Lion_of_Judah
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- Nov 30, 2008
- Messages
- 331
That is the most thought out and best articulated argument I've seen on the subject.
Thank you Judgement
God bless you with many for your hearing ; )
Marco
Masturbation
- Thread starter Chad
- Start date
That is the most thought out and best articulated argument I've seen on the subject.
Thank you Judgement
God bless you with many for your hearing ; )
Marco
I have to confess that i have been a fan of Chad ever since i joined this site.However, i too have had to viciously struggle with this issue since i discovered the power of the Blood of Christ, Who God is, and Who Christ is, Who Satan is, and Who the angels and demons are.
I have also read alot about this subject, especially looking at Adam and Eve, and God's sexual intent for them.
Mankind never new how God views sex because our former parents were cast out of the garden of Eden (Eden means Delight) even before they "knew" each other.So sex was something God set boundaries later on in the mosaic law as to what COULD NOT be done.
God says somewhere that if a man has an emission of semen, he is to bathe and be unclean( unworthy of social contact and unable to touch holy things and be near the physical presence of God e.g. temple or tabernacle) until evening.
A man can have this emission only through sex, masturbation or "wet dreams". God is however not particular as to what "emission" act he terms unworthy.
I read a wonderful website on this subject, but i need Chad's permission to post the link...( So if Chad gives the greenlight, maybe you too can be fascinated by the site like i did..)
It is thew only site that answered all my questions about sex.
I have also read alot about this subject, especially looking at Adam and Eve, and God's sexual intent for them.
Mankind never new how God views sex because our former parents were cast out of the garden of Eden (Eden means Delight) even before they "knew" each other.So sex was something God set boundaries later on in the mosaic law as to what COULD NOT be done.
God says somewhere that if a man has an emission of semen, he is to bathe and be unclean( unworthy of social contact and unable to touch holy things and be near the physical presence of God e.g. temple or tabernacle) until evening.
A man can have this emission only through sex, masturbation or "wet dreams". God is however not particular as to what "emission" act he terms unworthy.
I read a wonderful website on this subject, but i need Chad's permission to post the link...( So if Chad gives the greenlight, maybe you too can be fascinated by the site like i did..)
It is thew only site that answered all my questions about sex.
I have to confess that i have been a fan of Chad ever since i joined this site.However, i too have had to viciously struggle with this issue since i discovered the power of the Blood of Christ, Who God is, and Who Christ is, Who Satan is, and Who the angels and demons are.
I have also read alot about this subject, especially looking at Adam and Eve, and God's sexual intent for them.
Mankind never new how God views sex because our former parents were cast out of the garden of Eden (Eden means Delight) even before they "knew" each other.This is why we must go to God for some of this stuff.
So sex was something God set boundaries later on in the mosaic law as to what COULD NOT be done.
God says somewhere that if a man has an emission of semen, he is to bathe and be unclean( unworthy of social contact and unable to touch holy things and be near the physical presence of God e.g. temple or tabernacle) until evening.
A man can have this emission only through sex, masturbation or "wet dreams". God is however not particular as to what "emission" act he terms unworthy.
I read a wonderful website on this subject, but i need Chad's permission to post the link...( So if Chad gives the greenlight, maybe you too can be fascinated by the site like i did..)
It is the only site that answered all my questions about sex.
I have also read alot about this subject, especially looking at Adam and Eve, and God's sexual intent for them.
Mankind never new how God views sex because our former parents were cast out of the garden of Eden (Eden means Delight) even before they "knew" each other.This is why we must go to God for some of this stuff.
So sex was something God set boundaries later on in the mosaic law as to what COULD NOT be done.
God says somewhere that if a man has an emission of semen, he is to bathe and be unclean( unworthy of social contact and unable to touch holy things and be near the physical presence of God e.g. temple or tabernacle) until evening.
A man can have this emission only through sex, masturbation or "wet dreams". God is however not particular as to what "emission" act he terms unworthy.
I read a wonderful website on this subject, but i need Chad's permission to post the link...( So if Chad gives the greenlight, maybe you too can be fascinated by the site like i did..)
It is the only site that answered all my questions about sex.
But I say to the unmarried and to the widows: It is good for them if they remain even as I am; but if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. (1 Corinthians 7:8-9)
In this passage, Paul addresses believers who are "unmarried." This would include anyone who is not married, even divorced believers, because this same term is used for a divorced woman in 1 Corinthians 7:11. Therefore, for the unmarried, who lack self-control, Paul tells the church to, "let them marry."
Later in this chapter Paul discusses the state in which one is found when they came to Christ. Paul encourages the believers "to remain with God in that state in which" they were called (1 Corinthians 7:17-24). In this context Paul writes,
Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be loosed. Are you loosed from a wife? Do not seek a wife. But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have trouble in the flesh, but I would spare you. (1 Corinthians 7:27-28)
Here Paul clearly declares that a man who is divorced from a wife (i.e. loosed), and then remarries, has not sinned. If he has not sinned, then he has not committed adultery. Therefore, for those who come to Christ in a state of having been divorced (loosed), Scripture gives them the freedom to marry.
How can this be? Jesus said, "Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery" (Luke 16:18). Yet, Paul says, "let them marry" (1 Corinthians 7:8-9) and "you have not sinned" (1 Corinthians 7:26-28). It seems Paul is contradicting Christ, but he is not; because,
if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. (2 Corinthian 5:17)
This is true of both males and females (Galatians 3:28). A person who comes to God in truth (Psalm 145:18; Isaiah 55:6-9) has a clean slate with the Lord (Isaiah 1:8; Psalm 51:7; 103:11-13, 17-18). He has died (Galatians 2:20) and his life is hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3). Christ makes him a new creation, and indeed the old things have passed away, and all things have become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). A divorced person who repents and comes to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4) has been given a new start. All things have become new. Therefore, such a man or woman could remarry, in the Lord (1 Corinthians 7:39; 2 Corinthians 6:14), and not be guilty of adultery. The old wicked person has died, and now the person lives anew in Christ (Romans 6:6; Galatians 2:20; 5:24).
hey iam happy the scriptures that i posted helped. i left you with some more, i would take this to the lord in prayer, and ask for a woman of the lord. please if you do want to get married its not just for sex, you and her would both love the lord JESUS with all thy heart then you both would love each other the same. you are free in CHRIST JESUS so let the lord lead you in this, and the woman that you marry make sure she is a born again of the spirit of CHRIST, spend some time with her and check her fruit if it be in CHRIST as JESUS said by there fruit you will know if they are one of his. to marry for sex, i would think you would love her because she loves the lord JESUS and seves him as much as you do, that to me should be the the reason, and yes sex is a bonus lol. may the lord JESUS CHRIST keep you strong in the faith, GOD BLESS.
In this passage, Paul addresses believers who are "unmarried." This would include anyone who is not married, even divorced believers, because this same term is used for a divorced woman in 1 Corinthians 7:11. Therefore, for the unmarried, who lack self-control, Paul tells the church to, "let them marry."
