OmniChrist Course · Life & Relationships
What the King James Bible Says About Sex
A full, unabridged study of every major question about sex, answered from the King James Bible only.
This course examines what the King James Bible actually teaches about sex, from God's original design in the garden to the redemption offered to every person who has sinned. It is honest and unabridged: it addresses the hard, awkward, and commonly avoided questions directly, and where Scripture is silent it says so plainly rather than inventing an answer. Throughout, sin is met not only with the law but with the grace, forgiveness, and restoration that run through the whole of Scripture.
- God's Design for Sex and 'One Flesh'
- Sex Within Marriage and the Marriage Bed
- The Goodness of Marital Intimacy and Desire
- Procreation, Childbearing, and Barrenness
- Purity and the Single Life
- Celibacy and the Gift of Singleness
- Lust, the Heart, and the Eyes
- Fornication: Sex Before Marriage
- Adultery and the Seventh Commandment
- The Levitical Prohibitions: Incest and Bestiality
- Homosexuality: The King James Passages
- Pornography and the Lust of the Eyes
- The Body as the Temple: Fleeing and Resisting
- Modesty in Dress and Heart
- Divorce, Remarriage, and Sexual Sin
- Restoration and Forgiveness After Sexual Sin
Module 1
God's Design for Sex and 'One Flesh'
Sex is not an accident of biology or a concession God reluctantly permits; it is His deliberate design. In the beginning God made humanity male and female and blessed them, and He declared that a man would leave his father and mother, cleave unto his wife, and the two would become one flesh. This union predates the fall and is called good. Sex, then, is God's gift for the joining of a husband and wife into a single covenant bond.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. moveth: Heb. creepeth
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day. And the evening...: Heb. And the evening was, and the morning was etc.
And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. meet...: Heb. as before him
Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.
And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,
And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?
Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Did God create sex, or is it merely tolerated?
Scripture presents sex as part of God's intentional creation. He made humanity male and female, blessed them, and instituted the one-flesh union before sin entered the world. What God made and called 'very good' is not something He merely tolerates.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. moveth: Heb. creepeth
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day. And the evening...: Heb. And the evening was, and the morning was etc.
Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
What does 'one flesh' actually mean?
The phrase describes a real, covenantal joining of a man and a woman into a single unit, so that Jesus could say they are 'no more twain, but one flesh.' It is a bond God Himself forms, which is why He adds, 'What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.' It is more than physical, but it is not less than physical.
Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?
Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Were Adam and Eve ashamed of their bodies before the fall?
No. The text says they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed. Shame concerning the body entered only with sin, which tells us the body itself and the marital union are not inherently shameful.
And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.
And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. aprons: or, things to gird about
And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.
Module 2
Sex Within Marriage and the Marriage Bed
The King James Bible places sex firmly within marriage and treats it there with high honor. 'Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.' Within that covenant, Scripture speaks of mutual belonging and mutual duty between husband and wife, warning them not to defraud one another. The marriage bed is not a grudging allowance but a protected, honorable place.
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.
Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.
The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.
Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.
Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. satisfy...: Heb. water thee be thou...: Heb. err thou always in her love
Does the Bible call married sex honorable or shameful?
Honorable. Hebrews states plainly that marriage is honorable in all and the bed undefiled. The dishonor Scripture names is reserved for whoremongers and adulterers, not for the married couple.
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Does a husband or wife have a duty to the other in the marriage bed?
Yes. Paul writes that the husband is to render unto the wife due benevolence, and the wife likewise unto the husband, and that neither one has sole power over their own body in this respect. This is a mutual obligation, not a one-sided demand.
Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.
The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.
Can a married couple refuse one another?
Paul says, 'Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time,' and only for prayer, and then to come together again. Prolonged withholding is discouraged so that Satan tempt them not for their lack of self-control. The exception must be mutual and temporary.
Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
Is a husband commanded to rejoice in his wife physically?
Proverbs speaks tenderly and directly: 'Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth,' and 'be thou ravished always with her love.' This is delight, not mere permission.
Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.
Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. satisfy...: Heb. water thee be thou...: Heb. err thou always in her love
Module 3
The Goodness of Marital Intimacy and Desire
The Song of Solomon is an entire book of Scripture devoted to the love, longing, and physical delight between a bride and her beloved, and God preserved it in His Word. Desire itself is not treated as filth; within marriage it is celebrated. The lovers speak openly of attraction, longing, and mutual belonging: 'I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine.' Rightly directed, physical desire is a good gift.
Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for thy love is better than wine. thy...: Heb. thy loves
My beloved is mine, and I am his: he feedeth among the lilies.
Thou art all fair, my love; there is no spot in thee.
How fair is thy love, my sister, my spouse! how much better is thy love than wine! and the smell of thine ointments than all spices!
I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me.
Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. satisfy...: Heb. water thee be thou...: Heb. err thou always in her love
Is physical desire itself sinful?
Desire in itself is not condemned; it is desire misdirected outside God's design that Scripture warns against. Within marriage, the Song of Solomon and Proverbs present longing and delight between husband and wife as something good and even to be cultivated.
I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me.
Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. satisfy...: Heb. water thee be thou...: Heb. err thou always in her love
Why did God include the Song of Solomon in the Bible?
God preserved an entire book celebrating the love between a bride and her beloved, including their physical attraction and belonging to one another. Its presence in Scripture testifies that married love and desire are not shameful topics to be hidden but part of God's good design.
Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for thy love is better than wine. thy...: Heb. thy loves
My beloved is mine, and I am his: he feedeth among the lilies.
How fair is thy love, my sister, my spouse! how much better is thy love than wine! and the smell of thine ointments than all spices!
Is it worldly for a husband and wife to enjoy one another?
No. Scripture presents mutual delight as fitting within marriage, speaking of being ravished with a spouse's love and of belonging wholly to one another. Enjoyment within the covenant honors, rather than dishonors, God's design.
Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.
Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. satisfy...: Heb. water thee be thou...: Heb. err thou always in her love
My beloved is mine, and I am his: he feedeth among the lilies.
Module 4
Procreation, Childbearing, and Barrenness
The first command God gave humanity was to be fruitful, and multiply, and children are called a heritage of the LORD and the fruit of the womb His reward. Yet Scripture also records the deep grief of the barren, women like Sarah, Rachel, Hannah, and Elisabeth, and does not treat childlessness as proof of sin or God's rejection. God repeatedly meets the barren with compassion and, in His own time and will, with mercy.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. moveth: Heb. creepeth
Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.
Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table.
And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore. in...: Heb. bitter of soul
And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head. a man...: Heb. seed of men
Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the LORD. when...: Heb. in revolution of days Samuel: that is, Asked of God
And when Rachel saw that she bare Jacob no children, Rachel envied her sister; and said unto Jacob, Give me children, or else I die.
And God remembered Rachel, and God hearkened to her, and opened her womb.
He maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children. Praise ye the LORD. to keep...: Heb. to dwell in an house
And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.
But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.
Is having children a command or a blessing?
Scripture presents it as both. God's first blessing to humanity was 'be fruitful, and multiply,' and children are described as a heritage of the LORD and His reward. The language is one of gift and blessing, not mere obligation.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. moveth: Heb. creepeth
Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
Does barrenness mean God is displeased with someone?
No. Scripture records godly, faithful women who were barren, and it treats their sorrow with tenderness rather than accusation. Hannah's grief was met not with rebuke but with God's answer in His time; barrenness is never presented as proof of personal sin.
And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore. in...: Heb. bitter of soul
And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head. a man...: Heb. seed of men
Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the LORD. when...: Heb. in revolution of days Samuel: that is, Asked of God
And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.
But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.
Does the Bible offer comfort to those who cannot have children?
Yes. The Psalmist declares that God 'maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children,' and the accounts of Sarah, Rachel, Hannah, and Elisabeth show God remembering and answering the barren. Even where children do not come, Scripture never measures a person's worth by fertility.
He maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children. Praise ye the LORD. to keep...: Heb. to dwell in an house
And God remembered Rachel, and God hearkened to her, and opened her womb.
Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the LORD. when...: Heb. in revolution of days Samuel: that is, Asked of God
Module 5
Purity and the Single Life
Scripture calls every believer, married or single, to sexual purity. God's will is our sanctification, that we abstain from fornication and possess our bodies in sanctification and honor. Purity is not merely refraining from acts; it is a whole disposition of the body and heart offered to God. For the single believer, this means living chastely and honoring God with the body while unmarried.
For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;
Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God:
Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.
To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.
Does God call single people to sexual purity too?
Yes. Paul writes that it is the will of God, our sanctification, that we abstain from fornication and that each one know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honor. This applies to every believer, married or unmarried.
For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;
Is purity only about avoiding acts, or something deeper?
It is deeper. Paul urges Timothy to be an example in purity and to treat others with all purity, and to flee youthful lusts while pursuing righteousness. Purity is a positive pursuit of holiness in heart and body, not merely the absence of a forbidden act.
Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.
Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
How can a single believer honor God with their body?
By recognizing that the body belongs to God, is a temple of the Holy Ghost, and was bought with a price, and therefore glorifying God in the body. Purity flows from ownership: the body is not our own to use as we please.
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
Module 6
Celibacy and the Gift of Singleness
The King James Bible treats singleness not as a defect but, for some, as a gift and even an advantage for undistracted devotion to the Lord. Paul, himself unmarried, wished that others could serve God as he did, while acknowledging that every person has their proper gift, one after this manner and another after that. He honored marriage fully, yet held up faithful singleness as a legitimate and even fruitful calling.
For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that.
I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.
But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.
But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: that belong...: Gr. of the Lord
But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife.
There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband.
So then he that giveth her in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth her not in marriage doeth better.
But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given.
For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.
Does the Bible treat singleness as a curse or a lack?
No. Paul calls his own singleness a gift and says he would that all men were even as himself, while acknowledging that each has a proper gift of God. Singleness is presented as a legitimate calling, not a deficiency.
For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that.
I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.
Is there any advantage to remaining unmarried?
Paul says the unmarried person 'careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord,' with less distraction than one caring for a spouse. He presents singleness as freeing one for undivided devotion, though he never commands it.
But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: that belong...: Gr. of the Lord
There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband.
Is celibacy required of anyone?
Not universally. Jesus said that not all men can receive the saying about remaining unmarried, but only those to whom it is given, and Paul counsels that if a person cannot contain, it is better to marry than to burn. Celibacy is a gift for some, not a burden imposed on all.
But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given.
For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.
But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.
Module 7
Lust, the Heart, and the Eyes
Jesus taught that sexual sin begins long before any act, in the heart and the eyes: 'whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.' Job set a guard even on his gaze, saying, 'I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?' The Psalmist resolved, 'I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes.' Purity, then, is guarded inwardly.
Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. offend...: or, do cause thee to offend
I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?
I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. wicked...: Heb. thing of Belial
Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. with...: Heb. above all keeping
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
Is lust the same as attraction or noticing beauty?
Scripture distinguishes them. Jesus condemns looking 'to lust after,' that is, a deliberate, cultivated coveting of another person sexually, not the involuntary awareness that someone is attractive. The sin is in the willful entertaining and pursuit of the desire, which James calls being drawn away and enticed.
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
How can lust be adultery if nothing physical happened?
Jesus locates sin in the heart, not only the hand: a man who looks to lust 'hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.' God judges the inner intent, not merely the outward act, so guarding the heart matters as much as guarding the body.
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. with...: Heb. above all keeping
What does it mean to make a covenant with your eyes?
