A LIBRARIAN’S ORIENTATION
What this book explores
Robert A. J. Gagnon makes a long, detailed traditionalist case that biblical texts consistently reject same-sex relationships. He examines ancient context, creation, Israel’s laws and stories, Jesus, Paul, and the larger question of how Scripture should guide Christian ethics. The book became a major academic reference for the conservative side of this debate.
EDITORIAL NOTE
Why it’s in the Library
It records one of the most substantial scholarly versions of the traditional Christian argument. Travelers and communities may need to understand its reasoning and influence even when they reject its conclusions or believe its use has caused harm. Inclusion supports serious comparison; it is not endorsement.
Good starting place if…
You need to study a major, detailed traditionalist reading of biblical texts about same-sex relationships rather than rely on brief summaries.
Know before you begin…
The book argues against same-sex relationships and can be exhausting or harmful for LGBTQ+ readers. Published in 2001, it does not include more than two decades of later scholarship and changing knowledge about sexuality. Its length does not make its disputed conclusions a consensus, and this Library does not treat it as pastoral guidance.