Homosexuality, Science, and the "Plain Sense" of Scripture
Most every Christian denomination in North America is actively wrestling with the challenges that homosexuality poses to traditional Christian teaching. This book reflects one denomination's (Disciples of Christ) study process but offers much more than warmed-over ecclesiastical wrangling. Scholars from a wide range of Christian traditions and both "sides" of the issue contribute carefully argued essays in the areas of biblical interpretation, theology and psychological and sociological evidence. Belying the rancor that accompanies much talk about sexuality inside and outside the church, the authors are remarkably respectful toward colleagues who disagree with them. Because the various chapters were originally presented as conference papers, the volume's contributors demonstrate an unusual level of interaction. The essays on biblical interpretation are most technical and will challenge readers unfamiliar with the scholarly terrain; the essays on how churches should respond to scientific research are more accessible, but also less definitive, because they are written by theologians and pastors, not practicing researchers. Readers looking for "solutions" to the many theological, interpretive and ethical problems raised by homosexuality will undoubtedly be disappointed with this book, as will activists on the traditional side (and possibly the progressive side as well). But the volume does point mainline readers, whom one contributor characterizes as inhabiting a "muddled middle," toward forms of moderate approval or disapproval of homosexual expression that are clear, gracious and distinctly Christian. (Mar.)Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.