There is no more explosive issue in the 21st century than how those who call themselves followers of Jesus relate to homosexuality and homosexuals. This has been an area of tremendous confusion and pain, and for the most part, the church has done a dreadful job in representing Jesus to homosexuals.

In this sermon delivered January 25, 2009, at Vineyard Columbus, Rich Nathan addresses sex and homosexuality from the Biblical perspective of love, grace and hope.

The issue is complex and cannot be resolved by quoting a few Bible verses. The confusion begins at the definition. Is homosexuality defined in terms of sexual orientation, the practice of homosexuality or simply by checking a box to identify oneself as homosexual? Further confusion is generated in the role of the Christian with regard to ideal moral ethics, pastoral care for the individual and participation in public policy. Research on the underlying causes of homosexuality, disputed even within the gay community, also adds to the complexity of the issue.

The Biblical perspective is founded on the understanding that all of God’s creation is meant to point to God. Sex is no different. Nathan looks at scriptures from Genesis 2:18-25 and Ephesians 5:31-32 to reveal the unique purpose of sexuality and sex within an exclusive, faithful, life-long union. In this we find that sex, as with many other areas of creation, is broken and no longer points to God.

Fortunately, Christianity is engineered for the less than perfect. Key phrases from Romans 1:21-31 broaden the scope of Paul’s admonition beyond homosexuality to man’s rebellion against God’s will. With this broader scope we can ask, how is the church to relate to anyone who falls short of the ideal? The strategy for dealing with imperfection in all of us is found in 1 Corinthians 13:8. Love never fails.

The church extends healing to the sexually broken by offering love, grace, community, and hope for change. While some gay rights activists are upset by the notion of being changed or healed, this is what the church offers everyone – not just homosexuals.

Ultimately, the church presents self-denial as the key to living. We say “no” to ourselves so that we can say “yes” to God.

This message is for everyone regardless of sexual orientation or marital status. It provides guidance for the Christ follower and realigned expectations for those who have been harmed by the misrepresentation of Christ. It is the truth of God’s love for all people that brings a promising perspective to this explosive issue.