Bisexuality is a sexual orientation characterized by romantic or sexual attraction to both men and women. It challenges traditional gender roles and norms that prioritize heterosexuality and homophobia. In religious contexts, it challenges theological doctrines of purity, faithfulness, and moral order. These teachings emphasize the sanctity of marriage between one man and one woman and condemn same-sex practices as sinful. Bisexual individuals may feel marginalized by their faith community due to their nontraditional sexual identity and desires. They may be excluded from church activities and ministries because of their perceived promiscuity and unfaithfulness.
Bisexuals can still maintain faithful marriages and engage in monogamous relationships if they choose. Theologians argue that God created humans to be male and female and intended for them to procreate, but they also acknowledge that people are fallen creatures who struggle with temptation. Purity refers to living free of sexual immorality and idolatry, which includes lust, infidelity, pornography, and extramarital affairs. Some Christians believe that bisexuals cannot live up to this standard because of their sexual attractions. Faithfulness involves fidelity within marriage and commitment to biblical principles. This requires self-control, accountability, honesty, forgiveness, communication, and mutual love. While some theologians see bisexuality as unnatural, others believe that all sexual sins are equal and should be forgiven through repentance. Moral order refers to upholding divine laws and seeking justice. It calls for ethical behavior, integrity, compassion, and humility. Bisexuality challenges traditional gender roles and norms that prioritize heterosexuality and homophobia. It raises questions about sexual freedom and expression, consent, equality, and power dynamics. Some Christians view it as a sign of the end times or a result of cultural decadence. Others recognize its complexity and seek understanding and acceptance.
How does bisexuality challenge theological doctrines of purity, faithfulness, and moral order?
Bisexuality challenges theological doctrines of purity by introducing an additional sexual orientation that does not conform to the traditional binary gender system of man/woman. This can lead to questions about whether sexual identity is fixed or fluid and how it relates to concepts such as sin and salvation.