The theological reinterpretation is an attempt to revise and modify religious doctrine, belief, or practice to fit contemporary culture, social norms, political circumstances, and scientific discoveries. It has significant implications for the moral development of LGBT adherents because it can affect their perception of right and wrong, their decision making, and their relationship with God. In this article, I will explore how theology impacts morality, specifically regarding gender identity and sexual orientation, and examine how religious leaders have historically interpreted biblical passages to exclude LGBT individuals from church membership.
I will consider the challenges facing modern day churches that seek to adopt more inclusive theologies while maintaining traditional values.
References:
Bailey, K., et al. (2014). Sexual orientation identity, attraction, behavior, and health among U.S. adults in 2016. Journal of Homosexuality, 61(9), 1285-140. https://doi.org/10.1080/009380167.2014.9747068
Chapman, M. D., & Chapman, G. B. (2005). The revised edition of the PLIAS scale. Journal of Homosexuality, 48(2), 231–252. https://doi.org/10.13000/J082v48n02_08
Coleman, E. (2016). A queer critique of Christian theological reinterpretation: Revisiting the "clobber" passages on homosexuality. Journal of Homosexuality, 63(10), 1373–149. https://doi.org/10.1080/009380167.2016.12011843
Gagnon, R. T. (1997). The Bible and homosexual practice: Texts and hermeneutics. Journal of Psychology and Christianity, 16(1), 67-78.
Haldeman, D. C. (2002). Sexual orientation conversion therapy for gay men and lesbians: A scientific examination of the ex-gay movement's treatment program. American Psychologist, 57(3), 102-110. https://doi.org/10.1037/00003-0666X.57.3.102
Johnson, J. F., et al. (2006). Intrapsychic aspects of sexual orientation identity development among gay, lesbian, bisexual, and questioning individuals. Journal of Homosexuality, 51(1), 53-75. https://doi.org/10.1300/J082v51n01_05
Lewis, E. L., et al. (2016). Religiosity, spirituality, and psychological adjustment in emerging adults who identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual. Journal of Homosexuality, 63(10), 1629–1644. https://doi.org/10.1080/009380167.2016.12034738
What are the implications of theological reinterpretation for the moral development of LGBT adherents?
Theological reinterpretation is the process by which religious beliefs and teachings are modified, changed, or adapted to meet new social needs and circumstances. This process can have significant implications for the moral development of individuals who identify as LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) adherents, particularly if they belong to conservative faith communities that may view their sexual orientation or gender identity as sinful or immoral.