Bible is clear on condemnation of homosexuality

To the editor:

The Bible clearly condemns homosexuality. It says homosexuals cannot and will not inherit the kingdom of God (I Corinthians 6:9-11). Even scarier is Romans 1:18-32. This passage not only lists homosexuality as a gross sin, it also says people who approve of such things don't acknowledge God any longer and are just as bad off as the homosexuals themselves. I'm reminded of all the churches nowadays that look at homosexuality as an alternate lifestyle. Homosexuality is definitely a sin in God's eyes.

Some people argue, "The Bible says that by faith in Jesus we have forgiveness of sins, so gays can be Christians. And that means gays can also go to heaven." I agree with the first part, that faith in Jesus Christ brings forgiveness. But I disagree with the second part that says gays can still be Christians. The Bible clearly says when you accept Jesus you are a new creation. You put aside your old self and put on the new. Gay people who think they are Christians are obviously not following Jesus, because their old self hasn't been discarded.

I am a 17-year-old high school kid. I see so many people living a lie, and it kills me. I didn't write this letter to make people angry. I wrote so they would know the truth. The truth is that Jesus does love gay people, but they have to turn from their sin, as we all do, acknowledge that it's bad and follow him. Then heaven will be theirs.

JARED ROUGGLY

Jackson, Mo.