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What Does the Bible Really Teach about Homosexuality?

Kevin DeYoung (Goodreads Author)

4.33 · Rating details · 1,481 ratings · 232 reviews

In this timely book, award-winning author Kevin DeYoung challenges each of us—the skeptic and the seeker, the certain and the confused—to take a humble look at God's Word regarding the issue of homosexuality.

After examining key biblical passages in both the Old and New Testaments and the Bible's overarching teaching regarding sexuality, DeYoung responds to popular objectio ...more

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Paperback, 160 pages

Published April 28th 2015 by Crossway Books (first published April 7th 2015)

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Aug 06, 2015 Douglas Wilson rated it really liked it

Shelves: marriage-and-family, theology

Listened to this book on audio. Very careful, very thoughtful, DeYoung does a masterful job walking through the Bible's teaching on the subject of homosexuality. Really well done. If I had to muster a complaint, it would be that he is sometimes too courteous to his opponents, and gives them the benefit of the doubt (with regard to motivations) where perhaps a good deal less ought to be given, but he doesn't flinch anywhere in outlining what the actual teaching of the Bible is. There are many bel ...more

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Feb 12, 2015 Jeanie rated it it was amazing

Shelves: social-issues, netgalley, less-200, theology

This is one of the most controversial subjects for Christians and those that are fighting for the rights for the gay community. Christians want and should desire to love well. How do we reconcile what the bible says and the people we love? It seems like you can't have a conversation without being labeled a bigot or a hater. I so appreciate the teaching of Kevin DeYoung. I have followed his blog for several years and appreciate his heart for the word of God and standing firm in the faith. He is n ...more

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Jun 08, 2015 John Suddath rated it liked it · review of another edition

A review is supposed to be about readability, writing style, anecdotes, logic and credibility. I give the author high marks on all of the above criteria. It’s hard, however, to review a theological exegesis without also commenting on the theology of the author. In this case, one who declares the inerrancy of the Bible and suggests that we’ve had no new revelations from God in 2,000 years. In other words, the case was closed a long time ago so we should just shut up and stop questioning traditio A review is supposed to be about readability, writing style, anecdotes, logic and credibility. I give the author high marks on all of the above criteria. It’s hard, however, to review a theological exegesis without also commenting on the theology of the author. In this case, one who declares the inerrancy of the Bible and suggests that we’ve had no new revelations from God in 2,000 years. In other words, the case was closed a long time ago so we should just shut up and stop questioning traditions.
In my opinion, that elevates the Bible to another form of idolatry, one that excludes all other sources of spiritual insight. It relegates the Holy Spirit to some mystical shroud without daily relevance in our lives. It flips the coin from the Catholic theology of the primacy of tradition, church teachings, and the authority of the clergy to state that only what is written in the Bible is relevant to an understanding and observance of Christianity.
He’s right that he doesn’t understand the history of homosexuality. It’s not a new phenomenon that has occurred only in the past 50 years. It’s been around since the beginning of time, and from the beginning of the church. He should have read John Boswell first.
I see no point in proof texting the scriptures of the Bible according to how one interprets them. I will leave responses to the author’s assertions to Jack Rogers, Matthew Vines, and Justin Lee. The scriptures are sometimes contradictory, sometimes prurient, sometimes unholy, and sometimes even factually inaccurate. But they were not written primary as histories, except for the narrative of the nation of Israel, nor are they intended as a scientific treatise. They are a living revelation of the nature of God and how mankind through the centuries has related and come to understand him. Jesus critized the Pharisees for their emphasis on dogma rather than practice and legalism versus the intentions of the heart.
Sexual preference, orientation, expression, behavior, and gender identity are not synonymous, and the evangelical preoccupation with behavior betrays that misunderstanding. His chapter on how some people with same-sex attractions have “changed” to become heterosexual displays his ignorance of the concept of bi-sexuals. Perhaps he first should have read the definitive Masters and Johnson study on sexuality.
First, the “church,” i.e. primarily the fundamentalist, evangelical, judgmental church has done terrible damage to millions of lives, and must accept the consequences of what it has done and repent. He carefully avoids any discussion of the conversion therapy treatments endorsed by the church, and weakly states that repression of same-sex feelings is possible only through prayer and reading of the Bible. But sexual orientation is more than just thoughts or feelings; it is a basic part of who we are. I could put in contacts to change the color of my eyes from blue to brown, but I can’t change the way God made me. I could hide, repress, and seek psychological counseling as I did for a decade, but it only drove me further from the church and from God. It was not God’s will only to make homosexuality a burden for me to bear. If sin is separation from God, then the church abandoned me to a state of sin because I could not reject the way God made me. It was only when I could accept myself that I could renew my spiritual journey and respond to God’s love. I have spent the past decade involved with intensive Bible reading and study, but we went into that with an attitude of what can we learn from the Bible in how to live our lives today as Jesus did and not try to conform our study to some pre-conceived notions.
The cliché of “love the sinner and hate the sin” is a cop-out, and I resent being categorized with prostitutes, alcoholics, and pedophiles. I agree that we must be civil, loving, and not engage in calling names, but it’s hard to hide the resentment that I felt for so long.
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Jul 19, 2016 David rated it liked it

