Christianity on Porn and Masturbation

For a Christian, the Bible provides direct access to the word of God. So, it is natural to look to it for guidance in not only spiritual matters but also everyday life. Particularly, the Bible’s teachings on sexuality are valuable to help us navigate our world that is full of temptations. The Bible is very clear about sex as the divinely ordained spiritual component of marriage. It approves and encourages enjoyment in the marital bed. But it is equally scornful of adultery and lust outside the confines of marriage. They are considered a sin, along with other acts of sexual promiscuity. But, if you look for what does the Bible says about masturbation, you won’t find similar clear answers. So, the issue is open for interpretation. But you can rely on interpretations of many Bible verses to get an understanding of how a Christian should view masturbation.  Is Masturbation a Sin? The Bible does not explicitly mention masturbation as a sin. This fact is a key point of contention for classifying masturbation as a sin.  In case of acts such as adultery and theft, the Bible verses specifically mention their sinful nature. But, for masturbation, no such verse exists. So, people often argue that if masturbation were a sin, then the Bible would have forbidden it. However, moral frameworks of the Bible not only operate in explicit directions. The Bible verses often contain broader directions that have to be interpreted for guidance in case of masturbation. So, the absence of explicit prohibition does not mean permissibility for the act.  When we examine what does the bible say about masturbation, there are a couple of relevant passages to help us interpret its sinful nature –  Matthew 5:28 28 – “But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Jesus has told us that lust is a sin – both in act and in intention. Lustful thoughts and masturbation animate the urge to masturbate. And masturbation will also lead to more lustful thoughts. So, the above Bible passage is often quoted to classify masturbation as a sin.  The Apostle Paul urges the believers in Corinthians 6:18 to “flee from sexual immorality.” He uses the specific word porneia, which refers to a broad range of sexual sins. Masturbation is not explicitly associated with the word porneia. But, as it is a sexual act outside marriage, masturbation could be considered sexual immorality and, therefore, a sin. What Does The Bible Say About Masturbation? While there is no direct condemnation of masturbation in the Bible, it has many relevant passages that can be interpreted to understand the view about the act. So, to understand what the bible says about masturbation, we have to examine the following Bible verses –  Genesis 38:9-10  “But Onan knew that the child would not be his, so whenever he had intercourse with his brother’s wife, he spilled it on the ground, to keep from giving offspring to his brother. What he did was wicked in the Lord’s sight; so the Lord put him to death also.”  This passage speaks about Onan, the son of Judas. He was obligated under the Levirate law to father children with his brother’s widow. But, such offspring would not be considered as his heir.  So, Onan avoided impregnating her by spilling his seed on the ground during intercourse. In the Lord’s sight, this was a wicked act. So, he put Onan to death.  Onan’s act of ‘spilling his seed on the ground’ is interpreted as masturbation or self-pleasure. So, God’s displeasure with the act is often equated to God’s disapproval of masturbation.  Historically, the word ‘Onanism’ was even used to refer to masturbation.  But, a key point to keep in mind is that Onan’s act was not that of self-stimulation. His sin was that of refusing the obligation to secure his dead brother’s lineage. Leviticus 15:16-18  “When a man has an emission of semen, he must bathe his whole body with water, and he will be unclean till evening. Any clothing or leather that has semen on it must be washed with water, and it will be unclean till evening. If a man lies with a woman and has an emission of semen, both of them shall bathe themselves in water and be unclean until the evening.” Deuteronomy 23:10-11 “If one of your men is unclean because of a nocturnal emission, he is to go outside the camp and stay there. But as evening approaches, he is to wash himself, and at sunset, he may return to the camp.” These two Bible verses talk about the ritual uncleanness of seminal emission. This interpretation of ritual uncleanness extends to even seminal emission during marital intercourse. According to the Old Testament, ritual uncleanness referred to ceremonial purity rather than a mortal sin. So they do not have a negative judgment.  Christians believe that the New Covenant (established by Jesus Christ) supersedes the Old Testament. So, practices of ritual purity are usually seen within their historical context and not as a condemnation of masturbation.  Is Masturbation Selfish According to the Bible? If you look at what the Bible says about masturbation being selfish, you will not find a direct answer. However, some passages are relevant to the selfishness of the act. 1 Corinthians 7:4 says, “The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. Likewise, the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does.” 1 Corinthians 7:2 – “Each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband.”  According to the Bible, your sexuality is designed for marriage and serving a spouse. So, as masturbation is an act outside of marital sexual relations, you can interpret it as selfish and self-gratifying.  In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus says that we should love God with all our body, mind, and soul. But masturbation is self-centered and seeks indulgence of momentary gratification.

God speaks about the deepness of our sensual passion. The truth of God’s relentless standard of holiness questions moral compromise. The Bible offers wisdom and teaching, encouraging us to trust God for our redemption from worldly desire. What does the bible say about lust? Continue reading to find out. What is Lust? Confusion about the idea of “lust” didn’t start with Purity Culture—it goes way back to some of the earlier use of the word. It first carried the meaning of sensual desire, appetite, or pleasure. Gradually, it became associated with “lusts of the flesh” in the Bible and took on the sense of sinful sexual desire in general. Even several years ago, there was sometimes vagueness about whether lust meant pleasure or desire, or if it was something sinful. Even among Christians, these various meanings are often confused and people have thought that strong desire or pleasure are somehow sinful. Lust resides within three vices: What Does The Bible Say About Lust? What does the bible say about lust? C.S. Lewis wrote, “If you look upon ham and eggs and lust, you have already committed breakfast in your heart.” This is an ideal biblical definition of lust in the heart. If you crave someone, that is lusting in the heart. Exodus 20:17 talks about the tenth commandment as “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor” so lust is not just about glancing at someone of the opposite sex, or for some, seeing someone with lust of the same sex, it is craving what you don’t have. It is an intense desire to have what someone else has. There are so many areas that define love in the Bible. Paul writes “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1st Cor 13:4-7) Top Verses about Lust in the Bible When we look at God, we can understand what lust is. First, let’s see the Old Testament. The Hebrew word avah is sometimes known as “lust,” and sometimes as “desire.” Another term is chamad which makes its most important appearance in the Ten Commandments, “You shall not covet.” It’s connected to the idea of being desirable. Here are some Bible Verses about Lust Who Struggled With Lust In The Bible? 1. King David Verse: “One evening David got up from his bed and walked around on the roof of the palace. From the roof, he saw a woman bathing. The woman was very beautiful, and David sent someone to find out about her. The man said, ‘She is Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah.’ Then David sent messengers to get her. She came to him, and he slept with her.” – 2 Samuel 11:2-4 (NIV) Discussion: King David faced a moment of weakness when he surrendered to the temptation of lust. He glanced at Bathsheba bathing and was struck by her beauty. His brief moment of desire led to an affair that led to grave consequences, including the demise of Bathsheba’s husband, Uriah, and the loss of David’s peace. However, David’s response to his repentance made him grow. After facing his wrongdoings, David submissively sought God’s forgiveness. 2. Joseph Verse: “And though she spoke to Joseph day after day, he refused to go to bed with her or even be with her.” – Genesis 39:10 (NIV) Discussion: When Potiphar’s wife tried to seduce him, Joseph chose to flee from temptation rather than entertain it. His response displays an important lesson: overpowering lust often requires quick and decisive action. Joseph’s denial to give in not only kept his integrity but also revealed the strength that can be found in faith. Joseph’s story is a reminder that God empowers us to resist the temptations that we face. When we look to Him for strength, we can stand firm in purity and honor His will. 3. Samson Verse: “With such great difficulty, he [Samson] told her [Delilah] everything. ‘No razor has ever been used on my head,’ he said, ‘because I have been a Nazarite dedicated to God from my mother’s womb. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak as any other man.’” – Judges 16:17 (NIV) Discussion: Samson’s failure is often attributed to his physical strength, but his true flaw lies in his rebelliousness and lack of discipline. Samson allowed his lustful passions to cover his judgment, particularly in his relationship with Delilah.  Samson’s story is a caution about the dangers of giving in to our cravings without seeking God’s guidance. It emphasizes how the purpose of lust can guide us away from God’s will. 4. Solomon Verse: “King Solomon, however, loved many foreign women besides Pharaoh’s daughter—and this led him astray.” – 1 Kings 11:1 (NIV) Discussion: Solomon, the smartest man to ever live, was not resistant to the dangers of lust. Despite his extensive wisdom, he allowed his lust to revoke his judgment, marrying many women from different nations who led him into idols. This story shows how uncontrolled lust can confuse even the most discerning hearts. Lust can easily confuse those who believe they are unsusceptible, reminding us that wisdom must be associated with obedience to God’s Word. How To Overcome Lust In The Bible? Today’s world is filled with debauchery almost everywhere you see, which means that the fight against lust can be daunting. Now that you know what the bible says about lustful thoughts, here is how you can overcome lust in the bible. Be Connected to God According to the Bible, you should start overcoming temptation by turning to Him in repentance

Fasting is an essential spiritual discipline in Christianity. People are said to observe fasting to find God, spiritual growth, and reflect on themselves. Nonetheless, this calls up important questions regarding personal behaviour during such sacred times, specifically concerning intimacy. Often discussed is whether Can you have sex when you are fasting. This blog delves into the biblical perspective, practical implications, and tips for maintaining fasting discipline. Understanding guidance in the Bible can allow a married couple to carry this into personal decisions thoughtfully and spiritually. What Does the Bible Say About Sex During Fasting? In Christianity, fasting sometimes requires deep prayer, spiritual restoration, and repentance. Males exhibit more between-individual diversity in body mass, resting metabolic rate (RMR), and fasting plasma metabolites than females, according to a study that analysed data from seven crossover studies. While there were no significant changes in the amounts of triglycerides, lactate, insulin, glucose, esterified fatty acids, RMR, or body mass, females exhibited more significant within-individual variability in the concentrations of progesterone and 17β-estradiol in their plasma.  Additionally, compared to females, males showed greater between-individual diversity in RMR. According to the study, recruiting and control procedures in metabolic research are unlikely to increase within-individual variance when involving females. Fasting may prohibit one from indulging in certain pleasures, such as food, entertainment, and even sexual intimacy, for the fasting period so that one keeps concentrating on God. What does the Bible say about sex during fasting? 1. Scriptural Guidance on Sexual Intimacy During Fasting A pertinent scripture for this subject is 1 Corinthians 7:5 : “Neither abhor nor neglect each other, save perchance by agreement for an appointed time that you may devote yourselves to fasting; and again be present together that Satan not tempt you in lack of restraint.”  This says three key principles. Mutual Consent: Agree by mutual consent if they wish to abstain during their time of fasting Spiritual Focus: In those moments, they prioritise praying to God. Resuming Intimacy: After fasting, couples are encouraged to resume their intimate life so as not to give in to temptation. 2. Fasting as a Time of Focus on God Fasting is an act of purposeful focus on spiritual growth. Sex is not sinful, but it is a physical expression of intimacy that might be a distraction from the full concentration meant for fasting. 3. Cultural Context in Biblical Times In biblical culture, fasting often involved abstinence from all bodily pleasures, symbolising surrender and dedication to God. While the Bible does not explicitly forbid sex during fasting, refraining from physical intimacy can reflect heightened spiritual focus. This leads us to another critical question: Can married couples make love while fasting in Christianity? The answer depends mainly on mutual understanding of spouses’ spiritual goals. Exploring the Spiritual Purpose of Fasting Studies show intermittent fasting, or IF, is becoming increasingly popular due to its alleged health advantages, such as weight loss, enhanced metabolic health, and possible impact on longevity. However, because men and women have different metabolisms and hormonal profiles, sex-specific consequences must be considered. Understanding these distinctions is essential for maximising gender-sensitive advantages and determining customised eating patterns. More research is needed to comprehend the multifaceted implications of IF fully. To grasp the whole meaning of engaging in sexual intercourse while fasting from food, one needs to know the higher meaning or purpose of fasting in Christianity. 1. Drawing Closer to God Fasting, in the broad sense, means drawing closer to God. Some believers abstain from bodily pleasure and turn their minds and energy to spiritual issues. The issues that fall within this context are: Prayer: Fasting usually goes hand-in-hand with a prayer people dedicate to God. It makes it stronger. Repentance: Acknowledging one’s sins and seeking forgiveness Seeking Direction: Fasting for God’s guidance in other important decisions to make in life. 2. Biblical Examples of Fasting The Bible has many examples of fasting as it relates to spiritual growth and also provides some key moments of breakthrough: Moses: He fasted for 40 days and 40 nights on Mount Sinai (Exodus 34:28). Daniel: He abstained from the rich delicacies to hear from God in Daniel 10:2-3. Jesus: He fasted 40 days in the desert for His ministry (Matthew 4:1-11). All of them depicted the concept of fasting, which involves spiritual attention and abstinence from worldly enjoyment to maintain one’s utmost focus on God. 3. The Role of Discipline and Self-Control Self-control, one of the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), is also called for in fasting. Avoiding sexual acts while fasting might add meaning to that practice and give further credence to the spiritual motivation of the fast. Can You Have Sex When You Are Fasting? The question of whether can you have sex when you are fasting does not have a clear-cut yes or no answer. The Bible offers principles rather than strict rules, leaving room for personal conviction and mutual agreement. Points to Consider 1. Purpose of Fasting The most crucial purpose of fasting is spiritual renewal and closeness with God. If sexual intimacy serves the same purpose, then it would not be a problem. But, if it causes a distraction to the spiritual purpose, then couples might need to abstain. 2. Mutual Consent Mutual consent is required between spouses, as explained in 1 Corinthians 7:5. One spouse should not force the other to abstain without permission, which would cause unnecessary tension or temptation. 3. The Role of Prayer Prayer is complemented by fasting. In some, abstinence from sex helps keep them in a steady, prayerful, and concentration state. In some, sex does not affect their spirit of devotion to God. 4. Individual Convictions Christianity makes believers do things as led by faith and conviction. In such a case, if the couple feels they are honouring God by abstaining from fasting, then so be it. However, if they think there is no conviction to abstain, all is well; they can still carry on their intimate life. Practical Advice for Couples The decision to abstain from

Christianity teaches various human actions; it emphasizes purity, respect, and upholding moral standards. The act of seeing, touching, or exposing private parts can be traced as far back as the teachings on the sanctity of the body, sexual morality, and self-control in the bible. The Biblical Foundation of Purity The Bible is very informative concerning the human body and sexuality to lay a basis on which Christian ethics understand modesty, self-control, and sexual purity. According to Christianity, the believer’s body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), meaning believers should have reverence for their bodies. Several scriptures point out that private parts require purity and moral discipline in public and private. God ordained several laws of purity and cleanliness in the Old Testament regarding physical hygiene and spiritual purity (Leviticus 11-15). The Bible teaches that one should honor his body and actions according to God’s will. Private Parts as Sacred in the Christian Faith In the Bible, private parts are considered holy and should not be shown or taken advantage of. Genesis 2:25 interprets the original purity to which sin introduced nakedness into human beings in terms of their relationship with nakedness. When the fall came, shamefulness and modesty marked the presence of man; it is within this context, therefore, that covering up private body parts became very necessary in spiritual and moral matters (Genesis 3:7-10). 1 Corinthians 12:23-24 talks about “unpresentable parts” as parts of the body that, according to Paul, are those parts covered modestly. The private parts can thus be explained simplistically as they are not considered sinful but something that should not be taken lightly. What does the Bible have to say about private parts? The Bible highly values the body and considers purifying it vital. Therefore, honor God with your body. This statement reflects the general Christian belief in the sanctity of one’s body, including one’s private parts. In Leviticus 18 and 1 Corinthians 6, the Bible forbids many sexual immorality acts, exhorting Christians to present their bodies respectably and to keep thoughts of defiling them at bay. The relatedness of modesty can also be found in scripture: protect your private parts, respect your body, and respect others’ bodies. Is It Wrong To Look At Private Parts? This question is highly complex based on the situation and motive to look at your private parts. In that regard, gazing at one’s private parts doesn’t seem sinful; it’s the motive that might go wrong when it eventually triggers sinful desire or impure thought. Jesus says in Matthew 5:28, “Anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” That would then mean that the thought and emotion execute an act that matters more than the act itself. The Role of Intent and the Heart According to Matthew 15:19, sin is not only an action but also the heart and intent of Christianity. It is not necessarily a sin if a person gazes at his private parts for self-reflection or in a medical setting. If, however, one’s intent is to stimulate himself or evoke lustful emotions, then he would sin. Such is a restatement of a biblical principle: external actions are ultimately connected with inner thoughts or feelings that God holds accountable for (Proverbs 4:23). But that is not all. Lewd thoughts are acts of the mind that cannot be set alongside bodily deeds. Therefore, there is a need for mind control. As 2 Corinthians 10:5 declares, “Bring every thought into captivity to obey Christ.” To put it another way, Christians must keep a watch on their thoughts and rein in their wicked lusts, even in private. Practical Applications and Media Influence With easy accessibility of explicit material online, managing lustful thoughts becomes a more significant challenge. Many Christians, therefore, end up failing to keep sexual purity intact. The issue of whether or not is it a sin to look at your private parts becomes more pressing in the contemporary world, where a person is faced with constant temptation to objectify the body. Is Showing Private Parts a Sin? For the most part, showing private parts should not be exposed according to Biblical teachings, among other things, as this is something not to be exposed to anyone other than your mate in marriage. The Bible encourages modesty as a way not only for one’s dignity but also not to provoke someone to lust into sin. “Among you, there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality,” says Ephesians 5:3 in stating the principle of modesty and purity before God and before men. The Importance of Modesty in Marriage However, God blesses and encourages bodily manifestations of love and affection in marriage. According to Hebrews 13:4, “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure,” meaning that sex between a husband and wife is a sacred and respected aspect of their union. In this context, showing private parts is a natural and wholesome part of marital love. However, outside marriage, the exposure of private parts leads to lustful desires that the Bible abhors. Matthew 5:28  teaches that looking at a woman with lust is committing adultery in one’s heart, thereby implying that such actions that may lead to lust or objectification of others can be sinful. Modesty as a Reflection of God’s Purity Modesty is above the mere putting on one’s body in outer clothing; it exemplifies a far more profound dedication to humility and purity. 1–3–4 “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and wearing gold jewelry or fine clothes.”These verses deepen the thought, for the same message applies to men. Christian modesty is an all-encompassing term that respects the body and others’ bodies while knowing that sexual expression can only occur within marriage. Use tools like BlockP to stay pure in your online life. These tools protect you against exposure to explicit content that may lead to sinful thoughts and actions. Is It a Sin to Touch Your

If the holy Bible isn’t enough to provide solutions for this kind of sensitive topic, what good is it? There is no problem in our lives for which God does not have an answer. The answers may not be simple or easy, but that’s why we’re talking about it. God built into human beings a biological/psychological drive for sex. He must have thought it important because He certainly also knew how much trouble we would experience over our sexuality. I think a question that could really get to the heart of this issue and provide some clarity is asking yourself, “Does this act point me to Jesus and help me glorify God in my life?” Introduction The Bible is clear that watching pornography is a sin. But many wonder whether it’s still sinful to masturbate if you don’t use porn. Some still struggle with masturbation long after they leave porn behind. But is it really sinful if you’re not looking lustfully at pornography? It’s important to remember that Jesus’s teaching about lust goes beyond explicit porn. “Adultery in the heart” could be any kind of sexual impurity. So then, just because you aren’t watching porn doesn’t mean that you aren’t lusting when you masturbate. Is it always lusting to masturbate? Lust is not pleasure. Sometimes pleasure is experienced (taken) whilst a person lusts, but this is by no means always the case. Instead, lust is a form of desire.  But there are many different definitions of lust. Definition 1: Lust = Desire In the King James Version of the Bible (and the NKJV), Paul’s letter to the Galatians talks about the “lust” of the flesh as well as the “lust” of the Spirit (as in, Holy Spirit). Let’s be very clear: the intended meaning is simply “desire”; it is not even sexual desire. (And if you remember the points I made in part 1 of this post, you’ll notice that when Paul talks about the “flesh” here, he’s not talking about our physical bodies! This passage in Galatians is not about sex!) Definition 2: Lust = Sexual / Erotic desire Some people define lust as being completely the same as sexual or erotic desire. By that definition, any sexual relationship without lust is a failure and Song of Songs is loaded with lust. This isn’t the definition understood by most Christians. Definition 3: Lust = Inordinate sexual desire By this definition, lust is hyper-sexual desire. It’s oversized, disproportionate and grotesque on account of its gargantuan dimensions. This definition is consistent with many of the uses of “lust” in the Bible, where lust is cited as a sin. But it’s not the definition I would advocate myself, because I think lust is not sexual desire in overdrive, I think it’s got a qualitative aspect that we ignore at our peril.  Definition 4 (my preferred one): Lust is sexual desire without respect for boundaries This makes sense to me. By this definition, sexual desire without respecting a person’s humanity, their consent, or their other relationships, is firmly in the lust camp. Objectification, rape and adultery are immediately ruled out as morally wrong if we believe that lust is wrong. (Which it is.) Why is masturbation sinful? Though we haven’t yet answered the specific question of whether masturbation is sinful, we can already see some clear biblical teachings: Scripture teaches at least some masturbation is wrong. Romans 14:23 adds that anything that isn’t of faith is sin. That means that even if masturbation itself isn’t sinful, it’s sinful to masturbate if you believe it’s wrong and do it anyway. Furthermore, the Bible teaches that when God saves us from our sin, he transforms and changes our hearts and behaviours—including our sexual habits like masturbation (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). Followers of Jesus should seek to submit themselves to his commands and obey him no matter what the cost. That means we should be willing to give up masturbation if we feel convicted. Is Masturbation Without Porn a Sin? But your question is whether masturbation would be sinful if the person doing it was only using it to release semen and managed to do so without thinking about sex outside of marriage. Such is possible, especially when the seminal vesicles are full, and a man’s sexual desire is so strong that it is easily triggered Pornography always exploits someone. The person photographed/videoed is always being used for the sexual pleasure of someone they have no relationship with, often under extremely abusive circumstances. Pornography always damages your ability to connect with your spouse, taking the sexual/emotional energy you should invest in them. Pornography is seriously addicting. It makes you do things even when doing so harms yourself or others. Pornography sears your brain and damages your soul. It’s difficult to NOT be exposed to pornography in some form. That’s not sin to the person who is unexpectedly exposed. It’s the second look, the choosing to go back, that becomes sin. Is masturbation sinful? I tread cautiously here. This is where true guilt and false guilt can become confusing. There’s no question that compulsive masturbation is sinful. It controls you, damages you, and takes sexual/emotional energy from what you should invest in your spouse. What Does the Bible say about masturbation? As mentioned, the Bible does not directly address the issue of masturbation or deliberate self-stimulation of the sexual organ to the point of orgasm. It does warn against all forms of self-indulgence, adultery of the mind, and fornication There is no passage in Scripture that directly condemns masturbation. If we are going to be good and honest Biblicist, we must acknowledge this. However, the Bible does talk quite a bit about human sexuality. Those passages absolutely need to be a part of this conversation. In the New Testament we see various instructions that are pertinent to this conversation. We are commanded to: Offer our “bodies as a living sacrifice” (Rom. 12:1) “Flee from sexual immorality” (1 Cor. 6:18) “Glorify God in your body” (1 Cor. 6:20)

Research by the Pew Center has declared that one of the most ongoing ethical problems across Christian practices is sexual variety. For the majority of Christians, one of the most frequently discussed topics is, “Is it a sin to be gay? ” and “What does the bible say about being gay?” Although it’s doubtful that the authors had any idea of sexual orientation, since the word homosexual wasn’t even discovered until the late 19th century, the Bible is used for timeless advice on what it means to glorify God and this does include our sexuality. People struggle with distinct sins; the Bible mentions them as our “besetting sins.” These are the wrongs we do that we are not exactly proud of and can be destroyed by, if not directed by, God’s Spirit. Some people have addictive, obsessive qualities and they easily surrender to substance abuse. They also must submit their cravings to the power of the Holy Spirit. It doesn’t depend on whether a person thinks they were “born” a homosexual since we are not described by our sexual desires. Introduction When God protects us, we become a new and unique creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). It is possible to hate the sins we have committed without having to hate ourselves. Your sexuality does not define what you are in life or how it drives you. We die to our previous self so that Christ can live in us (Romans 8:13; Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:5). And even at times we fail, our faith in Christ for forgiveness as He cleanses us (1 John 1:9) and His power allows us to keep living for His glory. Continue reading this article to clear the doubt about “Is being a gay is a sin” and “What does the bible say about being gay?” What is the Bible? The Bible is a set of books that come from the history of ancient Israel. Among them were individuals called prophets, who considered Israel’s story extraordinary and a major part of what God was trying to do for all humanity. The Bible is the documented Word of God and therefore the greatest collection of driving principles handling all aspects of life for the individuals of God. Through these, God expresses his will, rules, and saving purpose to humanity. The Bible is a collection of 66 books and letters written during the duration of around 1,500 years. The main text of the Bible was in just three languages: Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic.  Parts of the Bible Beyond the two main sections The Old Testament The New Testament More divisions like the Pentateuch, the Historical Books, the Books of Prophecy, the Poetry and Wisdom Books, the Gospels, and the Epistles. The Holy Scriptures were registered on scrolls of papyrus and then on parchment, until the creation of the codex which is a handwritten manuscript built like a contemporary book, with pages secured together at the spine within a hardcover. What Does The Bible Say About Being Gay? Several key Bible phrases have given us insights about homosexuality to comprehend the biblical view of gay connections. The most quoted Bible verses are Leviticus 18:22 and Leviticus 20:13, which mention that it is an abomination for a man to stay with another man the same way he would be with a woman.  Leviticus 18:22 ~ You shall not lie with a male as with a woman; it is an abomination. Leviticus 20:13 ~ If a man stays the same way with a male as with a woman, both of them have sinned; they shall surely be put to death; their blood is on them. What does the bible say about being gay? Some biblical phrases talk about homosexuality, and most of them do not mandate homosexuality per se. Antagonists of same-sex marriage cite seven verses in the Christian Bible as denouncing homosexuality and calling it wrong. But when brought into context, these studies speak not against homosexuality only, but rather against rape, molestation, brutality, and other techniques that harm others and compromise a person’s association with God. Jesus has not spoken against homosexuality. In all of his teachings, Jesus encouraged actions and philosophies of justice, passion, humility, mercy, and empathy. He was against violence, intimidation, cold-heartedness, and injustice. He never mentioned homosexuality as a sin. The Bible does not condemn the idea of gay marriage – Although people of same-sex marriage contend that lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender marriages disregard biblical principles, no phrases in the Bible particularly talk about gay marriage or dedicated same-sex relationships. Those who declare a “biblical purpose of marriage” as a standard for today dismiss different marital contracts in the Bible that would be illegal or criticised today. The Bible contains many stories and instances of polygamy and husbands taking mistresses. According to the culture and rules of the past, women were often seen as property that could be bartered or sold into marriage. Today we comprehend that these examples of marriage speak about the cultural practices of the time rather than a spiritual model. Understanding the Context of Biblical Teachings Often, we want to acquire the information from the Bible about what we want, rather than what God actually intends. One of the most typical ways we do this is by picking particular verses from their context. We look at Bible verses as something to be taken à la carte rather than something to comprehend deeply and positively. From this, we can make the Bible convey almost anything we want. First, comprehending the Bible in context needs reading more extended sections of Scripture. You can practice this by going through a popular verse that you like, say Philippians 4:13, and reading the whole section. When we acquire knowledge from Bible verses out of context, there are chances that we could misunderstand the text. Misinterpretation leads to misapplication. This means we have false beliefs about God’s Word which can lead to our actions. So if our ideas are wrong, the way we live probably won’t

Discussions on human sexuality often raise a lot of questions and debates. Oral sex is one such topic where many ask, “Is oral sex a sin?” The question is not simple because it involves religious, cultural, and personal beliefs. For a Christian, what usually comes first in people’s minds is: What does the Bible say about oral sex? Like other religions’ faiths, Christianity preaches holiness, sanctity, and the sanctifying of marriage. The Bible talks generally about sexuality but does not give any specific reference to this issue of oral sex in detail. So, here’s where this leaves Christians seeking counsel as to whether oral sex is a sin. In this blog, we will discover what the Bible does and does not say about oral sex, which Christian perspectives influence sexual intimacy perspectives, and whether oral sex inside or outside of marriage is deemed sinful according to scripture. What Does the Bible Say About Oral Sex? It is a tricky thing to understand what the Bible says about oral sex. Since it does not mention oral sex at all, there is ample room for interpretation, but Christians seek out principles in the Scriptures that will help to define what is acceptable. Marriage and Sexual Purity: Sex is permitted only between a husband and wife who are married to one another; this is a cardinal teaching of the Bible (Genesis 2:24, Hebrews 13:4). Sexual purity is also emphasized as a theme in the Scriptures. In keeping with the marital view in the Bible, many Christians believe that sexual acts within the marriage relationship are allowable when they fall within the umbrella of mutual affection, respect, and, of course, procreation. Biblical Teachings on Sexual Intimacy: While the Bible is not verbose in its discussion about oral sex, there are some insights gained concerning the sanctity of the marriage relationship and sexual intimacy. For instance, the Song of Solomon is another name for the Song of Songs, full of poetic, symbolic portrayals of romantic and even bodily love between a husband and a wife. Such descriptions include the beauty of sexual relationships that, in celebrating love and intimacy between mates, are said to possess the liberty to live sexually in marriage. The Principle of Mutual Consent: Biblical scripture prescribes mutual love, respect, and selflessness for a marriage (Ephesians 5:22-33, 1 Corinthians 7:3-5). Most Christians consider any form of sexual intimacy, even oral sex, morally acceptable if both spouses are consenting and not degrading or harming one another. The Importance of Avoiding Lust: Another principle in the Bible indicates that believers should avoid lustful thoughts and those actions that lead to sin (Matthew 5:28, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). Sex – including oral sex – must always take place within the context of a loving and respectful marriage and never under the influence of selfishness or sin. These standards also guide Christian attitudes on matters of sexual intimacy, not about how or the performance act of oral sex itself should be managed. Is Oral Sex a Sin Before or Outside of Marriage? The sinful status of oral sex before marriage or outside of marriage is subject to the understanding of the Bible on matters related to sexuality. According to the Bible, sexual relations outside of marriage are sinful. In many of its passages, such as Hebrews 13:4 and 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, the scripture does indeed explain that sexual immorality is not acceptable in the sight of God, and that includes fornication, adultery, and all sexual immoralities. Thus, in oral sex outside marriage, most Christians tend to regard the act as sinful since it falls in the book of sexual immorality. Doing any form of sexual activity, even oral sex, before marriage is considered contrary to the teachings of the bible that emphasize chastity and purity before marriage. The Role of Marriage in Christianity: As the Bible teaches, sexual intercourse should be confined only to marriage, and this is a holy ordinance by God (Genesis 2:24, 1 Corinthians 7:2-5). As oral sex is comprised of a sexual act by definition, most consider this to be only practiced when it is between the two halves of a married couple. That is where the married bond of husband and wife becomes sacred. The Role of Abstinence: The core teaching of Christianity is the issue of abstinence before marriage. Indeed, sexual activity, be it oral sex and so on, outside the bond of marriage may cause emotional and even spiritual damage, and that is something that the Bible promotes one to avoid (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). Thus, in most Christian traditions, oral sex before marriage is considered sinful since it is sexual activity outside the boundary of marriage, where sex should reflect a committed and lifelong relationship. Is Oral Sex Sin in Marriage? Most people in the Christian context take up other kinds of perspectives about oral sex in marriage. The Bible nowhere describes its position on whether or not to describe oral sex as a sinful act in marriage. Still, it is most often considered under Christian rules relating to marital intimacy when they mutually, sexually, and consensually agree about it. Sexual Intimacy in Marriage: The Bible says that sexual intimacy is a gift given by the Lord to be enjoyed together between husband and wife (Genesis 1:28; 1 Corinthians 7:3-5). Sexual relations will be celebrated as an outpouring of love toward one another in marriage bounds. Most Christians feel that such liberty does extend to all kinds of sexual intercourse, even oral, provided that these acts are mutually consented upon and do not entwine any forms of degradation or harm. Mutual Consent and Respect: The New Testament teaches that the husband and wife should consider each other’s needs and desires in the sexual relationship (1 Corinthians 7:3-5). In this case, oral sex would be considered acceptable within the marriage bond if the couple is in agreement and respects each other. Healthy Communication and Boundaries: Christian marriage counseling usually teaches that healthy communication and boundaries are paramount. They encourage discussion

The topic of “Is sex before marriage a sin?” has left many debates between believers and even between those who are not believers around the globe. Society and culture change quickly regarding one’s views on marriage and relationship matters. Old values in marriages and relationships will be under fire. For some, love will accept whatever situation two people have, but the rest believe in God’s saying of wrongness in having sex before marrying. This blog provides perspectives on what the bible has to say about “Is sex before marriage a sin?” and whether sex before marriage is wrong or not from different angles, indeed if God forgives transgression in this area or not. Is Sex Before Marriage Right or Wrong? The morality of having sex before marriage, to a large degree, depends on the beliefs of a person-personal, cultural, and religious. Societies based on the Christian religion have believed that sex before marriage is wrong in previous centuries. According to a study of 26 unmarried youngsters between the ages of 18 and 24, premarital sex is greatly influenced by family and its traits. Five key ideas were found to be important in influencing young people’s premarital sex: how parents raise their children, their interactions with one another, the financial assistance that youngsters receive, their religious convictions, and their sexual awareness. However, such standards are more relaxed in secular or progressive circles. Cultural Perspective: In the majority of cultures, pre-marital sex is a lifestyle choice rather than a sin. Respect, love, and commitment are viewed as far greater than the timing of sexual relations. Religious Teaching: In Christianity, the most conservative beliefs advance the idea that marriage is sacred. Again and again, the Bible affirms the emphasis on sexual purity before entering into the covenant of marriage. Modern Understanding: Currently, in this modern world, most people understand that a couple cannot match until they have sex with each other, so the concept of delaying marriage is not at all interesting to them. Is Sex Before Marriage a Sin? The Bible has many scriptures that would answer “Is sex before marriage a sin?” in the affirmative. It always presents marital context as the proper place for sexual activity. It always describes the conjugal relationship as the appropriate environment for sexual engagement. Premarital sexual relations between unmarried individuals are referred to in other terms or forms in Christian theology, specifically in the New Testament, as fornication. 1 Corinthians 6:18: “Every other wrong a man does is outside his body; but he who is sexually immoral sins against his own body. So, here is a command — Flee from sexual immorality.” Hebrews 13:4: “Respect marriage, and protect the sacredness of physical intimacy between husband and wife. God draws a firm line against casual and illicit sex.” It would seem, therefore, that it is the destruction of the perishable part of man that removes from him the possibility of purity in the sexual sense. If so, where is the room for grace or forgiveness?  Does this mean there is no place for grace or forgiveness?  Why is Premarital Sex Wrong? What Does the Bible Say About Sex Before Marriage Many Christians believe that the Bible states sex before marriage is a sin because it goes contrary to the design God has for the marriage bed.  There are an estimated 5% to 6% of internet users who are exposed to compulsive sexual behavior, which includes pornography addiction.  The Christian Bible indicates at the outset that holy matrimony pertains to a man, a woman, and God, which means also that sex is an essential aspect of that marriage. Genesis 2:24: “And for this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. ” The Purpose of Sexual Intimacy Spiritual Union: Sexual intimacy is not a physical act alone but a very deep act of oneness. It illustrates the relationship between Christ and the Church. Protection of Emotional Well-Being: Premarital sex will leave the individual emotionally hurt and will make him regret it later. This is particularly true when these relationships do not last long. This teaching of waiting has, therefore, been a protection to one’s emotional and spiritual well-being. Building Trust: Waiting couples set a base for building trust and mutual respect. This would then build upon their marriage. Notable Quotes on Premarital Sex “God’s commandments are not restrictions but protections, guarding us from heartache and brokenness.” “True love waits not because it has to, but because it honors the sacredness of what is worth waiting for.” Forgiveness and Grace As much as the Bible proclaims purity before sex, much is put on readiness to forgive. This woman caught in adultery of the Bible-again a case in John 8:3-11-she, too, had him telling her, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” This has been instilled in minds, reminding man of love and renewal by God. FAQs on Is Sex Before Marriage a Sin? 1. Is Premarital Sex a Sin? Ans. Indeed, in most cases, it answers the question, “Is premarital sex a sin?” affirmatively, following Christian doctrine. For being sex before marriage, it falls into the category of fornication, which the Bible calls sexual immorality. 2. Does God Forgive Sex Before Marriage? Ans. Absolutely. Christianity is based on the theme of God’s grace and pardoning of all sin, starting from premarital sex, as well. But true Ans. repentance, first of all, includes acknowledgment of the sin committed and a request of forgiveness at him after a promise to observe according to the word of the Bible. The comfortableness with the question “Does God forgive sex before marriage?” brings a tremendous reminder for Christians of how bigness his mercy can be. 3. Is Sex Before Marriage a Sin if You Love the Person? Ans. Love, the necessary ground for any relationship, does not replace God’s laws. The question “Is sex before marriage a sin if you love the person?”

The modern age of electronics has turned out to be very demanding for Christians with their travel toward sexual purity and moral character. With the internet now reaching further than ever, pornography has never been so accessible. And it is not at all uncommon for Christians to ask themselves the question: Is watching porn a sin? It’s a question that is not only a theological debate but speaks to very personal and spiritual struggles many believers face daily. This in-depth research attempts to explore pornography from a Christian perspective. It would illuminate its spiritual, psychological, and relational impact here. More of that would be considered from a biblical standpoint about sexual purity, reasons people use pornography, and how to practically battle such temptation. Why Do Christians Ask If Watching Porn Is a Sin? The digital age has brought questions concerning pornography, not merely in terms of its moral and spiritual implications but also the accessibility of any individual having a computer or smartphone with the internet to access pornographic materials over the net. A visit to a lousy store that was once an obligation is now available in your house; hence, the urge is much more immediate and challenging to combat. While this subject, whether it is right to view pornography or not, has left many Christians split up in the middle, there is such a simplicity that has confounded some to wonder even about grace, guilt, and the very definition of sin in the light of contemporary conflict for everyday Christians between their spirituality and fleshly temptations. What watching pornography involves: whether it is a sin requires a look into what the act is, the other spiritual implications, and the emotional triggers that guide people into such content. The Complexity of the Question: Is Watching Porn a Sin? The question of whether or not watching porn is a sin may appear relatively straightforward at first. But this question calls for much deeper thinking. Christianity is not just a checklist of dos and don’ts but, instead, living intentionally that mirrors the heart of God and his ways. Watching porn is not only about a sinful act but touches profound spiritual, emotional, and psychological issues. A national representative survey of 5865 men and women ages 14–94 was conducted in 2009 for the National Survey of Sexual Health Behaviour (NSSHB). Of the men, 28%, ages 70+, 43%, ages 14–15 and 60–69, and over half, ages 16–59, reported engaging in solo masturbation in the previous month.  This, in many ways, is a wrong way to approach whether or not viewing pornographic content is a sin-though it may have an underlying question of why an activity would be harmful to your spiritual health and, in general, overall well-being. However, the Bible doesn’t explicitly describe pornography; rich teachings exist on purity, lust, and the sanctity of marriage to lead Christians through this rather complicated issue. Biblical Foundations of Sexual Purity To understand whether watching porn is a sin, then we need to start looking at the Bible’s sexual teachings, human dignity, and sexual purity. The following biblical principles become the foundation for understanding why viewing pornography is contrary to what God intended for human connections: 1. Human Beings Are Created in God’s Image The Bible says God created man in His image (Genesis 1:26-27). This always meant that every human being has dignity and worth. Pornography dehumanizes the person as it objectifies him for sexual gratification. A person becomes a mere physicality as the divine image God gives is taken from him. The value of a human being to a Christian lies in his being God’s creation. Pornography directly contradicts this truth, making light of God’s image, and subsequently is inclined to make less respect for others and for oneself. 2. Sexual Intimacy Is a Sacred Bond Intimacy in Christianity is not just a physical act but a sacred thing with a deep, spiritual connection between husband and wife. Ephesians 5:31-32 states, “A man will leave his mother and father for this reason, and he will become one flesh with his wife. I speak of Christ and the church, but this is a deep secret. In this way, sexual activity in marriage is Christ’s commixture with His church. Pornography distorts this holy view of sexuality by focusing on selfish lust and not selfless love and commitment. It devalues the original blessing of marriage and shrinks sexual intimacy to a greedy quest for pleasure. 