Understanding Homosexuality Part 2

Are "they" born that way?

The teaching of Scripture is that God intended men and women to experience relational completion - an easing of aloneness - through union with a partner who is sexually distinct from them, and who can thus be a true helpmate and companion in life.

"So God created man in His own image...male and female He created them...The Lord God said, "It is not good from the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him." (Gen 1:27, 2:18)

Homosexuality is a relational brokenness that scripture reveals as contrary to God's creative intent for humanity's sexuality. In light of this, one can be sure that whether homosexuality is the result of developmental causes or inborn characteristics, it is not the result of an act of creation by God.

But is it inborn? Much research has been done to explore potential genetic or hormonal contribution to the origins of homosexuality. No conclusive evidence has yet to be found. The exploration continues, with most experts citing a variety of influences that include culture, family-of-origin, biological factors, and one's own reaction to these influences. At Desert Stream, we believe that biological factors influence the formation of personality. Our personalities in turn will partially determine how and why we act and react to the influences around us. Some personality types, when paired with other factors, may be more prone than other types to developing homosexual tendencies.

Is there hope for healing?

Homosexuality is clearl a two-fold condition. A fallen world imposes wounds, fears, identity confusion, and alienation; people react with sinful choices in an attempt to restore what has been broken and gain consolation in the midst of pain and need. Yet the goal remains unreached; the promise of real, lasting fulfillment proves to be all too elusive.

Jesus Christ is the alternative. He addresses the problem - humanity limited to self - and provides the way through which we can find fulfillment in God and His people. By releasing us from the dictates of the past, Jesus frees us to live as new creatures. The Holy Spirit carries on that process of change in our lives.

His grace is sufficient, for His strength is made perfect in weakness. He provides the mooring point for a new identity - the center out of which a true sense of well-being can be enjoyed. As we draw close to Him, we are enabled to reflect His image in our humanity more and more fully.

The goal of our growth is the freedom to love aright: to relate intimately but non-erotically to the same sex, and to be able to address the opposite sex as a needed counterpart without fear or disinterest. As we at Desert Stream believe such love is Christ's intent for us, we affirm His capacity to carry it out in our lives, and in the lives of those who seek to be free from homosexuality.