Shelves: heaven-and-hell, lgbtq

DeYoung offers a strong argument for the traditional view of marriage as between one man and one woman. If you agree with him, this book is probably for you. If you don't agree with him, you should probably still read this book. ...more

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Dec 09, 2015 Matthew Swihart rated it did not like it

“What Does the Bible Really Teach about Homosexuality?” is a misnomer. This book has very little to do with what the Bible teaches about anything. Instead, it’s a platform book with a specific political agenda: campaigning against homosexual marriage.

Based on the title and back cover copy (which promises an examination of “the Bible’s overarching teaching regarding sexuality”) I expected this book to go into some of the realities and myths of sexuality and how it changed (and stayed the same) t “What Does the Bible Really Teach about Homosexuality?” is a misnomer. This book has very little to do with what the Bible teaches about anything. Instead, it’s a platform book with a specific political agenda: campaigning against homosexual marriage.

Based on the title and back cover copy (which promises an examination of “the Bible’s overarching teaching regarding sexuality”) I expected this book to go into some of the realities and myths of sexuality and how it changed (and stayed the same) throughout Biblical times. I had hopes that the author would address Mosaic Law about homosexuality (which he does, but practically in passing), but also address issues with concubines (male and female) and polygamy, church acceptance of other Old Testament sins such as tattoos, remarriage, divorce (this last one was addressed, but only in passing and with no real argument), and maybe even a discussion of the theories that certain characters (such as David and Paul) were gay or bisexual, and the implication of all this on modern Christianity, just to name a few.

Instead, what I got was a political book thinly disguised as a religious book. And it wasn’t even well-argued. This book would serve its best use in a class on logical fallacies, since it violates almost all of them. Just a few examples:

1. It includes myriad unsupported and aggrandized claims. DeYoung’s work is fraught with false appeals to popularity, such as claims that his beliefs are “Along with most Christians around the globe and virtually every Christian in the first nineteen-and-a-half centuries of church history….” (p. 17), and claims that “Everyone agrees….” (p. 34).

2. DeYoung sets up a false dichotomy, setting up the “conservative,” “historic,” “nonaffirming,” and “traditional” stance versus the “progressive,” “liberal,” “affirming,” and “revisionist” stance (p. 20). This false dichotomy ignores the myriad other positions out there held by Christians. Further, it corrupts the two different positions (well, the two the author allows) into political speech, suggesting without argument or support that a conservative reader must believe the “conservative” position, and likewise that the evil liberal must believe the “liberal” position. The problems with labeling arguments “traditional” and “revisionist” are inherent in the labels. From the language he uses, DeYoung clearly has no intention of giving any credibility to any opinion not his own. This book isn’t about discussion or examination; it’s about indoctrination.

