What does Scripture say about same-sex attraction and identity? How can Christians faithfully understand Scripture and apply it in their cultural interactions and engagement? In this video, Sam Allberry explains what Scripture says about same-sex attraction and identity. Allberry points out that many employ the term ‘gay’ to specifically describe their identity and lifestyle – who they are and what they enjoy. However, Alberry notes that feelings are not an individual’s primary identity. Allberry encourages Christians to never identify others or their character based solely on their feelings.
- Identity and Lifestyle
- Feelings are Not the Identity
What Does the Bible Say About Same-Sex Attraction and Identity?
Yeah, I use the language of “same-sex attraction”, because in my experience, people often use the word, gay, where I come from, to refer to their identity, their lifestyle, who they are. I prefer “same-sex attractions” ’cause I think it’s less loaded. It may be different in different places, but it describes the feelings. It is not attempting to identify the person by those feelings, and I think that’s quite a key distinction.
Sam Allberry is a pastor, apologist, and speaker. He is the author of 7 Myths About Singleness, Why Does God Care Who I Sleep With?, and, most recently, What God Has to Say About Our Bodies. He is in the process of moving to the United States to join the staff at Immanuel Nashville, is a Canon Theologian for the Anglican Church in North America, and is the co-host (with Ray Ortlund) of TGC’s podcast You’re Not Crazy: Gospel Sanity for Young Pastors.
