More than 40 Christian denominations in Norway have co-signed a declaration which outlines a Christian stance towards 'queer theory', relating to issues of gender, marriage, sex and children’s rights. It comes amid a period of increasing liberalisation on such issues in the country.
Catholics, Pentecostals and Evangelical Lutherans were among the signatories of the one-page document which accused public and government bodies of ‘exceeding their mandate and power by attempting to pressure citizens and organisations to adapt to "queer theory" on gender, sexuality and marriage.’
The declaration, titled ‘A joint Christian declaration on diversity of gender and sexuality’ affirmed that they remain committed to the Bible as the ‘highest authority in matters of faith, doctrine and life,’ and that while they want to ‘encounter all people with respect, reasonably and kindly,’ they will not compromise on Biblical truths, even when they ‘conflict with political pressure or societal trends.’
The statement was released to clarify the evangelical church’s position as Norway becomes increasingly liberal on issues of sexuality and gender ideology. The Church of Norway, which is the country’s biggest denomination, affirms gay marriage and a conversion therapy ban was legislated last year.
The joint statement affirmed the Biblical view of marriage and said that much of modern gender ideology is ‘not based on medical and natural science,’ and is ‘incompatible with our faith, thought and worldview as Christians.’
They also said that any idea that gender is subjective ‘has no biological or scientific foundation,’ and emphasised that teaching children that there are additional genders is ‘immensely problematic,’ and may lead to ‘confusion, insecurity, and destructive life choices.’