3. DeYoung argues that the primary purpose of marriage is reproduction (p. 28). This facile argument is not supported by any verses, nor any real argument. Further, it apparently means that people who are incapable of reproduction (e.g., straight couples who are infertile, the elderly, those with injuries, cancers, or other illnesses to their reproductive organs that prevent reproduction, etc.).

4. Perhaps the worst offender is this sentence from page 31: “monogamy makes sense and same-sex marriage does not.” This is a false comparison. It suggests that all straight couples are monogamous (which any review of divorce petitions will clearly demonstrate is false), and that gay couples are incapable of monogamy (which is also a flawed assertion with no valid data or logic for support).

I could go on and on, as almost every page is stuffed with logical fallacies, unsupported arguments, and facile or contradictory arguments.

In short, it is the single worst book I’ve ever read that makes an argument on any topic.
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Mar 16, 2015 David Steele rated it it was amazing

Shelves: culture, homosexuality

I read an important book today. It is not a weighty theological treatise. It is not a book about spiritual formation. And it certainly is not written to inspire. This book is about homosexuality. Like it or not, in our culture, the topic of homosexuality has moved from stage left to center stage. Everyone is talking about it. Many people are affirming homosexual relationships - liberals and conservatives alike.

I recently read Steve Chalke's booklet, A Matter of Integrity. The author, who happens ...more

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Apr 25, 2015 Michael Boling rated it it was amazing

If there is one hot button issue both within and outside the church that has risen above all others it is undeniably the discussion swirling around homosexuality and same-sex marriage. With Christian bakers and photographers being sued and the seemingly never ending avalanche of political rancor over same-sex marriage, let alone the increasing number of churches and denominations embracing this lifestyle going so far as to appoint homosexuals to positions of leadership, it is vital to grasp what If there is one hot button issue both within and outside the church that has risen above all others it is undeniably the discussion swirling around homosexuality and same-sex marriage. With Christian bakers and photographers being sued and the seemingly never ending avalanche of political rancor over same-sex marriage, let alone the increasing number of churches and denominations embracing this lifestyle going so far as to appoint homosexuals to positions of leadership, it is vital to grasp what God has to say. Kevin DeYoung, in his latest book What Does the Bible Really Teach About Homosexuality, shines the clear light of God’s Word on this very important issue, bringing clarity to confusion, a firm foundation to wavering belief systems, and providing a practical yet scholarly look at the arguments for and against homosexuality.

There have been quite a few books written on this subject matter of late from both sides of the debate. DeYoung’s effort rises to the top in my humble opinion for a number of reasons. Foremost, DeYoung rests his case on the firm foundation of Scripture. He rightly notes in the introduction that this is unapologetically a Christian based approach rooted in the truth found in Scripture. While DeYoung certainly explores the world of scholarship and historical fact, his commentary on this subject matter flows from the pages of Scripture.

As noted, DeYoung does not shy away from scholarly discussion. While this is not as scholarly an approach as Dr. Robert Gagnon’s for example, DeYoung does go into great detail on a number of important Hebrew and Greek words that must be properly understood in order to have a proper perspective on what God has to say in His Word on the matter of homosexuality and its associated activities. I found DeYoung’s approach in this area to be quite excellent and those not familiar with Hebrew or Greek will not find themselves lost in translation. Conversely, DeYoung does a marvelous job breaking down terms, walking the reader through the meaning and application of those terms both from Scripture and other ancient texts, along the way ensuring the reader has a firm grasp on why God used certain terms and not others. Excellent exegesis on all fronts.

