Christian Views On Same Sex (Gay) Marriage

This article is about general Christian views on same sex marriage. For our official opinion on homosexuality, please view our article: What Does the Bible Say About Homosexuality?

Christian beliefs concerning same sex marriage are varied; however, the majority of Christians do not condone the relationship. The subject of same sex marriage is one that is very controversial in today's culture, and many activist groups are busy trying to get the relationship approved by both the state and federal governments of the United States. The Bible really says little about same sex marriage. It has a lot to say about homosexual immorality, but nothing about a gay couple's choice to live together in the same type of union as is traditionally held between a man and a woman. The term “same sex marriage” used in this article also refers to homosexual couples living together and declaring themselves as married in spite of their state's non-recognition of the relationship.

Christian organizations are dividing when it comes to trying to stop the sanctioning of same sex marriages. The problem with the conservative Christian efforts to keep governments from sanctioning same sex marriages is that these organizations forget that it is more important to maintain the separation of church and state (which is supposed to be guaranteed by the United States Constitution). Likewise, the problem with liberal Christian organizations that tolerate same sex marriage is that they should not expect all sects of the faith to embrace the relationship.

Most Christian organizations believe that the man and woman marriage is natural and biblical. However, today, some may call them "conservative" even if they are using the Bible to back up their beliefs. They base their belief mainly on Genesis 1 and 2. The Bible tells us in Genesis 2:20-24 (NIV) that God saw that it was not good for His creation Adam to live alone, so he made a woman, Eve, as a helper. In verse 24, the passage tells us that God intends a man and woman to marry, and for the man to leave his father and mother to be united to his wife. When they marry, they become “one flesh” and are able to procreate and have children. Those in favor of same sex marriage interpret these verses differently and may even adopt and raise children.

Many Christians are also against same sex marriage because of role confusion. There is no doubt that God made men and women different. Husbands are traditionally the provider and have held a hunting role in the home. Today, instead of hunting, they go to work. Wives bring other qualities into the home and are better nurturers for their children (although they can work, too). Christians who do not approve of same sex marriage cite a lack of balance that is a result of the differences in the sexes.

Most Christian organizations are ill-prepared to handle those in a same sex marriage attending their churches. The truth is that even if those in a same sex marriage were curious about being a Christian, they would not be welcome in the majority of Christian churches today. The majority of Christians (as well as the non-religious) tend to be very fearful of those in a same sex marriage. Churches need to be more compassionate in recognizing that these relationships exist, and in many cases the children who live in the same sex couple's home visit the Sunday schools of these churches - needing Jesus just like anyone else.