30 Important anti gay bible verses (With Explanation)

Today we will talk about anti gay bible verses. Many Christians do not know what this means. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word. In this piece we will gather passages that are often cited in conversations about same-sex behavior and the Bible. We will also reflect together in a friendly, humble and encouraging way. Our goal is to listen to Scripture, consider historical and pastoral context, and hold fast to love as we read. As we walk through these verses, let us remember that Jesus taught mercy and that the Scriptures call us to holiness. We will read carefully, pray for wisdom, and aim to respond to one another with grace as we study these texts. May our hearts be open and our words gentle as we seek truth and compassion.

Romans 1:26-27

“For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: – Romans 1:26-27 (KJV)

anti gay bible verses

Levitical law and holiness — anti gay bible verses

When we study the Old Testament law, we see that the instruction for Israel was to live differently from surrounding nations. In our reading of anti gay bible verses, Leviticus and Deuteronomy are often cited because they set out holiness codes for the community. We approach these passages together, aware that they were given to a covenant people for a particular time and purpose. As we read, we ask: how did these laws aim to shape a people who would reflect God’s character? We notice that some commands are about sexual behavior and social boundaries, meant to protect the family and communal order. We keep in mind that the phrase “anti gay bible verses” can mean different things to different people, so we try to listen to the passage itself and to each other. As we read these verses, let us hold two things together: a call to live in purity, and a call to show compassion to every person. We are learning how the ancient rules informed life then, how they point to the need for holiness now, and how Jesus’ life invites us to love well while pursuing faithfulness.

Leviticus 18:22

“Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination. – Leviticus 18:22 (KJV)

Leviticus 20:13

“If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them. – Leviticus 20:13 (KJV)

Deuteronomy 22:5

“The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman’s garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the LORD thy God. – Deuteronomy 22:5 (KJV)

Deuteronomy 23:17-18

“There shall be no whore of the daughters of Israel, nor a sodomite of the sons of Israel. Thou shalt not bring the hire of a whore, or the price of a dog, into the house of the LORD thy God for any vow: for even both these are abomination unto the LORD thy God. – Deuteronomy 23:17-18 (KJV)

Leviticus 18:29

“For whosoever shall commit any of these abominations, even the persons that commit them shall be cut off from among their people. – Leviticus 18:29 (KJV)

Sodom, Gomorrah, and the story of judgment — anti gay bible verses

We turn to the stories of Sodom and Gomorrah when we look at anti gay bible verses, because these accounts are frequently referenced in discussion. We read these stories in Genesis and in later prophetic and apostolic reflections. As we gather around the text, we note the repeated themes: violence, inhospitality, and moral failure that brought judgment. In our study, we try to separate cultural shorthand from careful reading. Are the stories primarily about consensual same-sex relationships, or are they about abuse, coercion, and a breakdown of community care? Different parts of Scripture interpret Sodom in varied ways; we see Ezekiel speak of pride and neglect of the poor, while Jude and Peter connect the cities to sexual immorality and sinful acts. When we consider these passages under the label “anti gay bible verses,” we remember to hold compassion in our hearts. We are called to understand the text, to listen for its concerns about justice and holiness, and to respond to people today with both truth and care. This helps us read Sodom’s story not as fodder for condemnation but as a call to welcome, justice, and faithfulness.

Genesis 19:4-5

“But before they lay down, the men of the city, even the men of Sodom, compassed the house round, both old and young, all the people from every quarter: And they called unto Lot, and said unto him, Where are the men which came in to thee this night? bring them out unto us, that we may know them. – Genesis 19:4-5 (KJV)

Genesis 19:24-25

“Then the LORD rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the LORD out of heaven; And he overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground. – Genesis 19:24-25 (KJV)

Ezekiel 16:49-50

“Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy: And they were haughty, and committed abomination before me: therefore I took them away as I saw good. – Ezekiel 16:49-50 (KJV)

Jude 1:7

“Even as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. – Jude 1:7 (KJV)

2 Peter 2:6-8

“And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly; And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;) – 2 Peter 2:6-8 (KJV)

Paul’s teaching on desire and practice — anti gay bible verses

When we read Paul’s letters, especially Romans and Corinthians, we meet some of the clearest New Testament wording used in conversations about anti gay bible verses. Paul talks about desires and actions, and he lists behaviors that the early church was to turn from. As we read together, we remind one another to pay attention to context — Paul is addressing communities, patterns of idolatry, and the brokenness that comes when people turn from God. At the same time, Paul holds up the possibility of change, restoration, and new life in Christ. We should not only read the prohibitions, but also the promises of transformation found nearby in Scripture. As we study Romans 1 and the lists in the pastoral letters, we ask how these words shaped the early church, and how we can hold to Biblical conviction while being shepherds of compassion today. We trust the Holy Spirit to guide our reading and our relationships.

