Being gay is not a sin

This collection of scripture was compiled by several members of our congregation whose LGBTQ family members have experienced hurt and rejection from people who told them that God condemned them because of who they were. Our goal is to highlight some of the many messages of love and inclusion that are in the Bible, and to help people consider the original meaning of the passages that have been used to condemn LGBTQ people sometimes called the "clobber verses".

Same-Sex Attraction

Paul built his theological argument on the Jew-Greek distinction, but then extended it to the slave-free distinction and the male-female distinction. Christians — no matter which church they belong to — should follow Paul and extend it to the heterosexual-homosexual distinction.

Paul knew about mutual same-sex relationships, and the ancients knew of homosexual orientation. I urge readers to familiarize themselves with this research. Loader is the most prominent expert on ancient and biblical views of sexuality, having written five large and two small volumes in his lifetime.

As a community of Church members, Latter-day Saints should create a welcoming environment. Those who experience same-sex attraction or identify as gay can fully participate in the Church. These members may receive Church callings, hold temple recommends, and receive temple ordinances if they are worthy.