“What We Knew, What We Know, and What We Will Know about Religion and Sexuality”

Abstract

Twenty years ago, certain assumptions were current about religion and sexuality. Among them were the idea that most Christian and Jewish denominations are sex-negative, misogynist, and discriminating against women and same-sex loving people. It was also taken for granted that gender binaries were real: men/women; heterosexual/homosexual. Today, different assumptions apply. Some religious groups are actually sex-positive and welcoming of all persons. Gender binaries have been replaced by the idea that both gender identity and sexual orientation are diverse and fluid. Implications of these assumptions are reflected in many religious groups both in theology and polity. What the future will bring is unclear. In this chapter the author will hazard a few guesses in light of trends in religion today including increased secularization, continued recalcitrance on the part of some denominations, and changes in religious practices.