by legaata on July 14th, 2010

legaata

Poll

Help answer this question below.

Do you consider homosexuality to be a sin/ wrongdoing?

Do you consider sexual relations with more than one person without marriage to be a sin/ wrongdoing?

Embed

Answers. 255 helpful answers below.

  • by Anonymous on November 18th, 2010
    voted: No

    Anonymous

    A "Sin" is given definition by the user of the word. In this case, I say, no.
    If there is a God, and he is omnipotent, and created all life, including homosexuals, then I figure God must be a little homosexual himself.

    • Like
    • Report

    50 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by The Chief on November 19th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    The Chief

    People may argue about this all they wish, and indeed probably will do so ad nauseum.

    "Sin" is a transgression of a moral or religious law, most especially a deliberate transgression. It also may be defined as "being shameful, deplorable, or utterly wrong".

    Source:
    http://www.thefreedictionary.com/Sin

    Since this debate is posted under "Life and Society" and not "Religion", my answer will take into account both secular and religious aspects. But "sin" is primarily a word which reflects religious overtones.

    In the secular world, what is defined as "wrong" is codified in secular laws. This is, essentially, the source of guidance for a given society. Granted, the entire make up of the society goes into making those laws, including the religious beliefs of those within the society. But the laws themselves are supposed to be relatively independent of "religious basis". So, if the secular laws make homosexuality, and homosexual acts, illegal, then they are "sins" in that respect.

    But secular laws are subject to man's discretion, and as such the laws may be changed with regards to what is and is not illegal. Therefore, secular laws may be changed with respect to homosexuality such that it is no longer a "sin" in the eyes of the civil law.

    However, religion is NOT the same. What constitutes a "sin" is predicated on the religion one is talking about. And, since religious edicts on what constitutes a "sin" is supposed to be based on an authority which is immutable by man, then there is nothing man can do to change that.

    So, if one's religious scriptures which are accepted as being based on the "Word of God" define homosexuality, or acts of homosexuality, as a "sin" against God, then it IS a sin.

    And there is nothing man may do to change that.

    One may research the meanings and circumstances of the ancient words and society in an effort to provide clarification on such matters, and indeed this is what Rick Brentlinger did. But one should be exceedingly careful about such efforts and ensure that the goal is accuracy, and not an effort to simply support one's point of view, whether about this topic or any other.

    My personal view on this matter?

    In most religions I can think of, homosexuality IS a sin. It is clearly defined in their scriptures and I have yet to see any valid argument otherwise, including Rick Brentlinger's.

    But homosexuality isn't the "be-all" of sins. In fact, it's only one of hundreds of sins I could name. And ANY sin is an abhorrence in the eyes of God, from disrespecting one's parents to murder.

    None of which excuses people from acting like civil human beings towards one another, including homosexuals.

    So, for those who would espouse hatred and violence against homosexuals, perhaps they should remember what Jesus said about letting those who have not sinned cast the first stone.

    • Like
    • Report

    14 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by Anonymous on November 19th, 2010
    voted: No

    Anonymous

    The Bible isn't real. The love you feel for another human being is real.

    • Like
    • Report

    4 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by Christine on November 19th, 2010
    voted: No

    Christine

    God created everyone to be who they are. Homosexual behavior is only sinful for heterosexuals, not homosexuals. Marriage is a good thing, and should be available to every couple who wants it.

    • Like
    • Report

    45 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by my2cents--Vote for Paul on November 19th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    my2cents--Vote for Paul

    The Bible is very clear that homosexual sex is sin.
    Gen 19:5 They called to Lot, "Where are the men who came to you tonight? Bring them out to us so that we can have sex with them."

    Lev 18:22 Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it [is] abomination.

    Lev 20:13 If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood [shall be] upon them.

    1 Cor 9-10 9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God Be not deceived neither fornicators nor idolaters nor adulterers nor effeminate nor abusers of themselves with mankind 10Nor thieves nor covetous nor drunkards nor revilers nor extortioners shall inherit __ the kingdom of God

    1 Tim 1:9 9realizing the fact that law is not made for a righteous person, but for those who are lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers 10and immoral men and homosexuals and kidnappers and liars and perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound teaching,

    Romans 1:26-27 26Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. 27In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.

    The Bible defines sin as going against God's law. Using the word "Sin" put it into the category of what does the Bible tell us. The above verses tell us that homosexual sex is a sin. Not any worse than any other sin that goes unrepented for. Some people may have a tendency to feel that they are born that way. Just as some people are born with a tendency to become an alcoholic, or more violent. We all have temptations we must not give in to them whatever they are.

    • Like
    • Report

    25 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by Im Alec has abandoned this account on November 19th, 2010
    voted: No

    Im Alec has abandoned this account

    It is a sin only by the doctrine of particular religions. Ir you believe a particular religion, and that religion preaches against homosexuality, then you personally have a problem if you find that you are a homosexual. But religion should be a personal matter: no-one should force their religious beliefs on anyone else. So you should not force other people to conform to your religious beliefs. If other people who do not share your religious beliefs are homosexual, and choose to practice their homosexuality in a consensual manner, it is none of your business that they do so, and it is not in the public sense (as opposed to the private religious sense) a sin.

    • Like
    • Report

    8 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by rancherjolly on November 18th, 2010
    voted: No

    rancherjolly

    I say no because isnt god supposed to love and accept everyone? and didnt he make us the way we are. in that case he made homosexual people that way for a reason that we will never know... its sad that people just cant accept other people for who they are still in 2010. Btw im a Straight teen and i think its way nicer to accept people for who they are. its very hard to hate but very easy to love.

    • Like
    • Report

    8 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by Matt1969 on November 19th, 2010
    voted: No

    Matt1969

    it's interesting that almost as many people voted yes as no, but that all but one of the written answers voted no. And the one yes vote who wrote, never said WHY it's a sin.

    Anyone who ever tries to say why its a sin ends up quoting the bible (a good way to avoid thinking and coming up with your own reasons), or just saying something like "it's disgusting! you're all sick!".

