Homosexuality -
There are mixed views within both Judaism and Christianity on whether homosexuality should be accepted ( See table below ) :
Christian views -
Evangelical protestantsEvangelical protestants believe that homosexuality is a sin and that it can be cured through prayer.
- The bible which is the word of God clearly condemns homosexuality - All churches have taught that homosexuality is a sin |
CatholicsCatholics believe that homosexual thoughts are acceptable but not homosexual relationships -
- Its seen as genetical to be homosexual therefore people can't help it - Sexual activity should be creative which it can't be in this case - The bible condemns it |
Liberal protestantsLiberal Protestants believe that long homosexual relationships are acceptable but a man and woman marriage is preferable
- The bibles teachings need to be updated - "love thy neighbour" - If God creates humans and homosexuality is genetic then if God didn't intend people to be homosexual why would he create them like that |
Jewish views -
Orthodox JewsOrthodox Jews believe homosexual activity is wrong but being homosexual isn't
- The torah condemns homosexuality - The talmud statues that the only lawful form of marriage is between a man and woman - The primary aim of sex is to be creative which can't happen in homosexual relationships - The mitzvot statues that families should marry and have children |
Reform JewsReform Jews believe that homosexual relationships can be accepted but are not ideal
- The torahs teachings need updating - "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" ( rabbis also teach this ) - Its genetic and therefore God given |
Now do / plan this C part question -
C part - Why do some religious people disagree with homosexuality ?
C part - Why do some religious people disagree with homosexuality ?
Contraception -
There are also mixed views on whether contraception should be acceptable -
Christian views -
Catholics - No- Sex should be creative this prevents it
- Popes have condemned the use of contraception - Sperm is sacred and therefore it should have the opportunity to become a life - The sanctity of life suggests if God wants you to become pregnant then you will and you shouldn't try to mess with Gods plans - After pills can have abortifacient affects and the bible says "thou shall not kill" |
Other Christians - to limit family size- Contraception can improve womens health and some prevent STD's
- Bible doesn't forbid it - God intended Sex to strengthen maternal bonds as well - Many Churches now accept its use |
Jewish views -
Ultra orthodox (No)- "Be fruitful and fill the earth" is a quote from God
- Sex should be creative ( Many rabbis ) |
Orthodox (after 2 kids)- You don't need more than two children to carry on the faith
- Holy books say that the mothers health comes first and contraception can improve the mothers health |
Reform Jews (accept)- Its better to use contraception than bring unwanted children into the world
- Torahs teachings need updating |