Gazelam wrote:We can use the New Testament no problem, because the law didn't change, just the punishment.
Rom. 1:21-32
Homosexuality is against everything the gospel stands for, and is second only to murder, in that it is a breach of the law of chastity, and against common social decency.
Gaz, thanks for your efforts on this subject. i respect your good-intention. however, a few points you might not have considered, some probably more relevant than others:
The term "abomination" is used 22 times in the Old Testament, once in each of the New Testament, Book of Mormon, & the D&C. Suggests the 'word', and its useage has been replaced by others more appropriate to advancing language development. Recall McConky's use of it in Mormon Doctrine, getting him into deep trouble?
Luke (16:15) uses it to describe the Pharisees' 'heart-content' in summary of v 13 & 14, to include things of no sexual nature whar-so-ever. By extension, suggesting that you and I might be engaged in some "abominables"? Some thing to think about...
Rom 1:21-32, does provoke thought. 23, for example: "...changing God into an image like unto man..." Seems that's the view of LDSism. Something else to think about... v30 & 31, Paul's rancor is redirected to include such every-day-evils as, "...despiteful, proud, boasters, without understanding & natural affection--many families might dwell there, eh--implacable, unmerciful..." You say:
Homosexuality is against everything the gospel stands for, and is second only to murder, in that it is a breach of the law of chastity, and against common social decency
A very narrow view of what, "...the gospel stands for..." IMSCO. As i understand the "Good News" it has to do with grace, forgiveness, mercy, joy, serving "God" and humanity as instructed and exemplified by the man who taught such "strange doctrine" for his time. Then died because he wouldn't retract from it.
I think there are many things more "...against common social decency..." such as: political and corporate corruption; child and spousal abuses of any type; prejudce re ethnicity, religious choice, gender, sexual orientation; deceit, crimes against humanity and property et al, than is hmosexuality.
Homosexual relationships are free-will between consenting adults; as are heterosexual relationships. That either might be found offensive is so feebly evidenced as to be nothing more than opinion based upon misinformation and culturalism.
IF/WHEN we understand the all encompassing ramifications of (John 8:3-11) "...casting the first stone..." then, i think that "charity", spoken of by Paul, might better temper our condemnation of others, however, and by whomever, they might be judged... Warm regards, Roger
Paul, in 1 Cor 13, i think summarizes the value priorities that ideally were/are meant to live by. First and last "Charity" is meant to encompass every principle, precept, thought, and deed we live by.