Job bound himself by a resolve not to gaze in order to lust: 'I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?' The Psalmist echoes it, refusing to set any wicked thing before his eyes. It is a deliberate discipline of where one looks and lingers.
I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?
I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. wicked...: Heb. thing of Belial
Module 8
Fornication: Sex Before Marriage
Fornication, sexual activity outside the marriage covenant, is directly and repeatedly forbidden in the King James Bible. Paul commands the Corinthians to flee fornication and lists it among the works of the flesh whose doers shall not inherit the kingdom of God. He grounds the prohibition in the union of the body: the one who joins to a harlot is one body with her, and the believer is instead joined to the Lord.
Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body. Meats: not flesh only, but food of any kind
What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh.
Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.
For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:
But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood.
Does the Bible forbid sex before marriage?
Yes, plainly. Fornication, which includes sexual relations outside marriage, is repeatedly named as sin: God's will is that we abstain from fornication, and Paul commands, 'Flee fornication.' It is listed among the works of the flesh to be put away.
For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.
Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
Isn't fornication a lesser sin since it doesn't break a marriage?
Scripture treats it seriously, naming it among the sins whose unrepentant practitioners 'shall not inherit the kingdom of God' and calling believers to let it 'not be once named among you.' Paul also notes it is a sin against one's own body in a way other sins are not.
Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.
Why does Paul say to 'flee' fornication rather than resist it?
Because with this particular temptation, distance is safety. Unlike battles to be stood and fought, Paul commands flight: 'Flee fornication.' He treats removal from the temptation, not lingering to test one's strength, as the wise course.
Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.
And she caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out.
Module 9
Adultery and the Seventh Commandment
'Thou shalt not commit adultery' stands among the Ten Commandments, and Scripture treats the betrayal of the marriage covenant as a grave sin against spouse, neighbor, and God. Proverbs warns at length that the adulterer destroys his own soul. David's sin with Bathsheba shows both the devastation adultery brings and, in Psalms 51, the path of repentance. Yet even here Christ meets the guilty with mercy: 'Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.'
Thou shalt not commit adultery.
Neither shalt thou commit adultery.
But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul. understanding: Heb. heart
A wound and dishonour shall he get; and his reproach shall not be wiped away.
And it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his bed, and walked upon the roof of the king's house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman was very beautiful to look upon.
And David sent messengers, and took her; and she came in unto him, and he lay with her; for she was purified from her uncleanness: and she returned unto her house. for she...: or, and when she had purified herself, etc, she returned
And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.
[To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba.] Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. right: or, constant
And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst,
She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
How seriously does the Bible treat adultery?
Very seriously. It is forbidden in the Ten Commandments, and Proverbs warns that the one who commits it 'destroyeth his own soul' and gains a wound and dishonor that will not be wiped away. Hebrews states that God will judge adulterers.
Thou shalt not commit adultery.
But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul. understanding: Heb. heart
A wound and dishonour shall he get; and his reproach shall not be wiped away.
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Can adultery be forgiven?
Yes. When David confessed, 'I have sinned against the LORD,' Nathan answered, 'The LORD also hath put away thy sin,' and David's prayer in Psalms 51 pleads for and receives cleansing. Jesus told the woman taken in adultery, 'Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.' There were real consequences, but genuine repentance meets real forgiveness.
And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.
[To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba.] Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. right: or, constant
She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
Does forgiveness remove all the consequences of adultery?
Not necessarily. God forgave David, yet the child born of the sin died and turmoil followed in his house, and Proverbs speaks of lasting dishonor. Forgiveness restores the sinner to God, but it does not always undo the earthly harm caused; both truths stand together.
And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.
Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also that is born unto thee shall surely die.
A wound and dishonour shall he get; and his reproach shall not be wiped away.
Module 10
The Levitical Prohibitions: Incest and Bestiality
Leviticus 18 and 20 set out God's boundaries for sexual relations in explicit terms, forbidding incest, that is, relations with close family members, as well as bestiality and other acts, calling them abominations and defilement of the land. These chapters are sober and unflinching. They establish that sexuality operates within God-given limits, and that certain acts are wrong not by cultural preference but by God's declared holiness.
None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness: I am the LORD. near...: Heb. remainder of his flesh
Neither shalt thou lie with any beast to defile thyself therewith: neither shall any woman stand before a beast to lie down thereto: it is confusion.
Defile not ye yourselves in any of these things: for in all these the nations are defiled which I cast out before you:
For whosoever shall commit any of these abominations, even the souls that commit them shall be cut off from among their people.
Therefore shall ye keep mine ordinance, that ye commit not any one of these abominable customs, which were committed before you, and that ye defile not yourselves therein: I am the LORD your God.
And the man that lieth with his father's wife hath uncovered his father's nakedness: both of them shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.
And if a man lie with his daughter in law, both of them shall surely be put to death: they have wrought confusion; their blood shall be upon them.
And if a man lie with a beast, he shall surely be put to death: and ye shall slay the beast.
And if a woman approach unto any beast, and lie down thereto, thou shalt kill the woman, and the beast: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.
Cursed be he that lieth with his father's wife; because he uncovereth his father's skirt. And all the people shall say, Amen.
Cursed be he that lieth with any manner of beast. And all the people shall say, Amen.
What does the Bible say about incest?
Leviticus 18 forbids relations with close relatives at length, opening, 'None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness.' These prohibitions are stated as God's holy standard, and violations carried grave penalties under the law.
None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness: I am the LORD. near...: Heb. remainder of his flesh
And the man that lieth with his father's wife hath uncovered his father's nakedness: both of them shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.
And if a man lie with his daughter in law, both of them shall surely be put to death: they have wrought confusion; their blood shall be upon them.
Does the Bible address bestiality?
