Deuteronomy 23:17

Was homosexuality condemned because it was connected with idolatry?

PROBLEM: Some argue that the biblical condemnations used against homosexuality were because of the temple cult-prostitutes who were associated with these idolatrous practices (Deuteronomy 23:17). They insist that homosexuality as such is not thereby condemned, but only homosexual acts that are associated with idolatry, such as, the shrine prostitute (cf. 1 Kings 14:24).

SOLUTION: Homosexual practices are not condemned in the Bible simply because they were connected with idolatry. This is made evident by several things. First, the condemnations on homosexual practices are often given apart from any explicit idolatrous practice (Leviticus 18:22; Romans 1:26-27).

Third, sexual unfaithfulness is often used as an illustration of idolatry (e.g., Hosea 3:1; Hosea 4:12), but it has no necessary connection with it. Idolatry is a spiritual form of immorality. But immorality is wrong not only if it is done in connection with idol worship.

Fourth, idolatry may lead to immorality (cf. Romans 1:22-27), but they are different sins.

Fifth, even the Ten Commandments distinguishes between idolatry (First Table of the Law, Exodus 20:3-4) and sexual sins (Second Table, Exodus 20:14; Exodus 20:17).