Is masturbation a Sin? What Does the Bible Say About Masturbation
During biblical periods, Christians were always confused about the concept of masturbation. There was nothing specific in the bible about masturbation. The reality is that many people indulge in masturbation and end up feeling guilty and ashamed of themselves. Masturbation is a complex topic that doesn’t have a clear answer. When it comes to biology, masturbation isn’t really different from the things we do with our bodies. Sometimes kids quickly learn that some parts of their body feel pleasurable when touched. As they grow older, they are taught that touching some places isn’t appropriate in public. So, is masturbation a sin? Continue reading this article to gain answers to your questions and doubts. What Does the Bible Say About Masturbation? Masturbation is the experience of sexual pleasure produced by self-stimulation. Pleasure is not a problem until it goes beyond limits and against God’s will. There is nothing wrong with self-satisfaction if it is done in a healthy amount. When does it exceed the limit? The Bible has never specifically mentioned self-pleasuring. It does contain a lot of verses about how believers need to live a pristine and virtuous life, to strive to be like the Savior and do what He would do. Here are just a few: Philippians 2:3-4: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” What it means: Actions should not be carried out based on selfishness and pride. People should live in humility and give value to other’s needs as well. Matthew 26:41 (NIV): “Watch and pray so you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” What it means: This phrase encourages humans to find the difference between right and wrong and not give in to temptations. Despite wanting to do what is right, people often stumble due to their vulnerabilities. With prayer, it is easier to resist temptation and align one’s actions with one’s goals. Romans 13:14 (NIV): “Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.” What it means: This phrase suggests people surround themselves with the values of Jesus and live a Christ-centered life. By embodying the teachings of Christ, you can overcome the enticements of the flesh and live a life approvable to God. Romans 8:5-6 (NIV): “Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.” What it means: This passage talks about two ways of living: one according to the flesh and the other to the Spirit. People who are driven by desires and selfish urges ultimately lead to spiritual demise. Those living according to the Spirit focus on spiritual values and align their actions with God’s will, leading to life and peace. Is masturbation a Sin According to the Bible? The Bible does not explicitly mention anything about masturbation. However, ancient Christian history suggests masturbation is considered sinful. Until 1930, all contraception was considered sinful—including sexual acts with no goal of reproduction. So is it a sin to masturbate? Some people see masturbation as a lustful act while others believe that it is a normal bodily action and has nothing to do with sin. Masturbation and Lust Although, the Bible has mentioned that lust is a sin. Lust is a strong desire for someone or something that is not yours. Even if you are not viewing porn, lustful thoughts can lead to masturbation But apart from lust, is masturbation a sin? The Bible contains some passages that indicate the sinfulness of the act: It is unlikely that masturbation can be a God-honoring activity. It should be done with then perhaps it would be allowable. Can Christians do Masturbation? It is important to remember that although the Bible does not specifically mention masturbation, it does specify the importance of avoiding sexual immorality and practising self-control in our activities. Christian churches have agreed on the fact that masturbation is not a sin, as long as the individual remains virtuous and has no intention to cause harm. It is also a point to remember that any kind of sexual activity outside of marriage is considered a sin according to the bible. It also becomes wrong when you let it become an addiction as you are glorifying a “false idol” and not able to learn the meaning of true love. Christians who masturbate acquire fake self-love that has discouraged consideration of the world and has become a sin that needs to be renounced to God for conquering. Is Masturbation a Sin if You’re Married? Hebrews 13:4 tells us that there is freedom in marriage for sexual activity as long as it happens between a husband and wife. Here is a simple example to make you understand better – Two rivers stream smoothly and calmly until they join to form a new river and they clash against one another. However, as it flows downstream, it slowly quiets down and runs smoothly again. It is even broader and magnificent with more power. It is the same in a marriage, a new alliance may be stormy, but when achieved you can acquire great joy in the marriage. Rather than asking yourself if it is a sin to masturbate, perhaps a better question to ask is, is this smart? The truth is that we can teach our bodies to react to certain triggers. Those who are suffering from porn addiction often find that they are only aroused by erotic images and struggle to maintain a good relationship with their partner. This can also happen through masturbation. You get used to reaching climax only after self-satisfaction, which will ultimately leave your partner