Embracing LGBTQ+ Individuals Reflects the Core Christian Value of Unconditional Love

Love. It’s a word central to Christian faith, echoing in our scriptures, hymns, and prayers. But love, especially unconditional love, challenges us. What does it mean to truly love without conditions, without judgment? For many Christians, the concept of unconditional love is foundational, yet applying it can be difficult—particularly when it comes to discussions around the LGBTQ+ community.

This is not about changing our faith; it’s about deepening it. How do we reconcile the call to love with the complexities of modern identities and relationships? The answer may lie in understanding that to embrace LGBTQ+ individuals is to live out the very essence of what Christ taught—love without limits, without exclusion.

Understanding Unconditional Love in Christianity

At the heart of Christianity is the commandment to love—love God, love your neighbor, love your enemy. But what does “unconditional love” really mean? In 1 Corinthians 13, often read at weddings, we find a description: love is patient, kind, not self-seeking. It does not delight in wrongdoing but rejoices in truth. This passage does not specify certain people as exceptions to love; it is a call to embrace all.

Jesus himself modeled this in his ministry. Whether speaking with the Samaritan woman at the well or healing the outcasts of society, he consistently chose to engage with those whom society had marginalized. His love was not transactional. It wasn’t given based on someone’s ability to meet certain criteria. Instead, Jesus loved as a reflection of God’s love—one that included, rather than excluded.

The story of the Good Samaritan further illustrates this. The Samaritan wasn’t the obvious hero. In fact, he was an outsider, much like many LGBTQ+ individuals feel in their own communities. Yet, in this parable, it’s the Samaritan who embodies love in action, tending to the wounded without asking whether they deserve it. If we are to follow Jesus, should we not aim to love in the same way?

Common Misconceptions About LGBTQ+ Inclusion in Christianity

When it comes to LGBTQ+ inclusion in Christian spaces, a common refrain is, “Love the sinner, hate the sin.” This phrase, however, often leads to judgment rather than love. It creates a barrier, a separation between those who are “right” and those who are “wrong.” But Jesus did not command us to sort people into categories. He commanded us to love.

The notion that including LGBTQ+ individuals compromises faith is another misconception. Some fear that by welcoming LGBTQ+ people fully into our churches, we are abandoning biblical principles. Yet, this view misunderstands the nature of both faith and love. Faith is not static; it grows and evolves as we deepen our understanding of scripture and God’s will. True love does not compromise—it expands to include all of God’s children.

LGBTQ+ Inclusion in Light of Biblical Teachings

Some argue that certain scriptures speak against LGBTQ+ identities. However, these passages are often taken out of context. For instance, many point to Leviticus, a text written in a specific time for a specific people, dealing with issues far removed from our modern understanding of identity and sexuality.

Similarly, passages from the letters of Paul are often cited, yet these too must be understood in context. Paul was addressing particular problems in the early church, not offering a universal condemnation of LGBTQ+ people. When we interpret these texts through the lens of love—Jesus’ highest commandment—we are called to look deeper, beyond the literal words, to the heart of the message.

There are also many affirming interpretations of scripture that emphasize God’s love for all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. These interpretations do not dismiss the Bible’s authority but invite us to engage with it more thoughtfully and compassionately.

Practical Ways to Show Unconditional Love to LGBTQ+ People

It’s one thing to talk about love; it’s another to live it out. For Christians seeking to embody Christ’s call to love, there are many ways to actively show unconditional love to LGBTQ+ individuals.

First, listen. Often, LGBTQ+ people feel unheard or dismissed in Christian spaces. By actively listening to their experiences, we create a space where love can flourish. This requires humility—acknowledging that we may not have all the answers and that listening is a vital part of loving.

Second, advocate. Love is not passive. It calls us to stand up for those who are marginalized. This can mean advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in society and within the church. It might mean pushing for inclusive policies, ensuring that LGBTQ+ people feel welcome in every aspect of church life, from the pulpit to the pews.

Finally, build inclusive communities. Churches can foster love by creating ministries that affirm LGBTQ+ individuals. This could take the form of support groups, inclusive worship services, or simply ensuring that church leadership reflects the diversity of the congregation. These steps show that love is not just a feeling but a commitment to justice and inclusion.

Unconditional love is not easy. It asks more of us than we are often willing to give. But as Christians, it is our highest calling. Jesus showed us that love breaks down barriers, that it crosses boundaries, that it includes, rather than excludes. When we embrace LGBTQ+ individuals as full participants in the life of the church, we are living out the core Christian value of love—not as a compromise, but as a deeper expression of faith.

Let us take up this call with humility and courage, remembering that in Christ, love knows no boundaries. It is unconditional, just as ours should be.