    But I've never come across a convincing reason why it's wrong to have sex in the way that you want to, the way that feels right. So it seems to me that people who think that homosexuality is a sin have something wrong with their brains (they are unable to use them, at least for this question). Like children, they cannot give reasons for their belief. They believe with pure emotion, no logic at all.

    The two reasons I believe it is NOT a sin:

    1. The only sins in this world involve a violation of the golden rule. If 2 homosexuals are bringing each other pleasure, they are each doing to someone else as they would have done unto them! (well, technically, they're not doing the EXACT same thing, one is usually catching and the other pitching, but you get the idea! They are both willing and enjoying)

    2. It is unfair that a straight person can enjoy sex and not worry that the type of sex he is having, the type he/she enjoys, is sinful. They are not making any greater effort than a gay person, he/she is simply doing what feels right. This sets it up so that a gay person must live a life of deprivation and desperation in order to not sin, while a straight person can be fulfilled and happy. It is unfair, which cannot be the basis of sin.

    Sometimes I think that when people say gay sex is a sin, they actually mean it's unattractive or "yucky" to them. They need to learn to distinguish between those two things. I find sushi and hard boiled eggs to be disgusting but not sinful (unless you make me watch you eat them!)

    • Like
    • Report

    3 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by Coexist on November 18th, 2010
    voted: No

    Coexist

    It happens in nature.

    So unless natural processes are considered a sin, my answer's "No."

    • Like
    • Report

    18 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by KilroyWasHere on November 20th, 2010
    voted: No

    KilroyWasHere

    Dear Strict Constructionists of the Bible:

    Thank you for doing so much to educate people regarding God's Law. I
    have learned a great deal from your show, and try to share that
    knowledge with as many people as I can. When someone tries to defend
    the homosexual lifestyle, for example, I simply remind them that
    Leviticus 18:22 clearly states it to be an abomination. End of debate.

    I do need some advice from you, however, regarding some of the other
    specific laws and how to follow them.

    1. When I burn a bull on the altar as a sacrifice, I know it creates a
    pleasing odor for the Lord - Lev.1:9. The problem is my neighbors.
    They claim the odor is not pleasing to them. Should I smite them?

    2. I would like to sell my daughter into slavery, as sanctioned in
    Exodus 21:7. In this day and age, what do you think would be a fair
    price for her?

    3. I know that I am allowed no contact with a woman while she is in
    her period of menstrual cleanliness - Lev.15:19-24. The problem is,
    how do I tell? I have tried asking, but most women take offence.

    4. Lev. 25:44 states that I may indeed possess slaves, both male and
    female, provided they are purchased from neighboring nations. A friend
    of mine claims that this applies to Mexicans, but not Canadians. Can
    you clarify? Why can't I own Canadians?

    5. I have a neighbor who insists on working on the Sabbath. Exodus
    35:2 clearly states he should be put to death. Am I morally obligated
    to kill him myself?

    6. A friend of mine feels that even though eating shellfish is an
    abomination - Lev. 11:10, it is a lesser abomination than
    homosexuality. I don.t agree. Can you settle this?

    7. Lev. 21:20 states that I may not approach the altar of God if I
    have a defect in my sight. I have to admit that I wear reading
    glasses. Does my vision have to be 20/20, or is there some wiggle room
    here?

    8. Most of my male friends get their hair trimmed, including the hair
    around their temples, even though this is expressly forbidden by Lev.
    19:27. How should they die?

    9. I know from Lev. 11:6-8 that touching the skin of a dead pig makes
    me unclean, but may I still play football if I wear gloves?

    10. My uncle has a farm. He violates Lev. 19:19 by planting two
    different crops in the same field, as does his wife by wearing
    garments made of two different kinds of thread (cotton/polyester
    blend). He also tends to curse and blaspheme a lot. Is it really
    necessary that we go to all the trouble of getting the whole town
    together to stone them? - Lev.24:10-16. Couldn.t we just burn them to
    death at a private family affair like we do with people who sleep with
    their in-laws? (Lev.20:14)

    I know you have studied these things extensively, so I am confident
    you can help. Thank you again for reminding us that God's word is
    eternal and unchanging.

    • Like
    • Report

    4 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by Donald_M on November 19th, 2010

    Donald_M

    There is no debate, this ia truly amazing to me... The word of God says this:

    Leviticus 18:22 -- 22 “‘Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable.



    Romans 1:26-28

    26 Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural sexual relations for unnatural ones. 27 In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed shameful acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their error.

    28 Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done.

    1 Corinthians 6:9

    9 Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men[a]

    Footnotes:
    1 Corinthians 6:9 The words men who have sex with men translate two Greek words that refer to the passive and active participants in homosexual acts.



    It's not individuals who are saying this... They are telling you what the Word of God says. If you choose not to believe in God or not to serve Him, that is you're right. But how dare you try to change what it says, it's clear. It doesn't matter what you think, none of us are fit to decide what is righteous or unrighteous; only God is fit to decide.

    Isaiah 55:8-9
    8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
    neither are your ways my ways,”
    declares the LORD.
    9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth,
    so are my ways higher than your ways
    and my thoughts than your thoughts.

    This debate is fruitless, what the Lord has declared he has declared and that will not change.

    True Children of God do not hate nor dislike homosexuals though, they hate/dislike the sin and don't seek to judge anyone who is afflicted with these unnatural effections. I support your freedom of choice, but I will not lie to you about what the word of God says. You have to know the truth, if you choose this life style and choose not to change you will be judged by God according to His word. If you want prayer or desire to know anything else about the Word of God I would be more than happy to help.

    God bless you all.

    • Like
    • Report

    3 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by The Best Missionary on November 20th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    The Best Missionary

    Whatever rationalizations or justifications we have in this life, particularly the issue of homosexuality, the gospel of Jesus Christ will never be altered by any human philosophy. They may claim that homosexuality is not a sin and give much reasoning for it, but we know the basic principles taught by the gospel pure and simple: that homosexuality is wrong and any homosexual activity is not pleasing in the eyes of the Lord.

