August 15th, 2024
by Chris Reighley
by Chris Reighley
Marriage Redefined: Biblical Ethics and Modern Policies
This is Part 3 of the series Navigating Today’s Challenges Through a Biblical Lens: A Comparison of Presidential Platforms
In the tumultuous landscape of American politics, the issue of marriage and sexuality has become a focal point of debate and policy-making. As we approach the 2024 presidential election, it is imperative for Christians to examine the candidates’ platforms through a biblical lens. This post will delve into the biblical perspective on marriage and sexuality, analyze the positions of major presidential candidates, and assess how these positions align with or diverge from scriptural teachings
What the Bible Says About Marriage and Sexuality
Scriptural Basis
The Bible provides clear guidance on marriage and sexuality, emphasizing the sanctity and purpose of these institutions as designed by God. Genesis 2:24 lays the foundational principle for marriage:
This verse underscores the union between a man and a woman as the intended design for marriage.
Romans 1:26-27 further addresses sexual ethics, stating:
This passage highlights the biblical view that same-sex relationships are contrary to God’s design.
“For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh”.
This verse underscores the union between a man and a woman as the intended design for marriage.
Romans 1:26-27 further addresses sexual ethics, stating:
“For this reason God gave them over to degrading passions; for their women exchanged the natural function for that which is unnatural, and in the same way also the men abandoned the natural function of the woman and burned in their desire toward one another, men with men committing indecent acts and receiving in their own persons the due penalty of their error”.
This passage highlights the biblical view that same-sex relationships are contrary to God’s design.
Theological Insights
Notable theologians have consistently reinforced these biblical principles. John MacArthur (2006), in his expository teachings, emphasizes that marriage is a divine institution meant to reflect Christ’s relationship with the Church. Similarly, C.S. Lewis (1952), in “Mere Christianity,” articulates the importance of marriage as a covenant that mirrors divine faithfulness and commitment.
Where the Candidates Stand on Marriage and Sexuality
Donald J. Trump and the GOP Platform
The 2024 GOP platform, championed by Donald Trump, advocates for traditional marriage and opposes policies that promote same-sex marriage and gender identity ideologies. The platform explicitly states: “We believe in the sanctity of marriage between a man and a woman and oppose the redefining of marriage to include same-sex couples. We will protect the religious liberties of those who hold these beliefs” (Republican National Committee, 2024).
Additionally, the GOP platform addresses the issue of gender identity, proposing to “stop the radical gender ideology being pushed in our schools and ensure that biological males cannot compete in women’s sports” (Republican National Committee, 2024).
Additionally, the GOP platform addresses the issue of gender identity, proposing to “stop the radical gender ideology being pushed in our schools and ensure that biological males cannot compete in women’s sports” (Republican National Committee, 2024).
Kamala Harris and the Democratic Platform
In contrast, Kamala Harris and the Democratic platform advocate for the recognition and protection of same-sex marriages and the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. The 2020 Democratic Party platform emphasizes: “We will fight to enact the Equality Act to end discrimination against LGBTQ+ people and ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals have equal rights in all aspects of life, including marriage” (Democratic National Committee, 2020).
The platform also supports policies that affirm gender identity, including access to gender-affirming healthcare and protections for transgender individuals in various sectors such as education and employment (Democratic National Committee, 2020).
The platform also supports policies that affirm gender identity, including access to gender-affirming healthcare and protections for transgender individuals in various sectors such as education and employment (Democratic National Committee, 2020).
Comparing Platforms to Biblical Principles
Detailed Analysis
From a biblical perspective, the GOP’s stance on marriage and gender aligns more closely with scriptural teachings. The emphasis on traditional marriage and opposition to policies that promote same-sex marriage and gender identity reflect the biblical view that marriage is a union between a man and a woman and that gender is a divinely assigned characteristic.
In contrast, the Democratic platform’s support for same-sex marriage and gender identity policies diverges from biblical teachings. While advocating for the rights and protections of LGBTQ+ individuals is seen as a pursuit of social justice, it conflicts with the biblical view of marriage and gender roles as divinely ordained.
In contrast, the Democratic platform’s support for same-sex marriage and gender identity policies diverges from biblical teachings. While advocating for the rights and protections of LGBTQ+ individuals is seen as a pursuit of social justice, it conflicts with the biblical view of marriage and gender roles as divinely ordained.
Evaluation
Evaluating the platforms through a biblical lens, it is clear that the GOP’s positions align more closely with scriptural teachings on marriage and sexuality. The commitment to protecting traditional marriage and opposing radical gender ideologies resonates with the biblical view of these institutions. However, it is essential to approach this evaluation with grace and compassion, recognizing the complexity of these issues in a diverse society.
Applying Biblical Principles in Today’s Context
Reflection Questions
- How do your personal beliefs about marriage and sexuality align with the biblical teachings discussed?
- In what ways can you support policies that reflect biblical principles while showing love and compassion to those with differing views?
- How can the church engage in meaningful conversations about marriage and sexuality in today’s cultural climate?
Action Steps
- Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with the biblical teachings on marriage and sexuality and understand the candidates’ platforms in detail.
- Engage in Dialogue: Participate in respectful and informed discussions with others about these issues, seeking to understand different perspectives while sharing your own.
- Support Faith-Based Initiatives: Get involved with organizations and initiatives that uphold biblical values and provide support for traditional marriage and family structures.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Summary
In conclusion, the issue of marriage and sexuality remains a contentious topic in the 2024 presidential election. By examining the candidates’ platforms through a biblical lens, it is evident that the GOP’s positions align more closely with scriptural teachings on these issues. However, it is crucial to engage with grace and compassion, recognizing the humanity and dignity of all individuals.
Encouragement
Reflect on these insights and pray for wisdom as you prepare to vote. Engage in meaningful conversations with others, and seek ways to uphold biblical principles in your community.
Encouragement
Reflect on these insights and pray for wisdom as you prepare to vote. Engage in meaningful conversations with others, and seek ways to uphold biblical principles in your community.
Call to Action
Share your thoughts in the comments below and discuss how we can advocate for biblical values in our society. Consider how you can support policies and candidates that align with your faith, and take action to make a positive impact in your community.
Commentary
As we navigate these complex issues, let us remember the words of C.S. Lewis:
By striving to uphold biblical principles, we can contribute to a society that reflects God’s design and purpose.
“Aim at Heaven and you will get Earth ‘thrown in’: aim at Earth and you will get neither” (Lewis, 1952).
By striving to uphold biblical principles, we can contribute to a society that reflects God’s design and purpose.
References
- Democratic National Committee. (2020). 2020 Democratic Party Platform. Retrieved from https://democrats.org
- Legacy Standard Bible. (2021). Genesis 2:24.
- Legacy Standard Bible. (2021). Romans 1:26-27.
- Lewis, C.S. (1952). Mere Christianity. New York: HarperOne.
- MacArthur, J. (2006). The MacArthur New Testament Commentary. Chicago: Moody Publishers.
- Republican National Committee. (2024). 2024 GOP Platform. Retrieved from https://www.gop.com
This blog post is part of the series Navigating Today’s Challenges Through a Biblical Lens: A Comparison of Presidential Platforms, aiming to equip believers with the knowledge to navigate complex issues and make informed decisions rooted in faith.
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