For the Bible Tells Me So

For the Bible Tells Me So tackles the intersection of religion and homosexuality in the United States, focusing on how the religious right has interpreted the Bible to stigmatize the LGBTQ+ community. It presents the stories of five Christian families, each with a gay or lesbian family member, showcasing their journeys of acceptance and understanding.

The documentary features interviews with parents and adult children, interspersed with commentary from theologians, as well as clips of fundamentalist preachers and news footage. It challenges traditional Biblical teachings on homosexuality, arguing that much of Christianity’s homophobia stems from misinterpretation of scripture, denial of scientific evidence, and acceptance of questionable psychological theories.

Among the individuals profiled are Gene Robinson, the first openly gay Episcopal bishop; Jake Reitan, a Harvard Divinity School student; and Chrissy Gephardt, daughter of former House Majority Leader Dick Gephardt. The film also includes insights from religious scholars such as Irene Monroe, Paula J. Caplan, and Rev. Professor Peter J. Gomes.

An animated segment titled “Is Homosexuality a Choice?” summarizes scientific theories about sexual orientation, discussing topics like homosexual behavior in animals and the genetic basis of sexual orientation. The documentary addresses the genetics of homosexuality, refuting claims that sexual orientation is a choice, and argues for interpreting the Bible within its proper historical context.