Joel Osteen Tells Oprah ‘Homosexuality is Shown as a Sin in the Scripture’ [VIDEO]

By Julia Greenberg | January 10 2012 3:47 PM

Megachurch pastor Joel Osteen of Lakewood Church in Houston clarified his stance on sin, heaven and homosexuality on Oprah's Next Chapter late Sunday.

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Mega church pastor Joel Osteen of Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas clarified his stance on sin, heaven and homosexuality on "Oprah's Next Chapter" late Sunday. "I believe that homosexuality is shown as a sin in the scripture. I do, I do," Osteen says. "When I read the scripture, I can't with good faith I can't see that it does not show that it is a sin."

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When Oprah Winfrey presses him on his thoughts on homosexuality, the 46-year-old pastor bluntly offered his opinion.

I believe that homosexuality is shown as a sin in the Scripture. I do, I do, Osteen said. When I read the Scripture, I can't with good faith I can't see that it does not show that it is a sin.

Osteen is careful to clarify that he does not think sexuality limits a person's ability to reach heaven. When asked if a gay person will be accepted into heaven, Osteen replied that he does think homosexuals can enter heaven, just as others with sins can enter heaven.

Sometimes we look at gay being a bigger sin than being proud or not telling the truth, Osteen said. I don't think God categorizes sins.

However, Osteen emphasizes that he believes people need to try to grow and change.

The Houston pastor is a televangelist traveling around the country and broadcasting his sermons on a number of channels to reach more than 7 million followers worldwide. Osteen is also best known for his first book, Your Best Life Now: 7 Steps to Living at Your Full Potential. His sermons air on the Discovery Channel, USA, Lifetime, ABC Family and Daystar. Osteen also has online podcasts and online shows.

Watch Joel Osteen Speak With Oprah on Homosexuality: