Imago Dei

The attitudes of churches to questions of sexuality and gender

The blog argues that many churches have failed LGBTQ+ people by prioritising condemnation over grace and by relying on shallow or unexamined interpretations of Scripture. I argue that biblical texts should be read in their historical, cultural, and linguistic contexts rather than at face value, especially when discussing sexuality and gender. I argue that LGBTQ+ identities are innate, natural aspects of human diversity, supported by personal testimony, history, and scientific evidence. Throughout, I’m appealling to the character of God as revealed in Jesus—marked by love, compassion, inclusion, and dignity—and concludes that Christian theology should be re-examined in light of these values, leading churches toward a more affirming stance.

The strains in the church between the Bible and Science

This month’s blog argues that condemning LGBTQ+ people contradicts God’s loving character, as all humans reflect the Imago Dei. It emphasizes that Scripture should point to Jesus, not serve as an idol, and warns against rigid legalism that ignores compassion, justice, and human dignity. Interpreting the Bible requires context, discernment, and humility, integrating science and lived experience rather than creating false conflicts. Jesus’ life models inclusion and care for marginalized people, challenging interpretations that harm others. Ultimately, faith must prioritize ethical treatment of others, aligning theology with Christ’s compassion, rather than enforcing rigid rules or fear

Way back, before I was born, before any of us were born, back before the Romans, before Moses, before Noah, there was a garden. Whether this garden was literal or figurative doesn’t matter. Within this garden, God created the first people. We are told that these people were made in the image of God, meaningContinue reading “Imago Dei”