What is homosexuality?

Many people are confused about what homosexuality actually is.  Sometimes, people label themselves “homosexual” erroneously, creating an additional roadblock in their efforts to accept their new identity in Christ.  On the other hand, others will rationalise a problem with homosexuality and refuse to confront it.  This happens sometimes to parents or family members who do not want to face the fact of their loved one’s homosexuality.  The following may contribute to a better understanding of the subject.

There is no agreement in either the scientific community or religious groups, or amongst homosexual people themselves, as to the definition of homosexuality.  However, Lawrence Hatterer, author of ‘Changing Homosexuality in the Male’, gives this definition: “One who is motivated, in adult life, by a definite preferential erotic attraction to members of the same sex and who usually, but not necessarily, engages in overt sexual relations with them.”  I have found this to be a good working definition, though a full explanation of the condition of homosexuality goes much deeper. 

This article was written by Frank Worthen, who is now Director of New Hope Ministries, PO Box 10246, San Rafael, CA94912-0246, USA.  It is reproduced by True freedom Trust with his permission.