    • Like
    • Report

    1 comment | Post one | Permalink

  • by PinkFloydLover on November 18th, 2010
    voted: No

    PinkFloydLover

    if it is a sin then jesus is one messed up guy.

    • Like
    • Report

    14 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by Tamilze on November 18th, 2010
    voted: No

    Tamilze

    Of course it isn't.

    • Like
    • Report

    No comments. Post one | Permalink

  • by PrestorJohn on November 4th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    PrestorJohn

    Even though i think homosexuality is a sin, I want to say that everyone sins. No one is innocent. And I also wish to say that homosexuals do not go to hell just for being homosexual. I'm sure there may be some homosexuals going to an unpleasant place, but its not only for that reason! If people are truly Christian, they should desire for all people to be happy, regardless of their faith or sexual preference. However, that doesn't give anyone the right to try and change a divinely appointed institution. Marriage should only be between a man and a woman. God made it so in the Garden of Eden. And it doesn't matter how we vote on it. Would the law of gravity change if we took a vote on it? No. Marriage should be treated the same way. It is a law and should not be changed, neither should it be abused by all the heterosexuals out there! Divorce rate is over 50% people! Get your freakin act together!

    • Like
    • Report

    45 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by Isaac on December 20th, 2009
    voted: No

    Isaac

    Depends how you define "Sin".

    If "Sin" means it's a crime, then NO since a 'crime' is something we as humans made up, and human sex without the intenstion to reproduce is rightly perfectly legal, no matter the genders.

    If "Sin" a crime against nature, then NO since there are thousands of species of animal that partake in this perfectly natural phenomenon. (See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homosexual_behavior_in_animals )

    If "Sin" means something religious, it has no ground in reality and completely worthless so it doesn't matter one way or the other.

    There is absolutly nothing wrong with homosexuality whatsoever, and there are absolutly no logically valid agruements aginst it; only "My imaginary friend doesn't like it" and "People only have sex to reporduce, therefore homosexuality is wrong" which are terribly invalid.

    • Like
    • Report

    5 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by msminnamouse on November 22nd, 2010
    voted: No

    msminnamouse

    If it wasn't for the bible telling people what to think, I bet a lot less people would be voting "Yes" for this question.

    As for other people who are capable of thinking for themselves, they just don't like gay people but use the bible and God as an excuse to cover up their own bigotry.

    • Like
    • Report

    1 comment | Post one | Permalink

  • by Anonymous on November 21st, 2010
    voted: Yes

    Anonymous

    Just because God created us does not mean that homosexuality is good. You say it is natural but so is disease and genetic deformity. Not all 'natural' things are good. The truth is that we are all born with some kind of weakness and there is a purpose to it all. Overcoming a weakness makes us strong. Homosexual animals? Even if there are, that does not make it OK for humans to engage in it. It just means that whatever goes wrong in the womb when a baby is being formed which causes it to develop or not develop properly can also happen in animals. There is no doubt about it, God does not want his children engaging in homosexual activity neither does he want them to engage in sin. I do not believe there is any such thing as a gay person, only a person who is missing something in the genes or hormones or whatever makes a person develop properly and this causes them to feel same sex attraction. There are many forms of deformity and not all of them are obvious from the outside, some effect our hormones and sexual attraction. I admire EugeneEls because although he admits he feels same sex attraction and engages in homosexual sex he knows it is not right or meant to be that way. At least he is honest both with himself and with God. I don't think you will burn in hell Eugene, I think there will be forgiveness there for you and great joy in that day. YOU are not an abomination in the eyes of God only the 'action' is the abomination. God loves you and if you do seek Him He will make a way for you to come to Him. Jesus judges only the sin and does not judge the sinner. That is what a lot of people miss. He may love us all but He does not condone the sins we commit. That's what the sacrifice was for. He paid the penalty so that if we accept Him we don't have to. God bless all those who earnestly seek the truth.

    • Like
    • Report

    1 comment | Post one | Permalink

  • by VoidBunny on November 18th, 2010
    voted: No

    VoidBunny

    People need to quit using the bible as an excuse to control others.
    Humans are animals, even though we'd like to think of ourselves as "above" the rest just because a book says so or because we can.
    And certain animals are prone to homosexual behavior. As long as it does not hurt anyone, I would never see it as a "sin."

    • Like
    • Report

    1 comment | Post one | Permalink

  • by Temporary Name on November 18th, 2010
    voted: No

    Temporary Name

    NO! only stupid inbred americans can have a weird kink in their brain like that.

    • Like
    • Report

    2 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by bassie on November 18th, 2010
    voted: No

    bassie

    You know in which way the USA and Muslim countries are exactly the same? It are the only places in the world were people are so stupid to call things a "sin" and where people actually are afraid of gay people.
    I cannot believe people can be so big-oted and mid-evil in their thoughts!

    • Like
    • Report

    No comments. Post one | Permalink

  • by sharpjwe on November 22nd, 2010
    voted: No

    sharpjwe

    how can i sin
    as i am gay and atheist
    no god no religion .
    those who have a religion should love all .
    if you use a religion for hate do not even ask me to respect you or you religion.

    • Like
    • Report

    No comments. Post one | Permalink

  • by versute on November 20th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    versute

    A sin is a sin, regardless of the number of people who participate in the sin. The devil is loving the sophistry coming from the pro-gay movement. "How can love between two people be a sin??" they say, but a sin is anything that goes against God's best. Sin is "missing the mark". Physical sexual relations between two persons of the same sex is not God's best, and was not His intention when He created men and women. Ignorance or not, homosexuality is a grave sin, and stinks in the nostrils of God Almighty. Like it or not.

    • Like
    • Report

    1 comment | Post one | Permalink

  • by Sodapop on November 20th, 2010
    voted: No

    Sodapop

    Sin has no moral bearing on who I am. An organization drowning in the blood of its followers and hypocricy of its practices thinks it has the right to say what is right and wrong.

    How much violence are homosexuals responsible for and how many years has the Vatican among other religions subjugated the people to its own will.