Romans 1:26-27

“For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: – Romans 1:26-27 (KJV)

1 Corinthians 6:9-10

“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, – 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 (KJV)

1 Timothy 1:9-10

“Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; – 1 Timothy 1:9-10 (KJV)

Galatians 5:19-21

“Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. – Galatians 5:19-21 (KJV)

Revelation 21:8

“But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. – Revelation 21:8 (KJV)

Lists of unrighteous actions in Scripture — anti gay bible verses

Many passages in the Bible list actions that the writers say are not part of a life that follows God. These lists are often used when people talk about anti gay bible verses. As we look at lists in the Gospels and the Epistles, we notice how the writers connect behavior with the heart. Jesus, for example, points to what comes from within a person. Paul and other authors name patterns of behavior that degrade relationships or break trust. When we read these lists, we ask practical questions: What kinds of patterns harm people and families? How do we encourage one another to pursue holiness? We also remember that lists in Scripture are not a license for cruelty; they serve as guideposts toward life in God’s kingdom. We hold one another accountable gently, praying for transformation and offering restoration. Our reading of anti gay bible verses is part of a larger call to live righteously and love tenderly.

Ephesians 5:3-5

“But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. – Ephesians 5:3-5 (KJV)

Colossians 3:5-6

“Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: – Colossians 3:5-6 (KJV)

Matthew 15:19

“For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: – Matthew 15:19 (KJV)

Mark 7:21-23

“For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man. – Mark 7:21-23 (KJV)

Proverbs 6:32-33

“But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul. A wound and dishonour shall he get; and his reproach shall not be wiped away. – Proverbs 6:32-33 (KJV)

Repentance, restoration, and new life — anti gay bible verses

We do not read anti gay bible verses apart from the Bible’s larger story of repentance and restoration. Many of the passages that name sinful behavior are set alongside offers of forgiveness and change. In our study together, we celebrate that God calls people away from sin but also toward new life in Christ. The church has long held that those who turn from harmful patterns can be washed, sanctified, and justified. We speak these truths in a spirit of encouragement: we want everyone to experience the freedom that comes from confession and renewal. When we quote verses about moral failure, we also point to the verses that speak of being made new. That balance keeps our hearts tender and our testimony hopeful. We want our reflection on anti gay bible verses to point toward God’s mercy and the practical steps of repentance and growth.

1 Corinthians 6:11

“And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. – 1 Corinthians 6:11 (KJV)

Acts 3:19

“Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; – Acts 3:19 (KJV)

2 Corinthians 7:1

“Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. – 2 Corinthians 7:1 (KJV)

1 John 1:9

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. – 1 John 1:9 (KJV)

Luke 9:23

“And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. – Luke 9:23 (KJV)

Church life, discipline, and loving boundaries — anti gay bible verses

In communities of faith, church discipline and moral teaching are part of helping people grow. When people talk about anti gay bible verses, they often mean Scripture that the church uses to set its standards. Discipline in the Bible is meant not to punish forever but to bring restoration and protect the body from harm. As we live together, we set loving boundaries, confront sin gently, and offer pathways back to health. We must do this with humility and compassion, remembering that we too need grace. Church leaders are called to shepherd with firmness and tenderness, balancing truth and love. In discussing anti gay bible verses, let us commit to practices that seek both holiness and healing, taking care that our actions do not become cruelty.

Matthew 18:15

“Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. – Matthew 18:15 (KJV)

1 Corinthians 5:11

“But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. – 1 Corinthians 5:11 (KJV)

2 Corinthians 2:6-8

“Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many. So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow. Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him. – 2 Corinthians 2:6-8 (KJV)

Titus 3:10-11

“A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject; Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself. – Titus 3:10-11 (KJV)

Hebrews 12:14

“Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: – Hebrews 12:14 (KJV)

Context, covenant, and how we read law — anti gay bible verses

We want to read anti gay bible verses with an eye to context. The Bible was written across centuries and includes different covenantal situations. Some commands were given under the old covenant to Israel, while others arise within the church’s life after Christ came. When we think about what the Bible says, we pay attention to who is being addressed and why. Acts 15, for example, shows how early Christians debated what laws Gentile believers should follow. We examine Paul’s arguments about the law, and we notice that Jesus fulfills and reorients many earlier customs. In reading anti gay bible verses, we therefore try to be careful interpreters — seeking the original meaning and how the passage fits within the whole Story. We also ask how to apply God’s timeless call to holiness in ways that reflect Jesus’ love for all people. This keeps our study humble and honest, and it helps us hold conviction and compassion together.

