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      Human sexuality including heterosexual and same sex relationships

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain different Christian teachings and views on human sexuality.

      Key learning points

      1. Human sexuality is seen as a gift from God to humans.
      2. There is a diversity of views within Christianity on same sex relationships.
      3. Some passages of the Bible are used to support the view that same sex relationships are wrong.
      4. Most Christians do not view same sex sexuality as wrong in itself.

      Keywords

      • Same sex relationships - sexual relationships between people of the same sex (also known as homosexual relationships)

      • Same sex sexuality - being physically/sexually attracted to persons of the same gender (also known as homosexuality)

      • St Paul - important Christian from the first century C.E. who wrote much of the New Testament

      Common misconception

      That Jesus condemned same sex relationships.

      Jesus is not recorded in the Bible speaking in favour or against same sex relationships.

      Teacher tip

      Students can relate the different ethical theories of Natural Moral Law, Situation Ethics and Utilitarianism to the issue of same sex relationships in order to deepen thinkings.

      Content guidance

      Language may offend

      Depiction or discussion of sexual violence

      Depiction or discussion of sexual content

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What is meant by God being ‘omnipotent’?

      Correct answer: God is all-powerful
      God is all-loving
      God is all-knowing

      Q2.
      What does the Trinity refer to in Christianity?

      three separate gods
      Jesus, Mary and Joseph
      Correct answer: one God in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit

      Q3.
      What does the Apostles’ Creed express?

      Correct answer: core Christian beliefs
      a list of church rules
      a story from the Old Testament

      Q4.
      The story of the Fall is sometimes seen as non-literal. What does this mean?

      It’s a prophecy about the future.
      Correct answer: It symbolically explains human sin and suffering.
      It is a true scientific account.

      Q5.
      What does the quote “Do not judge, or you too will be judged” teach Christians?

      Correct answer: Christians should avoid judging others harshly.
      People should always speak the truth.
      God only judges non-Christians.

      Q6.
      Some people think the Holy Spirit is only part of ancient Bible stories. Which of these is true?

      The Holy Spirit only acted in biblical times.
      The Holy Spirit is no longer active in churches today.
      Correct answer: Many Christians believe the Holy Spirit is still at work in the world.

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      The apostle St wrote letters to Timothy and the people of Corinth and used a rare term meaning “male bedder”.

      Correct Answer: Paul

      Q2.
      Which of the following churches allows same sex marriage?

      Roman Catholic Church
      Correct answer: Methodist Church
      Pentecostal Church

      Q3.
      What is one reason Christians interpret Bible passages differently on this issue?

      They prefer other religions’ views.
      The Bible directly mentions modern terms.
      Correct answer: The Bible was written in a different context.

      Q4.
      What is the belief of most Christians about same sex sexuality?

      Correct answer: It is not wrong in itself.
      It is always sinful.
      It should be punished.

      Q5.
      Which of these Christian denominations teaches that same sex acts are sinful?

      Correct answer: Pentecostal Churches
      United Reformed Church
      Quakers

      Q6.
      Jesus condemned same sex relationships.

      True – he said they were wrong in the gospels.
      Correct answer: False – he did not speak about them directly.
      True – he supported Old Testament law on this.

      To help you plan your 11 religious education lesson on: Human sexuality including heterosexual and same sex relationships, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...