I also appreciated that DeYoung does not shy away from this difficult issue as a whole not does he shy away from addressing the various objections utilized by homosexual advocates. For instance, many object to the focus on homosexuality by the church, noting the plethora of other sins that permeate society. DeYoung rightly notes that all sin must be addressed and he uses examples from his own church and his role as a pastor in dealing with behavior such as divorce.

Perhaps the most often used approach in support of homosexuality outside of the “they were born that way” argument is that God is a God of love so we should just love everyone because God certainly would not this intolerant would He? DeYoung does a great job of dealing with this question, noting that true biblical love is more than just the mushy feeling that allows one to do whatever they feel is right in their own eyes. Biblical love involves discipline, correction, and helping your brethren back on the path of righteousness. True love has an eternal focus and it is rooted in the truth of God’s Word. God loves us so much that He sent His Son to die on the cross for our sins. Since homosexuality is noted throughout Scripture as being a sin, something DeYoung establishes beyond a shadow of a doubt, love must involve helping others through the power of the Holy Spirit deal with all sin in their lives, including homosexuality.

In a world where so much confusion exists on the issue of homosexuality and what Scripture has to say on this topic, DeYoung’s book could not have come at a better time. He adroitly deals with this important topic with grace, purposefulness, and lucidness. Furthermore, this is one of the most biblically rooted books I have read in quite some time on this subject matter. For those who have any question as to what Scripture has to say on homosexuality, I recommend you read this book. I echo the endorsement of Russell Moore in that every Christian should take the time to read this book. It will be informative, it will drive you to the pages of Scripture, and it will greatly assist you in developing a sound biblical apologetic on this issue.

I received this book for free from Crossway Books for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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May 21, 2015 Jeremy marked it as to-read

Shelves: non-fiction, religion, sexuality, marriage

Read Ch. 1 here.

Some have claimed that DeYoung isn't clear on whether SSA (same sex attraction) itself (the attraction, not the action) is sinful or not. This post/video supports that claim. (See related posts here, here, here, and here.) These posts are from 2015. DeYoung was a member of the PCA Ad Interim Committee on Sexuality, along with Bryan Chapell (nominated for Stated Clerk in 2020), Tim Keller, and others. The report, published in May 2020, is available here, and it is much more clear ...more

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Dec 09, 2016 Logan rated it it was amazing

A graciously short but challenging read. The way in which Deyoung writes is so accessible and theologically sound that makes this book an easy recommend for anyone looking to study more. What's interesting is Deyoung manages to show grace in his writing while also dismantling opposing arguments of traditional marriage. I appreciate how Deyoung made the best use of the space on the page: not too deep but not too surface-level. To be honest, I think reading this book and The Same Sex Controversy b ...more

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Dec 01, 2018 Kathy Baldock rated it it was ok

Kevin DeYoung’s What Does the Bible Really Teach About Homosexuality? offers yet another utterly maddening viewpoint of “God’s truth” about gay people.

I’ve read the bulk of such books written over the past few decades, beginning with the first “gays are out to destroy America” book written for the evangelical community by Tim LaHaye in 1978: “The Unhappy Gays.”

Once the new genre started, it triggered an onslaught. Next came the religious-political books from authors like Falwell and Dannemeyer i ...more

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Dec 13, 2019 Jennifer rated it really liked it

Shelves: faith, 2019

Clear, concise, helpful.

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Apr 18, 2015 Nathan Schneider rated it it was amazing

Shelves: culture, ethics

Very good book. DeYoung's exegesis is careful and thorough. Clearly, from his exposition of key biblical texts, DeYoung shows that homosexual behavior is outlawed by God's Word. Not only so, but he also helps the reader walk through difficult questions by giving pastoral counsel to issues raised by skeptics. Christians will need to know how to address questions of homosexuality and this book is the book to equip you. ...more

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Feb 26, 2020 Jessica Bunce rated it it was amazing

Shelves: theology, counseling, identity

DeYoung begins with an extended introduction, principally to recognize that Scripture is not primarily focused on the topic of homosexuality. He then gives a brief sketch of the biblical narrative. I was grateful for his recognition of the grander reality of God’s redemptive work, in that all things will be perfected at the eschaton.