Later in this chapter Paul discusses the state in which one is found when they came to Christ. Paul encourages the believers "to remain with God in that state in which" they were called (1 Corinthians 7:17-24). In this context Paul writes,
Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be loosed. Are you loosed from a wife? Do not seek a wife. But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have trouble in the flesh, but I would spare you. (1 Corinthians 7:27-28)
Here Paul clearly declares that a man who is divorced from a wife (i.e. loosed), and then remarries, has not sinned. If he has not sinned, then he has not committed adultery. Therefore, for those who come to Christ in a state of having been divorced (loosed), Scripture gives them the freedom to marry.
How can this be? Jesus said, "Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery" (Luke 16:18). Yet, Paul says, "let them marry" (1 Corinthians 7:8-9) and "you have not sinned" (1 Corinthians 7:26-28). It seems Paul is contradicting Christ, but he is not; because,
if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. (2 Corinthian 5:17)
This is true of both males and females (Galatians 3:28). A person who comes to God in truth (Psalm 145:18; Isaiah 55:6-9) has a clean slate with the Lord (Isaiah 1:8; Psalm 51:7; 103:11-13, 17-18). He has died (Galatians 2:20) and his life is hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3). Christ makes him a new creation, and indeed the old things have passed away, and all things have become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). A divorced person who repents and comes to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4) has been given a new start. All things have become new. Therefore, such a man or woman could remarry, in the Lord (1 Corinthians 7:39; 2 Corinthians 6:14), and not be guilty of adultery. The old wicked person has died, and now the person lives anew in Christ (Romans 6:6; Galatians 2:20; 5:24).
hey iam happy the scriptures that i posted helped. i left you with some more, i would take this to the lord in prayer, and ask for a woman of the lord. please if you do want to get married its not just for sex, you and her would both love the lord JESUS with all thy heart then you both would love each other the same. you are free in CHRIST JESUS so let the lord lead you in this, and the woman that you marry make sure she is a born again of the spirit of CHRIST, spend some time with her and check her fruit if it be in CHRIST as JESUS said by there fruit you will know if they are one of his. to marry for sex, i would think you would love her because she loves the lord JESUS and seves him as much as you do, that to me should be the the reason, and yes sex is a bonus lol. may the lord JESUS CHRIST keep you strong in the faith, GOD BLESS.
I've been reading and thinking about this thread for the past few hours and see that there are two very strong (but opposing opinions). Let me confess that I have been guilty of this particular sin for the past 20 years and have been fighting with it for the past 10 - I am not going to judge anyone. To be quite honest, I'm only on day three or four since I last sinned in this manner and one of the strategies I have been using has been to log on to this website (I only discovered it by accident a couple of days ago). A few minutes ago I had to turn off a James Bond movie on TV. A few months ago my collection of Bond movies went in the garbage. And I really like James Bond :secret:
For those, like me, who feel convicted with regard to the act of masturbation, I would recommend reading the following:
Arterburn & Stoeker, Every Man's Battle: Winning the War on Sexual Temptation One Victory at a Time.
Anderson, Neil T., A Way of Escape: Freedom from Sexual Strongholds.
I was concerned about a previous posting that stated that the sexual intent between Adam & Eve is not clear until after they are cast out of the Garden of Eden. My counterargument would be both Genesis 1:28 "Be fruitful and increase in number" and Genesis 2:24 "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh" which are both previous to the banishment. The confusion may come from the fact that Eve does not bear children until after the banishment and the curse of labour pains in Genesis 3:16.
I also read Judgement's postings with great interest but also have some points of discussion there. Mosaic law and the idea of being unclean (after masturbation or, for women, during the menstrual cycle) is often hygienic as well as spiritual. The difference in these two cases (masturbation vs. menstruation) is that one is done with intent while the other is not. I believe that Jesus Christ calls us to higher standard than a mere observance of the Judaic Law.
Ask a few questions and see how comfortable your conscience (the still silent voice of God within) feels with them. Did Adam masturbate before Eve's creation? Did Christ masturbate? What thoughts initiate the masturbation cycle in most men? Is it even possible to masturbate without having some form of unclean thought? Are you addicted? If you are sanctified and set aside by God, how do you want to treat your body and His holy temple? What blessings may God be withholding from your life because you have broken a covenant with Him?
If you masturbate due to sexual desire, we have all acknowleged that is sinful. Remove yourself from what causes you to sin - turn off that Bond movie. Watch the motion picture Fireproof for a good example of a man that has to take a baseball bat to his computer.
Stressed or can't sleep? I use this excuse all the time and have even considered sleeping pills (didn't because I'm afraid to get addicted). Try a gym membership - at an all male gym if you need to - or jogging. Or prayer.
Worried about some form of biological dysfunction? The body has some natural adjustments like nocturnal emissions and overflow into the urine. Hormones can spike every 72 hours - just don't give in to it because it will spike in another 72 hours if you do.
The whole issue is a really slippery slope? Just ask yourself where you're going to slide: "But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur" (Revelation 21:8 - emphasis mine). I really want to be on the right side of this decision!
For me, sexual immorality does include masturbation. In a New Testament kind of way (not Old Testament Mosaic Law) my body, as God's Temple, is to be sanctified and not rendered "unclean" until nightfall or any time else. Please pray for me as I continue to struggle with this addiction on a daily basis.
For those, like me, who feel convicted with regard to the act of masturbation, I would recommend reading the following:
Arterburn & Stoeker, Every Man's Battle: Winning the War on Sexual Temptation One Victory at a Time.
Anderson, Neil T., A Way of Escape: Freedom from Sexual Strongholds.
I was concerned about a previous posting that stated that the sexual intent between Adam & Eve is not clear until after they are cast out of the Garden of Eden. My counterargument would be both Genesis 1:28 "Be fruitful and increase in number" and Genesis 2:24 "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh" which are both previous to the banishment. The confusion may come from the fact that Eve does not bear children until after the banishment and the curse of labour pains in Genesis 3:16.
I also read Judgement's postings with great interest but also have some points of discussion there. Mosaic law and the idea of being unclean (after masturbation or, for women, during the menstrual cycle) is often hygienic as well as spiritual. The difference in these two cases (masturbation vs. menstruation) is that one is done with intent while the other is not. I believe that Jesus Christ calls us to higher standard than a mere observance of the Judaic Law.
Ask a few questions and see how comfortable your conscience (the still silent voice of God within) feels with them. Did Adam masturbate before Eve's creation? Did Christ masturbate? What thoughts initiate the masturbation cycle in most men? Is it even possible to masturbate without having some form of unclean thought? Are you addicted? If you are sanctified and set aside by God, how do you want to treat your body and His holy temple? What blessings may God be withholding from your life because you have broken a covenant with Him?