    I don't believe in sin. The people using the term are more often the ones with skeletons in their closet.

    • Like
    • Report

    3 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by PIXAPD on November 20th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    PIXAPD

    ALL 'unrighteousness is sin'

    • Like
    • Report

    No comments. Post one | Permalink

  • by PIXAPD on November 20th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    PIXAPD

    NO HOMOSEXUAL SHALL INHERIT THE KINGDOM OF GOD.....SODOMITES, KATAMITES, LESBIANS.....NONE SHALL INHERIT.....NO SODOMITE IS A CHRISTIAN....NO KATAMITE IS A CHRISTIAN....NO LESBIAN IS A CHRISTIAN

    THE HOLY BIBLE; GOD DECLARES HOMOSEXUALITY IS AN ABOMINATION http://didachehomepage.freewebpages.org/richard-2782/abom.htm

    • Like
    • Report

    5 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by tbonee on November 19th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    tbonee

    I will deal with the seven flaw arugments due that is the whole of the no side

    . God created Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve. This argument says God will only bless marriages exactly like Adam and Eve, although God never makes that assertion in the Bible. For example, only two chapters after Adam and Eve, we discover a polygamous marriage in Genesis 4:19—one man with two women.

    I fail to see how this one proves it is not a sin and this is a good article about it.

    http://www.gotquestions.org/Cains-wife.html


    2. Genesis 19 proves that God destroyed Sodom for the sin of homosexuality. This argument collapses when we notice that although the Bible mentions Sodom 48 times, it never mentions homosexuality in the context of any of those 48 verses.

    Read more: Is Homosexuality a Sin? | Answerbag Debates http://www.answerbag.com/debates/homosexuality-sin_1855478#ixzz15nL7vZv7

    even if it does not mention homosexual by name does not mean it it is not a sin, you need to ask your self this what was the intent of it being destroyed?



    3. Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13 prove that God hates the sin of homosexuality. This argument ignores the context of "thou shalt not lie with mankind as with womankind." The context is shrine prostitution in worship of Molech and Ashtoreth, his fertility goddess consort (Leviticus 18:3, 21-22; 20:2, 3, 4, 5, 13).

    Read more: Is Homosexuality a Sin? | Answerbag Debates http://www.answerbag.com/debates/homosexuality-sin_1855478#ixzz15nLiwZuq

    What people fail to understand God hated The ways of pagans and Their actions! God is pretty clear in Jeremiah the ways of the pagans so the act of homosexual is wrong in any way.

    Matthew 19:3-12 proves that God only accepts male-female marriage relationships. This argument ignores a clearly stated exception for eunuchs, to Jesus' teaching, which he makes in verses 11-12. Jesus lists three classes of eunuchs who cannot receive his teaching about Adam and Eve marriage. The first class he mentions is "born eunuchs" (individuals born anatomically whole, who have not been physically castrated but who are not inclined toward heterosexual marriage).


    Read more: Is Homosexuality a Sin? | Answerbag Debates http://www.answerbag.com/debates/homosexuality-sin_1855478#ixzz15nNhsNNR

    First Off eunuchs means to be unmarried celibate it dealing with men with no sexual means for anyone.


    5. Romans 1:26-27 proves that God prohibits all homosexual relationships. This argument ignores the historical and religious context in which Roman Christians received Paul's letter. The issue for Paul and for God was prohibiting Christians from engaging in fertility goddess worship, not prohibiting committed, faithful, non-cultic same-sex partnerships.

    Read more: Is Homosexuality a Sin? | Answerbag Debates http://www.answerbag.com/debates/homosexuality-sin_1855478#ixzz15nP4Y834


    if you read romans Paul by no ways limit this to pagan worship but Hom0sexual being unatural it self.

    6 I need not to answer this because so far it is clear that even if it not in 1 cor 6:9 or timothy the intent of homosexual is condmen at being unnatural.

    7.

    Jude 7 proves that God destroyed Sodom because of homosexuality. This argument dies a well-deserved death when we point out that the Greek word for "strange" flesh is heteros, from which we get our English word heterosexual. Jude says the fleshly sin committed by the men of Sodom was heterosexual sin. Had Jude or God intended us to believe that homosexuality was the sin of Sodom, they would have used the Greek word homoios, from which we get our English word homosexual. If homoios had been used, that would have been our textual clue that the sin of Sodom was homosexuality.

    Read more: Is Homosexuality a Sin? | Answerbag Debates http://www.answerbag.com/debates/homosexuality-sin_1855478#ixzz15nQcAjIK

    Some defenders of homosexuality maintain that Jude condemned the men of Sodom—not for their homosexuality—but because they sought to have sexual relations with angels. They base this claim on the use of the expression “strange flesh”: “as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire” (Jude 7, emp. added). The reasoning is that the men of Sodom were guilty of desiring sexual relations with the angelic visitors (Genesis 19:1-5). However, several problems are inherent in this interpretation.

    THE MEANING OF “STRANGE”

    In the first place, the English word “strange” (KJV, NKJV, ASV, NASB) creates a different meaning in the mind of the English reader than what is intended by the Greek word heteros. The term simply means “other, another” (Beyer, 1964, 2:702-704). Moulton and Milligan note “how readily heteros from meaning ‘the other class (of two)’ came to imply ‘different’ in quality or kind” (1930, p. 257; cf. Arndt and Gingrich, 1957, p. 315). Thayer even defined the word as “one not of the same nature, form, class, kind,” giving Jude 7 as an instance of this use (1977, p. 254). However, he did not intend by this definition to imply that the difference extended to angelic flesh, as is evident from his treatment of the verse in his section dealing with sarx (flesh): “to follow after the flesh, is used of those who are on the search for persons with whom they can gratify their lust, Jude 7” (p. 570; cf. p. 449). In their handling of either “strange” or “flesh,” none of these lexicographers offers any support for the connotation of nonhuman or extraterrestrial, i.e., angelic.