Yes, directly and by name. Leviticus forbids a man or woman lying with any beast, calling it confusion, and Deuteronomy pronounces a curse upon it. Scripture leaves no ambiguity that such acts are forbidden.
Neither shalt thou lie with any beast to defile thyself therewith: neither shall any woman stand before a beast to lie down thereto: it is confusion.
And if a man lie with a beast, he shall surely be put to death: and ye shall slay the beast.
And if a woman approach unto any beast, and lie down thereto, thou shalt kill the woman, and the beast: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.
Cursed be he that lieth with any manner of beast. And all the people shall say, Amen.
Are these Old Testament laws still relevant?
The moral boundaries they express, against incest and bestiality, are treated in Scripture as reflections of God's abiding holiness rather than temporary ceremony, and Leviticus grounds them in the character of God and the defilement they bring. The New Testament likewise upholds sexual purity, so these boundaries remain morally instructive.
Defile not ye yourselves in any of these things: for in all these the nations are defiled which I cast out before you:
Therefore shall ye keep mine ordinance, that ye commit not any one of these abominable customs, which were committed before you, and that ye defile not yourselves therein: I am the LORD your God.
For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.
Module 11
Homosexuality: The King James Passages
This module presents the relevant King James passages fairly and completely, without softening or exaggerating them. Genesis 19 records the sin of Sodom; Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13 forbid a man lying with mankind as with womankind; Romans 1:26-27 describes men and women who leave the natural use; and 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, 1 Timothy 1:10, and Jude 1:7 name such conduct among sins. Crucially, 1 Corinthians 6:11 immediately adds the redemptive word: 'and such were some of you: but ye are washed.' The same grace offered to every sinner is held out here.
But before they lay down, the men of the city, even the men of Sodom, compassed the house round, both old and young, all the people from every quarter:
And they called unto Lot, and said unto him, Where are the men which came in to thee this night? bring them out unto us, that we may know them.
Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination.
If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.
For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:
And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;
Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. strange: Gr. other
What does the King James Bible say about homosexual acts?
It addresses them in several places. Leviticus 18:22 forbids a man to lie with mankind as with womankind; Romans 1:26-27 describes leaving the natural use of the body; and 1 Corinthians 6:9 and 1 Timothy 1:10 name such conduct among sins. Scripture speaks of the acts as contrary to God's design.
Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination.
For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:
And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
Was the sin of Sodom about homosexuality, or something else?
Genesis 19 records the men of Sodom seeking to sexually abuse the visitors, and Jude 1:7 states that Sodom and the surrounding cities gave themselves over to fornication and 'going after strange flesh.' Scripture also elsewhere names Sodom's pride and neglect of the needy; the passages together present a city ripe in multiple sins, with the sexual sin explicitly noted by Jude.
But before they lay down, the men of the city, even the men of Sodom, compassed the house round, both old and young, all the people from every quarter:
And they called unto Lot, and said unto him, Where are the men which came in to thee this night? bring them out unto us, that we may know them.
Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. strange: Gr. other
Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy.
Is there hope and grace for someone who has lived this way?
Yes, unequivocally. After listing these and other sins in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Paul says, 'And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus.' The redemptive word is spoken directly to this sin, not withheld from it.
And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
Module 12
Pornography and the Lust of the Eyes
The word 'pornography' is modern and does not appear in the King James Bible, so we must reason honestly from the nearest principles rather than claim a verse that names it. Jesus' teaching that looking to lust is heart-adultery, Job's covenant with his eyes, and the Psalmist's refusal to set any wicked thing before his eyes speak directly to it. John names 'the lust of the eyes' as of the world, not of the Father. From these principles, deliberately viewing images to arouse lust falls squarely under what Scripture condemns.
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. offend...: or, do cause thee to offend
I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?
I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. wicked...: Heb. thing of Belial
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. honest: or, venerable
Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:
But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
Does the Bible mention pornography directly?
The specific word is modern and is not found in the King James Bible, so we should not claim a verse that names it. However, the principles that condemn it are clearly present: looking to lust, the lust of the eyes, and setting wicked things before one's eyes are all addressed.
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. wicked...: Heb. thing of Belial
How do we know pornography is wrong if it isn't named?
By reasoning from what Scripture does say. Jesus calls looking to lust heart-adultery; Job made a covenant with his eyes against it; the Psalmist refused to set a wicked thing before his eyes; and John names the lust of the eyes as not of the Father. Deliberately viewing images to arouse lust plainly falls under these condemnations.
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
What should fill the mind and eyes instead?
Paul directs believers to think on whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report, and to mortify the deeds tied to inordinate affection and evil concupiscence. Purity is not only turning from wrong images but filling the mind with what is good.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. honest: or, venerable
Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:
Module 13
The Body as the Temple: Fleeing and Resisting
Paul teaches that the believer's body is a temple of the Holy Ghost, not our own but bought with a price, so we are to glorify God in our body and in our spirit. Regarding sexual sin specifically, his instruction is to flee, to physically remove oneself, as Joseph fled Potiphar's wife. Yet he also calls Timothy to flee youthful lusts and follow righteousness with others of a pure heart, joining flight from sin with pursuit of holiness and godly fellowship.
Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
And she caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out.
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. common...: or, moderate
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
Why does Scripture say to flee sexual sin rather than fight it head-on?
Because proximity to this temptation is dangerous. Paul says, 'Flee fornication,' and Joseph literally ran from Potiphar's wife, leaving his garment behind. With sexual temptation, removing oneself is wisdom, not weakness.
Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.
And she caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out.
Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
What does it mean that my body is a temple?
Paul says the body is the temple of the Holy Ghost, which is in the believer, and that we are not our own but were bought with a price. Therefore sexual sin is not a private matter of no consequence; it dishonors a body that belongs to God and houses His Spirit.
