WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH ABOUT SEX?
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY TEACH ABOUT SEX?
Sex is everywhere in our culture—movies, music, social media, conversations with friends. However it’s also an area that generates massive confusion.
For instance, a lot of people will say that, so long as it is consensual, anything goes when it comes to sex. But then when asked for more details, it turns out that most people do draw some lines as to what is moral. Incest, bestiality and cheating on a spouse are still considered wrong, even if there is consent given. So how do we find out what is right and what is wrong when it comes to sex?
Thankfully, the Bible has a clear, life-giving answer about sex that’s different from what the world says. Contrary to popular belief, the Bible celebrates sex as something good. It teaches that sex is a beautiful gift from God, that He intended to be both enjoyed and to produce children. In fact, God’s first words to Adam and Eve, “Be fruitful and multiply,” (Gen 1:28) are a command to have sex.
As mankind’s Creator, God could have made us reproduce any way He liked–a firm handshake, spraying eggs across a large area, or splitting ourselves in two like an amoeba. But instead, He came up with the incredible, and let’s be honest, enjoyable gift of sex to be the source of life.
However, like all great gifts, sex is important. And His instructions for sex are wired into our very bodies: we have one reproductive organ each, which can be united with one reproductive organ of the opposite sex and produce the children of that one couple. It is clear from our very plumbing that sex is meant for marriage between one man and one woman.
Furthermore, although many people view sex as ‘just physical’ we know that it isn’t. For instance, which is worse: to be knocked out after getting punched in the face, or to be sexually assaulted? Or how about this: putting a finger in your ear without permission, or violating you sexually? We all know that though getting punched is bad, and the finger in the ear thing is strange, once you’ve recovered physically, you’ll probably be just fine. But sexual trauma, even if it isn’t as physically damaging, often scars people for life. This is because sex is not just physical, it is emotional and spiritual. It connects you with someone in a unique way that is more intimate and personal than your connection with any other person in the world.
And of course the Bible tells us exactly this. God’s word is crystal clear: all sex outside of marriage between one man and one woman is sin. That includes hooking up, cheating, pornography, prostitution, group sex, sex before marriage, and homosexual sex (1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Romans 1:26-27). In doing so, God is not trying to ruin your fun—He’s protecting you, telling you to use sex the way He—the designer of sex—instructs, and asking you to actually value sex the way He does.
What’s amazing about this is that God’s way actually works. Couples who wait until marriage before having sex are far more likely to stay married, and enjoy sex in marriage more. Furthermore, rather than the media’s image that married couples have less sex and less enjoyable sex-lives, it is married couples who are having the most sex of anyone, and enjoying that sex more.
Tied into the Bible’s view of sex is its view on gender. Unlike today’s widespread idea that gender exists on a spectrum, the reality is that God created you male or female, a binary biological and spiritual reality set from birth (Genesis 1:27). Your gender isn’t something you choose, identify as, or are assigned at birth. It’s a gift from God, part of how He made you unique, and simply to be recognized. In a world pushing you to question or redefine who you are, the Bible says embracing your God-given gender is an act of trust in His wisdom. This isn’t about judgment—it’s about believing God’s design for manhood and womanhood leads to flourishing, even when it’s hard to see.
If you are someone who feels that they are born in the wrong body, or who feels attracted to someone of the same sex, or experiences any other sexual desires than those God has actually given us, you need to remember that God made you and knows you better than you know yourself. Though the world may tell you to simply “follow your heart” when it comes to sex and identity, so “if it feels good, do it,” the Bible warns that our hearts can trick us. Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick.” Proverbs 14:12 adds, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” Instead of trusting your feelings, God invites you to trust Him. Proverbs 3:5-6 promises, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” God knows the right path for you, even when your own ideas would lead you elsewhere.
If you’ve messed up—maybe you’ve looked at porn, hooked up, identified as gay or trans, or crossed any number lines you regret—there’s hope. Jesus didn’t come to condemn you for your sin, but to save you from it (John 3:17). Confess your sin, ask for forgiveness, and trust His promise to make you new (1 John 1:9). Then get back on the right path. Remember that sex is a gift, and God’s plan for it is worth following. Trust Him, love others enough to share His truth, and live for the joy He promises. Your life is not about chasing feelings—it’s about chasing Him.