If you masturbate due to sexual desire, we have all acknowleged that is sinful. Remove yourself from what causes you to sin - turn off that Bond movie. Watch the motion picture Fireproof for a good example of a man that has to take a baseball bat to his computer.
Stressed or can't sleep? I use this excuse all the time and have even considered sleeping pills (didn't because I'm afraid to get addicted). Try a gym membership - at an all male gym if you need to - or jogging. Or prayer.
Worried about some form of biological dysfunction? The body has some natural adjustments like nocturnal emissions and overflow into the urine. Hormones can spike every 72 hours - just don't give in to it because it will spike in another 72 hours if you do.
The whole issue is a really slippery slope? Just ask yourself where you're going to slide: "But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur" (Revelation 21:8 - emphasis mine). I really want to be on the right side of this decision!
For me, sexual immorality does include masturbation. In a New Testament kind of way (not Old Testament Mosaic Law) my body, as God's Temple, is to be sanctified and not rendered "unclean" until nightfall or any time else. Please pray for me as I continue to struggle with this addiction on a daily basis.
Yeshualives
Member
- Joined
- Feb 29, 2008
- Messages
- 136
I have been thinking about the subject of masturbation since it was spoken about at our church recently.
I managed to avoid masturbation for a long period of time as I had no or little sexual desire, but lately, my desire seems to have switched on again. It's not in particular relation to any one person - it just seems to be a physical need probably triggered by losing weight and exercising more. Keeping one's thoughts pure or clean while masturbating is possible, although very difficult.
I struggle with the notion that it is sinful in of itself, as children often discover the ability to masturbate and I can't imagine that they thinking anything much other than how nice it feels.
As a divorced woman, who was used to having a regular sex life I am sure that I cannot be alone in struggling with this issue. The church I attend says that it is a sin, which makes me think I am opposing God when I give in to the urge, but at the moment i'm not sure ...
I managed to avoid masturbation for a long period of time as I had no or little sexual desire, but lately, my desire seems to have switched on again. It's not in particular relation to any one person - it just seems to be a physical need probably triggered by losing weight and exercising more. Keeping one's thoughts pure or clean while masturbating is possible, although very difficult.
I struggle with the notion that it is sinful in of itself, as children often discover the ability to masturbate and I can't imagine that they thinking anything much other than how nice it feels.
As a divorced woman, who was used to having a regular sex life I am sure that I cannot be alone in struggling with this issue. The church I attend says that it is a sin, which makes me think I am opposing God when I give in to the urge, but at the moment i'm not sure ...
Hello everyone, I believe everyone struggles with this kind of problem at some point in his/her life (especially men).
I was saved half a year ago, November 2008 and at that point in my life, I was 17 and as you know, at an age where I have a craving for "release"; the habit went on and on until one day in January 2009, I was watching porn during one of my "alone" times in late evenings and suddenly God asked me if what I was doing was glorifying Him(1 Cor. 10:31), and I couldn't answer.
So I researched about it(masturbation) and saw sites saying the pleasure we feel glorifies Him and opposite to that idea, read a story of C.S. Lewis about masturbation, how we become a slave to it and how hard it is to let it go. So I prayed to God to help me in this problem that I have. A couple of weeks passed and still that craving was so powerful that even my hand shook in accordance to that sinful act, all I can do is clinch my fist and put it in my pocket to stop the movement, this torture went on for weeks! Everytime the Devil tempted me through immoral thoughts and saying "It's okay to masturbate, it's impossible to stop doing it, everybody does it"; I would just think of a worship song and just worship God to get my mind off of it.
I asked a Christian friend of mine about masturbation and he told me he does masturbate but justifies to only stop the craving, so I asked our Senior Pastor and he said that it would be okay as long as you don't think about anything immoral while doing it(impossible much?) or think about only your spouse; feeling dissatisfied with his answer because if that would be the case, my weeks of enduring would be in vain.
I asked our Missions Pastor to hear what he has to say and this is what he said "We have programs that help men break the bondage of lust, masturbation is the common problem, I know our Senior Pastor says it is okay as long as you don't think of anything or think about only your wife but that would be impossible. If you have a wife, why resort to that sinful act when you were given an authority by God to have sex which is something better? So if you asked me, I am anti-masturbation" I was and still am single and 17 at that time, so I told him I was refraining from masturbation around a month(at that time), he commended me and encouraged me to continue on and join in our Church's Purity Program where we get a Purity Ring afterward the session as our covenant to God to be pure until the day of my marriage.
I could still remember that night I stopped masturbating, January 28, 2009. The Purity Program was on the 3rd week of February. Still often being tempted by the Devil, but by the Grace of God, continually thwarting the enemy, to God be the glory!
I was saved half a year ago, November 2008 and at that point in my life, I was 17 and as you know, at an age where I have a craving for "release"; the habit went on and on until one day in January 2009, I was watching porn during one of my "alone" times in late evenings and suddenly God asked me if what I was doing was glorifying Him(1 Cor. 10:31), and I couldn't answer.
So I researched about it(masturbation) and saw sites saying the pleasure we feel glorifies Him and opposite to that idea, read a story of C.S. Lewis about masturbation, how we become a slave to it and how hard it is to let it go. So I prayed to God to help me in this problem that I have. A couple of weeks passed and still that craving was so powerful that even my hand shook in accordance to that sinful act, all I can do is clinch my fist and put it in my pocket to stop the movement, this torture went on for weeks! Everytime the Devil tempted me through immoral thoughts and saying "It's okay to masturbate, it's impossible to stop doing it, everybody does it"; I would just think of a worship song and just worship God to get my mind off of it.
I asked a Christian friend of mine about masturbation and he told me he does masturbate but justifies to only stop the craving, so I asked our Senior Pastor and he said that it would be okay as long as you don't think about anything immoral while doing it(impossible much?) or think about only your spouse; feeling dissatisfied with his answer because if that would be the case, my weeks of enduring would be in vain.
I asked our Missions Pastor to hear what he has to say and this is what he said "We have programs that help men break the bondage of lust, masturbation is the common problem, I know our Senior Pastor says it is okay as long as you don't think of anything or think about only your wife but that would be impossible. If you have a wife, why resort to that sinful act when you were given an authority by God to have sex which is something better? So if you asked me, I am anti-masturbation" I was and still am single and 17 at that time, so I told him I was refraining from masturbation around a month(at that time), he commended me and encouraged me to continue on and join in our Church's Purity Program where we get a Purity Ring afterward the session as our covenant to God to be pure until the day of my marriage.
I could still remember that night I stopped masturbating, January 28, 2009. The Purity Program was on the 3rd week of February. Still often being tempted by the Devil, but by the Grace of God, continually thwarting the enemy, to God be the glory!
Yeshualives
Member
- Joined
- Feb 29, 2008
- Messages
- 136
Since I contributed to this thread when I was unsure about this issue, i believe the Lord has been speaking to me about this and i've been convicted that it is NOT something that the Lord wants.
