Approaching the Bible Together (Michael Pahl)
There is a current debate among scholars as to whether Romans 1:18-32 even reflects Paul’s perspective, or if it is a perspective that Paul actually refutes starting in Romans 2:1 or even 3:21. For our discussion we will assume that Romans 1:18-32 is in fact Paul’s perspective
.. Paul may be giving a blanket condemnation of all same-sex acts regardless of context or motivation. This is the argument of the traditional view. However, given that the passage repeatedly emphasizes excessive “lust” and “passions,” this may reflect a common ancient assumption that same-sex acts were the result of a lack of sexual self-control, not from an underlying inclination or orientation. Or, given the pervasive view in the ancient world that sex acts should MCM Study Conference. September 26, 2015. Biblical Texts. p. 5 reflect an innate social hierarchy (male over female, free over slave, older over younger), Paul may be thinking of same-sex acts that violate this normal social order
.. A key part of this discussion is determining exactly what Paul means when he talks about these acts as “unnatural” or “contrary to nature” (para phusin). The traditional view argues that this means “contrary to the divinely created order” and thus unchangeable. The affirming view normally argues that this means “contrary to social norms” which do change.