Someone told me that in the original Greek, the Bible didn’t say to a man: do not lie with another man but that it says don’t lie with a boy (to prevent abuse). Please help.

April 27, 2021 Duration: 0:00
It looks like your request is addressing Leviticus 20:13. The 1984 NIV rendered that verse this way: “If a man lies with a man as one lies with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable.” The 2011 NIV puts that verse this way: “If a man has sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable.” The Hebrew language, the primary language of the Old Testament, has several words that can be translated “man.” The Hebrew word that is translated “with a man” in the verse above refers to a “man” or a “male.” Context will determine the particular shading of words. So, for example, the Hebrew word referenced can mean “boy” in some contexts. That is what we find in Jeremiah 20:15: “Cursed be the man who brought my father the news, who made him very glad, saying, ‘A child is born to you—a son!’” The context of that verse makes it clear that the Hebrew word is not speaking of a man but a male child. The context of Leviticus 20 makes it clear that there is a contrast with “woman.” “If a man lies with a man as one lies with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable.” God designed sexual relations to take place between a man and a woman in marriage. Leviticus 20:13 condemns the practice of a man having sexual relations with another man as he would with a woman (in marriage). People who support same-sex activity and same-sex marriage look for the Bible to differentiate between abusive same-sex relationships and consenting same-sex relationships: condemning the former but approving the latter. The Bible makes no distinction like that; it forbids and condemns all sexual relations that take place between men only and between women only. While Leviticus 20:13 (and Leviticus 18:22) were part of the Mosaic code that governed Old Testament Israel, we find the same condemnation of same-sex activity in Romans 1:24-32 and 1 Corinthians 6:9-10. With that last passage in mind, it is important to note that it is not particular sins that keep people out of the kingdom of God; it is impenitence and unbelief. God wants all to come to repentance and believe in him to enjoy salvation (1 Timothy 2:4; 2 Peter 3:9).

Within the broad landscape of Christian teaching, WELS text mashup offers a unique and curated listening experience. This podcast is not a single program but a thoughtfully compiled stream, blending audio from various sources within the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod tradition. Listeners will encounter a diverse range of content, from in-depth Bible studies and doctrinal discussions to practical spiritual guidance and sermons, all unified by a Lutheran theological perspective. The nature of this mashup means each episode might bring a different voice or focus, creating a dynamic and varied journey through matters of faith, worship, and Christian living. It’s designed for those seeking substantive religious content who appreciate encountering multiple teachers and formats within a single, consistent feed. By drawing from an existing library of talks and presentations, this podcast provides a convenient portal to explore Lutheran spirituality through a collage of audio. Whether you are looking for personal devotion, theological insight, or simply to hear scripture expounded, the assembled selections here aim to nourish and challenge the listener. The blended format ensures that no two listening sessions are exactly alike, yet each contributes to a deeper understanding of Christian life as viewed through a confessional Lutheran lens.
Episodes: 100

Podcast Episodes
[not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 0:00
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulders, and he will […]
[not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 0:00
Photo by Mindy Olson P on UnsplashWhen the set time had fully come, God sent his Son (Galatians 4:4). Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, WELS Christian Aid and Relief is privileged to serve the hurting […]
[not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 0:00
So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. […]
[not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 0:00
When life is filled with noises everywhere, we need to find peace in our quiet place. I am sure you can relate to the inner and external pressures of the world around you. The lingering effects of the pandemic haven’t he…
[not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 0:00
About 45 percent of WELS congregations have ordered Christian Worship: Hymnal and accompanying resources since its release in September. Most materials are now available and are being shipped to congregations […]