What Is Sexual Immorality According To The Bible
Sexual immorality is any sexual activity outside of biblical marriage and thus, according to the Bible, any sexual relationship outside of marriage is considered immoral. This includes premarital sex, adultery, sexual relations with someone of the same-sex, engaging in pornography or prostitution, or engaging in any act of lust or sexual sin.
The Bible speaks very clearly and very sternly on the matter of sexual immorality, calling it a sin, and warning against the consequences of engaging in such activities. In the book of Corinthians, for example, it states “… flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body” (1 Corinthians 6:18).
This verse, along with many others throughout the Bible, creates a clear distinction between appropriate and inappropriate sexual activity, and warns against the consequences of those who pursue these activities. It also states that God is the one who decides what is right and wrong with sexual activities and that one should heed His warning. Paul further reinforces this in his letter to the Romans, which states “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind; so that you may prove what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2). This reinforces the idea that God is the one who decides what is right or wrong with sexual activities.
The consequences of engaging in sexual immorality can be severe. In the Old Testament, for instance, those who engaged in acts of immorality were often stoned to death as a punishment. In more contemporary times, those who engage in sexual immorality are often met with harsh consequences and judgment from others as well, such as divorce, ostracism, or even jail time, depending on the circumstances.
However, it’s important to note that there is hope for those who struggle with sexual immorality. True repentance, from the heart and through faith in Jesus Christ, can bring forgiveness and reconciliation with God, even in the midst of past indiscretions. And while the consequences of sexual immorality may be severe, God is loving and merciful, and His grace is greater than our sin.
Compassion, Acceptance, and Redemption
Despite the Bible’s disapproval of sexual immorality, it also calls us to be compassionate and accept those who have committed immoral acts, and to offer them redemption through faith. Jesus shared this compassion even to those considered ‘sinners’ in society, such as prostitutes and tax collectors. And He reminded us that none of us is without sin, that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23).
In light of this, we should not be so quick to cast judgment on those who have engaged in sexual immorality, but should instead be open to offering forgiveness and support. As Paul reminds us, “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” (Romans 12:9-12).
We must also remember that although it is not acceptable to engage in sexual immorality, it can still be redeemed, and Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross gives us that hope and opportunity. As Jesus said himself, “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” (John 3:17).
Encouraging Healthy Sexuality
It is important to remember that the Bible was not written to discourage healthy expression of sexuality, but rather to encourage it within the confines of a biblical marriage. There are many passages in the Bible that affirm sex within God-designed marriage as a beautiful and holy thing, such as Proverbs 5:18-19, which reads “Let your spouse be your greatest delight! Be captivated by her charms!”.
The Bible also reinforces the importance of building strong physical and emotional intimacy within a marriage so that the couple can fully enjoy and glorify God within the confines of their relationship. As Paul wrote in Ephesians 5:31, “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”
Therefore, it is important to value healthy and strong sexual relationships, within the confines of marriage, and encourage others to do the same. It is also important to recognize and respect the boundaries established by God in regards to premarital and extra-marital sex and to offer guidance, support, and relevant resources to those who find themselves struggling with sexual immorality.
Addressing Sexual Immorality in the Church
The abuse of power in the Church when it comes to sexual immorality is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. Sadly, the Church has had a history of not responding to the issues of sexual abuse in a timely and compassionate manner. But the Church must do better. We must create safe environments in which victims of abuse know they will be listened to and supported, and perpetrators of abuse are held accountable.
The Church can also be an incredible source of support and hope for those who struggle with sexual sin, regardless of whether they have been a victim or a perpetrator. And it is important to note that the Church has resources available to help those affected by sexual immorality. Many churches offer counseling, support groups and other forms of assistance for those struggling with sexual sin.
It is also essential that the Church acknowledges the complex nature of sexual sin and the journey of healing and redemption for those affected by it. It is important that we do not foster a culture of condemnation and guilt, but rather one of grace and understanding, so that those struggling with sexual immorality can find forgiveness and live a life of holiness.
Confronting Sexual Immorality in Society
The issue of sexual immorality is not limited to the Church, but is something we see in our culture as well. The media, for example, often glamorize and promote a lifestyle of immorality, which can further perpetuate an already unhealthy view of sexuality. It is, then, important for us to address these issues in our culture, to confront and challenge the idea that there is nothing wrong with sexual immorality, and to educate and empower people to make healthy and God-honoring choices.
We can also take action by supporting organizations that advocate for healthier standards and practices in the media, such as broadcasting standards that promote and protect healthy sexuality, and stricter restrictions on the types of content deemed ‘family friendly’.
Finally, it is important for us to support those people in our lives who struggle with sexual immorality, whether we agree with their choices or not. Through our words of compassion and support, we can offer hope to those struggling with sexual sin, and can help them turn to God’s redeeming grace.
Emphasizing Purity and Holiness
In conclusion, the Bible emphasizes the importance of purity and holiness, both in one’s spiritual life and in one’s sexual life. But it is also important to remember that grace is available for those who have sinned and to strive to forgive and offer compassion to those who have made wrong choices. At the same time, we must take action to confront and challenge immorality in our culture, to protect and empower those struggling with sexual sin, and to encourage a healthier view of sexuality.
