Verses In and Out of Context
Post 3: Context, Context, Context
“Clobber Passages” in Context
Meme from social media. Source unknown.
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If the first three conditions for a successful new business are “location, location, location,” then “context, context, context” is essential for a fair reading of a biblical passage. Even with the best tools of biblical scholarship, some biblical passages are ambiguous. Understanding verses and passages in context is important as we interpret biblical writings.
This is the third of three posts that illustrate how aspects of context make a difference for our understanding of biblical passages, especially the ones often referred to as the “clobber passages.” These are passages often interpreted to condemn same-sex relationships and LGBTQ+ people.
In the previous posts, context was important for understanding words translated as “homosexual” and the difference it can make when interpreters recognize that a passage addresses concerns of the world in which it was written. This post presents the problem of taking verses out of context of the writings in which they are found. A summary will be included at the end.
Context 3: Verses In and Out of Context
Biblical writings are not stacks of verses to pluck from and use on their own. Bible passages need to be read within their particular literary context first. That is, a passage in the Letter to the Romans should be read with the literary and rhetorical emphases of that letter in mind. After this, one can compare that passage to larger literary contexts within the Bible.
The meme pictured above is a humorous example. Even if it is photoshopped, however, it makes the point. Taken as it is out of context, the verse might seem to be an assurance of God’s care. In context, however, these are the words of the devil as he tries to tempt Jesus.
Context matters.
Romans 1:26-28
For these verses from Romans, the context may be less obvious. Many interpreters simply quote these verses as biblical proofs condemning same-sex practices. However, in recent years, scholars have increasingly recognized that Paul was well trained in the tools of ancient rhetoric. In Romans, Paul employs a rhetorical device known as the diatribe to engage the listening audience and have them question or reconsider their positions.
Some scholars have argued that when Paul writes 1:18–32, he is not giving his personal opinion but is citing a view held by some in the Roman community. Paul’s own position is expressed in Romans 2:1–11. “Do you suppose, any of you who judge those who do such things even while you are doing the same things, that you will escape God’s judgment? Do you so belittle the wealth of God’s generosity, restraint, and patience that you are unaware that the point of God’s goodness is to get you to turn your life around?” (Romans 2:3–4; Scholars Version). In other words, Paul’s rhetorical questions are intended to challenge the judgmental views expressed in Romans 1:26–28.
If these scholars are correct, using this verse as a condemnation of same-sex relationships is a little like the use of the quotation from the devil’s temptations as an inspirational quote for reassurance about God’s care.
Context, Context, Context – Some Summary Considerations
Interpreters from fundamentalist and literalist traditions view the Bible as theologically consistent. For them, the Bible speaks with one voice. Moreover, they hold that the Bible’s moral message cuts across all cultures and times.
By contrast, critical scholars recognize that the biblical authors sometimes hold differing points of view. Authors’ views reflect different contexts. Many of the so-called “clobber passages” lose their power to clobber when they are interpreted with an understanding of their contexts. Upon closer examination, the biblical passages usually cited against same-sex relationships are not uniformly clear. Translation and social-historical context are key factors in trying to make sense of them.
We must also recognize that faith communities read and apply these biblical passages in different ways, some that condemn same-sex practices and others that affirm them.
Does the Bible condemn same-sex relationships?
“Not Really” is the best answer overall, keeping in mind that the Bible does not speak with one voice. This series of three posts has offered some information about the importance of understanding context when considering the meaning of passages that have been used to oppose and condemn same-sex relationships and LGBTQ+ people. Each of these verses and passages can be discussed, and differing interpretations can be proposed. Yet none of these passages offers any clear and unequivocal condemnation of homosexual relationships or LGBTQ+ people. These passages are ambiguous on this question at best.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Forthcoming published results of Bible and Human Sexuality Seminar:
