Christianity: Gender and sexuality — AQA A-Level Religious Studies
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Christianity: Gender and sexuality explained
This topic explores the historical, social, and theological developments in Christian thinking regarding gender and sexuality, including the impact of Biblical criticism, changing societal roles, and feminist theological perspectives.
What to demonstrate
- Impact of 19th-century Biblical criticism on challenging traditional readings of passages like 1 Timothy 2:8-15
- Influence of changing gender roles in secular society and rights granted by secular governments
- Debates surrounding female ordination in the Church of England (pre- and post-1994)
Show all 7 objectives
- Comparison of Daphne Hampson and Rosemary Radford Ruether regarding the patriarchal nature of Christianity
- Hampson's view that Christianity is irredeemably sexist
- Ruether's ideas on the androgynous Christ and the female nature being more Christlike
- Christian views on celibacy, marriage, homosexuality, and transgender issues
Christianity: Gender and sexuality exam tips
Topic Overview
This topic explores Christian teachings on gender and sexuality, focusing on the roles of men and women in the church and society, and Christian attitudes towards sexual ethics. It examines key biblical passages (e.g., Genesis 1–3, Galatians 3:28, 1 Timothy 2:11–15) and how different Christian denominations interpret them. Understanding this area is crucial for evaluating debates about gender equality, marriage, and LGBTQ+ inclusion within Christianity.
The topic is part of the AQA A-Level Religious Studies 'Christianity' component, specifically under 'Ethics'. It connects to broader themes like the authority of scripture, the role of tradition, and the relationship between faith and culture. Students must analyse diverse perspectives (e.g., conservative vs. liberal, Catholic vs. Protestant) and apply ethical theories such as natural law and situation ethics.
Mastering this content enables students to critically engage with contemporary issues like women bishops, same-sex marriage, and transgender rights. It also develops skills in evaluating theological arguments and understanding how Christianity adapts to modern societal changes.
Key Concepts
- →Complementarianism: The belief that men and women have distinct, complementary roles in the church and family, often based on Genesis 2 and Ephesians 5.
- →Egalitarianism: The view that men and women are equal in all aspects, including leadership, supported by Galatians 3:28 and the example of Jesus.
- →Natural Law: A Catholic ethical framework that sees procreation as the primary purpose of sex, leading to opposition to contraception and same-sex relationships.
- →Situation Ethics: A liberal Christian approach that prioritises love over rules, allowing for acceptance of same-sex relationships in committed, loving unions.
- →Biblical Hermeneutics: Different methods of interpreting scripture (e.g., literal, contextual, allegorical) that lead to varying conclusions on gender and sexuality.
Marking Points
- Impact of 19th-century Biblical criticism on challenging traditional readings of passages like 1 Timothy 2:8-15
- Influence of changing gender roles in secular society and rights granted by secular governments
- Debates surrounding female ordination in the Church of England (pre- and post-1994)
- Comparison of Daphne Hampson and Rosemary Radford Ruether regarding the patriarchal nature of Christianity
- Hampson's view that Christianity is irredeemably sexist
- Ruether's ideas on the androgynous Christ and the female nature being more Christlike
- Christian views on celibacy, marriage, homosexuality, and transgender issues
Examiner Tips
- 💡Ensure you can clearly distinguish between the specific arguments of Daphne Hampson and Rosemary Radford Ruether.
- 💡Be prepared to discuss how secular social changes have acted as a catalyst for theological development within the Church.
- 💡Use precise terminology when discussing feminist approaches to Christology and Biblical interpretation.
- 💡Use specific biblical references (e.g., Galatians 3:28, 1 Timothy 2:12) and explain how they are interpreted differently. This shows depth of knowledge and critical analysis.
- 💡Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each view. For example, discuss how complementarianism can be seen as promoting harmony but also criticised for limiting women's roles.
- 💡Link to ethical theories: For instance, explain why a conservative Christian might use natural law to oppose same-sex marriage, while a liberal might use situation ethics to support it.
Common Mistakes
- Misconception: 'The Bible clearly condemns all same-sex relationships.' Correction: Passages like Leviticus 18:22 and Romans 1:26–27 are debated; many scholars argue they refer to specific practices (e.g., temple prostitution) rather than loving, committed relationships.
- Misconception: 'Christianity has always been patriarchal.' Correction: Early Christianity included women in leadership (e.g., Phoebe in Romans 16:1), and some traditions (e.g., Quakers) have long ordained women.
- Misconception: 'All Christians agree on gender roles.' Correction: Views range from conservative complementarianism to liberal egalitarianism, with significant differences between denominations (e.g., Catholic vs. Anglican).
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Christianity teach about gender roles in the church?
Christianity has diverse views. Conservative traditions (e.g., Catholicism, some evangelical Protestants) often restrict ordination to men, citing 1 Timothy 2:12 and the male apostles. Liberal traditions (e.g., Anglican, Methodist) argue for gender equality, pointing to Galatians 3:28 and the inclusion of women like Junia (Romans 16:7). The debate centres on whether biblical commands are culturally specific or universally binding.
Is homosexuality a sin in Christianity?
It depends on the interpretation. Conservative Christians typically view homosexual acts as sinful, based on Leviticus 18:22, Romans 1:26–27, and 1 Corinthians 6:9–10. Liberal Christians argue these passages are misapplied or culturally specific, and emphasise love and inclusion (e.g., the story of the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8). Some denominations, like the Church of England, bless same-sex unions but do not perform marriages.
What does the Bible say about marriage?
The Bible presents marriage as a covenant between a man and a woman (Genesis 2:24), often symbolising Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:22–33). Jesus affirms this in Matthew 19:4–6. However, there is no explicit biblical prohibition of same-sex marriage; the debate hinges on whether the Genesis model is normative or descriptive. Some Christians also see celibacy as a valid alternative (1 Corinthians 7).
Can women be priests in Christianity?
This varies by denomination. The Catholic Church and Orthodox Church reserve priesthood for men, citing Jesus' choice of male apostles and tradition. Many Protestant denominations (e.g., Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian) ordain women, arguing that gender is irrelevant to spiritual gifts (Galatians 3:28). The Church of England has ordained women as priests since 1994 and as bishops since 2014.
How do Christians interpret 'male and female he created them' (Genesis 1:27)?
Conservative Christians often see this as establishing a binary, complementary gender order, with distinct roles for men and women. Liberal Christians may emphasise that both are created in God's image, implying equality. Some progressive theologians argue the verse does not exclude intersex or transgender individuals, as it describes creation ideals rather than exhaustive categories.
What is the Christian view on transgender identity?
Views are divided. Conservative Christians often reject transgender identity, citing Genesis 1:27 and the belief that gender is biologically determined by God. Liberal Christians may accept transgender people, arguing that God creates diversity and that the Bible's focus is on love and acceptance (e.g., Matthew 22:39). Some churches, like the United Church of Christ, affirm transgender members and clergy.