In reply to Kristen.

Hi Kristen:

The question you raise is how to interpret the Bible. Basically, there are three kinds of Old Testament law that we need to understand, and also understand how the New Testament treats each kind.

First, there is the moral law. This is summed up by the Ten Commandments. Included in this is the commandment against sexual sin. Based on Jesus' words in Mt. 5:17-19, Christians understand that the moral law is still in effect today. Jesus did not come to abolish the moral law, or do away with it completely. Later in the New Testament, examples of the ongoing nature of the moral law abound. This includes the teaching against homosexuality and even against homosexual marriage. Mt. 19:4-6 is where Jesus upholds the Scriptural teaching that marriage is only between one man and one woman.

Second, there is the ceremonial law. This refers to the worship life of the Old Testament and the unique holiness laws of the Old Testament. The ceremonial law is fulfilled, and no longer applies. We no longer offer animal sacrifices, etc. It is all fulfilled in Jesus' death and priesthood.

Third, there is the civil law. This includes laws regulating the political entity of the Israelites in their context. The civil law not only refers to things like zoning regulations and borders, but also to penalties for breaking the law (such as the stoning of adulterers). The New Testament provides proof that the Old Testament civil laws no longer apply to Christians too.

And that's why we can and must say that homosexuality, as recognized by the New Testament, is still sinful against the moral law, even though we do not advocate the stoning of adulterers or other such things. Yet we also recognize that homosexuality is not the unforgivable sin, and offer the saving Gospel to all who are affected by same-sex attraction. Christ was tempted in all ways, just like us, but His blood was shed for all sinners too. Ultimately, that's what the Lutheran Church upholds: Christ for all sinners. In Him is life, and that includes for you too.

In Christ,
Rev. Robert Mayes
Beemer, NE