“Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men will inherit the kingdom of God.” – 1 Corinthians 6:9
Bible Verses About Gay Marriage
The Call to Holiness
As believers, we are called to uphold a standard of holiness in our lives, reflecting God’s character in all we do. Holiness is not just about avoiding sin but embracing the nature of God in our day-to-day actions and decisions. The topic of gay marriage comes into play when we consider what the Bible says about sexual morality. In our pursuit of holiness, we must recognize that love and truth coexist, guiding us to honor God’s design for marriage and relationships. This commitment to holiness invites us to love others while staying true to biblical principles. We realize that, as we strive for sanctity, it’s important to approach these conversations with compassion and a heart to understand.
1 Peter 1:16
“For it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.'” – 1 Peter 1:16
1 Thessalonians 4:3
“It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:3
Leviticus 18:22
“Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable.” – Leviticus 18:22
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
Hebrews 12:14
“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” – Hebrews 12:14
Understanding God’s Design for Marriage
Marriage is a sacred institution established by God, intended to reflect the relationship between Christ and His church. In our understanding of gay marriage, we need to clarify what the Bible teaches about the purpose and function of marriage. The essence of marriage is found in the union of one man and one woman, designed to create a lifelong partnership that operates within God’s perfect plan. Acknowledging this design does not come from a place of judgment but rather from a place of love and a desire to walk in truth. By committing to God’s design, we honor the sanctity of marriage as He intended it to be.
Genesis 2:24
“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” – Genesis 2:24
Matthew 19:4-6
“Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’?” – Matthew 19:4-6
Ephesians 5:31
“For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” – Ephesians 5:31
Mark 10:9
“Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” – Mark 10:9
1 Corinthians 7:2
“But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband.” – 1 Corinthians 7:2
Love and Compassion
While we hold to God’s truth concerning marriage, it’s crucial to approach discussions about gay marriage with love and compassion. The essence of our faith rests on love, and our actions should always reflect Christ’s love for humanity. Engaging in open and respectful conversations is fundamental to expressing our beliefs while maintaining relationships with those who may not share our views. We are reminded that every person is created in the image of God and deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. The call to love others transcends differences, and through love, we can embody Christ’s teachings.
John 13:34
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” – John 13:34
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
Romans 13:10
“Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” – Romans 13:10
Philippians 2:4
“Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” – Philippians 2:4
Truth in Grace
It’s essential to hold onto the truth of God’s Word while extending grace to others. The Bible teaches us that we have all fallen short of God’s glory. When we discuss topics like gay marriage, we are called to communicate truth lovingly and graciously. Sharing the message of the Gospel means acknowledging our own need for forgiveness while offering the same to others. Truth and grace work together to create a foundation where healing and understanding can occur. We can hold fast to our beliefs while still inviting others into meaningful and compassionate dialogues.
Ephesians 4:15
“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” – Ephesians 4:15
John 1:14
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” – John 1:14
2 Timothy 2:24-26
“And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth.” – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” – Colossians 4:6
Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
The Call to Share the Gospel
As followers of Christ, we are commissioned to share the Gospel and make disciples of all nations. In discussions surrounding gay marriage, we recognize that everyone needs to hear about God’s love and truth. Our role is to share His heart and His word, focusing on the redemptive story of Jesus. This calling compels us to communicate the hope and healing that faith in Christ brings. By living out our faith authentically and sharing our relationship with God, we can witness to others with sincerity and grace, inviting them into a relationship with the Savior.
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20
Mark 16:15
“He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.'” – Mark 16:15
Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8
Romans 10:14
“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” – Romans 10:14
1 Corinthians 9:22
“To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” – 1 Corinthians 9:22
God’s Will for Us
Reading the Bible reveals God’s desires for our lives, including the areas of relationships and marriage. When exploring the topic of gay marriage, we reflect on the life God wants for us; one founded on His will and perfect purpose. Seeking His will means opening ourselves to His guidance and following the lead of the Holy Spirit in all our decisions. Trusting in God’s design assures us that a life aligned with His truth leads to fulfillment and joy. As we wrestle with difficult topics, we must continuously seek His wisdom and understanding in every situation we face.
Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:2
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
Psalms 37:4
“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalms 37:4
Final Thoughts
In the conversations about marriage, we are reminded of God’s design for relationships. We are called to uphold truth while displaying love and compassion. Approaching topics like gay marriage requires us to affirm what the Bible teaches about holiness and the sanctity of marriage. We must remember that each person is made in His image and should be treated with dignity.
We are invited to share the gospel with kindness, letting our actions reflect the heart of Christ. God’s desire for us is to seek Him and align our lives with His will. Together, as we journey through these discussions, let us uphold truth while walking in love and grace.
As we explore these important topics, I encourage you to also read about sodomy and expand your understanding of biblical marriage with the verses about marriage.