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Answer
Conversion therapy, also known as reparative therapy, is a general term used to refer to various methods aimed at “curing” individuals of homosexuality. Over the past century, different psychiatrists, both Christian and non-Christian, have suggested approaches to “converting” a homosexual person into a heterosexual one. In recent years, the psychiatric community has strongly opposed conversion therapy, stating that it is psychologically and emotionally harmful. Even certain Christian groups that previously supported Bible-centered methods of conversion or reparative therapy have discontinued such practices. Is conversion therapy supported by the Bible?
The Bible clearly identifies homosexuality as a sin (Romans 1:26-27;1 Corinthians 6:9) and asserts that any sin can be overcome with God’s assistance (Romans 6:17-18;1 Corinthians 6:11;James 4:7-8). However, the Bible does not prescribe a specific method for conquering any particular sin. There is no five-step process for achieving victory over lying. There is no eleven-step program for conquering an addiction to pornography or sexual immorality. There is no quick fix. There is no miraculous solution. Sin, particularly sexual sin, is complex, and mere behavior modification is not the answer. What is needed is a transformation of the heart that can only be brought about by the power of God.
Therefore, it cannot be definitively stated that conversion therapy is based on biblical principles. Some of the practices carried out on certain homosexuals under the guise of conversion therapy are completely contrary to biblical teachings and can even be abusive. Methods such as electroshock therapy, drugs that induce nausea, and exposure to heterosexual pornography—these actions go against what the Bible instructs on how to assist someone in overcoming temptation. If a specific approach to conversion therapy lacks biblical truth, it is essentially worthless.
Psychology.
But rejecting the specific methods used in conversion/reparative therapy does not mean surrendering to the idea that homosexuality cannot be overcome. There are countless individuals who have successfully conquered homosexual tendencies and temptations through their faith in Jesus Christ. More significant than personal accounts is the biblical assertion that sin can be defeated. Claiming that faith in Jesus Christ, a commitment to following God’s Word, and reliance on the power of the Holy Spirit are incapable of bringing victory over sin is a denial of God’s love and power. Simultaneously, the primary objective for individuals struggling with homosexuality is not to become heterosexual. The aim is to pursue holiness and glorify God in all aspects of their lives. Those who submit to God will live by denying themselves, taking up their cross, and following Christ (Matthew 16:24-26).
Sins, including homosexuality, can be overcome. Paul reminded the believers in Corinth that some of them were homosexuals before they accepted Christ, “but you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God” «And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. », (1 Corinthians 6:11). Their past homosexuality was a sin that they had forsaken by God’s grace. Only when we are new creations in Christ «Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. », (2 Corinthians 5:17) can our sinful natures be conquered. Only through a genuine conversion to Christ can any authentic reparative process commence (Romans 12:1-2).
