The Bible & Homosexuality: The New Testament

What does the New Testament actually say about homosexuality?

In Part Two of our conversation about the Bible and homosexuality, Kade and Greg examine the three New Testament passages most often used to condemn LGBTQ+ people: 1 Corinthians 6:9–11, 1 Timothy 1:8–11, and Romans 1:20–27.

Together, they explore the Greek words malakoi and arsenokoitai, the cultural world in which these passages were written, and the translation choices that have shaped how Christians understand them. They also discuss why the word “homosexual” did not appear in an English Bible until 1946 and why that modern term does not accurately reflect the language or relationships being addressed in these ancient texts.

What did Paul mean by “natural” and “unnatural”? Does Romans 1 describe LGBTQ+ Christians today? And what does it mean that Jesus said nothing about homosexuality?

These passages have been mistranslated, misinterpreted, and used as weapons against LGBTQ+ people for generations. This episode asks us to read them more carefully, confront the harm they have caused, and recognize the beautiful diversity of people made in the image of God.

For additional resources, visit theinclusivefaith.com.