I agree and also was convicted before.
nancygorman
Member
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- Oct 5, 2011
- Messages
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Masturbation/self-sex/do-it-yourself-sex.... whatever you want to call it, is an abomination to God. He says He will deliver us out of temptation... He will make a way of an escape. There is new research out there that shows that it effects the brain. I pray all those who are reading this will understand that JESUS IS FOR YOU NOT AGAINST you and will deliver you... but you have to want to be delivered. You have to realize that when you give this up and resist the temptation you will grow stronger in Christ... your roots will deepen, and your foundation will be sure. Please take this serious and resist the temptation. You are my brother and sister in the Lord and we have to help one another. I am here for you.
Thank you for sharing this with others, I never could have typed this up myself, you have done well to bring it to light.
nancygorman
Member
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- Oct 5, 2011
- Messages
- 5
More on Masturbation
The Spirit of God shows us what is evil and what is good. Yes the scripture says what is evil to one will not be evil to anther... but there are exceptions to that. Masturbation is evil. BUT aside from debating over what is evil and what is good, God's design for sexual organs are not to be manipulated with the hand. There are recent scientific studies that show masturbation is not healthy for your brain or body. When the hand manipulates the organ the endocrine system becomes imbalanced as certain hormones are released. This also happens when sex goes on and your mind is not on LOVE; loving someone not self... Our brains are wired for love, not lust and self gratification. I have been studying the topic scientifically because so many people twist scripture, but scientific research can't be twisted. YESSSSSSSSSSSSS and amen to that! Bless all and may all be holy and blameless at the coming of the Lord! He says, give you body as a living sacrifice!
The Spirit of God shows us what is evil and what is good. Yes the scripture says what is evil to one will not be evil to anther... but there are exceptions to that. Masturbation is evil. BUT aside from debating over what is evil and what is good, God's design for sexual organs are not to be manipulated with the hand. There are recent scientific studies that show masturbation is not healthy for your brain or body. When the hand manipulates the organ the endocrine system becomes imbalanced as certain hormones are released. This also happens when sex goes on and your mind is not on LOVE; loving someone not self... Our brains are wired for love, not lust and self gratification. I have been studying the topic scientifically because so many people twist scripture, but scientific research can't be twisted. YESSSSSSSSSSSSS and amen to that! Bless all and may all be holy and blameless at the coming of the Lord! He says, give you body as a living sacrifice!
nancygorman
Member
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- Oct 5, 2011
- Messages
- 5
My heart is broken for those who agree with masturbatio
There is no place in scripture that even alludes to the idea of self-sex. Paul talked about burning and getting married as a remedy, period. That is the only way to satisfy the urge! He didn't say, burn and do-it-yourself, because he wasn't that fond of marriage! There is just no alternative to burning or he would have suggested it! Sex with your wife. That is the only way for a man to have sex.
I am shocked that Christians are actually supporting masturbation. My heart is actually aching for them and especially the others who may believe them! Especially young adults and children! I was up the other night all night praying for this issue. That is why I joined this site to get my word out to Christians.
Go on some websites and read out about 6, 8, 10 year olds addicted to it and injuring themselves... possibly for life!
Did you know that in the dictionary in the 30's and 40's masturbation was defined as SELF ABUSE? If you look up the root of the word masturbate in a recently published dictionary that has the etymologies of the word, you will find that it's roots are: altered, to disturb, defilement. Do these sound like words that are GODLY?
There is a difference between lust and love. And the two do not agree. Using these scriptures about what one person thinks is evil and so on, I ask you...... what about other sexual sins, like pedophilia? Someone might think that is not evil... then is it ok? The Bible isn't clear on it.... so does that make it right? Absolutely NOT!
The Bible says that if we have sexual relations with a harlot we are one with the harlot... what does that mean about the person who is having self sex? He is one with his hand... does it make any sense... It is totally self-ISH act and making love is about giving not getting! The Christian walk is about giving and not getting!!!
Please go to prayer is fasting if you think masturbation is of God. And for those who are twisting scripture remember... the Bible says let their not be many teachers, because they will receive a greater judgement. You had better be positive about this one! Bless you and thank you for listening.
There is no place in scripture that even alludes to the idea of self-sex. Paul talked about burning and getting married as a remedy, period. That is the only way to satisfy the urge! He didn't say, burn and do-it-yourself, because he wasn't that fond of marriage! There is just no alternative to burning or he would have suggested it! Sex with your wife. That is the only way for a man to have sex.
I am shocked that Christians are actually supporting masturbation. My heart is actually aching for them and especially the others who may believe them! Especially young adults and children! I was up the other night all night praying for this issue. That is why I joined this site to get my word out to Christians.
Go on some websites and read out about 6, 8, 10 year olds addicted to it and injuring themselves... possibly for life!
Did you know that in the dictionary in the 30's and 40's masturbation was defined as SELF ABUSE? If you look up the root of the word masturbate in a recently published dictionary that has the etymologies of the word, you will find that it's roots are: altered, to disturb, defilement. Do these sound like words that are GODLY?
There is a difference between lust and love. And the two do not agree. Using these scriptures about what one person thinks is evil and so on, I ask you...... what about other sexual sins, like pedophilia? Someone might think that is not evil... then is it ok? The Bible isn't clear on it.... so does that make it right? Absolutely NOT!
The Bible says that if we have sexual relations with a harlot we are one with the harlot... what does that mean about the person who is having self sex? He is one with his hand... does it make any sense... It is totally self-ISH act and making love is about giving not getting! The Christian walk is about giving and not getting!!!
Please go to prayer is fasting if you think masturbation is of God. And for those who are twisting scripture remember... the Bible says let their not be many teachers, because they will receive a greater judgement. You had better be positive about this one! Bless you and thank you for listening.
Thank you nancy for how much you care about this and your heart for it. Thank you for your prayer. I certainly do not want to break anyone's heart, not yours, not God's not anyone's.
I do hold to what I said and I'm willing to talk with you about it if you want to talk with me about it. But otherwise I will hold my peace.
God please bless nancy, hear her prayers as she calls out to you on behalf of her brothers sisters. I pray you will strengthen her in her ministry and her witness. Thank you Lord.
I do hold to what I said and I'm willing to talk with you about it if you want to talk with me about it. But otherwise I will hold my peace.
God please bless nancy, hear her prayers as she calls out to you on behalf of her brothers sisters. I pray you will strengthen her in her ministry and her witness. Thank you Lord.
nancygorman
Member
- Joined
- Oct 5, 2011
- Messages
- 5
deny yourself
Deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me. If you are lukewarm HE will spit you out of His mouth. It is not the time of DAY to be self focused ... it is time to love God and others. Be aware that the devil is out to steal kill and destroy our lives. I hope you are hearing the voice of God today!
Deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me. If you are lukewarm HE will spit you out of His mouth. It is not the time of DAY to be self focused ... it is time to love God and others. Be aware that the devil is out to steal kill and destroy our lives. I hope you are hearing the voice of God today!
nancygorman
Member
- Joined
- Oct 5, 2011
- Messages
- 5
Biblical reference to masturbation
I suggest you Greek- 1 Cor. 6.9: "Abusers of themselves with mankind" King James
Themselves is not each other it means SELF
Abusers means to use the hand
Mankind is *****
LIKE WOW! ...oh my MERCY JESUS!!! Masturbaters will not enter the kingdom of God!!!
I suggest you Greek- 1 Cor. 6.9: "Abusers of themselves with mankind" King James
Themselves is not each other it means SELF
Abusers means to use the hand
Mankind is *****
LIKE WOW! ...oh my MERCY JESUS!!! Masturbaters will not enter the kingdom of God!!!
Masturbation
No doubt, much evil is done in the name of masturbation. A search on this subject on the internet (not recommended) will substantiate that. But is masturbation evil, in and of itself? Some seem to think so.
For example, the Catholic Catechism states,
By masturbation is to be understood the deliberate stimulation of the genital organs in order to derive sexual pleasure. "Both the Magisterium of the Church, in the course of a constant tradition, and the moral sense of the faithful have been in no doubt and have firmly maintained that masturbation is an intrinsically and gravely disordered action." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, copyright 1994, p. 564, #2352)
One Catholic web site plainly posts,
Masturbation is against the biblical teachings which always talks about sex with respect in the marriage context and to have children. To pursue sexual pleasure or orgasm in manner not associated with marital intercourse that is love-giving and open to the creation of new life violates the will of God and is immoral.
It is declared to violate the will of God and be immoral, yet no such teaching can be found in the word of God (Proverbs 30:5-6).
I. Arguments Against
According to the Jewish Virtual Library, masturbation is strictly forbidden.
Jewish law clearly prohibits male masturbation. This law is derived from the story of Onan (Gen. 38:8-10), who practiced coitus interruptus as a means of birth control to avoid fathering a child for his deceased brother. G-d killed Onan for this sin. Although Onan's act was not truly masturbation, Jewish law takes a very broad view of the acts prohibited by this passage, and forbids any act of ha-sh'cha'tat zerah (destruction of the seed), that is, ejaculation outside of the ******. In fact, the prohibition is so strict that one passage in the Talmud states, "in the case of a man, the hand that reaches below the navel should be chopped off." (Niddah 13a) (Kosher Sex)
Clearly here we have another example of Jesus' words,
This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men. (Mark 7:6-7)
Certainly, Scripture never teaches, "the hand that reaches below the navel should be chopped off," or anything like it! Nor, as is admitted above, does Genesis 38 even address the issue of masturbation. Onan "emitted" (NKJV, more literally, "ruined") on the ground. Indeed, Onan ruined or destroyed his seed on the ground, but there is a reason given as to why he did this:
lest he should give an heir [literally, "seed"] to his brother. (Genesis 38:9)
His motive for doing this was evil. He rebelled against the direct command of his father (Genesis 38:8), and displayed contempt towards both his dead brother and his wife. Indeed, this was evil in the eyes of the Lord, "therefore He killed him" (Genesis 38:10); but it was no act of masturbation. It was an ungodly act during intercourse (Genesis 38:9). The Jewish Virtual Library use of this passage is perverted.
Jews are not the only ones who teach "as doctrines the commandments of men" (Matthew 15:8-9). Broad way "Christians" do so as well, even on this particular subject. For example, Bud and Betty Miller of Christ Unlimited Ministries teach that masturbation is self-abuse and sexually immoral citing 1 Corinthians 6:18
Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. (1 Corinthians 6:18)
The problem with their use of this passage is that masturbation is never described in the Bible as sexually immoral. The context of 1 Corinthians 6:18 is sex with a harlot (1 Corinthians 6:13-17), which is certainly sexually immoral. But, masturbation is never identified in this way.
Their self-abuse argument comes from "modern dictionaries," because masturbation is given as a synonym for self-abuse in modern dictionaries. But this begs the question at hand. Is it truly abusive, in and of itself? Is masturbation an intended use of the sex organ, or is it abuse? Obviously, people (at least those compiling the dictionaries) think so, and so they identify the term synonymously with self-abuse.
Bible Media Online, an ecumenical ministry in South Africa, argues,
The Bible gives us no direct answer to the question. It does not even mention masturbation. But we can deduct from Scripture principles that masturbation is an unnatural sexual practice. It is not according to the purpose of God who gave sex as a gift to be used between a man and his lawful wife, within the marriage bond only. Any other deliberate sexual act, where true love is not the main driving force, is unnatural. The Bible does mention masturbation, at least, the result of it (see below), but Scripture does not teach that it is "not according to the purpose of God." Moreover, the Word of God never identifies it as "unnatural." Homosexuality is unnatural (Romans 1:26-27). Masturbation is never spoken of in this way.
Another argument that could be made, is that Colossians 3:5 says to put to death "passion."
Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, (etc. Colossians 3:5).
Also, Galatians 5:24 says,
Those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Galatians 5:24)
What passions are being spoken of here? Sinful passions (Romans 7:5) and vile passions (Romans 1:26) are what have been crucified and are to be put to death. Passion, in and of itself, is not evil. Otherwise, the passion found between a married couple would also have to be put to death. But, on the contrary, Scripture cultivates this passion (see the Song of Solomon and Proverbs 5:19), and never identifies self sexual gratification as an evil passion or lust.
What about "uncleanness" (Colossians 3:5)? Doesn't the law identify masturbation, or at least the result of it, unclean? Yes it does.
If any man has an emission of semen, then he shall wash all his body in water, and be unclean until evening. And any garment and any leather on which there is semen, it shall be washed with water, and be unclean until evening. (Leviticus 15:16-17; see also verse 32)
Heterosexual intercourse is not in view here, because that comes in the following verse (verse 18). Therefore, there are two ways in which this "emission of semen" could happen. The ejaculation could be the result of a wet dream, "some occurrence in the night" (NKJV Deuteronomy 23:10; NAS "nocturnal emission," Hebrew, miqqerêh-lâylâh). Or, it could be the result of masturbation. Either way, the man is "unclean" until evening.
In the law, people are called unclean, but they have done nothing evil (Romans 14:14; Colossians 2:20-22), in and of itself (e.g. Leviticus 11:39; 15:5-8, 10-11, 19-23, 27; 17:15). In fact, in Numbers 19:7-8, 10, & 22, there they are obeying God's command, yet they become “unclean.” Also, the very next verse classifies people who have been involved in heterosexual intercourse as unclean as well (Leviticus 15:18), and clearly copulation of this sort is not evil in and of itself (Hebrews 13:4).
What about 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8?