    It so happens that eminent Greek scholar A.T. Robertson disputes even the idea that the meaning of heteros extends to the notion of “different.” In his massive and monumental A Grammar of the Greek New Testament, Robertson made the following comment on this term:

    The sense of “different” grows naturally out of the notion of duality. The two things happen just to be different…. The word itself does not mean “different,” but merely “one other,” a second of two. It does not necessarily involve “the secondary idea of difference of kind” (Thayer). That is only true where the context demands it (1934, p. 748, emp. added).

    So the notion of a different nature, form, or kind does not inhere in the word itself. Only contextual indicators can indicate, quite coincidentally, that the “other” being referred to also is different in some additional quality.

    Many English translations of Jude 7 more accurately reflect the meaning of heteros by avoiding the use of the term “strange.” For example, the RSV renders the phrase in question as “indulged in unnatural lust.” The NIV and TEV read: “sexual immorality and perversion.” Moffatt’s translation reads: “vice and sensual perversity.” Goodspeed, Beck, Weymouth, and the Twentieth Century New Testament all have “unnatural vice.” The Simplified New Testament has “homosexuality.” The Jerusalem Bible reads: “The fornication of Sodom and Gomorrah and the other nearby towns was equally unnatural.” Even the Living Bible Paraphrased suitably pinpoints the import of the original in the words, “And don’t forget the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah and their neighboring towns, all full of lust of every kind, including lust of men for other men.”

    Considering the meaning of “strange” in its only occurrences (in English) in the KJV (11 times), NKJV (7 times), ASV (10 times), RSV (6 times), and NIV (5 times), one finds that it never is used to refer to angels, but instead refers to: “strange things” (Luke 5:26—i.e., a miracle); “strange land” (Acts 7:6—i.e., Egypt); “strange gods” (Acts 17:18); “strange things” (Acts 17:20—i.e., ideas); “strange cities” (Acts 26:11—i.e., Gentile or outside Palestine); “strange tongues” (1 Corinthians 14:21—i.e., foreign languages); “strange country” (Hebrews 11:9—i.e., Canaan); “strange doctrines” (Hebrews 13:9); “think it strange” (1 Peter 4:4—i.e., odd); “some strange thing” (1 Peter 4:12—i.e., unusual); and “strange flesh” (Jude 7—i.e., male with male). All the other occurrences of the underlying Greek term in the New Testament further undergird the nonapplication of the term to “angelic flesh” (Moulton, et al., 1978, pp. 392-393).

    Most commentators and language scholars recognize this feature of Jude’s remark, as evinced by their treatment of Jude 7. For example, the New Analytical Greek Lexicon defines heteros in Jude 7 as “illicit” (Perschbacher, 1990, p. 177). Williams identified “strange flesh” as “unnatural vice” (1960, p. 1023). Barclay wrote: “What the men of Sodom were bent on was unnatural sexual intercourse, homosexual intercourse, with Lot’s two visitors. They were bent on sodomy, the word in which their sin is dreadfully commemorated” (1958, p. 218). Alford correctly translated the Greek as “other flesh,” and defined the phrase as “[other] than that appointed by God for the fulfillment of natural desire” (1875, 4:533). Jamieson, et al., defined “going after strange flesh” as “departing from the course of nature, and going after that which is unnatural” (n.d., p. 544). Schneider said the expression “denotes licentious living” (1964, 2:676; cf. Hauck, 1967, 4:646; Seesemann, 1967, 5:292). Macknight said: “They committed the unnatural crime which hath taken its name from them” (n.d., p. 693). Mayor explained, “the forbidden flesh (literally ‘other than that appointed by God’) refers…in the case of Sodom to the departure from the natural use” (n.d., 5:260). Barnes stated: “the word strange, or other, refers to that which is contrary to nature” (1978, p. 392, italics in orig.), and Salmond adds, “a departure from the laws of nature in the impurities practiced” (1958, p. 7).

    The frequent allusion to “nature” and “unnatural” by scholars must not be taken to mean “beyond nature” in the sense of beyond human, and thereby somehow a reference to angels. The same scholars frequently clarify their meaning in unmistakable terms. For example, after defining “strange flesh” as unnatural, Jamieson, Faussett, and Brown add: “In later times the most enlightened heathen nations indulged in the sin of Sodom without compunction or shame” (n.d., p. 544). Alford, likewise, added: “The sin of Sodom was afterwards common in the most enlightened nations of antiquity” (4:533). It is neither without significance nor coincidental that these Bible scholars focus on forms of the word “natural,” in view of the fact that Scripture elsewhere links same-sex relations with that which is “against nature” (Romans 1:26-27) or unnatural—i.e., out of harmony with the original arrangement of nature by God at the Creation (e.g., Genesis 1:27; 2:22; Matthew 19:4-6).

    CONTEXTUAL INDICATORS

    In the second place, beyond the technical meanings and definitions of the words in Jude 7, contextual indicators also exclude the interpretation that the sin of the men of Sodom was not homosexuality but their desire for angelic flesh. Look again at the wording of the verse: “as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them in a similar manner to these….” To what cities does Jude refer? The Bible actually indicates that Sodom and Gomorrah were only two out of five wicked cities situated on the plain, the other three being Zoar, Admah, and Zeboim (Deuteronomy 29:23; Hosea 11:8). Zoar was actually spared destruction as a result of Lot’s plea for a place to which he might flee (Genesis 19:18-22).

    Do the advocates of homosexuality wish to hold the position that the populations of the four cities that were destroyed were all guilty of desiring sexual relations with angels? Perhaps the latest sexual fad that swept over all the cities in the vicinity was “angel sex”? And are we to believe that the great warning down through the ages regarding the infamous behavior of the inhabitants of Sodom—a warning that is repeated over and over again down through the ages to people in many places and periods of history (Deuteronomy 29:23; 32:32; Isaiah 1:9; 3:9; 13:19; Jeremiah 23:14; 49:18; 50:40; Lamentations 4:6; Ezekiel 16:46,49,53,55; Amos 4:11; Zephaniah 2:9; Matthew 10:15; 11:24; Luke 10:12; 17:29; Romans 9:29; 2 Peter 2:6; Revelation 11:8)—is: “Do not have sex with angels!”? How many times have you been tempted to violate that warning? The opportunity presents itself on a regular basis, right? The country is full of “single angel” bars! No, what Barclay labeled as “the glare of Sodom and Gomorrah,” which is “flung down the whole length of Scripture history” (p. 218), is not angel sex! It is same-sex relations—men with men. And, unbelievably, now the very warning that has been given down through the ages needs to be issued to America!