DeYoung then acknowledges that even though it is not the primary focus, Scripture does speak of homosexuality. Here, he directs the conversation toward the central q DeYoung begins with an extended introduction, principally to recognize that Scripture is not primarily focused on the topic of homosexuality. He then gives a brief sketch of the biblical narrative. I was grateful for his recognition of the grander reality of God’s redemptive work, in that all things will be perfected at the eschaton.

DeYoung then acknowledges that even though it is not the primary focus, Scripture does speak of homosexuality. Here, he directs the conversation toward the central question of his book: “Is homosexual activity a sin that must be repented of, forsaken, and forgiven, or, given the right context and commitment, can we consider same-sex sexual intimacy a blessing worth celebrating and solemnizing?” Therefore, this book, is focused on whether or not Scripture endorses homosexuality. In response, DeYoung acknowledges that he endorses a traditional view of marriage, saying, “I believe same-sex sexual intimacy is a sin… I believe the Bible places homosexual behavior— no matter the level of commitment or mutual affection— in the category of sexual immorality.”

The book is then broken up into two parts. Part 1 focuses on five popular passages of related to homosexuality: (1) Genesis 1-2; (2) Genesis 19; (3) Leviticus 18, 20; (4) Romans 1; and (5) 1 Corinthians (6), 1 Timothy 1.

Especially helpful for this discussion, I believe, is the Genesis 1-2 discussion, where DeYoung says “the redemptive-historical significance of marriage as a divine symbol in the Bible only works if the marital couple is a complementary pair.” Acknowledging this grander reality, this coming together of all things, is a powerful truth. As God is unifying all things, such as heaven and earth, a marriage between male and female recognizes this gospel reality. Though different, together they reflect God’s glory and intention for the world.

DeYoung’s handling of the Leviticus passages was also particularly helpful. He acknowledges exactly what sin is being addressed in the Leviticus passages, and whether or not the passages are significant for Christians today. He helpfully, and carefully, walks through these passages, acknowledging their context and helping the reader to understand the difficulty of recognizing the continuity of the Mosaic Law with regard to the Old and New Testaments.

Part 2 focuses on responding to seven popular objections of the traditional view of marriage: (1) near absence of homosexuality in the Bible; (2) different kinds of homosexuality; (3) other sins less addressed in the Bible; (4) church is where broken people are to be; (5) you’re too old-school, being on the wrong side of history; (6) it doesn’t seem fair; and (7) God is a God of love. These responses are especially helpful. DeYoung responds to each objection fairly and presents his response in a clear, understandable fashion.

Helpfully, DeYoung recognizes that though many of these possible objections are heart wrenching and emotionally grounded, Scripture does not endorse homosexuality. What DeYoung graciously does is to show how we all desperately need to learn to differentiate between what God's Word says and what we feel. As described by Jackie Hill Perry in her "Love Letter to a Lesbian," DeYoung cites the following:

"You see what God has to say about homosexuality, but your heart doesn’t utter the same sentiments. God’s word says it’s sinful; your heart says it feels right. God’s word says it’s abominable; your heart says it’s delightful. God’s word says it’s unnatural; your heart says it’s totally normal. Do you see that there is a clear divide between what God’s word says and how your heart feels?"

I am thankful for the call to holiness towards the end of the book to all Christians: to see sin as sin and repent. Whether it is telling lies, gossiping, acting on same-sex attraction, stealing, watching sexually immoral tv shows, or anything else that is against what God's Word says is right and wrong, as a Christian, we are called to holiness and to live lives that are in accordance with the Word of God and bring honor to His name.

