'Gay Marriage' Is Still A Theological Problem

Dubious readings of biblical texts results in dubious theological interpretations. No issue proves that thesis quite as well as the 'gay marriage' issue. What's so fascinating about the debate is that both sides accuse the other of holding to dubious readings. I.e., those in support of 'gay marriage' accuse their opponents of idiosyncratic and culturally deficient reading of the Bible. And those who oppose 'gay-ianity' maintain that their adversaries aren't reading the Bible at all, but reading into it to suit their own agenda. Adherents of 'gay-ianity' commit the arch-sin: eisegesis.

So who has it right? It's that question that has caused the flow of so much ink, the murder of so many trees for paper, and the splattering of so many electrons against computer terminals. The San Jose Mercury News has a nice essay on the subject which may be worth a read. It begins

Nowhere is the opinion divide on gay marriage sharper than in the nation's religious communities. And last week's same-sex marriage ruling will do little to bring agreement on the definition of marriage, a social and religious touchstone that has torn apart families, congregations and entire dioceses.

Which is certainly true. And I have to agree with this next bit wholeheartedly.

"I don't expect the picture in the religious community to change very much with this decision," said Mary Tolbert, executive director of the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry in Berkeley. "As more and more gays and lesbians marry, it may become less of an issue, but right now I don't expect much to change, maybe not for a decade."

Let me say that my own reading of the biblical texts comes down on the side of those who oppose 'gay-ianity' as a theological aberration. There is no biblical support for the 'gay lifestyle'. But there is ample support for the notion that all of God's children, even those who have deviated from life as God intended it, are worthy of respect and love. Hatred of gays is as improper as hatred of any.

I realize my stance places me at odds with some of my dearest friends. But I have to say what I think is right, even if it hairlips the devil.