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
Is there always a way out of temptation?
Yes. Paul promises that God is faithful, who will not suffer us to be tempted above what we are able, but will with the temptation also make a way to escape. James adds, 'Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.' The believer is never trapped without recourse.
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. common...: or, moderate
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Module 14
Modesty in Dress and Heart
Scripture calls for modesty, both in outward dress and inward character. Paul instructs that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety, and that true adornment is good works rather than mere outward show. Peter likewise directs attention to 'the hidden man of the heart,' a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. Modesty is not about shame toward the body but about ordering appearance under godliness.
In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; broided: or, plaited
But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
What does the Bible say about how believers should dress?
Paul instructs modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety, and that adornment come chiefly through good works becoming godliness. The emphasis is on dressing in a way that reflects reverence for God rather than drawing attention to self.
In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; broided: or, plaited
But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
Is modesty only about clothing?
No. Peter directs that adorning be not merely outward, but 'the hidden man of the heart,' a meek and quiet spirit, which God prizes greatly. Proverbs adds that favor is deceitful and beauty vain, but a woman who fears the LORD shall be praised. Modesty begins in the heart.
Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
Module 15
Divorce, Remarriage, and Sexual Sin
Jesus taught that God's design is lifelong marriage and that Moses permitted divorce only for the hardness of men's hearts. He named one ground touching sexual sin: 'whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery.' This is a sober and much-debated subject; Scripture treats the covenant with weight, calls to reconciliation where possible, and, as always, holds out forgiveness to the repentant while never treating divorce lightly.
It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:
But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?
Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.
And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously. that he...: or, if he hate her, put her away putting...: Heb. to put away
And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband:
But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.
But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. to peace: Gr. in peace
Does the Bible permit divorce?
Jesus said Moses suffered divorce because of the hardness of hearts, 'but from the beginning it was not so,' affirming God's design of lifelong union. He permitted it in the case of fornication, and Paul addresses the case of an unbelieving spouse departing. Scripture permits it in limited circumstances while making clear it is not God's ideal.
He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.
And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. to peace: Gr. in peace
How does sexual sin relate to divorce?
Jesus named fornication as the one ground on which putting away a spouse does not itself cause adultery: 'saving for the cause of fornication.' Sexual unfaithfulness strikes at the one-flesh covenant, which is why Scripture treats it as uniquely grave in the marriage bond.
But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
Does God hate divorce?
Malachi records, 'For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away.' Yet Scripture also acknowledges human hardness and grants limited exceptions. Both truths stand: God's heart is for the covenant to endure, and He does not treat its breaking lightly, even where He permits release.
For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously. that he...: or, if he hate her, put her away putting...: Heb. to put away
He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.
Module 16
Restoration and Forgiveness After Sexual Sin
No sexual sin is beyond the reach of God's mercy for the one who repents. After listing grave sins, Paul says of the Corinthians, 'And such were some of you: but ye are washed.' John promises that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive and to cleanse us. To the woman caught in adultery Jesus said, 'Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.' David's Psalms 51 shows a broken heart met with a clean one. The Bible's arc bends toward redemption, not condemnation alone.
And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
[To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba.] Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. right: or, constant
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. he is: or, let him be
Can God really forgive sexual sin?
Yes. Paul tells former fornicators, adulterers, and others, 'ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified.' John promises cleansing to those who confess. Isaiah declares that though sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. No repented sexual sin is beyond His forgiveness.
And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Will God hold my past sexual sin against me forever?
For those in Christ, no: 'There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus,' and if any be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away. God does not keep the repentant chained to a forgiven past.
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. he is: or, let him be
What does God ask of the one who has sinned sexually?
A broken and contrite heart, which He does not despise, and a turning from the sin: as Jesus said, 'go, and sin no more.' David modeled this in praying, 'Create in me a clean heart, O God.' God meets genuine repentance with cleansing and renewal.
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. right: or, constant
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
Questions answered
Is sex only for procreation?
No. While God commanded fruitfulness, Scripture also presents sex as a means of union and mutual delight apart from childbearing. Proverbs urges a husband to be ravished always with his wife's love, the Song of Solomon celebrates married love with no mention of children, and Paul frames marital relations in terms of mutual duty and guarding against temptation. Procreation is one purpose, not the only one.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. moveth: Heb. creepeth
Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.
Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. satisfy...: Heb. water thee be thou...: Heb. err thou always in her love
Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.
Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
Does the Bible forbid sex before marriage?
Yes. Sexual activity outside the marriage covenant is called fornication and is directly forbidden. God's declared will is that we abstain from fornication, Paul commands 'Flee fornication,' and it is listed among the works of the flesh. Marriage is the God-given context for sexual union.
For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.
Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Is lust the same as attraction or noticing someone is attractive?
Scripture distinguishes them. Jesus condemns looking 'to lust after,' a deliberate coveting, not the involuntary awareness that a person is attractive. James describes sin as being drawn away and enticed by one's own desire and then yielding. The line is crossed when one cultivates and pursues the desire rather than simply noticing.
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
Can adultery be forgiven?
Yes. David committed adultery and, upon confession, was told, 'The LORD also hath put away thy sin.' Jesus told the woman taken in adultery, 'Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.' Forgiveness is real for the repentant, though earthly consequences may still follow.
And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.
She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
[To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba.] Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
Does the Bible address masturbation?
The King James Bible does not directly name the act, so we should be careful not to claim a verse it does not contain. The account of Onan in Genesis 38 is often cited, but that passage concerns his refusal to fulfill the duty of raising up offspring for his dead brother, for which he was judged, not a general statement about the act itself. Where Scripture is silent on the specific act, the governing principles are the call to sexual purity, mastery over the body, guarding against lust, and glorifying God with the body.
And Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother's wife, and marry her, and raise up seed to thy brother.
