How do you answer someone who claims they are homosexual because “I was born this way.”

The most common theory cited by supporters of the LGBTQ+ cause is the inborn theory. Pop culture has popularized this view, especially Lady Gaga’s song “Born This Way.” This explanation is the underlying assumption for many of those supporting the Pride agenda, even if they do not experience these feelings themselves.

However, this position is not supported by the science. I discuss Genetics and Homosexuality or Transsexuality as its own question. Instead, this is a cultural argument that relies on a cultural framework, not a biological one.

Here are a few points to keep in mind:

• This is a sound argument, and while it might help settle our minds, it will probably not help change the mind of someone who uses it.
• Since this is a cultural argument, it will only be overcome by cultural changes. That is still a long way in the future.

But, since it is a cultural argument, it is also weaker. Our experiences primarily form culture and how we interpret those experiences with others.  How we relate to those struggling with these issues will change their experience and shift their culture. We can confound their expectations by not reacting like they expect us to.

Andrew Walker discusses this in his book God and the Transgender Debate. He concludes:

“…arguing, “I was born this way,” sounds compelling, but is not ultimately a clinching argument. All of us have characteristics that we have always had and that we ourselves wish we could change, or that our society, or our family, or some of our friends tell us we should wish to change… The way I was born still requires evaluation to determine whether that “way” is a positive one, to be affirmed, embraced and lived out; or a negative one, to be rejected, moderated, or treated. If I am born with a predisposition toward aggression, Western culture would not tell me, “Go for it-you were born that way, there’s nothing you can do about it” (though many societies 2,000 years ago may well have done). Whatever “we are born with” is to be evaluated by Scripture. Pg. 73

Walker offers sound reasoning and points to the role of Western culture and the way these societal expectations change. That may help us find a more reasonable way to listen to the person and not try and win the debate.