Acts 15:20

“But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood. – Acts 15:20 (KJV)

Romans 7:12

“Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. – Romans 7:12 (KJV)

Hebrews 8:13

“In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away. – Hebrews 8:13 (KJV)

1 Corinthians 9:21

“To them that are without I became as without, that I might gain them that are without: – 1 Corinthians 9:21 (KJV)

James 2:8-13

“If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. – James 2:8-13 (KJV)

Love, mercy, and how we treat one another — anti gay bible verses

As we reflect on anti gay bible verses, we cannot ignore the Bible’s strong call to love. Jesus taught that the greatest commands are to love God and love our neighbor. We insist on studying passages that speak against certain behaviors, but we must never let that lead us to hatred or cruelty. Instead, the Bible asks us to bear one another’s burdens, to be kind, and to show compassion. Our shared life as Christians is marked by patience, gentleness, and forgiveness. When we talk about anti gay bible verses, we should do so in ways that protect dignity and encourage reconciliation. We aim to be both truthful and kind, to speak plainly about moral conviction while always treating people with the respect and care Jesus modeled. This is how we live out Scripture in community.

John 13:34-35

“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. – John 13:34-35 (KJV)

Matthew 22:37-39

“Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. – Matthew 22:37-39 (KJV)

Luke 6:31

“And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. – Luke 6:31 (KJV)

Romans 13:8-10

“Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. – Romans 13:8-10 (KJV)

Colossians 3:12-14

“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. – Colossians 3:12-14 (KJV)

Marriage, covenant, and sexual ethics — anti gay bible verses

Many passages that inform the discussion about anti gay bible verses focus on marriage and covenant. Scripture often presents marriage as a unique, covenantal union between man and woman that points to Christ and the church. As we read Genesis, the Gospels, and Paul’s instructions, we try to understand how the biblical picture of marriage shapes sexual ethics. We also recognize that marriage norms in Scripture aim to protect family life, faithfulness, and societal flourishing. As we hold these convictions, we must also show care for those who struggle, ensuring that our witness is patient and redemptive. We want to encourage healthy relationships and faithful living, while offering pastoral care for every person we meet.

Genesis 2:24

“Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. – Genesis 2:24 (KJV)

Matthew 19:4-6

“And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, – Matthew 19:4-6 (KJV)

Mark 10:6-9

“But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; – Mark 10:6-9 (KJV)

Hebrews 13:4

“Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. – Hebrews 13:4 (KJV)

1 Corinthians 7:2

“Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. – 1 Corinthians 7:2 (KJV)

Warnings, consequences, and the call to wisdom — anti gay bible verses

The Bible contains warnings about sin and its consequences, and these are often part of discussions labeled as anti gay bible verses. We read warnings not to condemn but to help people see the cost of choices that lead away from God. Scripture urges wisdom and invites people to consider the future impact of actions on themselves and others. When we study these passages, we seek practical wisdom for life together: to avoid harm, to protect the vulnerable, and to cultivate practices that lead to flourishing. We also remember that warnings are part of a loving God who calls us back from danger. Our reading of such verses should push us toward compassion, clarity, and care for all people as we point them to life in Christ.

Romans 6:23

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. – Romans 6:23 (KJV)

Galatians 6:7-8

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. – Galatians 6:7-8 (KJV)

Proverbs 7:21-23

“With her much fair speech she caused him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she forced him. – Proverbs 7:21-23 (KJV)

Hosea 4:14

“I will not punish your daughters when they commit whoredom, nor your daughters-in-law when they commit whoredom: for themselves are separated with whores, and they sacrifice with harlots: therefore the people that doth not understand shall fall. – Hosea 4:14 (KJV)

Jeremiah 23:14

“I have seen also in the prophets of Jerusalem a horrible thing: they commit adultery, and walk in lies: they strengthen also the hands of evildoers, that none doth return from his wickedness: they are all of them unto me as Sodom, and the inhabitants thereof as Gomorrah. – Jeremiah 23:14 (KJV)

Final Thoughts

I have shared these passages because they are commonly cited when people speak of anti gay bible verses. We have tried to gather them honestly while reading with care and compassion. I want us to remember that Scripture asks us to pursue holiness and to love our neighbors.

We are responsible to study context, to balance truth with mercy, and to welcome people into conversations that seek restoration and care. Let us be careful readers and tender-hearted followers of Christ.

May we continue to pray for wisdom, practice kindness in our words, and point one another toward the transforming grace of Jesus as we live out the Scriptures together.

Further Reading

30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)

30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)

30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)

4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4