Oct 28, 2015

Book Review: 'What Does the Bible Really Say About Homosexuality?' by Kevin DeYoung

Gary Gilley

Dr. Gary Gilley
Southern View Chapel

Kevin DeYoung has written this book to provide a biblical defense of the traditional understanding of homosexuality by Christians for 2000 years (p. 15). The book seeks to answer the following question: "Is homosexual activity a sin that must be repented of, forsaken, and forgiven, or, given the right context and commitment, can we consider same-sex intimacy a blessing worth celebrating and solemnizing" (p. 15)?

book

'What Does the Bible Really Say About Homosexuality?' by Kevin DeYoung

In response the book breaks down into two parts, the first dealing with the five most debated and relevant biblical texts related to homosexuality (p. 19). These are Genesis 1-2, God's design for marriage; Genesis 13, Sodom and Gomorrah; Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13, concerning the Old Testament's condemnation of homosexual practices; Romans 1:18-32, the New Testament's prohibition of homosexual behavior; and specific meaning of Greek words used for homosexuality in the Bible.

Part two addresses seven of the most common objections to the traditional view of sexual morality such as:

  • the Bible seldom speaks of homosexuality
  • when it does it is not dealing with it in its modern forms
  • other sins, such as gluttony and divorce, are worse
  • the church should welcome homosexuals
  • social values have changed
  • it is not fair to single out homosexual behavior as sinful because the homosexual person cannot help being what he is
  • God is love, therefore we should tolerate those who are homosexual.

The book concludes with appendices on same-sex marriage, same sex attraction and ten commitments for how churches should interact with homosexuals and the homosexual agenda.

DeYoung has written a very helpful little volume. His tone is gracious but firm. He handles the pertinent biblical texts very well, and he addresses the pressing question on homosexuality with balance. What Does the Bible Really Teach about Homosexuality? is an excellent primer on the subject and it provides a pattern for how Christians, who desire to be obedient to God's Word and yet loving to homosexuals, should live and think. Highly recommended.


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