    Additionally, the men of Sodom were already guilty of practicing homosexuality before the angels showed up to pronounce judgment on their behavior. That is precisely why the angels were sent to Sodom—to survey the moral landscape (Genesis 18:21) and urge Lot and his family to flee the city (Genesis 18:23; 19:12-13,15-16). The men of Sodom were pronounced by God as “exceedingly wicked and sinful against the Lord” back at the time Lot made the decision to move to Sodom (Genesis 13:13). Lenski called attention to the Aorist participles used in Jude 7 (i.e., “having given themselves over” and “going after”) as further proof of this fact: “An appeal to Gen. 19:4, etc., will not answer this question, for this occurred [i.e., the Sodomites descending on Lot’s house—DM] when the cup of fornications was already full, when Jude’s two aorist participles had already become facts, on the day before God’s doom descended” (1966, p. 624).

    One final point likewise discounts the claim that the men of Sodom were lusting after angel flesh. The men of Sodom did not know that the two individuals visiting Lot were angels. They had the appearance of “men” (Genesis 18:2,16,22; 19:1,5,8,10,12,16), whose feet could be washed (Genesis 19:2) and who could consume food (Genesis 19:3). The men of Sodom could not have been guilty of desiring to have sexual relations with angels, since they could not have known the men were angels. Even if the men of Sodom somehow knew that the visitors were angels, the impropriety of same-sex relations remains intact—since the angels appeared in the form of males—not females.

    An honest and objective appraisal of Jude 7 provides no support for the homosexual cause. The Bible consistently treats homosexual behavior as sinful.


    http://www.apologeticspress.net/articles/2596

    • Like
    • Report

    4 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by ijahman on November 19th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    ijahman

    There is absolutely no reputable, clear evidence that shows homosexuality is biological or innate. NONE. People argue and quote studies but in the end there is no proof just conjecture. No one can say a person is "made" that way.
    That being said, people argue about animals being "homosexual". When I've been in rural areas, I have noticed many animals who will mate when in heat with the opposite sex. If there is no animal of the opposite sex around they'll hump anything, same-sex, even your leg. My point is,the "it's seen in all of nature" argument seems a little lacking, too.
    People say homosexual behavior is "natural", well it can be argued that stealing and killing are a part of both animal and human nature, too. Animals steal and kill. A Certain percentage of humans have, too, even since the beginning of mankind. Some people refrain from those behaviors, some don't. It is my belief that homosexuality is the same way.
    Interestingly, more and more liberals and LGBT advocates are starting to believe this as well. Their version is said this way "everyone is born bisexual but we are socialized to be heterosexual." More and more support for this viewpoint seems to come from "open-minded" liberal people. However, they would never take the next step to say one should abstain from the same-sex preference. Their viewpoint would be along the lines of "do whatever makes you happy". I would even go so far as to say that some people are socialized to believe the same things about other actions that some people would find deplorable. Stealing makes some people happy. So, they continue to do it. Premarital sex makes some people happy so they continue to do it. Having money makes some people happy so they continue to work. Working out for 3 hours a day makes some people happy so they continue to do it. Killing makes some people happy. It's all just pleasure and pain and society gets to put the label of "right" or "wrong" on our pleasures.

    • Like
    • Report

    5 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by Maria_L7103 on November 19th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    Maria_L7103

    Homosexuality is a grave sin in the eyes of God, and all who do not appose it, or are homosexual, will burn in the fires of hell eternally. You may not believe me, or think I am an idiot for writing this, but just wait till you are on your deathbed. Remember my writing, if you do not change before death beware of burning in the fires of hell forever... After you die!

    • Like
    • Report

    3 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by garion335 on November 19th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    garion335

    Sin can be defined as: acts that violate or are outside of God's will for mankind. As such, there is no question that homosexuality is a sin as the scriptures are abundantly clear on this issue.

    However, many people seem to regard homosexuality as The Sin. Or an unforgiveable sin if you will. They are neglecting the fact that sin is sin. As far as sin goes, homosexuality is no better or worse than gluttony (there's something many Americans are guilty of) or coveting your neighbor's possessions....or jealousy, stealing, dishonesty, etc. But the point is it is useless to judge people. JC said it best: "Let the one without sin cast the first stone."

    • Like
    • Report

    12 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by Great Lakes Shipping Company on November 19th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    Great Lakes Shipping Company

    Scripture says that homosexuality is a sin. For me that's the bottom line. my2cents gave some excellent Scripture references so I won't repeat them here.

    • Like
    • Report

    7 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by Mike_H5161 on November 21st, 2010
    voted: Yes

    Mike_H5161

    Yes, homosexuality is a sin, but, no more of a sin than lying, stealing, fornication, adultery and etc.

    • Like
    • Report

    2 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by Anonymous on November 21st, 2010
    voted: Yes

    Anonymous

    EugeneEls YOU are not an abomination to Jesus. He disapproves of the SIN not the person. When the adulterous woman was brought before him he did not tell her to go on her way. He told her to 'go and sin no more'. So although he loves all of us, including you, he does not necessarily approve of our sins. We all sin, heterosexuals included. You are honest with yourself and with God so I would bet my life on it that you will probably make it to heaven before a lot of pompous so called Christians, Muslims or Jews etc. Humility is a strength that is valuable in the eyes of God. I don't know why God allows for babies to be born with the wrong hormones, but there are many other deformities that people must learn to deal with and overcome. It just means that you have a weakness. I hope that you will find your way to God because I know that He loves us all. God bless all those who earnestly seek the truth.

