Opening Scripture: John 13:34-35 (NIV)
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Brothers and sisters, today we approach a topic that has been debated for centuries—homosexuality. This subject has caused division within the Church, families, and communities. But as followers of Christ, we must be grounded in love, truth, and tolerance.
Some people believe that faith and tolerance cannot coexist, but Scripture teaches us otherwise. Jesus demonstrated both uncompromising truth and deep compassion. He did not turn people away but welcomed them with open arms.
So how do we, as Christians, approach this issue? How do we uphold our faith while acknowledging that some things may not be within a person’s control? Today, we seek wisdom from God’s Word, not to condemn but to understand how we are called to live in harmony with all people.
1. The Love of Christ is for Everyone
One of the core teachings of Christianity is that God’s love is for all people—no exceptions.
Romans 3:23 (NIV):
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
This verse is often used to point out human imperfection, but it also serves as a reminder that none of us can claim moral superiority. Every one of us struggles with aspects of our nature that we did not choose.
We must remember that God calls us to love—not just those who think and live like us, but everyone.
1 John 4:7-8 (NIV):
“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”
2. What Does the Bible Say About Homosexuality?
It is important to acknowledge that the Bible contains passages that speak against same-sex relationships, including:
- Leviticus 18:22 – A prohibition in the Old Testament Law.
- Romans 1:26-27 – Paul speaks about desires that go against God’s natural order.
- 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 – A list of sins, including sexual sins.
These verses have been used to condemn, but we must also remember the historical and cultural context in which they were written. More importantly, the Bible’s message is not just about rules—it is about grace and understanding.
Many people who experience same-sex attraction have not chosen this for themselves. Modern science and psychology suggest that sexual orientation is not simply a decision, but something deeply ingrained in a person’s identity. If this is something a person cannot change, should they be condemned for it?
Christians must be careful not to use Scripture as a weapon but instead apply it through the lens of Jesus’ love and compassion.
3. Tolerance and Understanding in the Christian Life
While the Bible sets moral guidelines, it also calls us to tolerance, patience, and kindness.
Romans 14:1 (NIV):
“Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters.”
Paul understood that people would have differences in faith and practice, yet he urged believers to live in harmony.
Jesus taught tolerance in His ministry:
- He dined with tax collectors, who were despised.
- He spoke to the Samaritan woman, breaking cultural taboos.
- He defended the woman caught in adultery, offering her a chance at redemption rather than condemnation.
If Jesus, the very Son of God, could show such grace and tolerance, how much more should we?
Some things in life are not within our control, and if homosexuality is one of them, our role as Christians is not to judge but to embrace, support, and walk alongside all people in their spiritual journey.
4. The Call to Holiness is for All Believers
While we acknowledge that people cannot change certain aspects of their identity, God calls all of us to holiness in how we live our lives.
1 Peter 1:15-16 (NIV):
“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”
This means that whether someone is heterosexual or homosexual, we are all called to honor God with our actions, our relationships, and our hearts.
For some, this means choosing celibacy. For others, it means seeking a faithful and committed relationship. Regardless of our personal struggles, grace covers all.
5. How Should Christians Respond?
- With Love, Not Condemnation
- Jesus told us that love is the defining mark of His disciples (John 13:35).
- If our words or actions drive people away from Christ, we are not reflecting His heart.
- With Tolerance, Not Rejection
- We may not always understand someone’s experience, but we can still respect and support them.
- It is not our job to change people—it is God’s.
- With Compassion, Not Fear
- Many LGBTQ+ individuals have faced rejection from Christians.
- Our role is to extend Christ’s arms of grace, not push people away.
- With a Focus on Faith, Not Just Sexuality
- A person’s relationship with Christ is far more important than their sexual orientation.
- Identity is found in Christ, not in labels.
Conclusion: The Greatest Commandment
Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV):
“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.”
If we focus on loving God and loving people, we will be able to navigate difficult conversations with wisdom and grace.
As the Church, our job is not to change people but to welcome them. We are all on a journey, and God is the one who works in our hearts.
The Church should be a sanctuary of love, hope, and belonging—not a place of rejection.
Let us reflect the love of Christ, who welcomed all, embraced the outcasts, and showed us what true faith looks like.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your boundless love. Help us to be people of grace, understanding, and truth. Teach us to love as You love and to extend kindness where there has been rejection. May our Church be a place where all feel welcome and where Your Spirit works in the hearts of every person. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