For instance, a lot of people will say that, so long as it is consensual, anything goes when it comes to sex. But then when asked for more details, it turns out that most people do draw some lines as to what is moral. Incest, bestiality and cheating on a spouse are still considered wrong, even if there is consent given. So how do we find out what is right and what is wrong when it comes to sex?
1. SEX IS GOOD
Thankfully, the Bible has a clear, life-giving answer about sex that’s different from what the world says. Contrary to popular belief, the Bible celebrates sex as something good. It teaches that sex is a beautiful gift from God, that He intended to be both enjoyed and to produce children. In fact, God’s first words to Adam and Eve, “Be fruitful and multiply,” (Gen 1:28) are a command to have sex.
As mankind’s Creator, God could have made us reproduce any way He liked–a firm handshake, spraying eggs across a large area, or splitting ourselves in two like an amoeba. But instead, He came up with the incredible, and let’s be honest, enjoyable gift of sex to be the source of life.
2. SEX IS IMPORTANT
However, like all great gifts, sex is important. And His instructions for sex are wired into our very bodies: we have one reproductive organ each, which can be united with one reproductive organ of the opposite sex and produce the children of that one couple. It is clear from our very plumbing that sex is meant for marriage between one man and one woman.
Furthermore, although many people view sex as ‘just physical’ we know that it isn’t. For instance, which is worse: to be knocked out after getting punched in the face, or to be sexually assaulted? Or how about this: putting a finger in your ear without permission, or violating you sexually? We all know that though getting punched is bad, and the finger in the ear thing is strange, once you’ve recovered physically, you’ll probably be just fine. But sexual trauma, even if it isn’t as physically damaging, often scars people for life. This is because sex is not just physical, it is emotional and spiritual. It connects you with someone in a unique way that is more intimate and personal than your connection with any other person in the world.
And of course the Bible tells us exactly this. God’s word is crystal clear: all sex outside of marriage between one man and one woman is sin. That includes hooking up, cheating, pornography, prostitution, group sex, sex before marriage, and homosexual sex (1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Romans 1:26-27). In doing so, God is not trying to ruin your fun—He’s protecting you, telling you to use sex the way He—the designer of sex—instructs, and asking you to actually value sex the way He does.
What’s amazing about this is that God’s way actually works. Couples who wait until marriage before having sex are far more likely to stay married, and enjoy sex in marriage more. Furthermore, rather than the media’s image that married couples have less sex and less enjoyable sex-lives, it is married couples who are having the most sex of anyone, and enjoying that sex more.
3. SEX CONNECTS WITH GENDER
Tied into the Bible’s view of sex is its view on gender. Unlike today’s widespread idea that gender exists on a spectrum, the reality is that God created you male or female, a binary biological and spiritual reality set from birth (Genesis 1:27). Your gender isn’t something you choose, identify as, or are assigned at birth. It’s a gift from God, part of how He made you unique, and simply to be recognized. In a world pushing you to question or redefine who you are, the Bible says embracing your God-given gender is an act of trust in His wisdom. This isn’t about judgment—it’s about believing God’s design for manhood and womanhood leads to flourishing, even when it’s hard to see.
If you are someone who feels that they are born in the wrong body, or who feels attracted to someone of the same sex, or experiences any other sexual desires than those God has actually given us, you need to remember that God made you and knows you better than you know yourself. Though the world may tell you to simply “follow your heart” when it comes to sex and identity, so “if it feels good, do it,” the Bible warns that our hearts can trick us. Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick.” Proverbs 14:12 adds, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” Instead of trusting your feelings, God invites you to trust Him. Proverbs 3:5-6 promises, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” God knows the right path for you, even when your own ideas would lead you elsewhere.
