The Bible and Homosexuality for Progressive Christians

This new and revised edition includes some major updates and rearrangements of information, in response to feedback from a number of church groups who have used this book for study. Now in its third printing, the book is even more appropriate for churches that want to explore issues about homosexuality and the Bible, and how to integrate the 2SLGBTQ+ community more fully into the life of their churches and communities.

Did you know that there are no passages in the Bible that talk about homosexuality as a sexual orientation and that there are arguably only five or sis passages in the entire Bible that even touch on homosexual behaviour?

Did you know that some of the passages from the Hebrew scriptures we have assumed were about homosexuality were actually meant to chastise the community for their lack of hospitality? (How ironic that these same passages have been used by the church to express incredible inhospitality to the LGBTQ+ community!)

This study looks at all these passages in depth, but it also invites readers to look at the Bible as a whole and wonder about its overall message. When we do that, we see that compassion and inclusion are key for Jesus, and for early disciples such as Philip – as they should be for us.

What people are saying about The Bible and Homosexuality for Progressive Christians:

“Donald Schmidt begins by saying that it’s hard to write a book about sex, yet carefully, deliberately, and wonderfully does just that. He invites the reader – particularly the non-progressive reader – into a crafted study of the relevant stories and passages and helps readers to understand, love, and accept. This is a good book to have on hand when people say, “But how can you love the ‘gays’ when the Bible says you can’t?” Perhaps they can use it to learn how to welcome others, particularly the homosexual, into the body of Christ.”     – Rev. Graham Brownmiller, United Church of Canada, Burnaby

“This study is a must for Christians who are seeking to live their faith in the contemporary world. Who hasn’t asked the questions, “What does the Bible really say about homosexuality?” and “How are certain passages to be interpreted?” Schmidt seeks to guide the reader in a thoughtful process to their own informed conclusions. I can’t wait to be a part of a group considering the thought-provoking questions raised at the end of each chapter!”     – Rev. Dr. Michael Caveney, Pointe-Claire, Quebec