Topic 3 - Relationships and Families

What are Christian attitudes towards Homosexuality?

Many Christians say it was part of God’s plan to have a heterosexual relationship. Leviticus 18:22 “Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable."

Many Christians also support homosexuality with the Church of England recognizing same-sex relationships and advocating for inclusivity but will not marry them.

The Catholic Church also promotes acceptance as long as they remain chaste (To not have sex).

What are the Christian Teaching on sexual conduct?

It is traditionally taught that sex before marriage is wrong with many Christians still believing this. For Christians, sex is a deep, loving lifelong union that first requires the commitment of marriage and that you should be chaste before marriage.

Sex outside marriage is viewed as sinful, and the emphasis is on the sanctity and purpose of marital relations, and is agreed both by Christians, atheists and other religions. Exodus 20:14 "You shall not commit adultery,"

What are the Christian Teachings on Contraception?

Many Christian denominations have differing views on contraception. The Catholic Church opposes artificial contraception, advocating for natural family planning and openness to life, while many Protestant groups accept contraceptive methods as a responsible choice within the context of marriage.

What are Christian Teachings on Marriage?

Christian teachings emphasize the sanctity of marriage as a lifelong commitment between one man and one woman, reflecting God's covenant with humanity. Genesis 2:24 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh."

Cohabitation is generally discouraged as it may undermine the seriousness of marriage. However, modern British society sees it as a popular method before marriage if there are economic problems for example.

What are the Christian Teachings on Divorce?

In modern society divorce is very popular within marriages.

Many Christians believe that divorce is sinful if not for the right reasoning. Matthew 5:32 “If a man divorces his wife for any cause other than sexual immorality, he causes her to commit adultery.”

The Catholic Church teaches that annulments may be granted under specific circumstances, but generally views marriage as indissoluble.

What are Christian Teachings about Family?

Christian teachings emphasize the importance of family as the foundational unit of society, reflecting God's design for relationships.

Families are seen as places of love, support, and spiritual growth, with parents responsible for nurturing and guiding their children in faith. Colossians 3:21 “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged."

What are Christian Teachings about Gender Equality?

Christian teachings advocate for the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals, regardless of gender, reflecting the belief that both men and women are created in the image of God. Galatians 3:28 “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”