How can Christians uphold biblical teachings on sexuality in today's society? Setting the Foundation: God’s Design for Sexuality - Genesis 1:27—“So God created man in His own image… male and female He created them.” - Genesis 2:24—“For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” - Matthew 19:4-6—Jesus reaffirms this design, joining creation and marriage together. • These verses ground sexuality in a lifelong, covenant union between one man and one woman. • Anything outside that design—whether heterosexual immorality, adultery, or same-sex activity—falls outside God’s revealed will. Understanding Leviticus 20:13 Today - Leviticus 20:13—“If a man lies with a man as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination…” • The verse expresses God’s moral judgment on same-sex acts within Israel’s covenant law. • While Christ fulfilled the civil penalties of the Mosaic Law, the moral principle endures (cf. Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10). • Scripture’s consistency—from Leviticus through the New Testament—shows the standard has not changed. Living Out Biblical Truth with Grace and Conviction - Ephesians 4:15 calls believers to “speak the truth in love.” - 1 Peter 3:15 urges giving an answer “with gentleness and respect.” • Truth without love becomes harsh; love without truth becomes compromise. • Holding both together honors the Lord and serves our neighbors well. Practical Steps for Individuals • Deepen personal conviction – Daily Scripture reading; memorize passages like Psalm 119:9-11, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, Romans 12:1-2. • Cultivate purity – Guard eyes, mind, and heart; pursue accountability relationships (James 5:16). • Model biblical marriage or faithful singleness – Uphold covenant faithfulness (Hebrews 13:4). • Engage with compassion – Listen respectfully, avoid caricatures, remember every person bears God’s image (James 3:9). • Share the gospel’s transforming hope – 1 Corinthians 6:11—“And that is what some of you were. But you were washed…”. Salvation offers freedom and new identity in Christ. Practical Steps for Churches • Teach the whole counsel of God – Regular, expositional preaching through relevant texts (Leviticus 18–20; Romans 1; 1 Corinthians 5–7). • Provide clear doctrinal statements – Articulate biblical marriage and sexuality; make policies consistent with Scripture. • Offer pastoral care and discipleship – Support those battling temptation; foster support groups that combine truth and grace. • Equip families – Parent classes on shaping children’s worldview amid cultural pressure (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Engage culture wisely – Participate in public discourse respectfully; vote and speak for policies that honor God’s design while loving all neighbors. Encouraging Hope Through the Gospel - The gospel is powerful enough to redeem any sexual brokenness. - Romans 1 shows the depth of humanity’s fall; Romans 3:24-26 shows redemption in Christ. - Galatians 5:1—“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” • Grace forgives the past, empowers obedience in the present, and promises eternal wholeness. By grounding convictions in Scripture, embodying Christlike compassion, and relying on the Holy Spirit’s power, believers can faithfully uphold biblical teachings on sexuality in today’s society. |
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