This is the fourth in a series of videos that challenges the assumption that the Bible condemns gay and lesbian relationships.   Notes from the lectures can be found under the video clips.

 1 Timothy 1:9-10 This means understanding that the law is laid down not for the innocent but for the lawless and disobedient, for the godless and sinful, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their father or mother, for murderers, 10 fornicators, sodomites (arsenokoites), slave traders, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to the sound teaching

1 Cor 6:9   Do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived! Fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, male prostitutes (makalos), sodomites (arsenokoitēs ). . . .

1. We don’t know what arsenokoites means.  It is a derivation of two words, arsen (male) and koites (bed) = male bedders.   This word is used only twice in the Bible and neither provide a context that helps determine the meaning.  There is a good possibility that Paul is referring to either male prostitution, or more likely, pedastery - which was a common practice in Paul’s day where an adult male would have a prepubescent boy as a sexual partner.  There is no evidence that Paul is referring to committed, mutual relationships between men.  

2. Makalos literally means “soft.”  It is only used three times in the Bible, once here, and then two other times when talking about the soft robes worn by wealthy people.  In this context, it may refer to the young-boy, prepubescent male prostitute.

3. In the Corinthians reading, arsenokoites may refer to the man that sleeps with the young male prostitute.