Sexual sin encompasses a range of transgressions, such as adultery, premarital sex, and lust, among others. Due to the associated personal shame, it is often a topic avoided in conversations.
At the same time, there is no evidence in the Bible that oral sex within marriage is a sin.
This article aims to delve into the definition of sexual sin and provide biblical illustrations of such transgressions.
Sexual Sin Definition
In the New Testament, the term frequently rendered as “sexual immorality” is porneia. This word signifies relinquishing one’s sexual purity and is primarily associated with engaging in sexual relations before marriage.
The English term “pornography” originates from this Greek word, which conveys the notion of “selling off.” Sexual immorality encompasses the act of forsaking sexual purity and comprises any form of sexual expression that falls outside the boundaries defined by the Bible for a marital relationship (Matthew 19:4–5).
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While linking the term “lust” to sexual immorality expands the scope to include behaviors like pornography, pedophilia, and, in many cases, masturbation, it is important to revisit the fundamental context of God’s intention for sex as outlined in Genesis.
In this context, sexual immorality encompasses any sexual conduct that occurs outside the confines of a marital relationship, where a husband and wife engage in intimate relations with mutual reverence for God and each other.
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What Do The Scriptures Say About Sexual Sins?
In 1 Corinthians 6, we encounter valuable teachings regarding sexual sins. It serves as a reminder that while one may be free to engage in various activities, not all of them are advantageous.
Having a free will and relying on God’s grace does not justify indulging in any form of sexuality. We must understand that sexual immorality does not yield any benefits or advantages.
Paul urges us to avoid and distance ourselves from sexual immorality actively, emphasizing that engaging in such sins harms our own bodies (1 Corinthians 6:18). By its nature and consequences, sexual sin devalues our humanity. It reduces us to mere physical components and sensory experiences, disregarding the deeper aspects of our being. This destructive behavior harms us and inflicts damage upon others involved.
God intricately designs sexuality, and only. He possesses the authority to establish its boundaries. According to the Bible, it is evident that sex was intended to be a source of joy and intimacy exclusively between a married man and woman who have made a lifelong commitment to each other (Matthew 19:6).
God has bestowed sexuality as a precious and holy gift for humanity within the context of marriage. Any deviation from these established parameters amounts to a misuse of this divine gift.
Acts such as adultery, premarital sex, pornography, and homosexual relationships are all contrary to the intended design of God, rendering them sinful.
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Examples of Sexual Sins in The Bible
Below are some examples of sexual sins forbidden in the Bible.
Fornication
Fornication is a sexual act outside marriage or premarital sex. A few verses that discuss fornication in the Bible are as follows:
Rape
Rape is another grave sin mentioned in the Bible. The following verses describe the act of rape in the Bible:
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Adultery
Adultery is included in the ten commandments. It is the act of marital infidelity. Some of the verses tackling adultery in the Bible are as follows:
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How To Avoid Sexual Sins
Avoiding temptations is the most significant step in preventing sexual sins. Once you are aware of specific temptations or vulnerable areas that may pose challenges for you, you must recognize and acknowledge those weaknesses. By doing so, you can then proceed to the next crucial step, which involves setting clear boundaries.
Make it a practice not to be alone in private spaces with the person you are dating. Avoid situations where you are alone in a car or attending after-work social gatherings with a specific coworker. Take proactive measures such as installing apps on your phone and computer that block access to explicit content.
Take the necessary steps to establish protective boundaries that keep temptation at bay, even if they require effort or inconvenience.
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Bottom Line
Sexual sin holds significant gravity and can cause profound harm. We must deprive sin of any opportunity to take hold in our lives by removing anything that might lead to temptation. Instead, we should intentionally nourish our minds with thoughts and content that are pure and virtuous.
Also, it is essential to meditate on God’s Word and align our lives with His teachings. Doing this can fortify us against the allure of sexual sin and pursue a path of righteousness.