And Onan knew that the seed should not be his; and it came to pass, when he went in unto his brother's wife, that he spilled it on the ground, lest that he should give seed to his brother.
And the thing which he did displeased the LORD: wherefore he slew him also. displeased...: Heb. was evil in the eyes of the Lord
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;
What does the Bible say about oral sex or particular positions within marriage?
Scripture does not directly address specific acts or positions within the marriage bed, and we should not invent a verse that does. It gives principles: the marriage bed is honorable and undefiled, spouses are to render due benevolence and not defraud one another, and mutual love and consent govern the relationship. The Song of Solomon speaks of married intimacy with warmth and freedom. Within the covenant, marked by mutual love, consent, and honor, Scripture leaves much to the couple rather than legislating it.
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.
The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.
Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
My beloved is mine, and I am his: he feedeth among the lilies.
Is contraception biblical?
The King James Bible does not directly address modern contraception, and the Onan account in Genesis 38 concerns his refusal of a specific covenant duty rather than a general teaching on preventing conception. Scripture presents children as a blessing and heritage of the LORD, which some take as reason for caution, while others note that Scripture nowhere commands a couple to maximize childbearing. Because the Bible is silent on the method itself, this is an area calling for wisdom, conscience, and mutual agreement before God rather than a claimed proof text.
And Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother's wife, and marry her, and raise up seed to thy brother.
And Onan knew that the seed should not be his; and it came to pass, when he went in unto his brother's wife, that he spilled it on the ground, lest that he should give seed to his brother.
Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. moveth: Heb. creepeth
What about sexual desire itself, is it sinful?
Desire in itself is not condemned; it is desire directed outside God's design that Scripture warns against. Within marriage, longing and delight are celebrated in Proverbs and the Song of Solomon. Paul even counsels that if a person cannot contain their desire, it is better to marry than to burn, treating the desire as real and to be rightly channeled, not shamed.
Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. satisfy...: Heb. water thee be thou...: Heb. err thou always in her love
I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me.
But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.
Is nudity sinful?
Nudity in itself is not equated with sin in Scripture; before the fall Adam and his wife were naked and unashamed. After sin, God clothed them, and Scripture repeatedly treats the shameful exposure of nakedness as connected with dishonor and sexual sin. Within marriage the body is shared without shame, but the uncovering of nakedness in other contexts is treated with modesty and warning. The issue is context and intent, not the body itself, which God made.
And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.
Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them.
And Ham, the father of Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father, and told his two brethren without.
And Shem and Japheth took a garment, and laid it upon both their shoulders, and went backward, and covered the nakedness of their father; and their faces were backward, and they saw not their father's nakedness.
None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness: I am the LORD. near...: Heb. remainder of his flesh
What does the Bible say about rape and sexual violence?
Scripture treats sexual violence as a grave evil against the victim. The law in Deuteronomy distinguishes the violated woman who cried out as guiltless, comparing the assault to murder, and laying the guilt on the attacker. The account of Amnon's rape of Tamar in 2 Samuel 13 records it as a wicked, shameful crime and treats Tamar's grief with dignity. The Bible never blames the victim for the assault; the sin and guilt rest on the one who commits the violence.
But if a man find a betrothed damsel in the field, and the man force her, and lie with her: then the man only that lay with her shall die: force: or, take strong hold of
But unto the damsel thou shalt do nothing; there is in the damsel no sin worthy of death: for as when a man riseth against his neighbour, and slayeth him, even so is this matter:
For he found her in the field, and the betrothed damsel cried, and there was none to save her.
And she answered him, Nay, my brother, do not force me; for no such thing ought to be done in Israel: do not thou this folly. force...: Heb. humble me no such...: Heb. it ought not so to be done
Howbeit he would not hearken unto her voice: but, being stronger than she, forced her, and lay with her.
Can a person become a virgin again, spiritually?
The Bible does not speak of restoring physical virginity, and we should not claim it does. But it speaks powerfully of spiritual cleansing and new beginnings: those who were fornicators are washed, sanctified, and justified; if any be in Christ, he is a new creature, and old things are passed away. Though the past cannot be undone physically, God offers full cleansing and a new standing before Him.
And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. he is: or, let him be
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Does looking at pornography count as adultery?
The word pornography is not in the King James Bible, so we reason from principle. Jesus said that whoever looks on another to lust after them has committed adultery already in his heart. Deliberately viewing images to arouse lust engages exactly the heart-adultery Jesus described, and falls under the lust of the eyes that John says is not of the Father. It is treated by Scripture as sin, and, like all sin, it can be confessed and forgiven.
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Is it a sin to be tempted?
No. Temptation itself is not sin; Jesus was tempted in all points as we are, yet without sin. Sin comes when desire is conceived and yielded to, as James describes lust conceiving and bringing forth sin. Being tempted is part of the human condition; the call is to resist and flee, not to despair over the temptation itself.
For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. common...: or, moderate
How far is too far physically before marriage?
Scripture does not draw a precise physical line, so we should not manufacture one. Instead it calls the unmarried to abstain from fornication, to possess the body in sanctification and honor, to flee youthful lusts, and to avoid provoking lust in oneself or another. The governing question is not how close one can get to sin, but how faithfully one can honor God and protect purity, which counsels caution rather than testing limits.
For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;
Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
Does the Bible allow polygamy?
The Old Testament records men who had multiple wives, but it does not commend the practice; these accounts consistently show strife, rivalry, and sorrow. God's design stated from the beginning is one man and one wife becoming one flesh, and the New Testament requires an elder to be the husband of one wife. Scripture's pattern and ideal is monogamy, even though it narrates polygamy in the fallen history of God's people.
Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
And when Rachel saw that she bare Jacob no children, Rachel envied her sister; and said unto Jacob, Give me children, or else I die.
A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; of good...: or, modest
If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly.
