Leviticus 18:22 condemns same-sex relations; how can this be reconciled with the New Testament emphasis on love (John 13:34–35)?

Historic and Textual Context of Leviticus 18:22

Leviticus 18:22 states, “You must not lie with a man as with a woman; that is an abomination.” Leviticus is part of the Torah (the Pentateuch), traditionally attributed to Moses. It outlines moral, civil, and ceremonial stipulations for the Israelites, emphasizing holiness and separation from pagan practices (cf. Leviticus 18:1–5). The book uses the term “abomination” (Hebrew: תּוֹעֵבָה, tôʿēḇāh), which often denotes actions contrary to the moral and ritual purity God prescribed.

At the time, surrounding cultures practiced various forms of idolatry and sexual relations that the Israelites were explicitly instructed to avoid (Leviticus 18:3). Hence, Leviticus 18:22 stands within a larger set of prohibitions aimed at preserving the integrity and distinctiveness of the people devoted to God.

New Testament Emphasis on Love (John 13:34–35)

In John 13:34–35, Jesus teaches, “A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” This command highlights self-sacrificial love, reflective of Christ’s own ministry and ultimate sacrifice.

The New Testament echoes similar exhortations in passages such as 1 John 4:7–8 and Romans 13:8–10. Love serves as the overarching principle guiding ethical behavior. However, biblical love does not supersede God’s holiness or moral standards; instead, love and holiness work together. For example, 1 Corinthians 13:6 clarifies that love “does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth.” Christian love involves compassion without compromising truth.

Unity of Old and New Testament Teachings

Despite the chronological gap between Leviticus and the New Testament, Scripture consistently presents God’s character and moral nature. Jesus Himself affirms the continuity of the Law’s moral directives, clarifying, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them” (Matthew 5:17). While believers recognize ceremonial aspects of the Old Testament as fulfilled in Christ (such as the sacrificial system), moral precepts rooted in God’s nature remain consistent.

Passages like 1 Corinthians 6:9–11 and Romans 1:26–27 present related moral standards concerning sexual ethics, indicating continuity rather than contradiction. These verses remind us that biblical norms for human sexuality are upheld in both Testaments, focusing on the sanctity and design of marriage (Genesis 2:24).

Understanding God’s Holiness and Moral Boundaries

God’s moral law guards the well-being of individuals and communities. In Leviticus 18, multiple sexual sins (incest, adultery, bestiality) are listed alongside same-sex relations, emphasizing that the boundaries are woven into the created order. From a systematic reading of Scripture, God’s directives regarding sexuality aim to protect and bless society, rather than arbitrarily restrict it.

In the broader biblical narrative, human beings are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27) and called to reflect His holiness (Leviticus 19:2; 1 Peter 1:15–16). Therefore, biblical ethics, while challenging to embrace, serve as pathways to honor God, maintain healthy relationships, and love one’s neighbor responsibly.

Biblical Love Includes Moral Instruction

When Jesus commands believers to “love one another,” it flows directly from God’s character. This love is patient, kind, and not self-seeking (1 Corinthians 13:4–5). It also upholds righteousness. Thus, love and truth cannot be separated.

The biblical concept of love includes correction and encouragement toward righteous living (Galatians 6:1–2). For instance, parents who truly love their children also guide them away from harm. Similarly, Christ’s love for humanity includes calling people out of sin to walk in newness of life (cf. John 8:11 where Jesus forgives but also admonishes, “Go now and sin no more.”).

Reconciliation of Leviticus 18:22 with John 13:34–35

1. God’s Character is Unchanging: The moral prohibition in Leviticus reflects God’s unchanging nature. The command to “love one another” in John does not negate earlier moral standards; it reveals the heart behind them and the redemptive path through Christ.

2. Holiness and Love are Compatible: Biblical love does not disregard God’s moral lines. Rather, it is a transformative power that upholds Scripture’s boundaries (Romans 12:9–10).

3. Context of Fulfillment in Christ: Jesus fulfills and deepens the moral teachings rather than annulling them. His sacrificial love invites every person to repentance and transformation (2 Peter 3:9).

4. Call to Compassion, not Condemnation: The Christian call is to reflect Christ, who guides people toward repentance (Luke 5:31–32). We are to love unconditionally, praying for renewal and restoration without endorsing practices Scripture forbids.

Practical Implications and Church Community

In practical terms, believers strive to demonstrate compassion toward all people. This includes individuals from every walk of life. Churches endeavor to be communities of grace where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. At the same time, church leaders uphold the teachings of Scripture, offering counsel regarding biblical morality (Titus 2:11–15).

Addressing Alleged Contradictions

Some propose a contradiction between loving others and holding to biblical teaching on sexual morality. Yet scriptural love involves seeking the best for people in light of God’s design. Passages throughout Scripture consistently depict holiness and compassion operating in harmony. An apt illustration can be seen in Jesus’ interactions with sinners: He welcomes them but also points them to truth and transformation (Mark 2:15–17).

Conclusion

Leviticus 18:22 stands within the context of upholding the holiness and distinctiveness of God’s people, while the New Testament emphasis on love showcases how believers are to relate to one another. These are not opposing commands. Love, rightly understood, involves doing what is best for others before God. Thus, John 13:34–35 complements rather than contradicts Leviticus 18:22.

Scripture’s unified teaching calls believers to love everyone, pursuing their well-being in accordance with God’s moral instructions. Such harmony between holiness and love points to a Creator who desires profound relationship with humanity, evidenced ultimately through the work and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 5:8).