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Interpretation Of Homophobia In The Bible

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The universal fear of change: we are afraid of what we don’t know. Fear influences us to do what we can in order to maintain what is already established. At the fundamental level our nation was colonized with the overarching ideals of the Christian religion. The interpretation of the bible was fulfilled by the most conservative and shared with those in such colonies. This evolution of Christianity through the interpretation and ultimately manipulation of the Bible has had a great influence on the exclusion and creation of homophobia within the United States. While ideals of homophobia are interpreted within the Bible the concerns of its regards to gays and lesbians were not discussed until an overarching presence of gays and lesbians became more prevalent in the United States.
In this essay I will begin by explaining the views of different denominations within the larger Christian faith regarding homosexual relationships and their existence within the congregations. Following these descriptions I will discuss why this is important when we evaluate the roots of homophobia and where it can be found within the faith. I will conclude my essay with a personal story and share why I believe it is important to understand the evolution of homophobia as we make progress from dismantling it from our society.

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“Traditionalists believe the scriptures are clear in prohibiting same-sex relations, while progressives see full inclusion as a matter of God’s love and justice” (Bailey, 17). This separation would allow those with opposing views to avoid conflict within their local practices. Progressive United Methodist Church followers are look more towards changing the teachings and practices of the church to stray away from discrimination of same sex marriage as well as homosexuals as a

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