The primary text in the New Testament concerning homosexuality is Romans 1:26-27. The word “unnatural” in verse 26 is a translation of two Greek words, para and phusis. The primary meaning of phusis concerns “natural endowment or condition.” The primary meaning of para is “beside.” So, the best translation of these two words is “beside nature.” Women and men can use their physical characteristics in accordance with nature or “beside nature.” Sexual behavior in accordance with nature involves the opposite sex. Sexual behavior “beside nature” involves the same sex.

Brent A. Koehn, Elkhart, Ind.