A Pastor and a Philosopher Walk into a Bar Sexual Ethics, Queer Theology, & Responding to Critics: Matthew Vines (Part 2)
Matthew Vines returns to discuss how the revised edition of his book addresses critiques from prominent theologians, the distinction between affirming theology and queer theology, and the possibility of affirming, orthodox Christianity.
Matthew unpacks the scholarly consensus that modern sexual orientation concepts simply didn't exist in biblical times—a fact many prominent theologians like NT Wright dismiss without substantial engagement. This historical disconnect creates profound implications for how we interpret biblical passages addressing same-sex relationships.
The discussion takes an interesting turn when Matthew articulates a strong critique of queer theology, distinguishing it from his own affirming theological stance. He argues that queer theory's categorical opposition to all normative structures actually harms LGBTQ+ acceptance by creating an antagonistic "us versus them" narrative rather than one of shared values and inclusion.
We also explore Christian sexual ethics more broadly, with Matthew making the compelling case that monogamy and covenant faithfulness remain valuable principles with profound theological significance. He explains how Christianity's sexual ethic was actually liberating in the ancient world, especially for women and enslaved people who had previously been treated as property without sexual agency.
The conversation concludes with Matthew sharing the mission of The Reformation Project—his organization dedicated to equipping Christians to advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion while maintaining orthodox Christian beliefs. By modeling how affirmation and biblical commitment can coexist, they're challenging the false narrative that accepting LGBTQ+ people necessarily leads to theological liberalism.
Topics covered in this episode include:
• How ancient and modern understandings of sexuality are fundamentally different, with sexual orientation being a modern concept
• The two main schools of thought in sexuality studies that emerged in the 1970s: social constructionism (Foucault) and essentialism (Boswell)
• NT Wright and Preston Sprinkle's claims about ancient sexuality
• Matthew's response to criticisms of his interpretation of Matthew 7 regarding "good and bad fruit"
• The role of Christian sexual ethics in liberating vulnerable populations by restricting sexual activity to marriage
• How queer theology differs from affirming theology in its rejection of all norms as inherently oppressive
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