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Homosexuality, Science, and the Plain Sense of Scripture
Elucidates the pros and cons of current Christian discussion on the question of homosexuality. Challenges partisan views and provides a balanced discussion.
336 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1999
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
November 4, 2017
The greatest value of Homosexuality, Science, and the ‘Plain Sense’ of Scripture is the demonstration of civil discourse on a very contentious topic.
Post-Obergefell, this book is a bit dated but still relevant to the discussions taking place in many congregations throughout the United States who are trying to determine how they should view, receive, or reject homosexual individuals and couples. Seemingly most of the constituents of these congregations, traditional and progressive, believe the conversation is simple, even unnecessary; however, compilations such as this one demonstrate the complexity of the conversation on all fronts.
The inclusion of the Jewish conversation on homosexuality points in a helpful direction but does not go far enough to be useful for the average congregation.
An updated compilation is warranted.
Post-Obergefell, this book is a bit dated but still relevant to the discussions taking place in many congregations throughout the United States who are trying to determine how they should view, receive, or reject homosexual individuals and couples. Seemingly most of the constituents of these congregations, traditional and progressive, believe the conversation is simple, even unnecessary; however, compilations such as this one demonstrate the complexity of the conversation on all fronts.
The inclusion of the Jewish conversation on homosexuality points in a helpful direction but does not go far enough to be useful for the average congregation.
An updated compilation is warranted.
September 19, 2016
This is good collection of essays from both affirming and non-affirming perspectives (in equal measure) on the science, sociology and hermeneutics involved in the ongoing conversation regarding same-sex marriage within the Church. The essayists involved come from a range of backgrounds (Methodist, Presbyterian, Episcopalian, Lutheran, Catholic...to name a few), they know their respective subject matters very well and are clear and concise in communicating their views (though some of the language is academic).
Hermeneutically, the main passages in discussion are those found in Leviticus 19, Romans 1 and 1 Corinthians 6. Contrasts are made with the passage's own historical context and culture (Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Jewish) and today's modern context. In particular, the discontinuities/continuities in scientific and cultural thought between then and now. All of this is important in understanding what the "plain sense" of these verses are.
At the end of ten essays collected, the editor, Balch, offers his own concluding thoughts; summarising and contrasting the views of the essays, and giving some nice insights into Judaism's internal discussion on the same matter.
To be clear, this collection of essays won't tell you what opinion to adopt; I.e. It doesn't conclude by stating that an affirming or non-affirming stance should be taken. However, the gift of this book is that it eruditely displays how complex the conversation is on both sides of the debate. Both sides are passionate about scripture and are committed to discerning God's will for humanity.
Two things to be aware of: 1. This collection of essays was put together in 2000, and in some quarters the discussions will now be more advanced and nuanced, and 2. This represents a conversation between North American denominations and is therefore not representative of global views.
Overall, well worth reading.
Hermeneutically, the main passages in discussion are those found in Leviticus 19, Romans 1 and 1 Corinthians 6. Contrasts are made with the passage's own historical context and culture (Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Jewish) and today's modern context. In particular, the discontinuities/continuities in scientific and cultural thought between then and now. All of this is important in understanding what the "plain sense" of these verses are.
At the end of ten essays collected, the editor, Balch, offers his own concluding thoughts; summarising and contrasting the views of the essays, and giving some nice insights into Judaism's internal discussion on the same matter.
To be clear, this collection of essays won't tell you what opinion to adopt; I.e. It doesn't conclude by stating that an affirming or non-affirming stance should be taken. However, the gift of this book is that it eruditely displays how complex the conversation is on both sides of the debate. Both sides are passionate about scripture and are committed to discerning God's will for humanity.
Two things to be aware of: 1. This collection of essays was put together in 2000, and in some quarters the discussions will now be more advanced and nuanced, and 2. This represents a conversation between North American denominations and is therefore not representative of global views.
Overall, well worth reading.
December 12, 2012
I particularly enjoyed Bird's article...
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews