Discipline and biblical references regarding human sexuality and the implications for same-sex marriage:
222. We believe that every person is created in the image of God, that human sexuality reflects that image in terms of intimate love, communication, fellowship, subordination of the self to the larger whole, and fulfillment. God’s Word makes use of the marriage relationship as the supreme metaphor for His relationship with His covenant people and for revealing the truth that that relationship is of one God with one people. Therefore God’s plan for human sexuality is that it is to be expressed only in a monogamous lifelong relationship between one man and one woman within the framework of marriage. This is the only relationship which is divinely designed for the birth and rearing of children and is a covenant union made in the sight of God, taking priority over every other human relationship.
Gen. 1:27-28; 2:18-24; Matt. 19:4-6; Mark 10:6-9; Eph. 5:21-33; Heb. 13:4; Rev. 19:7-8.
265.
(5) To follow the teachings of the Scriptures regarding marriage and divorce. We affirm that sexual relationships outside of marriage and sexual relationships between persons of the same sex are immoral and sinful. We further affirm that heterosexual monogamy is God’s plan for marriage, and we regard sexual sin of the spouse, such as adultery, homosexual behavior, bestiality or incest, as the only biblical grounds for considering divorce, and then only when appropriate counseling has failed to restore the relationship.
Exod. 20:14, 17; 22:19; Lev. 20:10-16; Matt. 5:32; Mark 10:2-12; Luke 16:18.
3112. In performing marriages, Wesleyan ministers shall not unite in marriage persons of the same gender.
