Is bisexuality considered a sin in the Bible? Definition and Scope Bisexuality, in a broad sense, refers to an attraction—whether emotional, romantic, or physical—toward both men and women. Within Scripture, sexual ethics are generally framed around the created male-female union, and sexual conduct outside that structure is often addressed in moral teachings. For the question at hand—whether bisexuality is considered a sin—most discussions will focus on whether same-sex acts, desires, or relationships as described in the Bible extend to those who experience attraction to both sexes. Because Scripture tends to address any same-sex behavior rather than orientation labels, the central question becomes: in the Bible’s teachings, are same-sex relations, no matter a person’s orientation, permissible? Foundational Principles of Biblical Sexuality Scripture repeatedly affirms marriage as a covenant union between one man and one woman (Genesis 2:24). “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife,”. This lifelong, exclusive relationship undergirds the biblical sexual ethic. Throughout the Old and New Testaments, passages indicate that sexual relations outside the marriage union of one man and one woman run counter to God’s intended design. While the biblical text does not specifically use the term “bisexuality,” it does address sexual relations that deviate from the male-female pattern. Primary Old Testament Passages “You must not lie with a man as with a woman,”. This directive occurs within a broader context of prohibitions, including incest and other forbidden practices (Leviticus 18:6–23). The emphasis is on restricting Israel from following the practices of surrounding nations. The language is broad enough to include any same-sex sexual act, regardless of a person’s broader attractions. “If a man lies with a man as with a woman, both have committed an abomination,”. Again, the context is a legal code establishing moral boundaries for Israel. The penalty (unique to ancient Israel’s theocracy) underscores the severity with which these actions were viewed in that societal covenant. While these passages do not directly use modern-day language such as bisexuality, they describe same-sex behavior in comprehensive terms. Conservative interpreters often see no distinction between a person who exclusively experiences same-sex attractions and one who experiences those attractions alongside heterosexual ones. In both contexts, active same-sex behavior is disapproved. Primary New Testament Passages This passage addresses a turning away from God’s design, stating: • Verse 26: “God gave them over to dishonorable passions,”. • Verse 27: “Men also abandoned natural relations with women and burned with lust for one another,”. Both verses focus on same-sex acts as resulting from turning away from God. There is no distinction made regarding one’s orientation or whether the person also has opposite-sex attractions. This text lists various forms of sin, which include “wrongdoers, idolaters, adulterers,” and terms referring to homosexual behavior. The passage pairs these behaviors with others like theft, greed, and drunkenness, emphasizing a broader theme of rescue from sin rather than isolated condemnation of any one category. Similar to Corinthians, it connects homosexual acts with other sins in a vice list. These lists place same-sex behavior under the umbrella of disobedience to God’s moral law. In these verses from Romans, 1 Corinthians, and 1 Timothy, there is no separate category for bisexual behavior. The relevant point is that sexual relations between members of the same sex are called sin; having opposite-sex attractions alongside these does not alter how Scripture categorizes the activity. Underlying Theological Reasoning According to Scripture, God’s design for intimacy and marriage is woven into creation (Genesis 1–2). This design serves multiple purposes: procreation, companionship, and the reflected imagery of covenant faithfulness. In biblical teaching, sexual acts serve as a unifying bond within the confirmed and exclusive male-female relationship. Therefore, sexual behavior that departs from this framework—whether homosexual, bisexual, or extramarital heterosexual—falls outside biblical guidelines. Biblically speaking, the focus is often not on labeling the orientation, but rather on whether one’s sexual actions align with God’s revealed pattern. Hence, a person with bisexual inclinations could, in biblical terms, choose to abstain from all same-sex relationships, adhering to the equal call to holiness placed upon those with any range of attractions. Points of Clarification and Pastoral Considerations 1. Orientation vs. Action Many interpret the Bible as distinguishing between involuntary feelings and voluntary acts. While Scripture addresses desires (James 1:14–15) and encourages believers to bring all thoughts into submission to God (2 Corinthians 10:5), it is the act—physical expression of these desires—that is explicitly defined in the Bible as sin where same-sex relations are concerned. 2. Call to Repentance and Redemption Throughout the New Testament, there is an emphasis on transformation and hope: • 1 Corinthians 6:11: “And that is what some of you were,”. This points to a God who redeems people from various backgrounds. Whether one identifies as homosexual, bisexual, or heterosexual but engaged in sexual sin, Scripture points to the possibility of forgiveness and renewal through faith in Christ. 3. Love, Truth, and Grace While many biblical passages speak strongly against same-sex activity, they also stress the importance of kindness and humility toward all individuals. Believers are exhorted not to be harsh or hateful. The imperative is to speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and demonstrate concern for the well-being of everyone as fellow image-bearers of God. 4. Pastoral Care Practically, many church communities will counsel individuals regarding steps toward sexual purity and moral living. Such guidance typically includes prayer, seeking godly counsel, accountability relationships, and support from fellow believers. Conclusion From a traditional reading of Scripture, all forms of same-sex practice—whether by those who identify as gay, bisexual, or any variation thereof—are regarded as outside the created design of male-female marriage. The biblical witness indicates that sexual relationships are to be reserved for the exclusive, covenant union of husband and wife, and that same-sex acts, including those by a person who also experiences heterosexual attraction, are considered sinful. Nevertheless, the Christian message also speaks of grace, hope, and transformation for any who seek alignment with God’s will, trusting in the redeeming work of Christ. This perspective stresses that the ultimate call is for all people—regardless of their attractions—to live in faithful relationship with God, finding fulfillment and purpose in Him. Salvation, the Bible teaches, is found in Jesus Christ, who offers love and redemption to all who turn to Him in faith. |
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