Veritatis Gaudium: Multidisciplinary Journal of Postgraduate Studies

In contemporary sub-Saharan African societies, particularly in Nigeria, bisexuality remains a highly contested moral, cultural, and theological issue. This study employs a convergent parallel mixed-methods design to investigate the lived experiences of bisexual Christians and the pastoral responses of church leaders in urban and semi-urban Nigerian settings. Integrating quantitative survey data (N=250) with qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews (N=20) with pastors, elders, and sexual-minority Christians, we examine the intersections of religious orthodoxy, cultural conservatism, and the restrictive legal landscape under the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act (SSMPA) of 2014. Quantitative results reveal that while 82% of respondents view bisexual behavior as sinful and contrary to Scripture, 61% conceptualize same-sex attraction as a non-volitional temptation rather than an inherent sin, and 48% endorse the subordination of sexual identity to a primary identity "in Christ." Qualitative findings expose profound pastoral pain, identity fragmentation, and double lives among sexual minorities navigating hostile ecclesial environments characterized by coercive deliverance rituals and conversion practices. By evaluating major ethical systems (deontology, utilitarianism, virtue ethics, and African communitarianism) through a biblically subordinate lens, this paper develops an ethical and pastoral framework of "convicted humility." This framework equips the church to maintain unwavering doctrinal fidelity regarding the creational design of marriage while modeling Christlike compassion, safety, and holistic discipleship for individuals navigating bisexual attractions.

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