Homosexual Law Changes (Press, 1 October 1985)

In letters to the editor published on 1 October 1985, A. D. Carstairs and Craig Hood express their views on recent discussions surrounding the condemnation of homosexuality and the implications of legal reforms. Carstairs critiques Bert Walker and Richard Courtenay for relying on Biblical passages to support their anti-homosexual stance, noting the absence of Gospel references in their arguments. He highlights St Paul’s perspective, particularly from I Corinthians, where Paul seemingly advises against marriage and sexual relations, instead suggesting abstinence due to the anticipated Second Coming. Carstairs contends that this perspective illuminates Paul's flawed reasoning and raises questions about the applicability of some Biblical attitudes in contemporary Christian thought. He commends the Anglican Church's recognition that not all views in the Bible align with Christian principles. On a related note, Craig Hood responds to Vernon Wilkinson’s remarks on a bill aimed at decriminalising certain sexual acts. Hood challenges Wilkinson's assertion that such a bill cannot be devoid of a "sexual flavour," suggesting that Wilkinson’s views reflect personal bias rather than rational judgement. He further argues that laws are merely a reflection of societal values at a given time and should not be conflated with notions of something being "natural." Both letters contribute to the ongoing debate about the intersection of faith, morality, and legal reform regarding sexual orientation in society.

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