This is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, not in passion of lust, like the Gentiles who do not know God; that no one should take advantage of and defraud his brother in this matter, because the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also forewarned you and testified. For God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness. Therefore he who rejects this does not reject man, but God, who has also given us His Holy Spirit. (1 Thessalonians 4:3-8)
These are some serious words to heed (Psalm 119:60)! But, again, what is being spoken of is sexual immorality, and masturbation is never identified as such. Someone may argue, "masturbation is not 'in sanctification and in honor.'" Says who? The Lord says no such thing (Proverbs 30:5-6).
II. Evil Thoughts Are Evil
Wicked men have debased minds that are filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, and evil-mindedness (Romans 1:28-29). They are "past feeling" and "have given themselves over to lewdness, to work all uncleanness" (Ephesians 4:19). Therefore, it is no wonder that masturbation would be greatly abused and misused.
Jesus said,
You have heard that it was said to those of old, "You shall not commit adultery." But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. (Matthew 5:27-28)
Jesus made it clear that adultery can be committed in the heart, even though no physical intercourse has taken place. "The imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth," (Genesis 8:21) so it would not be surprising to find evil masturbatic activity rampant in society. Masturbation with evil imaginations, which could include the use of pornographic material, is most certainly wicked.
But, masturbation, in and of itself, does not demand such evil thoughts. To say it does, goes beyond what is written (1 Corinthians 4:6), adds to the word of God (Proverbs 30:5-6), and denies Biblical freedom in Christ (Colossians 2:20-22).
III. To The Pure All Things Are Pure (Titus 1:15)
Paul wrote,
All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful. (1 Corinthians 10:23)
Masturbation is lawful. There is nothing in the word of God that condemns it. The Lord never even intimates that it is some form of abuse or not according to His purpose. There is nothing new under the sun (Ecclesiastes 1:9), and it is not as if this is a new thing of which the Lord was unaware! Leviticus 15:16-17 addresses the issue, at least the result of it, and no condemnation is given. Therefore, neither should we condemn what God does not (Matthew 7:1-2).
Furthermore, since it is a practice the Lord does not condemn, and Paul point blank says "All things are lawful," it is something that the pure, with pure thoughts, could practice and still be pure (Titus 1:15). In fact, those who maintain that masturbation is impure, are those who put man made regulations upon men. As Paul rebuked the Colossians for submitting to such things, saying,
If you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations - "Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle," which all concern things which perish with the using - according to the commandments and doctrines of men? These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh. (Colossians 2:20-23)
Such a regulation of "Do not touch, . . . do not handle" your genitals, i.e. do not masturbate, is a commandment and doctrine of men. It may very well have the appearance of wisdom, but no such "wisdom" is found in the word of God. It is the wisdom of the world, which God calls foolishness (1 Corinthians 3:19); and it is indeed "self-imposed religion." It may very well result in "neglect of the body," that is, the body that is crying out for relief! It is also of "no value against the indulgence of the flesh." If anything, it exacerbates the problem. People left to no sexual satisfaction whatsoever, like Catholic priests who are told they cannot masturbate or get married, are left to the temptations of the flesh with little to no power to overcome.
"But," someone might argue, "believers, who have the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:23, "self-control"), should be able to overcome in such a situation." On the contrary, Scripture identifies Spirit filled married people as those who lack self-control in this area (1 Corinthians 7:5). Spirit filled single people may as well (1 Corinthians 7:9). Having the Holy Spirit does not mandate absolute control in this arena, especially when man made standards are placed upon an individual, standards that were never meant by God to be imposed (in righteousness, that is).
Finally, Paul said, "All things are lawful, but not all things are helpful." Can masturbation be helpful? Certainly, it can be helpful in alleviating the sexual drive, as long as it is done with pure thoughts, as it is written, "To the pure, all things are pure" (Titus 1:15). A godly person, motivated by a godly motive, certainly could masturbate without it being sinful or self-seeking. For example, a man of God wanting to alleviate the sexual drive in his striving to be pure and not wanting to be in a vulnerable position for temptation towards sexual immorality via pent-up sexual desires, could certainly masturbate with this in mind (wanting to be sexually pure) and it would be pure. Nothing in the word of God condemns this.
IV. Godly Limits
Even though Paul says, "All things are lawful for me," he also says, "but I will not be brought under the power of any" (1 Corinthians 6:12). Masturbation should not control the individual. The individual should be in control of any masturbation. Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23) and should be a continual reality in the life of any believer (Romans 8:5-6).
Also, for married people Paul writes,
Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. (1 Corinthians 7:3-5)
Since the wife and husband do not have authority over their own bodies, then masturbation should be in subjection to the spouse. In other words, any masturbation needs to be in submission to the spouse's desires and it should in no way diminish or take away from sexual intercourse and orgasm within the relationship. If it does, then a husband or a wife might deprive their spouse, either in part or in whole, in disobedience to 1 Corinthians 7:3-5.
Furthermore, as long as the spouse is available, sexual pleasure should be found in this relationship, as Proverbs declares to the man,
Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice with the wife of your youth. As a loving deer and a graceful doe, let her breasts satisfy you at all times; and always be enraptured with her love. (Proverbs 5:18-19)
V. Conclusion
Those who maintain that masturbation is evil, in and of itself, are like the Pharisees of old of whom Christ said:
They bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. (Matthew 23:4; see also Luke 11:46)
The sexual desire is a God given desire (Romans 11:36) and it is not evil in and of itself (Romans 14:14). Moreover, God has made a way for even those who are not married (male or female), or those who are away from their spouse (like a soldier at war), to at least somewhat satisfy the sexual drive via masturbation. It is oppressive to teach that such an act is against the will of God, and it is evil to maintain such a cause against the innocent in this matter (Proverbs 30:5-6).
Scripture says,
To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled. (Titus 1:15)
If you have been defiled on this subject by those who profess to know God but deny Him (Titus 1:16) and your conscience is not pure on this matter (Romans 14:22-23), it is high time to renew your mind.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. (Romans 12:2)
This subject is a good example of Christ's words found in Matthew 11:28-30.
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.
The commandments of men are burdensome, but God's commandments are not (1 John 5:3).
They are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh. (Proverbs 4:22)
No doubt, much evil is done in the name of masturbation. A search on this subject on the internet (not recommended) will substantiate that. But is masturbation evil, in and of itself? Some seem to think so.
For example, the Catholic Catechism states,
By masturbation is to be understood the deliberate stimulation of the genital organs in order to derive sexual pleasure. "Both the Magisterium of the Church, in the course of a constant tradition, and the moral sense of the faithful have been in no doubt and have firmly maintained that masturbation is an intrinsically and gravely disordered action." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, copyright 1994, p. 564, #2352)
One Catholic web site plainly posts,
Masturbation is against the biblical teachings which always talks about sex with respect in the marriage context and to have children. To pursue sexual pleasure or orgasm in manner not associated with marital intercourse that is love-giving and open to the creation of new life violates the will of God and is immoral.
It is declared to violate the will of God and be immoral, yet no such teaching can be found in the word of God (Proverbs 30:5-6).
I. Arguments Against
According to the Jewish Virtual Library, masturbation is strictly forbidden.
Jewish law clearly prohibits male masturbation. This law is derived from the story of Onan (Gen. 38:8-10), who practiced coitus interruptus as a means of birth control to avoid fathering a child for his deceased brother. G-d killed Onan for this sin. Although Onan's act was not truly masturbation, Jewish law takes a very broad view of the acts prohibited by this passage, and forbids any act of ha-sh'cha'tat zerah (destruction of the seed), that is, ejaculation outside of the ******. In fact, the prohibition is so strict that one passage in the Talmud states, "in the case of a man, the hand that reaches below the navel should be chopped off." (Niddah 13a) (Kosher Sex)
Clearly here we have another example of Jesus' words,
This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men. (Mark 7:6-7)
Certainly, Scripture never teaches, "the hand that reaches below the navel should be chopped off," or anything like it! Nor, as is admitted above, does Genesis 38 even address the issue of masturbation. Onan "emitted" (NKJV, more literally, "ruined") on the ground. Indeed, Onan ruined or destroyed his seed on the ground, but there is a reason given as to why he did this:
lest he should give an heir [literally, "seed"] to his brother. (Genesis 38:9)
His motive for doing this was evil. He rebelled against the direct command of his father (Genesis 38:8), and displayed contempt towards both his dead brother and his wife. Indeed, this was evil in the eyes of the Lord, "therefore He killed him" (Genesis 38:10); but it was no act of masturbation. It was an ungodly act during intercourse (Genesis 38:9). The Jewish Virtual Library use of this passage is perverted.
Jews are not the only ones who teach "as doctrines the commandments of men" (Matthew 15:8-9). Broad way "Christians" do so as well, even on this particular subject. For example, Bud and Betty Miller of Christ Unlimited Ministries teach that masturbation is self-abuse and sexually immoral citing 1 Corinthians 6:18
Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. (1 Corinthians 6:18)
The problem with their use of this passage is that masturbation is never described in the Bible as sexually immoral. The context of 1 Corinthians 6:18 is sex with a harlot (1 Corinthians 6:13-17), which is certainly sexually immoral. But, masturbation is never identified in this way.
Their self-abuse argument comes from "modern dictionaries," because masturbation is given as a synonym for self-abuse in modern dictionaries. But this begs the question at hand. Is it truly abusive, in and of itself? Is masturbation an intended use of the sex organ, or is it abuse? Obviously, people (at least those compiling the dictionaries) think so, and so they identify the term synonymously with self-abuse.
Bible Media Online, an ecumenical ministry in South Africa, argues,
The Bible gives us no direct answer to the question. It does not even mention masturbation. But we can deduct from Scripture principles that masturbation is an unnatural sexual practice. It is not according to the purpose of God who gave sex as a gift to be used between a man and his lawful wife, within the marriage bond only. Any other deliberate sexual act, where true love is not the main driving force, is unnatural. The Bible does mention masturbation, at least, the result of it (see below), but Scripture does not teach that it is "not according to the purpose of God." Moreover, the Word of God never identifies it as "unnatural." Homosexuality is unnatural (Romans 1:26-27). Masturbation is never spoken of in this way.
Another argument that could be made, is that Colossians 3:5 says to put to death "passion."
Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, (etc. Colossians 3:5).
Also, Galatians 5:24 says,
Those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Galatians 5:24)
What passions are being spoken of here? Sinful passions (Romans 7:5) and vile passions (Romans 1:26) are what have been crucified and are to be put to death. Passion, in and of itself, is not evil. Otherwise, the passion found between a married couple would also have to be put to death. But, on the contrary, Scripture cultivates this passion (see the Song of Solomon and Proverbs 5:19), and never identifies self sexual gratification as an evil passion or lust.
What about "uncleanness" (Colossians 3:5)? Doesn't the law identify masturbation, or at least the result of it, unclean? Yes it does.
If any man has an emission of semen, then he shall wash all his body in water, and be unclean until evening. And any garment and any leather on which there is semen, it shall be washed with water, and be unclean until evening. (Leviticus 15:16-17; see also verse 32)
Heterosexual intercourse is not in view here, because that comes in the following verse (verse 18). Therefore, there are two ways in which this "emission of semen" could happen. The ejaculation could be the result of a wet dream, "some occurrence in the night" (NKJV Deuteronomy 23:10; NAS "nocturnal emission," Hebrew, miqqerêh-lâylâh). Or, it could be the result of masturbation. Either way, the man is "unclean" until evening.
In the law, people are called unclean, but they have done nothing evil (Romans 14:14; Colossians 2:20-22), in and of itself (e.g. Leviticus 11:39; 15:5-8, 10-11, 19-23, 27; 17:15). In fact, in Numbers 19:7-8, 10, & 22, there they are obeying God's command, yet they become “unclean.” Also, the very next verse classifies people who have been involved in heterosexual intercourse as unclean as well (Leviticus 15:18), and clearly copulation of this sort is not evil in and of itself (Hebrews 13:4).
What about 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8?
This is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, not in passion of lust, like the Gentiles who do not know God; that no one should take advantage of and defraud his brother in this matter, because the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also forewarned you and testified. For God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness. Therefore he who rejects this does not reject man, but God, who has also given us His Holy Spirit. (1 Thessalonians 4:3-8)
These are some serious words to heed (Psalm 119:60)! But, again, what is being spoken of is sexual immorality, and masturbation is never identified as such. Someone may argue, "masturbation is not 'in sanctification and in honor.'" Says who? The Lord says no such thing (Proverbs 30:5-6).
II. Evil Thoughts Are Evil
Wicked men have debased minds that are filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, and evil-mindedness (Romans 1:28-29). They are "past feeling" and "have given themselves over to lewdness, to work all uncleanness" (Ephesians 4:19). Therefore, it is no wonder that masturbation would be greatly abused and misused.
Jesus said,
You have heard that it was said to those of old, "You shall not commit adultery." But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. (Matthew 5:27-28)
Jesus made it clear that adultery can be committed in the heart, even though no physical intercourse has taken place. "The imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth," (Genesis 8:21) so it would not be surprising to find evil masturbatic activity rampant in society. Masturbation with evil imaginations, which could include the use of pornographic material, is most certainly wicked.
But, masturbation, in and of itself, does not demand such evil thoughts. To say it does, goes beyond what is written (1 Corinthians 4:6), adds to the word of God (Proverbs 30:5-6), and denies Biblical freedom in Christ (Colossians 2:20-22).