And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?
Is interracial marriage forbidden in the Bible?
No. The Old Testament warnings about marrying certain nations were about idolatry and turning the heart from the LORD, not about ethnicity. Moses married a Cushite woman, and God defended him against those who criticized it. Paul teaches that God made all nations of one blood, and in Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek. Scripture's concern in marriage is shared faith, not skin or nationality.
And Miriam and Aaron spake against Moses because of the Ethiopian woman whom he had married: for he had married an Ethiopian woman. Ethiopian: or, Cushite married: Heb. taken
Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son.
For they will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the LORD be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly.
And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
Should believers marry unbelievers?
Paul counsels against being unequally yoked together with unbelievers, asking what fellowship righteousness has with unrighteousness. He instructs that a widow is free to remarry 'only in the Lord.' While Scripture also addresses believers already married to unbelievers, its counsel for those choosing a spouse is toward shared faith.
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord.
But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away.
And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him.
What does the Bible say about lust in dreams or involuntary thoughts?
Scripture locates sin in the will and the cultivated desire, in looking 'to lust' and in desire that is entertained until it conceives. An involuntary thought or dream that arises unbidden is not the same as choosing to dwell on lust. The call is to take thoughts captive and refuse to feed impure desire, not to bear guilt for every fleeting or unchosen thought.
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; imaginations: or, reasonings
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. honest: or, venerable
Can a marriage recover after an affair?
Scripture holds together two truths: adultery is grave and gives a biblical ground for divorce, yet forgiveness and reconciliation are also possible where there is repentance. God forgave David; Hosea's story pictures covenant love pursuing an unfaithful spouse; and believers are called to forgive as they have been forgiven. Recovery requires genuine repentance and hard work, but Scripture does not treat it as impossible.
And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
Then said the LORD unto me, Go yet, love a woman beloved of her friend, yet an adulteress, according to the love of the LORD toward the children of Israel, who look to other gods, and love flagons of wine. of wine: Heb. of grapes
And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.
Is it wrong to remarry after divorce?
This is a weighty and debated question in Scripture. Jesus taught that whoever marries one put away commits adultery, yet He also permitted divorce for fornication, and Paul addresses the case of an unbelieving spouse departing and the freedom of a widow to remarry in the Lord. Scripture treats the marriage covenant with great seriousness and does not grant remarriage lightly; those facing this should weigh these passages carefully and prayerfully rather than assume a simple answer.
But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. to peace: Gr. in peace
The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord.
What does the Bible say about prostitution?
Scripture consistently condemns it. Proverbs warns that a man is brought to a piece of bread by a harlot and that her house is the way to death. Paul asks whether he should take the members of Christ and make them the members of a harlot, teaching that the one joined to a harlot is one body with her. The law forbade making a daughter a whore. It is treated as serious sexual sin.
For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life. the adulteress: Heb. the woman of a man, or, a man's wife
Her house is the way to hell, going down to the chambers of death.
Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid.
What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh.
Do not prostitute thy daughter, to cause her to be a whore; lest the land fall to whoredom, and the land become full of wickedness. prostitute: Heb. profane
Does God care what married couples do in private?
God cares about all of life, but Scripture deliberately leaves much of the marriage bed to the couple rather than legislating it. It sets the frame, the bed is honorable and undefiled, relations are marked by mutual love, consent, benevolence, and not defrauding one another, and it celebrates married intimacy. Within that covenant of love and mutual honor, the Bible grants considerable freedom rather than dictating specifics.
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.
The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.
Thou hast ravished my heart, my sister, my spouse; thou hast ravished my heart with one of thine eyes, with one chain of thy neck. ravished: or, taken away
How fair is thy love, my sister, my spouse! how much better is thy love than wine! and the smell of thine ointments than all spices!
Is homosexual attraction itself a sin, or only the acts?
The King James passages that address this subject speak explicitly of acts, of lying with mankind, of leaving the natural use, and of those who practice such things. Scripture also teaches more broadly that sin includes cultivated lust of the heart, while distinguishing temptation, which is not itself sin, from yielding to desire. Believers should be careful not to claim more precision than the text gives; what Scripture clearly names as sin is the lustful cultivation and the acts, while it offers full grace to all who come to Christ.
Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination.
And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
What does the Bible say about transgender identity or changing one's sex?
The King James Bible does not use modern terms for gender identity, so we must not claim verses that directly address the contemporary question. What Scripture does state is that God created humanity male and female from the beginning, and it warns against blurring God-given distinctions. Because the Bible does not speak to the modern medical and cultural question directly, this should be approached from these creation principles with honesty about where Scripture is explicit and where it is not.
So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
Male and female created he them; and blessed them, and called their name Adam, in the day when they were created.
And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,
The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman's garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the LORD thy God.
Is it a sin for a husband and wife to enjoy sex a great deal?
No. Scripture presents strong marital delight as good, even to be cultivated. Proverbs tells a husband to rejoice with the wife of his youth and to be ravished always with her love, and the Song of Solomon expresses eager mutual longing. Enjoyment within the covenant is not excess to be repented of but a gift to be received with thanksgiving.
Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.
Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. satisfy...: Heb. water thee be thou...: Heb. err thou always in her love
I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me.
For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:
What if I was sexually abused, am I unclean or guilty before God?
No. Scripture places the guilt of sexual violence on the one who commits it, not the victim, comparing rape to murder and declaring the violated one guiltless. Tamar's suffering is recorded with dignity and her attacker's act called wickedness and folly. The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit; the abused bear no guilt for what was done to them.
But unto the damsel thou shalt do nothing; there is in the damsel no sin worthy of death: for as when a man riseth against his neighbour, and slayeth him, even so is this matter:
And she answered him, Nay, my brother, do not force me; for no such thing ought to be done in Israel: do not thou this folly. force...: Heb. humble me no such...: Heb. it ought not so to be done
Howbeit he would not hearken unto her voice: but, being stronger than she, forced her, and lay with her.
