Theological ethics is the study of how religious beliefs and values influence moral decisions. It has been used for centuries to justify excluding certain groups from society based on their gender identity or sexual orientation.
Many LGBT believers are using theology to challenge these exclusionary doctrines and practices. This article will examine four different approaches to this issue. First, some believers argue that the Bible's teachings must be interpreted within their historical context rather than literally applied today. Second, others emphasize the importance of individual conscience in determining what is right and wrong. Third, some point to the church's history of change and suggest it can adapt its teaching to include LGBT people.
Some argue that the Bible does not condemn homosexuality but instead provides guidance for healthy sexual expression.
Approach 1: Historical Interpretation
Many Christians believe that the Bible prohibits homosexuality because it is mentioned in Leviticus 20:13 and Romans 1:26-27.
These passages were written in ancient times when same-gender relationships were uncommon and did not have modern concepts like monogamy or marriage equality. Interpreting them with a literal viewpoint ignores their cultural context and leads to an incomplete understanding of God's message.
Deuteronomy 25:11-12 permits polygyny (having multiple wives) despite Jesus reaffirming the sanctity of marriage between one man and one woman (Matthew 19:4-5). The context shows that marital fidelity was not limited to heterosexual couples. Similarly, Paul criticized the Corinthian church for accepting pagan worship practices without investigating their meaning (1 Corinthians 8:1-13), suggesting that he did not reject all non-Christian beliefs outright. By applying a similar methodology to the anti-homosexual texts, many believers argue that they do not apply today.
Approach 2: Conscience vs. Tradition
Some believers emphasize individual conscience over tradition, citing Romans 14 as evidence. This passage states that each person should be convinced in their own mind about what is right and wrong (Romans 14:5). Some interpret this to mean that if someone feels convicted by God to accept homosexuality, then it must be acceptable. Others suggest that following one's conscience does not override scripture but applies when there is disagreement among believers on how it should be interpreted. Either way, LGBT people can use theological ethics to support their decision to follow God's will rather than societal norms.
Approach 3: Church Change Over Time
Historically, the church has adapted its teaching to accommodate new ideas and cultures.
While polygyny was once accepted, most Christian denominations now prohibit it. Likewise, the Catholic church recently revised its stance on contraception, allowing some forms of birth control for married couples. Theologians point out that the Bible never explicitly condemns same-gender relationships or sexual pleasure outside marriage. If the church has changed on other issues before, why not allow same-sex marriage?
Approach 4: Biblical Interpretation
Some Christians believe that the Bible provides guidelines for healthy sexual expression within marriage, regardless of gender identity. They argue that Genesis 2:24 says a man shall "leave his father and mother" to become united with his wife. In Ephesians 5:31-33, Paul describes marriage as a sacred union between husband and wife. By applying these passages, they claim that monogamous same-gender marriages are compatible with biblical teachings. The church should embrace diversity in sexual orientation and gender identity rather than exclude anyone from full participation in the body of Christ.
In what ways do LGBT believers engage with theological ethics to challenge exclusionary doctrines and practices?
Theologians who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) often engage with theological ethics to challenge exclusionary doctrines and practices that exclude them from participating fully in religious communities.