Praise be to the Lord who encourages us all in his Word: "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it." 1 Corinthians 10:13. ...more

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May 01, 2018 E rated it it was amazing

After some less than stellar reads recently, I was thrilled to devour a book that hits it out of the park. DeYoung is right-on when it comes to the issue. He first exegetes major biblical passages (Genesis 1–2; Genesis 19; Leviticus 18 & 20; Romans 1; 1 Corinthians 6 & 1 Timothy 1) and then handles major objections ("not that kind of homosexuality"; "what about gluttony and divorce"; "you're on the wrong side of history"; and so forth).

Absolutely everyone ought to read this book, because in this ...more

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Jun 04, 2018 Kendall rated it really liked it

Shelves: theology

The Sexual revolution has cascaded into a fervent progressivism so quickly that many people latch to opinions without considering the why or how of defending their stance. This is seen on both sides of the battle of how to fulfill sexual desire-- both Progressives as well fundamentalists. This book helps both sides of the argument understand Biblical statements about the activity of Homosexuality and how to begin the discussion of what the Bible teaches is right. It is written from a christian p ...more

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Mar 02, 2020 Will Barbour rated it it was amazing

DeYoung not only exegetes the difficult passages, but he faces some of the most difficult modern-day questions regarding homosexuality. I thought I knew a lot more about this issue than I realized I did after reading this book. From insights on the reunion of Adam and Eve, to how Paul created a new word in Greek to speak of homosexual practice, to his quotations from numerous gay-affirming scholars who say it is difficult to see the Bible as anything else but disapproving of homosexual activity. ...more

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Jul 06, 2020 Michael Hagstrom rated it did not like it

This book uses a conservative exegetical framework to strike fear into people regarding homosexuality. In particular, the appendices appear to be written with the intentions to instill a fear based self-righteousness into Christians in regards to gay relationships and marriage. The work also fails to acknowledge the social, political, and ideological power structures influencing the authors of the text at the time of the writing of the Bible. It also ignores other important, potent, and diverse ...more

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Feb 27, 2019 Bill rated it really liked it

Shelves: christian-life, theology

Clear, readable, helpful. DeYoung is gracious in engaging those who disagree with the traditional Christian view, but he is most concerned to equip Christians with a straightforward account of what the Bible teaches about homosexuality, and how to respond to common objections.

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Oct 02, 2019 Daniel Kleven rated it really liked it

Clear, helpful, charitable, and winsome.

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Jan 27, 2020 Drew rated it really liked it

It's a quick read that gives pretty good answers to the common first tier arguments against the traditional view of marriage. An excellent place to start in understanding popular arguments and a careful Christian response. ...more

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Aug 26, 2020 Hopson rated it it was amazing

Few topics in our culture are more controversial than homosexuality and the Bible. Is homosexuality really a sin? Are Christians bigots? Have Christians got it wrong throughout the years? Is the church on the wrong side of history? These questions and more are answered by Kevin DeYoung in this immensely helpful book. Virtually every Christian who desires to hold fast to God's Word will be challenged on this issue. Don't allow the world to squeeze you into its mold. Instead dive into what God's W ...more

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Jun 17, 2019 Derek rated it really liked it

Shelves: audiobook

Humble and really well done.

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Mar 05, 2017 A. L. rated it really liked it

Shelves: religious, for-school

Almost the entire time I was reading this book, I was reminded of how incredibly difficult it is to maintain balance in everything that we do. "Love the sinner hate the sin," right? Naturally, it's much more complicated than that.
Some may consider all the controversy surrounding homosexuality to be making mountains out of anthills: why can't both sides just "agree to disagree"? I would be inclined to think this way too, if I hadn't realized that accepted and unrepentant homosexuality will res ...more

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Jan 30, 2019 Chris rated it it was amazing