    • Like
    • Report

    No comments. Post one | Permalink

  • by Fingers on November 20th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    Fingers

    Being a homosexual isn't a sin - it's a mental and/or biological disorder. But homosexual acts are sins and are clearly laid out in the Bible. The argument on the definition of sin is pure BS....much like President Clinton, who when caught with his pants down in the Oval Office, tied to offer in his defense a pathetic response on what the definition of "is" is. And the suggestion that loving God makes it different is pathetic....a bank robber or a murderer can claim to love God, but his actions still make him a sinner. It's really simple if you're really a Christian: sex that is not between a man and a woman is a sin. Period. And even that under some circumstances is sinful.

    • Like
    • Report

    2 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by PocketNut is as sure as a peanut on November 20th, 2010
    voted: No

    PocketNut is as sure as a peanut

    Since I do not believe in the concept of sin, no, if there is a god he is omnipotent, all powerful, nobody could go against his will, therefore being homosexual must be part of gods plan, or god doesn't care, or simply does not exist.
    If I stopped doing everything some religious sect called a sin, I'd have to stop moving and barely eat or drink.
    It's about time people woke up and realised that religion is largely a load of old bollocks.

    • Like
    • Report

    5 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by PIXAPD on November 20th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    PIXAPD

    THE EARLY CHURCH ON HOMOSEXUALITY

    'The Christian man confines himself to the female sex'...Tertullian c. 197
    'The coupling of two males is a very shameful thing'.......Tertullian c. 200

    'Such sins are committed by fornicators, adulterers, abusers of themselves with men, effeminate men, idolaters and murderers'...Oregin c. 245

    'The sin of Sodom is contrary to nature'.....Apostolic Constitutions c. 390
    'The fate of the Sodomites was judgement to those who had done wrong, and instruction to those who hear. The Sodomites had fallen into uncleaness through much luxury. They practiced adultery shamelessly, and they burned with insane love for boys'....Clement of Alexandria c. 195

    'Men play the part of women, and women that of men, contrary to nature. Women are at once both wives and husbands......O miserable spectacle! Horrible conduct !'...Clement of Alexandria c. 195

    "They do not abstain even from males, males with males, committing shocking abominations, outraging all the noblest and comeliest bodies in all sorts of ways'....Athenagoras c. 175

    • Like
    • Report

    1 comment | Post one | Permalink

  • by Anonymous on November 19th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    Anonymous

    The Word of God says it is sin. We all need to repent of whatever the sin is that has us bound. Please read Acts 2:38 which shows us what Jesus meant to "be Born Again" of the water and the Spirit.

    • Like
    • Report

    No comments. Post one | Permalink

  • by Jaheira2016 on November 19th, 2010
    voted: No

    Jaheira2016

    when i saw same gender cows going at it in a field at my friends place i thought it was intresting and nature ignores the law of the bible, a man made book, not a nature made book. no, its not a sin. Some people are born gay, some people are not. Most people hide there true sexual orintation for generations until people got sick of living in lies and not living truly happyness. Plane and simple. Oh yeah, if it was a sin, why did i saw my relative collie try to go at it with the same gender dog?. Most females are more likely to be BI and most gay guys to be gay, not many guys are bi. If your teaching your kids its wrong to be gay, then there would be more suicided young teens that had been bullied by YOUR kids. Gay teens are a higher risk for sucides and 3 of them i already know had already happend. Thank you haters killing these innocent young kids, you did a wonderfull job hating them for no reason.
    God never taught you to hate or discriminate, or couse suicides in young people. He taught you to love thy niebhor, but that is why most christians are bigoted hypercrits. people who accepts people the way they are, and there not hurting anyone like you haters are. plain and simple, and yes, the truth hurts doesnt it.
    Dont bring up the book about adam and eve, that is just a story and there was gay people in the 18th centery, they just had to lie to death, plain and simple.
    Most of you haters arent looking at people as a whole, you are very judgmental people who creates hell for others who wants to live in peace in a free country. I'd rather let people be gay than people carry guns in public places, i dont trust people with guns.
    A gay guy is a girls best friend (kinda a old quot) gay guys dont rape women, couse they have no intrest in females that way, the way there hormones runs (the brain).
    Who cares they cant have kids, they adopt kids who needs homes very bad, i bet most of you haters dont think about all these things, or doesnt have a brain to think for yourselvs.
    I can go on and on about peoples rights to live in peace, same rights as middle class, or any class matter of fact.
    As i was growing up, i see more and more christian hypercrits that ignore the book, what the book teaches and such etc etc.

    • Like
    • Report

    No comments. Post one | Permalink

  • by squeezycheese on November 19th, 2010
    voted: No

    squeezycheese

    OHMYGOD ITS SO WRONG, AND ICKY AND DISGUSTING AND I AM SO INSECURE IT MUST BE A SIN LOLOLOLOLOL AND ITS WRONG BECAUSE MY PASTOR WHO TOUCHES ME SAYS IT IS AND HE IS ALWAYS RIGHT BECAUSE HE HAS A BIG POWERFUL FRIEND WHO SAYS HE IS.
    -__-

    • Like
    • Report

    5 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by emoluv on July 19th, 2010

    emoluv

    no. why should i?

    • Like
    • Report

    2 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by J and B on April 24th, 2011

    J and B

    It ain't just Christians.

    • Like
    • Report

    1 comment | Post one | Permalink

  • by Wiseacre on April 24th, 2011

    Wiseacre

    If god is all, how could it not be bi, straight and gay also?

    • Like
    • Report

    No comments. Post one | Permalink

  • by kimmie349 on November 22nd, 2010
    voted: Yes

    kimmie349

    It is an abomaonation to God!

    • Like
    • Report

    1 comment | Post one | Permalink

  • by Deep Blue C on November 21st, 2010
    voted: No

    Deep Blue C

    For heaven's sake people..why are you still debating this? Let people live their lives the way they want to! no-one is asking you to participate! You live your life your way and let others do the same! What is do discuss?

    • Like
    • Report

    No comments. Post one | Permalink

  • by donfred on November 21st, 2010
    voted: No

    donfred

    I can't believe that there are still people who believe that homosexuality is a lifestyle choice and is sinful.
    It's no more a choice than the colour of your hair or the length of your nose.
    Religion has a lot to answer for in this world.

