Q:Do homosexuals go to heaven after living the lifestyle they do for their whole life? Some homosexuals go to church???

A:God is clear in His Word, homosexual behavior is against the will of God (Leviticus 18:22, 20:13; Genesis 19:4-7, 18:20-21). So as with any other action, thought, or word that is contrary to God's will, homosexual behavior is a sin.

Followers of Christ are to live their life led by the Holy Spirit, not gratifying the desires of their sinful nature (Galatians 5:16-25). This is also true for the Christian person who has a homosexual propensity. They must strive to remain abstinent from homosexual behavior, while also cultivating a life that brings honor to God.

As far as homosexuals going to heaven, the Bible is clear that faith in Christ, not our actions is what secures our eternity. This means our good actions do not get us into heaven, and our bad actions do not keep us out. The thief on the cross is a great example of this (Luke 23:40-43). He had lived a terribly shameful, awful life worthy of a horrible death. However, because he expressed a faith that trusted in Jesus Christ he is now enjoying eternity in heaven.

Homosexuality is wrong, but the forgiveness Jesus Christ achieved through His death and resurrection, is freely distributed to all who place their faith in Him. As Christ followers, our calling is to approach the homosexual person speaking the truth in love. Here is a statement that has been helpful to me:

"The Church, while rejecting on the one hand the movement which claims tolerance of homosexual behavior in the name of freedom of the individual and of moral progress, must also resist the popular reaction of persecution and ostracism. The Church must exhibit understanding and sympathy for the homosexual, show love and pastoral concern, being ready to help and encourage in whatever way possible. It must proclaim to homosexuals, as it does to all men, the judgment of God against sin, above all the forgiveness of sin for Christ's sake, and the possibility of a new life through the power of the Holy Spirit, and must assure them of complete acceptance into the people of God." (A statement on Homosexuality, formulated by the Lutheran Church of Australia and its commission on Social Questions.)