Expert: Tom Smith - 4/16/2009

Question
I have a question, to be clear, not from a legal perspective but your opinion and thoughts both pragmatic/secular and scriptural, regarding same sex marriage.

Personally I disagree with same sex marriage (civil unions, religious unions, etc) because, pragmatically, we are formed in the womb with a preponderance of X or Y chromosomes which makes us male or female and imbues us with male or female tendencies.

I have also noted certain psychological dynamics in the backgrounds of homosexuals such as the absence or insufficient interaction with a father role model. Not that this is the sole causation of homosexual tendencies but I have noted that it seems to be a prevalent theme in those who are homosexual.

Also, to be clear, I am not talking about ostracizing, bashing, discriminating, etc., against any group of people but merely looking at what is natural and what is not, what is scriptural and what is not.

I am interested in hearing your opinions both scriptural and secular on this.

Thank you!  

Answer
My opinion is that nature - the human body - alone tells us that man and woman are meant to be together, not two persons of the same sex. From a Biblical perspective, there is a great deal which speaks against homosexuality. I could provide a lengthy list, but these are readily available with a quite web search. That being said, the conclusion must be that same sex marriage is contrary to both nature and the Bible.

What should the reaction of those who are in Christ be? I would suggest that two things:

1) As much as I disagree with homosexuality, scripture tells us that this is a sin, no more and no less than any other. Likewise, homosexuals are no more sinners than the rest of mankind. Lastly, Jesus died on the cross for homosexuals and for heterosexuals therefore putting things in perspectives, our first consideration must be for their salvation. As has been seen time and time again, without the help of the Holy Spirit, we are unlikely to see change. Further, our primary concern must be for their eternity.

2) That being said, while I strongly oppose same sex marriage for the reasons given, the existence of it does not in any way take away from from my commitment to Christ or my marriage, so while I will oppose it, and vote against it should the opportunity arise, I will keep the perspective given in item (1).

Bottom line, we should not create barriers between homosexuals and Christians, rather we need to make them aware of Christ's love for them regardless of the condition in which they come to Him.