Finding Out

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David Coltheart

There's nothing quite like growing up in a conservative Christian home, in the heart of a small church community, and realising that you're gay.

David grew up as the son of a pastor, attended Bible college and church-run university, and became a pastor and evangelist himself. He spent 30 years in church ministry all over Australia, at the same time holding a secret that he dared not share with anyone.

Now David has written the story of his life in a 360-page book that reveals what its like to discover the truth about oneself. Finding Out is the story of his journey from the darkness of despair, to the light of understanding and acceptance.

Revised and updated in December 2018, the new edition features 28 photos illustrating David's life. Also included is a useful page of links to other resources to help answer your questions.
Right click on the link and click "Save link as" to save the file. (PDF File size 2.9 MB)
The book is free to download and share with others.

What Does the Bible Say?

More importantly, what does the Bible NOT say! Most people assume that there are hundreds of texts condemning gays and lesbians, but out of over 31,000 verses in the Bible, there are only 6 that reference same-sex activity. These 6 verses are known commonly as the "clobber texts" because of the way they have been used for centuries to denigrate sexual minorities. All the texts refers to actions by heterosexual people, mostly men. The texts refer to:

  • attempted gang rape of two angels by a group of heterosexual men
  • humiliation and feminisation of a man by another man (a cultural taboo in ancient Israel)
  • worship of fertility gods and goddesses through sacred orgies
  • use of temple prostitutes
  • pederasty and other improper power relationships
  • promiscuity and sexual exploitation.

All of these activities should be condemned whether in heterosexual or homosexual relationships.


To read the facts about what the Bible does - and does not - say about homosexuality, download these PDF documents.

The Sin of Sodom (Genesis 19:1-11)

Idolatry Rape and Abomination (Leviticus 18:13; 20:22)

Natural or Unnatural (Romans 1:25-27)

Softies and Man-bedders (1 Corinthians 1:6:9,10 and 1 Timothy 1:9,10)

Additional Information
David has written the following to provide extra information that you may find helpful.
Same Sex Relationships in the Bible (in progress)
Here I Am
David appears in the documentary "Here I Am" in which gay and lesbian Christians tell their own stories. Designed as a discussion starter for Christians to use with their families and churches, the 35 minute movie is available to watch free on YouTube and Vimeo.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSjAan3OuJA

https://vimeo.com/158130932