CNN's Piers Morgan Confronts Rick Warren Over Whether People Are Born Gay or 'Become Gay': 'I Think the Jury's Still Out on That

Pastor Rick Warren speaks at The Elton John AIDS Foundation and UNAIDS breakfast at the Russell Senate Office Building on July 24, 2012 in Washington, DC. Credit: Getty Images North America

Evangelical mega-pastor Rick Warren appeared on CNN's "Piers Morgan Tonight" on Tuesday, where a familiar issue was discussed -- homosexuality. The television host wasted no time in asking the Christian preacher whether he believes people are born gay or whether they "become gay."

"You know what, I think the jury's still out on that. It wouldn't -- it wouldn't bother me if there was, quote, 'a gay gene' found, because here's what we know about life," Warren responded. "I have all kinds of natural feelings in my life and it doesn't necessarily mean that I should act on every feeling. Sometimes I get angry and I feel like punching a guy in the nose. It doesn't mean I act on it."

The pastor wasn't done there, though. He continued, providing another, more applicable example surrounding why one might choose not to act out on same-sex attraction.

"Sometimes I -- as you pointed out, sometimes I feel attracted to women who are not my wife. I don't act on it," he proclaimed. "Just because I have a feeling doesn't make it right. Not everything natural is good for me."

When Warren said that Arsenic is natural, adding to his previous point that not all elements encountered in life are beneficial to human beings, Morgan interrupted. The host made it clear that, unlike Warren, he isn't open to the possibility that people simply become gay.

"I just believe fundamentally and passionately that gay people are born gay. I don't think you become gay," the host said. "And I think if you were able to convince yourself that they were born gay, you would see it differently."

Morgan told the pastor that he might change his view about gay marriage if he could bring himself to accept the notion that people are born homosexual and that they do not develop same-sex attraction post birth. Following the host's comments about the legality and rights associated with gay marriage, Warren clarified his stance on sin.

"I do not believe attraction is a sin, but I do believe that some actions are sin. I'm not responsible for all of my attractions," he explained. We know, for instance, that some people are born with natural predispositions toward certain things, either good or bad. Every one of us have those."

Warren also told Morgan that he appreciates the conversation, as the debate surrounding gay marriage is essential. He said that such controversial issues should be undertaken and discussed, while treating all parties involved with "dignity" and "love."

Watch the exchange, below: