Why we use the word “Sodomite”
A Response to Criticism | Church of the Divide, 2005

The Scripture tells us that “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” (2 Tim. 3:16-17)
Every chapter, every verse, every word, every “jot and tittle” of Scripture is useful in every circumstance, so that we will be equipped to carry out all of our good works. The term “homosexuality” does not occur in the Bible. The Bible uses the term “Sodomite” because it rightly refers back to the destruction of the city of Sodom which was full of homosexuality (Gen 19). The Bible tells us that “Sodom and Gomorrah…are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.” (Jude 1:7) The destruction of Sodom in inseparably tied to the term “Sodomite”, any other word waters down the inspired Scripture. The term God uses is “Sodomite”; why would we want to use any other term?
Scripture refers to the destruction of Sodom over 30 times. Jesus refers to its destruction in multiple circumstances, Paul references it’s destruction, and Jude and Peter also refer back to it as a strong warning. Why then should we not follow in their footsteps when we are admonished to “Contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints.” (Jude 1:3)
The Scripture reminds us of Sodom in Deuteronomy 29:23 that “the whole land thereof is brimstone, and salt, and burning, that it is not sown, nor beareth, nor any grass groweth therein, like the overthrow of Sodom, and Gomorrah.” Even today, archaeologists believe its location to be in the region of the Dead Sea, a land over 400 meters below sea level, the lowest place on earth. A region consisting of such high mineral content that nothing can grow on it, “nor beareth, nor any grass growth therein…” Sodom’s destruction serves as a severe warning by God of what will happen, not only to Sodomites, but to all who live ungodly; we ought not forget it.
So why do some still take issue with the use of the term “Sodomite”?
Many will say we need to be less harsh in our words. But why would we want to diminish a righteous act of God and replace a term found in Scripture with a "better" one.
In our speaking, we should follow the wisdom of God, and not man. We must remember that it is God who saves, and we that serve Him. Let us follow the example set forth by the apostle Paul as we glorify God through our good works:

"And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God." ------------------------------------------------------------------------1 Corinthians 2:4-5