In an almost entirely excellent move, the Government is planning to make inciting hatred against LGB (but not T, noticeably) people a crime. So screaming “kick the dyke in the head!” as your mate indulges in a spot of gaybashing will now be a crime. This is good news.
However, some Christian groups are upset, worried that the law will restrict their freedom of speech. But don’t worry guys! You can still think we’re sinners, ill, unworthy of heaven and, your favourite, an abomination. But a little perspective, if you don’t mind…
Yes, you’re right, the Bible does say that homosexuality is an abomination. It also says that eating lobster is an abomination (Leviticus 11:12), and burning incense is an abomination (Isaiah 66:3). In other words, there are a lot of sins out there to be committing if you take the Book as gospel. But the neat thing about sin is that there’s no hierarchy. As a Christian you can firmly believe that homosexuality is a sin, but that makes it no better or worse than wearing cotton-lycra underwear, which is also a sin. (Leviticus 19:19)
The point is that believing that something is a sin is not the same as inciting hatred. Terrorising specific communities of people because you pick and choose the sins you choose to notice, however, is a bit hateful.
So since you might find it slightly illegal to be truly hateful against homosexuals, may I respectfully suggest some other targets? Bacon enthusiasts? (Leviticus 11:7) Beard-shavers? (Leviticus 19:27) Straight couples who have sex during ‘that time of the month’? (Leviticus 20:18) It’s not like you don’t have a lot to choose from. Hey, you could even try that ol’ love thy neighbour thing! Now there’s something that wouldn’t get your all-cotton knickers in a twist.