Homosexuality and the Bible
Intro: Is homosexuality a sin according to the bible? How should we interpret the bible's stance on homosexual relationships? And should those interpretations affect our treatment of homosexuals in the public sphere? With almost a dozen states in the U.S.A. having written bans on homosexuality into their constitutions and with some European countries extending the right to marry to same-sex couples, these are important questions. This is the thread for Fire Fall posters to discuss, and argue, their positions on the morality or immorality of homosexuality, as well as related matters. Of course, this being an official debate thread, there are some thread-specific guidelines to observe, all in the interest of allowing the crew to keep everything well in hand.
Purpose: Here is where Fire Fall poster will be allowed to debate on homosexuality and biblical interpretation as it relates to homosexuality (as well as the political/social aspects of gay rights and gay marriage). By having one central thread on the subject, we hope to avoid the hopeless clutter of homosexuality-related threads that plague forums such as Morality and Religion.
Rules: Obviously, all the normal rules of the Fire Fall debate sub-forum apply here. There are, however, some additional rules that need to be observed.
- What May Be Discussed:
- Homosexuality (Causes, Effects, Etc.)
Whether or Not Homosexuality is a Sin
The Biblical Legitimacy of Same-Sex Marriage
The Social Legitimacy of Same-Sex Marriage
Relevant Issues of Biblical Translation
Relevant Issues of Biblical Exegesis
Relevant Sub-Sets of the Above Topics
What May Not Be Discussed:
- Anything not relevant to the topics listed above
Do:
- Back up your assertions with evidence.
Cite your sources.
Do Not:
- Make assertions without evidence.
Post one-liners.
Make posts saying only 'I agree with X' or any similar.
Engage in logical fallacies.
Attack individuals based on their sexual orientation (strictly enforced).
Things to Bear In Mind:
- Please use correct grammar and spelling. It's not a requirement, but remember that people will judge your argument on how well you present it, and proper use of language is a big part of that presentation. Bad spelling and grammar can undermine the effectiveness of even the best argument.
Do not slander. Emotions will run high in this thread from time to time, but that is no excuse to insulting or attacking fellow posters without cause. Epithets (ex. 'f*****t'), slanderous generalizations, etc will not be tolerated. Show respect.
If you have not already, it is highly recommended that you read Ananel's Thesis. It will be oft-cited here and it would behoove you to familiarize yourself with it, whether you agree with it or not.
You may wish to learn Ancient Greek and/or Hebrew. (Only for those with significant free time/who are pursuing a Master of Divinity.)
On Other Homosexuality Threads: This is to be Fire Fall's only thread in which homosexuality may be debated. As a forum topic, homosexuality is rather like a breeding pair of rabbits (or a wisteria plant): left to its own devices it multiplies out of control/starts to tear the shingles off your home). As such, all other threads on homosexuality will be locked ant their participants directed here. (See the 'Purpose' section concerning the reason for this rule.)
Links:
'Pro'-Homosexuality:
- Ananel's Thesis
Arsenokoites and Malakos: Meanings and Consequences
COPP Position Statement on Therapies Focused on Attempts to Change Sexual Orientation (Reparative or Conversion Therapies)
'Anti'-Homosexuality
