Sexuality is powerful and the nature of sexual intimacy is progressive. Sex is a deeply intimate act with one’s own body and another. The longer a couple lets each other be physically affectionate, the harder it becomes to resist temptation to proceed further. Once again I chose a difficult topic to discuss in my blog. I struggled with the amount of information and trying to organize it in a way that made sense. It took awhile to get the right words down in a way that was truthful and yet encouraging to those who may struggle with sexual sin. I wasn’t sure I would even write this one, let alone post it; however, I feel it is too important not to and my prayer that readers will have their eyes opened and turn to Jesus for guidance and forgiveness. What is sexual immorality? What is the high cost of sexual sin? Is there redemption if you are in sexual sin?
Wherever we look, sex is everywhere. It is in our media. It is in our music, our television and movies. It is online. Sexual content has never been more accessible and available to us at the click of a button. Sexual immorality is any sexual activity outside of the covenant of marriage of a man and a woman. Any sexual contact including adultery and premarital and extramarital sex. Hebrews 13:4 says that marriage should be honored and the marriage bed kept pure. Biblically, sex is more than just the physical act, it is a connection of two souls. Two shall become one (Genesis 2:24). Any sex outside of a husband and wife is dishonorable in God’s eyes. When can a couple be considered married? The Bible isn’t clear about the exact requirements. Although traditions were developed that marriage is created through a religious ceremony. In modern terms, it is the legal documentation and a ceremony of some kind. Another question that may be on most Christian couples minds: can there be sexual immorality within marriage? There are some Christian leaders who would teach the prohibition of certain sexual acts and positions. However, I believe each couple should bring their questions before God and seek His guidance. If there is any doubt in their minds, then it should be prohibited for them.There are people who believe there is nothing wrong with sleeping with whomever you want, whenever you want. The higher your body count the better. However, there is a high cost to sexual sin. Sex is everywhere. It would be difficult to go about our day and not see it, think about it or be exposed to it. 1 Corinthians 6:12 tells us that just because things are lawful doesn’t mean it is helpful. Alcohol and tobacco are legal but are harmful to your bodies. In the same way, just because sex outside marriage isn’t illegal, doesn’t mean it doesn’t harm us in some way (Proverbs 7:22-23). Sexual sin is a sin against the self. 1 Corinthians 6:18 says “Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body.” It always hurts someone with a broken trust and deep emotional wounds that are difficult to repair. It can physically harm our bodies through diseases and infections. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, in 2021 the rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including gonorrhea, syphilis and chlamydia were at an all time high in the US (more than 2.5 million). These infections can lead to other health issues including pelvic inflammatory disease, HIV, certain cancers and infertility. Therefore, the high cost of sexual sin isn’t just spiritual. It is emotional. It is physical. And it can be even socially. Is there redemption? Yes, there is. In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Paul lists the sins that we can commit that we cannot inherit the kingdom of God, including sexual immorality, adulterers, prostitutes and homosexual offenders. However, he continues in verse 11, “And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” When we come to Jesus in repentance, those sins can be wiped away and we can be made clean and whole again. 1 John 1:9 tells us that “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” When we admit our sins, we acknowledge that our acts were sinful and we need to turn from it and rely on Him to overcome it. It takes a great deal of humility to admit we are wrong and need help. There are ways to overcome sexual sin. First, remember your true identity as an adopted child of God (Romans 8:14-17) and focus on Him. Second, never let your guard down. 1 Peter 4:8 says “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour,” Third, when you are tempted - RUN (1 Corinthians 6:18).In conclusion, the Bible is clear about sex. From the beginning, God designed and intended sex to be between a man and a woman who entered the covenant of marriage. Jesus would confirm this design when he condemned divorce. The proper context for sexual activity is within a marriage and all conduct outside of marriage is prohibited. Sexuality is powerful and an intimacy that is clearly meant to be expressed between a man and a woman who are fully committed to each other in marriage. Sexual sin harms ourselves as well as others with a wide range of possible consequences in all areas of life. However, you can be forgiven and leave sexual immorality behind to find new purpose, meaning and fulfillment in Jesus Christ. It is not an easy path, but there is hope. I pray this information is helpful and those who are in sexual sin that you find the strength to turn away from it and turn toward Jesus.