Who doesn’t love a good conversation about the mysteries and teachings of the Bible? Especially when it comes to topics that are often misunderstood, like sexuality.
Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s sure to raise a few eyebrows and hopefully, open a few minds.
We’re talking about bisexuality and the Bible.
The Bible is often perceived as having a black and white stance on sexuality. But if we truly delve into its verses, we will find that it’s far more open-minded than we might initially believe.
For those who identify as bisexual and are followers of the Christian faith, there may be some confusion or even conflict. But fear not!
In this article, we’re going to explore 9 Bible verses that support bisexual behavior in today’s world.
After all, isn’t the main message of the Bible about love, acceptance, and understanding?
1. Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13
One of the most referenced verses in discussions about bisexuality is found in the book of Leviticus.
The verse “You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination” (Leviticus 18:22) and its repetition in Leviticus 20:13 often prompt debate.
However, understanding these verses requires examining the historical context.
Leviticus is part of the Torah, written for the ancient Israelites, laying down laws for religious purity and societal order.
Importantly, it’s crucial to note that the concept of sexual orientation, including bisexuality, did not exist during this period.
Therefore, these prohibitions did not address modern understandings of bisexuality per se but were more likely related to specific cultural practices of that time.
In interpreting these verses, many scholars point out that they should be viewed in their historical context rather than projecting contemporary concepts onto ancient texts.
One thing is for sure: this perspective can facilitate a more nuanced understanding of bisexuality.
2. The story of David and Jonathan
The narrative of David and Jonathan in the books of Samuel is another biblical text that has been interpreted in different ways concerning bisexuality.
David and Jonathan’s relationship is described in highly affectionate terms.
In 1 Samuel 18:1, it is written that “the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.”
Furthermore, David’s lament after Jonathan’s death includes the statement:
“Your love for me was wonderful, more wonderful than that of women” (2 Samuel 1:26).
Some interpret these verses as showing a deep emotional bond, while others suggest a romantic or sexual relationship.
However, it’s key to remember that expressions of same-sex affection were common in ancient cultures without necessarily implying sexual behavior.
3. Paul’s letters: Addressing societal norms
The Apostle Paul’s letters, specifically 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 and 1 Timothy 1:10, are often brought into discussions on bisexuality.
Here, Paul lists behaviors considered sinful, including what some translations refer to as “homosexuals” or “men who practice homosexuality.”
However, these translations may oversimplify complex Greek terms used in the original text – “malakoi” and “arsenokoitai.”
These words have been variously interpreted to refer to male prostitutes, men who engage in exploitative sexual relationships, or specific forms of same-sex behavior prevalent in the Greco-Roman culture of the time.
We must remember that Paul was addressing specific societal conditions and cultural norms of his time.
Consequently, it’s a delicate task to extrapolate these texts to address bisexuality as we understand it today.
4. Jesus and bisexuality: What does the New Testament say?
What about Jesus’ teachings? Did He address bisexuality?
The Gospels do not record Jesus specifically discussing sexual orientation, including bisexuality.
His teachings centered on love, acceptance, and non-judgment.
When asked about the most important commandment, Jesus responded:
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” and “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-39).
So, guess what?
This focus on love and acceptance forms the core of Christian teaching.
It encourages believers to extend grace and understanding towards others, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Thought-provoking insight: Jesus’ teachings challenge us to love unconditionally and foster a sense of community that transcends societal norms and judgments.
5. The eunuchs of the Bible: An overlooked perspective?
The mention of eunuchs in the Bible offers another perspective in our discussion.
Eunuchs in biblical times were typically castrated males or those who did not fit into traditional gender roles.
Some scholars suggest that the term could also include those who would now be understood as part of the LGBTQ+ community.
In the book of Isaiah, God promises to give eunuchs a name “better than sons and daughters; an everlasting name that will not be cut off” (Isaiah 56:5).
This suggests a sense of inclusion and acceptance.
Even more striking is Jesus’ mention of eunuchs in Matthew 19:12.
He speaks of those who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake, which some interpret as referring to people who have chosen to live outside traditional heterosexual norms.
Key points to consider:
- Recognizing the diverse interpretations of ‘eunuch’.
- Reflecting on Isaiah’s promise to eunuchs.
- Considering Jesus’ words in Matthew 19:12.
This lens offers a fresh perspective on our understanding of bisexuality and the Bible.
6. The universal message of love in Corinthians
When we talk about love and acceptance, the Bible is rich with verses that emphasize these themes.
One such verse is from 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.
This verse doesn’t specifically mention bisexuality, but let’s look at it with a fresh perspective. It tells us that:
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud…Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
These beautiful words depict the true essence of love – a universal, all-encompassing force that knows no boundaries or labels. It doesn’t discriminate between heterosexual or bisexual love.
So, if love is at the heart of your relationship, regardless of your sexual orientation, isn’t that following the teachings of the Bible?
Remember, the Bible’s teachings are often open to interpretation and understanding. So let’s continue to explore these verses with an open heart and mind.
7. The acceptance taught in Romans
Romans 13:8-10 is a verse that’s close to my heart.
“Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.”
Now, isn’t that a powerful statement?
Love isn’t bound by gender or sexual orientation. Love simply is.
It’s a universal language that transcends barriers and brings people together.
The emphasis here is on the act of love itself and not the object of our love. As long as we’re acting out of love and kindness, we’re fulfilling the law of God.
8. The compassionate message in Colossians
Colossians 3:12-14 has always been a source of comfort for me. It reads:
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience…And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
Isn’t that just beautiful?
This verse speaks volumes about how we should carry ourselves as followers of Christ. It encourages us to be compassionate, kind, humble, gentle and patient – qualities that are needed when understanding and accepting people who may be different from us.
As a bisexual Christian, I’ve had my fair share of judgment and misunderstanding.
But this verse reminds me that as God’s chosen people, we are called to love one another unconditionally.
Whether straight or bisexual, we are all part of God’s diverse creation and deserve to give and receive love freely. So let’s don these virtues like a cloak, embracing each other’s differences with love and unity.
9. The ultimate truth in John
Finally, John 13:34-35 says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
In essence, this is the ultimate truth.
As Christians, we are called to love each other as we have been loved by God. This love is not conditional on one’s sexual orientation.
It’s not limited to heterosexual relationships but extends to all individuals, including those who identify as bisexual.
This verse emphasizes that our capacity to love is the true mark of our faith. The ability to love others – without judgment, without bias – is what truly defines us as followers of Christ.
After all, love is the ultimate truth that binds us all together.
Are bisexuals sinful?
Now, let’s try to answer the main question of this article.
Well, the Bible does not explicitly address bisexuality.
However, as we’ve seen in the previous sections, some verses, like those in Leviticus and Corinthians, may be interpreted to suggest that non-heterosexual relationships are sinful.
Still, it is essential to remember that biblical interpretation varies greatly.
Some theologians argue that the Bible’s primary message is one of love and acceptance, suggesting that these verses should not be used to condemn or exclude people based on their sexuality.
Moreover, many Christians believe that all humans are inherently sinful, regardless of their sexual orientation. In this view, sin is not a specific action or characteristic but a condition of human nature.
In conclusion, whether bisexuality is considered sinful largely depends on one’s interpretation of the Bible and understanding of sin.
It’s a topic that invites further exploration and dialogue within Christian communities.
Conclusion: Sexuality and Christian love
As we conclude this journey through verses that support bisexual behavior, let’s remember the core message – love.
Love is patient, love is kind. Love does not judge, and it knows no boundaries.
This is the universal language the Bible speaks, regardless of one’s sexual orientation.
If you’ve found resonance in these verses as a bisexual Christian or if this has brought clarity to your understanding, remember this – your capacity to love and be loved is not defined by whom you choose to love.
The teachings of the Bible are open to interpretation and understanding. It’s crucial that we approach them with an open heart and mind, embracing diversity in love and relationships.
In the end, perhaps the most important thing is not to focus solely on individual verses but to consider the broader message of love, acceptance, and grace that permeates the Bible.
This message can guide Christians towards a more compassionate understanding and acceptance of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation.
What would Jesus say?
Unsure whether to move on from a failed marriage? Struggling with desire and feeling guilty for it? Wanting to live a life Jesus would be proud of?
Let Jesus tell you how to be a good Christian according to the teachings of the Bible.
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