Homosexuality and the Bible

Thanks to Genetically Modified Skeptic for being the inspiration behind this post. 

Christians are divided on whether homosexuality is a sin.  The most literal interpretations of the Bible consider homosexuality to be a sin, whereas progressive Christians choose not to believe this.  Whichever side of the issue a Christian lands on, they have some explaining to do.

First, let's establish whether the Bible SAYS homosexuality is a sin.  Paul says in 1 Cor 6:9-10:

Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.

This is a clear statement that homosexuality is a sin.  Since this is from the New Testament, this cannot merely be waved away as an Old Testament law that we now don't have to follow.

Now let's start with the Christian who believes that homosexuality is a sin.  The first question to ask is, "Do you believe that the death penalty was ever an appropriate punishment for homosexuals?"  If the Christian says "No" (hopefully they would!), then tell them they are at odds with a commandment of God (Lev 20:13).

If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination; they shall surely be put to death; their blood is upon them.

Next we will approach the Christian who believes that homosexuality is NOT a sin.  Pose the question, "How can you believe in the Bible and think homosexuality is OK?"

One possible answer they may give is "Jesus never mentioned it, so he didn't condemn it."  You may then ask, "Jesus also mentioned slavery without condemning it.  Is slavery OK?"  This Christian should be reminded of the clear condemnation of homosexuality in 1 Corinthians.  If they disregard this teaching of Paul's as figurative, how can we determine what else may be figurative? This brings into question everything that Paul ever taught.  This Christian is cherry picking.

Solely going by the scriptures, the Christian who condemns homosexuality as a sin is being consistent with scripture, but also must accept and condone that the death penalty was once considered by God to be an appropriate punishment.  Meanwhile, the Christian who does not condemn homosexuality is clearly cherry-picking to suit their own beliefs.  Either way there is a logical problem. 

There is an easier way.  We can view the Bible as the mere writings of an ancient civilization not nearly as morally advanced as we are today.  If we give up these "childish things", then we can move on and be free to love our fellow humans in the most compassionate, non-judgmental manner possible.