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How the Bible has been Falsely Taught to Condemn LGBTQ

How the Bible has been Falsely Taught to Condemn LGBTQ

Last updated on: June 12, 2026 at 10:49 am by Robert Cottrell

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How the Bible has been Falsely Taught to Condemn LGBTQ 2026-06-12T10:49:21-05:00 Robert Cottrell

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For decades, many churches have taught that the Bible condemns LGBTQ+ people and same-sex relationships. This teaching has caused immense pain, division, and rejection. It’s time to set the record straight: this condemnation is based on false teaching, mistranslations, and misunderstandings. The truth of Scripture is one of love, inclusion, and no condemnation for LGBTQ+ people or loving same-sex relationships.

The Impact of the 1946 Bible Translation

A major turning point in the condemnation of LGBTQ+ people came with the 1946 Revised Standard Version (RSV) Bible translation. Prior to this, many translations were more literal and nuanced in their handling of certain Greek and Hebrew terms relating to sexual behavior.

The RSV team translated Greek words arsenokoitai and malakoi—words whose exact meanings are debated by scholars—as “homosexuals” or “sodomites.” This was later corrected by the team, but it was too late. It fueled a significant shift that framed these words in a false narrative that has been widely conveyed ever since.

This contributed to misunderstanding and fear, rather than clarity and love.

What the Bible Really Says About These Passages

The truth is, the original biblical texts do not condemn loving, committed same-sex relationships as we understand them today.

Leviticus 18:22 and similar Old Testament laws were part of a specific ancient cultural and religious code and do not translate simply to modern understandings of sexual orientation or consensual relationships.
Romans 1, often cited as condemning homosexuality, is widely recognized by biblical scholars as addressing exploitative or idolatrous behavior, not faithful, loving same-sex relationships.
Other passages traditionally used to condemn LGBTQ+ people, like in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 and 1 Timothy 1:10, use Greek terms that scholars debate in meaning—terms that refer to abuse, exploitation, or particular social sins rather than committed relationships.

Jesus: The Heart of Grace and Inclusion

Not once does Jesus condemn LGBTQ+ people or loving same-sex partnerships. Instead, his ministry consistently challenged religious legalism and exclusion. He reached out to those marginalized by society and invited them into community.

The Apostle Paul, who is often misquoted on this topic, clearly writes in Romans 8:1:

“There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

This powerful promise extends to every person—without exception.

The Spirit’s Fruit Is Love, Not Judgment

Galatians 5 tells us the Spirit’s fruit is love, kindness, gentleness, and patience. When LGBTQ+ people are met with condemnation, the Spirit’s fruit is absent. But when met with acceptance and love, the Spirit’s presence is unmistakable.

The Danger of False Teaching and Fear

False teachings often come from fear, mistranslation, and cultural bias rather than God’s truth, and have a selfish, empire and power building motive attached – such as the Moral Majority or the current political landscape.

When the church teaches condemnation based on misunderstood texts, it moves away from the heart of the gospel—which is radical, unconditional love.

A Call to Re-examine Scripture and Open Our Hearts

We encourage every Christian to prayerfully and openly reexamine these biblical passages. Listen deeply to LGBTQ+ people’s lived experiences.

The Bible does not condemn committed, loving LGBTQ+ relationships. Instead, it calls us to love and welcome all people fully.

A Hopeful Invitation

We walk alongside LGBTQ+ people and their families, sharing a message of hope grounded in the expansive love of God.

Mistranslation and fear-based condemnation are not from God. The true heart of Scripture is love without exception.

May we all live into this truth and help the church become a place where everyone is truly seen, loved, and celebrated.

For affirming, inclusive community, and extensive FREE resources, click here.

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