Same-Sex Partnerships?: A Christian Perspective [Paperback]

John Stott (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 1, 1998

Stott examines biblical teaching on homosexuality and five arguments often used for same-sex relationships.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

One of the most contentious issues in many Christian churches today is whether or not to accept and bless same-sex partnerships. Stott, rector emeritus of All Souls Church in London and a renowned New Testament scholar, proposes his answers to the question in this little book. In a first section, Stott examines the biblical passages most frequently cited by the Christian churches to condemn homosexuality (Genesis 19, the story of Sodom and Gomorrah; Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13; Romans 1:18-32, Paul's declaration of corruption in Roman society; and Paul's list of sins in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 and 1 Timothy 1:8-11). On the basis of his analysis of these texts, Stott argues that the Bible's teachings against homosexuality should be measured in light of the positive biblical teachings on sex and marriage. Stott then analyzes five arguments used by proponents of same-sex relationships to "defend the legitimacy of homosexual relationships" and contends that each argument fails to understand the ways in which same-sex partnerships violate God's will for sexual relationships. Finally, Stott concludes that "at the heart of the homosexual condition is a deep loneliness, the natural human hunger for mutual love, a search for identity, and a longing for completeness." The church, he continues, can fulfill these needs through its acceptance, love and support of homosexuals--but not on their terms. Even though moments of understanding peek through Stott's arguments, what he calls acceptance and love can only be viewed by gay men and women as rejection and misunderstanding.

Copyright 1998 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

About the Author

John Stott (1921-2011) was an internationally acclaimed London-based preacher and scholar. His many works include Basic Christianity, What Christ Thinks of the Church, and Through the Bible, Through the Year.

Product Details

• Paperback: 96 pages
• Publisher: Revell (October 1, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0800756746
• ISBN-13: 978-0800756741
• Product Dimensions: 6.8 x 4.6 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (13 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #752,987 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

John R. W. Stott is known worldwide as a preacher, evangelist and communicator of Scripture. For many years he served as rector of All Souls Church in London, where he carried out an effective urban pastoral ministry. A leader among evangelicals in Britain, the United States and around the world, Stott was a principal framer of the landmark Lausanne Covenant (1974). His many books, including Why I Am a Christian and The Cross of Christ, have sold millions of copies around the world and in dozens of languages. Whether in the West or in the Two-Thirds World, a hallmark of Stott's ministry has been expository preaching that addresses the hearts and minds of contemporary men and women. Stott was honored by Time magazine in 2005 as one of the "100 Most Influential People in the World."

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

27 of 32 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Biblically balanced and hits the heart of the issue., July 28, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Same-Sex Partnerships?: A Christian Perspective (Paperback)

Stott addresses an issue that is in much need of clarification. In this text he first addresses three affirmations. First we are all human beings created in the image of God. Second we are all sexual beings and as sexual beings we all have a particular sexual inclination. Third we are all sinners. Stott also states that he writes that those who are probably reading this book are Christians. The book then deals with the texts which cover same-sex relationships in a sound exegetical fashion. Stott is more concerned with a proper biblical interpretation then being accepted by a certain group. He also addresses a balanced understanding of marriage and how it is involved in this discussion. There is also a discussion on the contemporary issues and how they are to be understood in regards to the Bible. Overall I believe the book to be an excellent work that is biblically based. Stott is concerned not so much with being politically correct, but being biblically accurate.

20 of 24 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Biblical, exegetical integrity and compassion are hallmarks, August 8, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: Same-Sex Partnerships?: A Christian Perspective (Paperback)

of Stott's treatment of the troublesome issue of homosexual behavior within the context of orthodox Christianity. Stott's interest is not in bringing ringing condemnations of proscribed behavior, but in compassionately and clearly setting out the biblical and traditional boundaries of sexual behavior within authentic Christian community. Books that will take the reader further include STRAIGHT AND NARROW (which nicely deals with the misinterpretations and faulty exegesis of scholars like Mollenkott, Boswell, etc.); HOMOSEXUALITY AND THE POLITICS OF TRUTH, and the fine volume edited by Christopher Wolfe on Homosexuality and American Public Life.

29 of 36 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Gracious, solidly Biblical, concise, and readable, June 13, 2002

By 

Mark Machia (Burlington, North Carolina United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Same-Sex Partnerships?: A Christian Perspective (Paperback)

I just read Stott's work on same sex unions. In the middle of all of the foggy vocabulary and doctrine that is being created these days around this issue, Stott has done a wonderful job of cutting through that fog like a powerful lighthouse, showing the way for individuals and churches so that they will not crash upon the rocks of falsehood. It is important to remember that heresy sounds wise, otherwise no one would succumb to it (2 Cor. 11:13-15; 1 Tim. 4:1-2; Eph. 4:14-15; Col. 2:23). Stott has truely done his work as a Pastor and a teacher in the wider body of Christ (Eph. 4:11-16). I highly recommend this book to anyone, whether they are struggling with this issue, know someone who is, or are just in need of a short, but solid Biblical exposition on the subject. It would be great supplimental reading for a Bible college or seminary class in contemporary issues.