    • Like
    • Report

    1 comment | Post one | Permalink

  • by naoma on November 20th, 2010
    voted: No

    naoma

    It is a ridiculous notion to call BEING WHAT YOU ARE
    a SIN. I have no religion and have not gone to a
    church since I was 9. All ye who say it is are buying
    into a religious dogma that makes people feel they
    are something AWFUL because they are being who
    they are. GET OVER IT!!!!! I am not gay, but have
    friends who are. Very fine people. Not "sinners."

    • Like
    • Report

    1 comment | Post one | Permalink

  • by Seraphim Shinobi on November 20th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    Seraphim Shinobi

    Sin is a religious concept, in most religions homosexuality is a sin. so i'm going with Yes it is. Do i personally thing it is wrong? No

    • Like
    • Report

    4 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by PIXAPD on November 20th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    PIXAPD

    NO HOMOSEXUAL: SODOMITE, KATAMITE OR LESBIAN IS TO BE ALLOWED INTO THE CHURCH...AND IF FOUND IN THE CHURCH THEY ARE TO BE...'PUT OUT'....UNTIL REPENTANCE....SAME GOES FOR THE WITCH, THE DRUNKS, THE ADULTERERS, LIARS, THIEVES, HERETICS, etc etc. AS GIVEN IN THE EPISTLES

    • Like
    • Report

    2 comments | Post one | Permalink

  • by TAPriceCTR s son is wearing his COAT on November 19th, 2010
    voted: Yes

    TAPriceCTR s son is wearing his COAT

    you need a third option "there is no such thing as sin" because those who do not believe in god can not effectively answer this.
    those who read the bible can only deny it's condemnation of homosexuality the way the greens deny that there is debate.

    • Like
    • Report

    No comments. Post one | Permalink

  • by EugeneEls on November 19th, 2010

    EugeneEls

    What I would like to know is: Is anal sex a sin? Lets forget homosexuality, and lets focus on the sexual acts. I am gay, and I prefer having anal sex, it feels really good, and I'd like to let all straight people know that there is a method we use to clean out.. And it really is clean when cleaned. Excuse me, I don't wanna gross anyone out here, but even though its clean, if I think about it, no matter how much I enjoy it, and no matter how right it seems to me, I still cant deny the fact that its unnatural. I don't see us having gay sex in heaven, neither do I see a golden toilet with a pipe to clean out our asses. And what seems even more unnatural to me is two woman licking each other.. Its very unnatural, and its filthy. And yea, its filthy when we guys stick our privates up a place which is only made for one thing logically. I mean, just because we can stick it up there, doesn't make it natural. Adam could have found many things to stick it up in.. Please excuse my crude expressions, but yea, how do even non believing gay guys see it as natural? Whats even more gross is that allot of gay guys don't even know how to clean out there... So things get quite messy and stinking..

    There is this myth that animals are gay, to those that are going to argue with me about this, please provide one picture that clearly portrays the penis penetrating the anus. Cause I have never seen it. There are no gay animals, we wan't to classify our privates as magnates, depending on what genes we get, that will stipulate which private we will be attracted to. I don't see a difference between gay peoples privates and straight peoples privates, the only difference I see is that they prefer playing with mates that have the same privates as they do.

    Once again, I'm gay, I can NEVER ever ever picture myself with a woman, I wan't to be with my man, I love him, and we have a very meaningful relationship. We also share allot of common grounds with straight couples. So all of that seems so right to me, and I cant find any fault with that. And as much as I find anal sex a turn on and as much as I want it, there is that logic that tells me that that particular hole wasn't made for penetrating.

    On the other hand I wish I could be a follower of Jesus, but I am a abomination to Him. His Word (the Bible) says so very clearly, I don't know how people can deny this? If I say a coca cola can is red, do you get what I'm saying? But humans always try to find a way to justify their deeds, and will argue with me, and tell me, "excuse me, but did you see the white coca cola writing"? Then I try and tell them yes, but the can is still red, to which they reply: "Did you read the fine print"? "Did you tase the coce"? to which i reply, yes, i did, but i wasnt talking about that, im trying to point out the fact that the can is red. And so people will avoid this fact. If you believe in the God of the Bible, well, then all you have is the Bible to teach you of Him, and if you believed He is a almighty God, then of course you'd at least believe that He would preserve His word, we are talking about a God that can resurrect people and move mountains, how can you not believe that He cant even reserve His word? And you want to tell me your a Christian? Not a chance. So ya, there is no way to argue around the corners with me. so please, if someone comments on my comment, don't try and convince me that people have more power over Gods word that they changed it. I believe that whats written in there is the truth, I have no doubt, and at least I understand english well enough to know that God said its wrong. So please define this: One man shall not lay with another man as with a woman? If you want to tell me that it is just laying, well then lets not even go near sex, that means they cant even lie down together. Common people, we aint stupid here, dont make things complex, the Bible is plain and simple.

    Excuse me for going off the subject, but ya, basically I know what I believe, and I can read what a simple sentence says. I dont claim to be a Christian, however, I do believe, but I do not practice, and yea, I dealt with the fact that I'm going to die in hell. But yea, my question to gay people like me is, can you admit the fact that its unnatural to stick ure willy up a poop hole? Its really logical.

    • Like
    • Report

    4 comments | Post one | Permalink

Want to attach an image to your answer? Click here.

Did this answer your question? If not, then ask a new question or create a poll.

You're reading Do you consider homosexuality to be a sin/ wrongdoing? - which can also be phrased in the following ways:

  • Is Homosexuality a Sin?
  • is homosexuality a sin.?
  • Christians: Do you think homosexuality is a sin?

Follow us on Facebook!

Related Ads

ANSWERBAG BUZZ

Wrongdoings to those who are homosexual
Youtube homosexuals find christ
Everyone knows homosexuality is a sin
Which countries consider homosexuality a sin
Hebrew suitable helper disproves homosexuality