III. To The Pure All Things Are Pure (Titus 1:15)
Paul wrote,
All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful. (1 Corinthians 10:23)
Masturbation is lawful. There is nothing in the word of God that condemns it. The Lord never even intimates that it is some form of abuse or not according to His purpose. There is nothing new under the sun (Ecclesiastes 1:9), and it is not as if this is a new thing of which the Lord was unaware! Leviticus 15:16-17 addresses the issue, at least the result of it, and no condemnation is given. Therefore, neither should we condemn what God does not (Matthew 7:1-2).
Furthermore, since it is a practice the Lord does not condemn, and Paul point blank says "All things are lawful," it is something that the pure, with pure thoughts, could practice and still be pure (Titus 1:15). In fact, those who maintain that masturbation is impure, are those who put man made regulations upon men. As Paul rebuked the Colossians for submitting to such things, saying,
If you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations - "Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle," which all concern things which perish with the using - according to the commandments and doctrines of men? These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh. (Colossians 2:20-23)
Such a regulation of "Do not touch, . . . do not handle" your genitals, i.e. do not masturbate, is a commandment and doctrine of men. It may very well have the appearance of wisdom, but no such "wisdom" is found in the word of God. It is the wisdom of the world, which God calls foolishness (1 Corinthians 3:19); and it is indeed "self-imposed religion." It may very well result in "neglect of the body," that is, the body that is crying out for relief! It is also of "no value against the indulgence of the flesh." If anything, it exacerbates the problem. People left to no sexual satisfaction whatsoever, like Catholic priests who are told they cannot masturbate or get married, are left to the temptations of the flesh with little to no power to overcome.
"But," someone might argue, "believers, who have the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:23, "self-control"), should be able to overcome in such a situation." On the contrary, Scripture identifies Spirit filled married people as those who lack self-control in this area (1 Corinthians 7:5). Spirit filled single people may as well (1 Corinthians 7:9). Having the Holy Spirit does not mandate absolute control in this arena, especially when man made standards are placed upon an individual, standards that were never meant by God to be imposed (in righteousness, that is).
Finally, Paul said, "All things are lawful, but not all things are helpful." Can masturbation be helpful? Certainly, it can be helpful in alleviating the sexual drive, as long as it is done with pure thoughts, as it is written, "To the pure, all things are pure" (Titus 1:15). A godly person, motivated by a godly motive, certainly could masturbate without it being sinful or self-seeking. For example, a man of God wanting to alleviate the sexual drive in his striving to be pure and not wanting to be in a vulnerable position for temptation towards sexual immorality via pent-up sexual desires, could certainly masturbate with this in mind (wanting to be sexually pure) and it would be pure. Nothing in the word of God condemns this.
IV. Godly Limits
Even though Paul says, "All things are lawful for me," he also says, "but I will not be brought under the power of any" (1 Corinthians 6:12). Masturbation should not control the individual. The individual should be in control of any masturbation. Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23) and should be a continual reality in the life of any believer (Romans 8:5-6).
Also, for married people Paul writes,
Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. (1 Corinthians 7:3-5)
Since the wife and husband do not have authority over their own bodies, then masturbation should be in subjection to the spouse. In other words, any masturbation needs to be in submission to the spouse's desires and it should in no way diminish or take away from sexual intercourse and orgasm within the relationship. If it does, then a husband or a wife might deprive their spouse, either in part or in whole, in disobedience to 1 Corinthians 7:3-5.
Furthermore, as long as the spouse is available, sexual pleasure should be found in this relationship, as Proverbs declares to the man,
Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice with the wife of your youth. As a loving deer and a graceful doe, let her breasts satisfy you at all times; and always be enraptured with her love. (Proverbs 5:18-19)
V. Conclusion
Those who maintain that masturbation is evil, in and of itself, are like the Pharisees of old of whom Christ said:
They bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. (Matthew 23:4; see also Luke 11:46)
The sexual desire is a God given desire (Romans 11:36) and it is not evil in and of itself (Romans 14:14). Moreover, God has made a way for even those who are not married (male or female), or those who are away from their spouse (like a soldier at war), to at least somewhat satisfy the sexual drive via masturbation. It is oppressive to teach that such an act is against the will of God, and it is evil to maintain such a cause against the innocent in this matter (Proverbs 30:5-6).
Scripture says,
To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure; but even their mind and conscience are defiled. (Titus 1:15)
If you have been defiled on this subject by those who profess to know God but deny Him (Titus 1:16) and your conscience is not pure on this matter (Romans 14:22-23), it is high time to renew your mind.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. (Romans 12:2)
This subject is a good example of Christ's words found in Matthew 11:28-30.
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.
The commandments of men are burdensome, but God's commandments are not (1 John 5:3).
They are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh. (Proverbs 4:22)
I was reading this read and i begun to wonder how everyone sees Jesus sacrafice for us? I'm not to promote any sins but I think this question comes essentially to the fact do you believe that Jesus paid your sins, or not?
Some people here dont seem to believe Jesus paid the sins... it just seems to me like that. Personally I do believe Jesus paid it ALL. Thats any sin and no matter how many or how bad. We should of course resists sins like bible says , especially adultery and fornication but I still think everything is forgiven. The reason to do so lies deep in our relationship with God because Body is the temple of God.
1Co 6:15-20 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. (16) What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. (17) But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. (18) Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. (19) 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? (20) For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
So we are bought by Jesus precious blood but we should glorify God in body and in spirit, this is important part of our relationship with God and growing in Him.
Some people here dont seem to believe Jesus paid the sins... it just seems to me like that. Personally I do believe Jesus paid it ALL. Thats any sin and no matter how many or how bad. We should of course resists sins like bible says , especially adultery and fornication but I still think everything is forgiven. The reason to do so lies deep in our relationship with God because Body is the temple of God.
1Co 6:15-20 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. (16) What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. (17) But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. (18) Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. (19) 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? (20) For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
So we are bought by Jesus precious blood but we should glorify God in body and in spirit, this is important part of our relationship with God and growing in Him.
Brighthouse
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Something I always thought as simple to me about this,if you believe this is a sin of the flesh,then?If we are to walk in the Spirit, and the purpose is not to carry out things of the flesh,then it would seem to me, that anything of the flesh is bad. evil?? I suppose it could be evil,if one finds themselves not able to control this passion. But I sure would never judge another in this!!
To many believers I have found much knowledge, with some of there thoughts,if this sin of the flesh keeps them humble in God,and if this sin of the flesh leads them closer to God? Can this then be put as a thorn of the flesh,different thorn, but same result? 2 Cor 12:9-10 I would say this is up to each of us to decide on. Just a thought . For the real question is this to me,is this a sin because it concerns the flesh,or is it rather a weakness of our flesh?
To many believers I have found much knowledge, with some of there thoughts,if this sin of the flesh keeps them humble in God,and if this sin of the flesh leads them closer to God? Can this then be put as a thorn of the flesh,different thorn, but same result? 2 Cor 12:9-10 I would say this is up to each of us to decide on. Just a thought . For the real question is this to me,is this a sin because it concerns the flesh,or is it rather a weakness of our flesh?
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