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      Sexual relationships in Christianity

      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 thinking.

      Content guidance

      Language may offend

      Depiction or discussion of sexual violence

      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

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      In Christianity, marriage is often seen as a ...

      Correct Answer: sacrament, Sacrament

      Q2.
      What is another key purpose of marriage in Christian teachings?

      financial gain
      Correct answer: procreation
      political alliance

      Q3.
      Some modern marriage issues are not clearly mentioned in the ...

      Correct Answer: Bible

      Q4.
      Which of the following could influence a Christian wedding ceremony?

      preferred music
      Correct answer: cultural customs
      national flag

      Q5.
      Which Christian group is more likely to allow same sex marriages in church?

      Roman Catholic Church
      Orthodox Church
      Correct answer: United Reformed Church

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      Many Christians believe that sexuality is a from God.

      Correct Answer: gift, Gift

      Q2.
      Why is it significant that Jesus is not recorded speaking on same sex relationships?

      It means he opposed it.
      Correct answer: It shows complexity in applying scripture today.
      It shows no one asked him.

      Q3.
      What do some Christians use to argue against same sex relationships?

      parables
      Correct answer: certain Bible passages
      psalms

      Q4.
      There is a of views in Christianity and non-religious beliefs on same sex relationships.

      Correct Answer: diversity, Diversity

      Q5.
      How do non-religious people often view same sex relationships?

      as sinful
      Correct answer: as equal and valid
      as illegal

      To help you plan your 10 religious education lesson on: Sexual relationships in Christianity, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...