sex have not crossed a moral line
into sexual lust and behavior any more than those who naturally
feel sexual attractions for those of the opposite sex. Its not
until they cultivate fantasies about or engage in sexual behavior
with another person of the same gender that they commit the sin of
homosexuality.
As with any type of immoral thought or behavior, homosexuality is
fundamentally a sin of the heart. Pauls statements about women who
"exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones" (v.26) and men who
"abandoned natural relations with women" (v.27) demonstrate that
the sin of homosexuality comes from a heart that rebels against God
by forsaking His natural design for relationships and pursuing
abnormal relations with those of the same sex.
As can be seen from this, it is definitely not right.