Shelves: own, marriage, sexuaiity

DeYoung Doing What He Does Best

In his book, What Does the Bible Teach about Homosexuality?, pastor-theologian Kevin DeYoung does what he does best: apply biblical truth to current cultural issues in a fair and balanced manner. DeYoung has that rare gift of bringing in-depth research, careful thinking, and biblical truth to bear on a topic in a way that is thorough yet accessible. His writings are rich, accessible, rewarding, and for the church. The same can be said for What Does the Bible Teach DeYoung Doing What He Does Best

In his book, What Does the Bible Teach about Homosexuality?, pastor-theologian Kevin DeYoung does what he does best: apply biblical truth to current cultural issues in a fair and balanced manner. DeYoung has that rare gift of bringing in-depth research, careful thinking, and biblical truth to bear on a topic in a way that is thorough yet accessible. His writings are rich, accessible, rewarding, and for the church. The same can be said for What Does the Bible Teach about Homosexuality?.

DeYoung uses his Introductory chapter to place the question of homosexuality in the larger context of the biblical story of redemption, to be upfront about where he is coming from, and to demonstrate that he understands the diversity of his potential readers. DeYoung has written “a Christian book, with a narrow focus, defending a traditional view of marriage” (15). But it is written with three kinds of people in mind: [1] the convinced, [2] the contentious, and [3] the confused (17-19).

What follows is a simple (but not simplistic) two-part presentation. First, five chapters address the most relevant and debated biblical passages relating to homosexuality. Second, seven chapters tackle the most common objections to the Bible’s view of sexual immorality. DeYoung’s goal is “to demonstrate that there are no persuasive historical, cultural, pastoral, or hermeneutical reasons for setting aside the plain meaning of the Bible as it has been understood for nearly two millennia” (19-20). His final chapter seeks to make clear what is at stake if we forsake the truth of the Bible regarding sexual morality.

DeYoung includes three helpful appendices that address:

(1) What about Same-Sex Marriage?
(2) Same-Sex Attraction: Three Building Blocks
(3) The Church and Homosexuality: Ten Commitments

Finally, DeYoung provides a helpful annotated bibliography and Scripture index for further reading and study.

In What Does the Bible Teach about Homosexuality?, DeYoung provides a basic primer to help anyone begin to understand what the Bible actually teaches on this difficult and increasingly divisive topic. It is an issue that cannot be avoided and one that calls God’s people to speak and show the truth in love to the convinced, the contentious, and the confused. As DeYoung states in his conclusion:

Only in Jesus can we be given new birth. Only through Jesus can we be new creations. Only with Jesus can all things being made new. And only by listening to Jesus-in the book his Spirit inspired-will we come to realize that sometimes the new things are found only by sticking to the old paths (136).

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Nov 27, 2016 Kris rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Don't let the size of this book fool you. It may be small, but the treatment of the subject matter is certainly not. DeYoung has done the church no small favor by providing such an accessible, pastoral, and convincing assessment of the Bible's teachings on homosexuality. Of particular note in DeYoung's writing is his ability to display compassion towards those who experience same-sex attraction without minimizing the force of what the Bible has to say to them.

DeYoung is very upfront about his st Don't let the size of this book fool you. It may be small, but the treatment of the subject matter is certainly not. DeYoung has done the church no small favor by providing such an accessible, pastoral, and convincing assessment of the Bible's teachings on homosexuality. Of particular note in DeYoung's writing is his ability to display compassion towards those who experience same-sex attraction without minimizing the force of what the Bible has to say to them.

DeYoung is very upfront about his stance on this issue from the very beginning of the book and leaves the reader with no doubt whatsoever about what they will find in the book. He addresses several of the most prominent texts pertaining to this discussion and provides much needed and hard to refute clarity regarding their meaning. DeYoung also provides very helpful guidance on some very difficult pastoral questions and situations regarding how to minister to those who experience same-sex attraction.

