Sides A, B, X and Y are names for theological positions on homosexuality, which are used by some Christian churches and communities. In general, those who affirm same-sex marriage as valid fall under "Side A,"[1] while those who do not affirm it fall under "Side B," "Side X," or "Side Y".[2]
Although differing on approaches to same-sex marriage, all four groups generally care about problems that affect those who identify as LGBT, have LGBTQ+ experiences, or struggle with same-sex attraction, like mental health, loneliness, and homelessness.[2][3][4][5] In particular, Side A and Side B are generally opposed to conversion therapy and accept LGBT identification (namely, accepting the term "gay Christian"), while Side X tends to affirm the desire to attain exclusive heterosexuality and uses the term "ex-gay".[6][7] Side Y is generally opposed to all identity politics[8][9] and affirms Christian regeneration as the only meaningful transformation.[10][11]
Despite these general characteristics, there is no official set of definitions for the four groups. For this reason and for others, individuals may not always formalize themselves as "Side insert letter here Christians." Some, especially Side Y Christians, may even favor more biblically based language, like "Bible-believing Christian"[12][13] or "eunuch for the kingdom of God."[14]