When presented with the term ‘lewdness’, many are generally unacquainted with its biblical context and meaning. Lewdness is a term used to describe an action which breaks decorum and transgresses moral standards, which is often used as a biblical word to refer to sexual sin. The bible does not directly define “lewdness” and instead provides several examples in an attempt to explain the concept.
In Luke 17:2, Jesus states that whoever commits a sin against another’s person will receive a harsh penalty. It is therefore suggested that lewdness can include any kind of offensive sexual behaviour or misconduct. In Matthew 5:32, Jesus speaks out against sexual impurity, and in Galatians 5:19-21, Paul mentions several sexual sins, including lewdness, as evidence of mankind’s fallen nature.
Relations between consenting adults is not directly prohibited in the Bible, which explains why Jesus focused so heavily on sexual immorality, as he was attempting to protect people from taking risks and engaging in sexual sin. For Christians, this means that any form of pre-marital or married sexual activity other than the traditional missionary style between husband and wife is seen to have the potential to be a source of lewdness and immorality.
Some biblical scholars have argued that the existence of laws restricting sexual behaviour may indicate that some form of sexual immorality was prominent at the time. Anciently, it was widely accepted that a husband could have multiple wives, and one could keep mistresses, while such activities may still be familiar in some cultures or populations, they were outlawed by Christian law due to their perceived immorality.
Furthermore, many of the Bible’s sexual restrictions can be attributed to their social implications, as well as their moral implications. For instance, Jesus’ commandment in Matthew 5:32 states that anyone who looks upon a woman with lust has committed adultery with her in his heart, this could potentially cause harm to the woman’s relationships and reputation if the man were to pursue her in any way.
Lewdness can also refer to verbal misconduct and any activity which would be deemed improper or suggests inappropriate sexual contact out of wedlock, this includes the production and possession of pornographic material. A few examples in scripture which could be subtly referring to lewdness include Proverbs 7:13-27, Judges 16 and Leviticus 20:10-15.
Why is Lewdness Unacceptable in the Bible?
Lewdness is condemned in the Bible as it is seen as a sinful attempt to gratify oneself through sexual gratification prior to or outside of marriage. Christ commands Christians to pursue holiness, and sexual immorality, such as lewdness, is seen as going against this commandment. Additionally, lewdness may be viewed as a disobedient act of trust in God, because it relies upon the satisfaction of one’s own desires instead of the divine will.In Leviticus 18:24-30, God outlines the laws of chastity and marriage, and specifies the punishments for disobedience. In a similar way, lewdness is seen as a violation of holy matrimony, and is thus unacceptable to God.
In many forms of Christianity, lewdness is seen as associated with the worship of false idols and other prohibited practices. Early Christians were willing to die due to their refusal to engage in such activities and God promises the destruction of the wicked who engage in lewdness. By adhering to God’s command, those who are obedient are blessed with eternal life in heaven.
Biblical Instruction and Confrontation of Lewdness
The Bible provides several examples of how supernatural forces confronted and punished lewdness. In Genesis 6, God speaks of the wickedness of mankind, specifically linking it to sexual sin, and decides to destroy all living creatures on earth. In Galatians 6:7-8, Paul speaks of the consequences of lewd conduct, and the need for repentance and correction. Additionally, several books in the bible have instructions from God to priests on how to deal with lewdness, an example of this is found in Leviticus 18:24-30.
In the New Testament, Jesus condemns lewdness by reiterating old laws, as well as introducing harsh new laws including death for those practicing sexual immorality, sexual sin, and adultery. In Matthew 5, Jesus states that anyone who looks upon a woman with lust has committed adultery with her in his heart, in John 8:3, Jesus condemns a woman caught in adultery, and in Luke 17, Jesus states that whoever commits a sin against another’s person will receive a harsh penalty.
The Role of Humility and Self-Control
The only way to circumvent lewdness is to practice moderation and humility in one’s own life. Self-control is key, as one must be aware of their own sexual boundaries, as well as respect the sexual boundaries of those around them.
Humility is also important in order to instil in oneself a sense of perspective, which can help cultivate an understanding of the importance of being sexually responsible. Through humility and self-control, one can preserve their own dignity and honour, while avoiding any potential embarrassment or disgrace, as illustrated in the account of Joseph in the book of Genesis.
Role of the Church
The church serves as a beacon of hope and structure in understanding the Bible’s condemnation of lewdness and sexual sin. In the church, one can find an avenue for discussion and instruction on the topic of sexual immorality, and receive guidance on how to uphold moral decency.
The importance of the church in helping Christians be spiritually conscious and maintain a holy lifestyle cannot be overstated, as it is the anchor of biblical truths, and can help identify false teachings, as well as teach about the laws and punishments regarding lewdness. At the same time, the church is often a place of congregation and healing for those who have been the victims of lewd behaviour, providing a safe space for them to open up and be comforted by those around them.
Transforming Lewdness Through Prayer and Repentance
Lewd behaviour can be changed by prayer and repentance. Through prayer, one can gain strength to overcome temptation and develop self-control, as well as open their heart to God and pursue holiness. Through repentance and turning away from sin, one can find forgiveness and be released from the bondage of lewd actions and thoughts.
Paul in 2 Corinthians 7 emphasises the importance of turning away from sin in order to restore one’s relationship with God, and in his epistle to the Romans, speaks of the importance of repentance in the process of regeneration. Through prayer and repentance, one can find healing and a new path of holiness guided by God as opposed to offending Him through lewdness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bible’s definition of lewdness is wide and encompasses any form of offensive sexual behaviour or misconduct, which does not abide by traditional holiness and the commands of God. Furthermore lewd behaviour is highly discouraged and those who partake in such activities are met with severe punishments, whilst the only way to escape such punishment is through prayer and repentance. Regardless, the Bible provides hope, instruction and a reminder of why lewdness and sexual immorality should not be tolerated, as well as pointing out the serious consequences which come with disregarding such commands.