DeYoung did something in this book that I am so thankful for: he framed the discussion of homosexuality as one that exists within the greater framework of redemptive history. In other words, DeYoung doesn't begin the book by asking "what does the Bible really teach about homosexuality", but instead he asks "what does the Bible teach about everything?" The most prevalent error in most modern discussions of homosexuality is that those discussions take place in a forum that is compartmentalized from the greater worldview of the Bible. DeYoung corrects this error by providing a concise biblical theology that explains the grand narrative of scripture and then proceeds to discuss homosexuality within that narrative. What we're left with is a treatment of homosexuality that is devoid of any sloppy proof-texting, as each text is discussed within its proper context and setting. This is an invaluable characteristic of this book.

DeYoung's work provides a great introduction to the issue of homosexuality that all Christians should read. This issue is especially prevalent in our society and will only become more so with time. ...more

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May 19, 2015 Christie Hagerman rated it it was amazing

Shelves: nonfiction

If ever a topic has caused confusion and division among Christians, it is how to view and react to homosexuality. I was curious about this short, 160-page book, and happy to find that it cut through the cloudiness of the issue and went straight to the source of all truth, the Bible. However, he holds Christians to the standard of loving those who experience same-sex attraction and seeking to understand and reach out to them.

In the introduction, the author points out three classes of readers he e ...more

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Jul 18, 2017 Brian Watson rated it really liked it

Here is a very solid overview of a very controversial issue. I suspect that this book was written to reassure Christians that the "traditional" view on the issue of homosexuality is indeed biblical. DeYoung does a good job of going through the relevant texts, showing that they are clear. He then spends some several chapters addressing objections. The church needs books like this. What I don't give it five stars is that I don't think it would be terribly convincing to someone who thinks homosexua ...more

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Apr 05, 2015 Stephen Bean rated it it was amazing

Conservative Evangelicalism needs more voices displaying what Russell Moore calls "convictional kindness." Thankfully, Kevin DeYoung is emerging as one of these voices. He is clear, concise, biblical, and nuanced. In What Does the Bible Really Teach about Homosexuality? DeYoung puts all of this on display while dealing with perhaps the most relevant hot-button issue in America today.

In this "mercifully short" book, DeYoung argues that marriage and sexuality are presented in the Bible as being in ...more

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Oct 23, 2016 Laramie Gildon rated it it was amazing

This book is broken down into 2 sections. Part 1 is Understanding God's Word. In this section DeYoung walks through the sections of scripture that base our understanding of traditional marriage, complimentarianism and homosexuality. As he walks through Gen. 1, 2 & 19, Lev. 18 & 20, Rom. 1, 1 Cor. 6, and 1 Tim. 1 we get a proper exegesis (breakdown) of these passages, what the words meant in the original texts and some of the common arguments by those subscribing to the homosexual agenda.

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Apr 18, 2015 Pete Williamson rated it it was amazing

Shelves: cultural-studies, homosexuality

As with his other books, this is an accessible, clearly-argued treatment of one of the most challenging issues of our time. Three things I appreciated about this book: (1) DeYoung deals with the relevant Scriptures. This is first and foremost a biblical issue and DeYoung does us a great service in presenting a coherent picture from the Scriptures; (2) This is a practically-minded book. It is aimed at the central questions of this debate and DeYoung does not shy away from addressing those questio ...more

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About Kevin DeYoung

Kevin DeYoung

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Kevin DeYoung is the Senior Pastor at University Reformed Church (RCA) in East Lansing, Michigan, right across the street from Michigan State University.

Books by Kevin DeYoung

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The Hole in Our Holiness: Filling the Gap between Gospel Passion and the Pursuit of Godliness

Taking God at His Word: Why the Bible Is Knowable, Necessary, and Enough, and What That Means for You and Me

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“We don't get to pick the age we will live in, and we don't get to choose all the struggles we will face. Faithfulness is ours to choose; the shape of faithfulness is God's to determine.” — 3 likes

“Our feelings matter. Our stories matter. Our friends matter. But ultimately we must search the Scriptures to see what matters most.” — 2 likes

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