To the LGBTQIA+ community:

If you ever face religious attacks that attempt to use scripture as a weapon, please know that you are not alone, and there are compassionate, well-informed answers to these arguments. Here is a thoughtful breakdown of commonly cited passages, along with context and insights to help you navigate these discussions with grace and confidence.

On Matthew 7:1-3 – “We Can Cherry-Pick Scripture All Day”

This passage reminds us of the importance of humility and self-reflection:

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?”

This verse cautions against hypocrisy and emphasizes that judgment belongs to God, not humans. It invites us all to examine our own hearts before casting judgment on others.

On 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 – The Importance of Translation and Context
Two Greek words in this passage, “malakoi” and “arsenokoitai,” are often mistranslated to condemn h##osexuality. However, scholarly research highlights that these words likely referred to specific practices in the ancient world, such as temple prostitution and exploitative relationships. They do not address loving, consensual same-sex relationships as we understand them today.

The Bible was written in specific cultural and historical contexts, and translations can sometimes carry biases.

On Romans 1:18-26 – A Larger Theological Argument
This passage is part of Paul’s broader discussion about humanity’s need for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul critiques idolatry and its consequences, describing behaviors he associates with rejecting God. However, his focus is not on condemning specific actions but on illustrating the universal need for God’s grace.

The central message of Romans is not judgment but salvation for all through faith. It’s a reminder of God’s love for humanity, not a weapon for exclusion.

On Leviticus 18:22 – The Holiness Code
The Holiness Code in Leviticus was written for the ancient Israelites to set them apart from other nations. Leviticus 18 includes prohibitions on practices like incest, adultery, bestiality, and same-sex relations between men. However, it is important to note that:

These laws were part of a specific covenant with the Israelites.
Many of the regulations, such as prohibitions against wearing mixed fabrics (Leviticus 19:19) or getting tattoos (Leviticus 19:28), are not observed by most Christians today.

It’s inconsistent to cherry-pick verses from Leviticus to condemn LGBTQIA+ individuals while ignoring others. The message of Jesus supersedes these ancient purity laws, emphasizing love and compassion.

On Jesus’ Greatest Commandments – Love is Central
Jesus himself summarized all of the law and the prophets with two commandments:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37-39)

If someone uses scripture to spread hate or judgment, remind them of Jesus’ ultimate message: love. Love is the foundation of faith, and it excludes no one.

The Bible is a complex and beautiful text, but it has been misused by some to justify exclusion and harm. If you encounter such arguments, remember that:

Context matters. Ancient texts were written in specific cultural and historical settings.

Love is the central theme of the New Testament. Jesus taught us to love God and one another unconditionally.

You are not defined by the misinterpretations of others.