3. Lustful Thoughts Are a Matter of the Heart What Matthew 5:27-28 speaks through Jesus is teaching of the heart nature of sin. Because He said, “You’ve heard that ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ Nevertheless, I can assure you that everyone who lustfully gazes at a woman has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Jesus teaches that sin originates in the mind rather than the deed. Lust defiles God’s commandment, whether in the form of thought or action. Watching pornography is an act of lust because it involves consciously looking at sexual explicitness to fulfill selfish desires. Such an action violates the instruction to guard one’s heart and keep oneself chaste in thought and intent. Psychological and Spiritual Consequences of Pornography The effects of pornography do not stop just at the relationship of a man with God. Pornography has excellent psychological, emotional, and relational consequences, which may have profound effects on a believer’s life for a long time. 1. Spiritual Disconnection Maybe one of the outcomes of viewing pornography is spiritual alienation, as people who usually become viewers of explicit content also feel guilty and condemned before themselves. These can prevent an individual from relating to God or becoming close to God. That makes them avoid prayers, worshipping God, or Bible reading, which might make them distantly disconnected from Him. The Bible encourages believers to “flee from sexual immorality” (1 Corinthians 6:18) and to seek holiness and purity. Pornography, on the other hand, promotes impurity and a false fulfillment that leaves a person spiritually hollow and separated. 2. Neurological

Medical specialists state that a wet dream is a rather typical occurrence among men. In the Bible, this is mentioned on some occurrences as “emissions” in most translations (Leviticus 15:16-18, 32; 22:4; Deuteronomy 23:10). In the areas where it is particularly mentioned, the only facts are about cleanliness under the Mosaic Law. However, the major question is “Are wet dreams a sin in Christianity.” It seems that the physical act of a nocturnal emission can sometimes happen and is not considered sinful. However, there may be moments in which a man’s lustful thoughts or actions lead to the nocturnal emission / wet dream. If you are a person who finds yourself experiencing wet dreams, know that this is not bad or wrong. However, if you start thinking about sinful activities before you fall asleep, then there may be other aspects of life to take care of. Are Wet Dreams a Sin in Christianity? A wet dream is a natural part of your life that can occur more often through sexual activities. The fact about it being a natural bodily process is right, the part of it being more frequent by sexual activity might not be. What is the reality is that no one knows what enables these wet dreams. Sometimes the dream trigger is sexual, sometimes it’s something else. All medicine can prove is that it is a stimulus from the brain that affects the sex organs of individuals. Sin is something that happens consciously, and a nocturnal emission can happen without knowledge. A nocturnal emission will not be considered a sin, but if your thoughts are filled with lust or greed, that is definitely a sin. What Does the Bible Say About Wet Dreams? When it comes to wet dreams and the bible, there are a few references about it. In Deuteronomy, Moses teaches the men of Israel about ritual uncleanliness. He says, “If any man among you becomes unclean because of a nocturnal emission, then he shall go outside the camp. He shall not come inside the camp, but when evening comes, he shall bathe himself in water, and as the sun sets, he may come inside the camp” (Deut. 23:10–11). In the Old Testament, the formal law set Israel apart from other countries. It included obedience related to food, clothing, and hygiene. Israel had to follow these laws because God was among them, and they had to be ritually pure to remain in his presence.  God differentiated between things that were sinful for Israel, and what could make them ritually unclean. Not all ritual uncleanliness was sinful. Some things like giving birth, menstruation, and even sexual intercourse in marriage all indicated people were ritually unclean, but not sinful. But through the individual teachings of Jesus, the formal law has been fulfilled and stated outdated in the New Covenant. God’s people no longer needed to follow it because we appear in God’s presence through Christ’s atoning sacrifice. We’re purified by his blood, once and for all (e.g., Heb. 10:10). Thus, we can conclude that the Old Testament did not consider the physical experience of wet dreams as sinful, only unclean. We also know that through Jesus, they now don’t consider us unclean before God. So, is having wet dreams a sin in Christianity – not necessarily but it all depends on your thoughts. The Spiritual Perspective on Wet Dreams Many spiritual disciplines have different opinions on sex and wet dreams, although there appears to be a general idea that they carry significance. Wet dreams happen at least once for 85% of people. They also don’t have to hold any underlying psychological, spiritual, or emotional value. And while nocturnal emissions are normal during sexual maturation, people of all ages can encounter them making it a regular phenomenon. Since the scientific knowledge of dreams is confined, experiences like wet dreams may carry more significance than societal intentions. So, if you believe your wet dream does contain a significant signal or meant something more, here are some common spiritual perspectives- A Change is on your way: Wet dreams could mean that you’ve held yourself back from something that was minimizing your potential and that now you’re all set to release. Excess Energy: Orgasms are spiritually cleansing, so it could indicate you have static energy blocking your lower chakras. Quest into other dimensions: Some people think that wet dreams with people you don’t identify with and in places that seem strange to Earth may be occurring in other dimensions. Subconscious Mirroring: Wet dreams can be noticed as subconscious mirrors in the context of our sexual desires or fears,  and psychological thoughts related to sexuality. How to Address Wet Dreams as a Christian Now that we know the answer to “Is having wet dreams a sin in Christianity”, let’s learn how we can address wet dreams as Christians. Sleeping makes us feel vulnerable—both to real life and subconscious threats. As a result, we should be proactive while we’re conscious. Pray to God before sleeping – Pray to the Almighty who is always conscious and safeguards his sleeping children (Ps. 121:3–4). Pray before going to sleep for God to protect you in your dreams from your sinful thoughts Fill your mind with positive things – Be proactive while you’re awake to have good thoughts aligning with Philippians 4:8. Think upon pure, dignified, respectable things. If your mind is filled with only lustful thoughts while you’re awake, it’s not unexpected that those thoughts might appear in your dreams leading to wet dreams. Speak to someone you trust- If wet dreams are a more than regular problem, it’s humbling but a good choice to share this with a trustworthy friend, partner, family or even a therapist. Seek guidance from them and they will pray for you and encourage you. Perhaps you can pray through Psalm 139, which recognises the wonderful mystery of how God created our bodies, while also inviting him to search our hearts and lead us in the right direction. Don’t linger on