The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. unto...: Heb. to the broken of heart of a contrite...: Heb. contrite of spirit
Does the Bible say sex makes two people 'one flesh' even outside marriage?
Paul teaches that sexual union creates a real bodily joining even with a harlot: 'he which is joined to an harlot is one body,' citing that the two shall be one flesh. This is precisely why he treats fornication so seriously; it forges a union that was designed for the covenant of marriage but is here formed wrongly. The one-flesh reality is not merely symbolic.
What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh.
Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
Is oral or manual affection between spouses condemned anywhere?
No specific act between a husband and wife is named and condemned in the King James Bible, and it would be dishonest to claim a verse that is not there. Scripture governs the marriage bed by principle, honor, mutual love, consent, and not defrauding, and it speaks of married intimacy with tenderness and freedom in the Song of Solomon. Where Scripture is silent, spouses are left to mutual love and consent before God rather than an unwritten rule.
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.
Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
My beloved is mine, and I am his: he feedeth among the lilies.
How do I stop struggling with lust?
Scripture gives concrete counsel: flee youthful lusts and follow righteousness with others of a pure heart; make a covenant with your eyes as Job did; take every thought captive; fill the mind with what is true and pure; and rely on God's faithful promise to provide a way of escape. Victory is pursued through fleeing, guarding the eyes and mind, godly fellowship, and dependence on God, not through willpower alone.
Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?
Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; imaginations: or, reasonings
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. honest: or, venerable
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. common...: or, moderate
Does the Bible teach that all sex is dirty or shameful?
No. That idea is contrary to Scripture. God created sexual union before the fall and called His creation very good, the marriage bed is honorable and undefiled, and married delight is celebrated. What Scripture treats as shameful is sexual sin outside God's design, not the God-given gift within marriage.
And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day. And the evening...: Heb. And the evening was, and the morning was etc.
Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.
How fair is thy love, my sister, my spouse! how much better is thy love than wine! and the smell of thine ointments than all spices!
What does the Bible say about incest?
It forbids it explicitly. Leviticus 18 opens, 'None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness,' and lists forbidden relatives at length, with grave penalties in Leviticus 20. These prohibitions are grounded in God's holiness and the defilement such acts bring.
None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness: I am the LORD. near...: Heb. remainder of his flesh
And the man that lieth with his father's wife hath uncovered his father's nakedness: both of them shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.
And if a man lie with his daughter in law, both of them shall surely be put to death: they have wrought confusion; their blood shall be upon them.
And if a man shall take his sister, his father's daughter, or his mother's daughter, and see her nakedness, and she see his nakedness; it is a wicked thing; and they shall be cut off in the sight of their people: he hath uncovered his sister's nakedness; he shall bear his iniquity.
What does the Bible say about bestiality?
It forbids it by name. Leviticus prohibits a man or woman lying with any beast, calling it confusion, and Deuteronomy pronounces a curse upon it. Scripture is direct and leaves no ambiguity that such acts are sin.
Neither shalt thou lie with any beast to defile thyself therewith: neither shall any woman stand before a beast to lie down thereto: it is confusion.
And if a man lie with a beast, he shall surely be put to death: and ye shall slay the beast.
And if a woman approach unto any beast, and lie down thereto, thou shalt kill the woman, and the beast: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.
Cursed be he that lieth with any manner of beast. And all the people shall say, Amen.
Is it wrong to feel sexual desire before marriage if I never act on it?
Experiencing desire is part of being human and is not, in itself, condemned; Paul acknowledges the reality of desire and counsels marriage for those who burn rather than remaining unfulfilled. What Scripture warns against is cultivating lust in the heart and acting outside marriage. The call is to steward desire in purity and, where appropriate, toward marriage, not to feel shame for its existence.
But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.
But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry.
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;
Can God use someone with a sexual past in ministry or His service?
Yes. God's forgiveness makes a person a new creature, and Paul reminds the Corinthians that some of them had lived in serious sexual sin before being washed, sanctified, and justified. Rahab the harlot is honored in the lineage of Christ and among the faithful. A repented and cleansed past does not disqualify one from God's service.
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. he is: or, let him be
And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace. that...: or, that were disobedient
And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse;
Does the Bible say anything about sexual thoughts about my own spouse?
Scripture presents desire and delight toward one's own spouse as good and encouraged. A husband is told to be ravished always with the love of his wife and to rejoice in the wife of his youth. Jesus' warning about lust concerns coveting someone who is not one's spouse; longing for one's own husband or wife is honored in the marriage covenant.
Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.
Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love. satisfy...: Heb. water thee be thou...: Heb. err thou always in her love
I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me.
Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.
Is there forgiveness if I have committed many sexual sins?
Yes. God's mercy is not measured out by the count of sins. Though sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive and to cleanse from all unrighteousness; and where sin abounded, grace did much more abound. No number of repented sins exhausts His grace.
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:
And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
What does the Bible say about crude sexual joking and speech?
Paul instructs that fornication and all uncleanness be not once named among the saints, and that filthiness, foolish talking, and jesting are not fitting, but rather the giving of thanks. He calls for no corrupt communication but only that which edifies. Coarse sexual talk is treated as unbecoming for the believer.
But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. to...: or, to edify profitably
But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.
If God's design is marriage, is something wrong with me for being single?
No. Scripture honors faithful singleness as a legitimate calling and even a gift, freeing one for undistracted devotion to the Lord. Paul was single and wished others could serve as he did, while affirming that each has their proper gift of God. Singleness is not a defect but, for many, a season or calling in which to serve God fully.
For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that.
I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.
But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: that belong...: Gr. of the Lord
There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband.