Homosexuality
This is an issue that divides Christians. Many think it is unimportant - the church should worry more about world poverty, growing secularism, materialism etc. and less about what people get up to in the privacy of their bedrooms. Equally, a large number see liberal views towards homosexuality as a sign of an age where people have rejected God's values and authority - they believe it is really important for Christians to take a stand against permissive views. There are also those who think that Christians should stand up for the rights of gay men and women around the world.
See the relevant sections for specific Bible and Church teaching on homosexuality. In general, though, the following principles are commonly held:
- All homosexuals are children of God, made in His image, and should be treated with the same love and respect as anyone else
- There is a difference between inclinations and actions - the Bible condemns actions, not inclinations
- Sexual immorality, lust etc. are problems that affect all of us, so homosexual activity should not be singled out and treated differently
- There is no place for homophobia among Christians
