Inclusive congregations are those that embrace members who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer/questioning. They interpret scripture differently than congregations that do not embrace LGBT believers, especially when it comes to issues related to sexuality.
Inclusive congregations emphasize love, justice, mercy, grace, inclusion, and welcome for all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. They believe that God loves everyone equally, and they seek to reflect this love in their teachings and practices. This means that they reinterpret scripture to understand how it applies to LGBT believers.
One way inclusive congregations reinterpret scripture is by recognizing that the Bible was written by human authors who lived in different times and cultures from our own. They acknowledge that many passages were never intended to be about same-sex relationships but instead addressed other cultural issues.
One passage often cited against homosexuality is Leviticus 18:22, which prohibits men from lying with another man "as with a woman."
This law also forbids many other acts such as incest and bestiality, which modern readers would not condemn.
Another way inclusive congregations reinterpret scripture is by focusing on the overarching message of love and acceptance found throughout the Bible. They point out that Jesus taught us to love others, including our enemies, and that he welcomed people who were considered "sinners" by society at the time. The story of Jesus' encounter with Zacchaeus, for instance, shows him reaching out to someone who was seen as immoral and unworthy.
Some inclusive congregations also examine specific verses related to homosexuality in light of their context.
Romans 1:26-27 speaks of women exchanging natural sexual relations for those that are unnatural.
Inclusive congregations argue that Paul was likely addressing heterosexuals engaging in homosexual behavior rather than genuine same-sex attraction or identity.
Some inclusive congregations focus on themes of justice and mercy when interpreting scripture. They believe that God calls us to treat everyone with compassion and fairness, regardless of whether we agree with their beliefs or lifestyle choices. This means advocating for LGBT rights, such as marriage equality and anti-discrimination laws, while also acknowledging the importance of religious freedom.
Inclusive congregations seek to create a safe space where all believers can feel welcome and loved, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. By reinterpreting scripture in this way, they demonstrate that the church can be a place of hope and healing for all people.
How do inclusive congregations reinterpret scripture to embrace LGBT believers?
The inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people in congregations has been an ongoing debate within Christianity. Some Christians have argued that the Bible condemns homosexuality as sinful and therefore, exclusionary practices are justified while others argue for the affirmation of LGBT persons based on principles such as love, compassion, and equality.