4. SEXUAL SIN IS NOT THE END
If you’ve messed up—maybe you’ve looked at porn, hooked up, identified as gay or trans, or crossed any number lines you regret—there’s hope. Jesus didn’t come to condemn you for your sin, but to save you from it (John 3:17). Confess your sin, ask for forgiveness, and trust His promise to make you new (1 John 1:9). Then get back on the right path. Remember that sex is a gift, and God’s plan for it is worth following. Trust Him, love others enough to share His truth, and live for the joy He promises. Your life is not about chasing feelings—it’s about chasing Him.
Sex is everywhere in our culture—movies, music, social media, conversations with friends. However it’s also an area that generates massive confusion.
For instance, a lot of people will say that, so long as it is consensual, anything goes when it comes to sex. But then when asked for more details, it turns out that most people do draw some lines as to what is moral. Incest, bestiality and cheating on a spouse are still considered wrong, even if there is consent given. So how do we find out what is right and what is wrong when it comes to sex?
Thankfully, the Bible has a clear, life-giving answer about sex that’s different from what the world says. Contrary to popular belief, the Bible celebrates sex as something good. It teaches that sex is a beautiful gift from God, that He intended to be both enjoyed and to produce children. In fact, God’s first words to Adam and Eve, “Be fruitful and multiply,” (Gen 1:28) are a command to have sex.
As mankind’s Creator, God could have made us reproduce any way He liked–a firm handshake, spraying eggs across a large area, or splitting ourselves in two like an amoeba. But instead, He came up with the incredible, and let’s be honest, enjoyable gift of sex to be the source of life.
However, like all great gifts, sex is important. And His instructions for sex are wired into our very bodies: we have one reproductive organ each, which can be united with one reproductive organ of the opposite sex and produce the children of that one couple. It is clear from our very plumbing that sex is meant for marriage between one man and one woman.
Furthermore, although many people view sex as ‘just physical’ we know that it isn’t. For instance, which is worse: to be knocked out after getting punched in the face, or to be sexually assaulted? Or how about this: putting a finger in your ear without permission, or violating you sexually? We all know that though getting punched is bad, and the finger in the ear thing is strange, once you’ve recovered physically, you’ll probably be just fine. But sexual trauma, even if it isn’t as physically damaging, often scars people for life. This is because sex is not just physical, it is emotional and spiritual. It connects you with someone in a unique way that is more intimate and personal than your connection with any other person in the world.
And of course the Bible tells us exactly this. God’s word is crystal clear: all sex outside of marriage between one man and one woman is sin. That includes hooking up, cheating, pornography, prostitution, group sex, sex before marriage, and homosexual sex (1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Romans 1:26-27). In doing so, God is not trying to ruin your fun—He’s protecting you, telling you to use sex the way He—the designer of sex—instructs, and asking you to actually value sex the way He does.
What’s amazing about this is that God’s way actually works. Couples who wait until marriage before having sex are far more likely to stay married, and enjoy sex in marriage more. Furthermore, rather than the media’s image that married couples have less sex and less enjoyable sex-lives, it is married couples who are having the most sex of anyone, and enjoying that sex more.
Tied into the Bible’s view of sex is its view on gender. Unlike today’s widespread idea that gender exists on a spectrum, the reality is that God created you male or female, a binary biological and spiritual reality set from birth (Genesis 1:27). Your gender isn’t something you choose, identify as, or are assigned at birth. It’s a gift from God, part of how He made you unique, and simply to be recognized. In a world pushing you to question or redefine who you are, the Bible says embracing your God-given gender is an act of trust in His wisdom. This isn’t about judgment—it’s about believing God’s design for manhood and womanhood leads to flourishing, even when it’s hard to see.
If you are someone who feels that they are born in the wrong body, or who feels attracted to someone of the same sex, or experiences any other sexual desires than those God has actually given us, you need to remember that God made you and knows you better than you know yourself. Though the world may tell you to simply “follow your heart” when it comes to sex and identity, so “if it feels good, do it,” the Bible warns that our hearts can trick us. Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick.” Proverbs 14:12 adds, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” Instead of trusting your feelings, God invites you to trust Him. Proverbs 3:5-6 promises, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” God knows the right path for you, even when your own ideas would lead you elsewhere.
If you’ve messed up—maybe you’ve looked at porn, hooked up, identified as gay or trans, or crossed any number lines you regret—there’s hope. Jesus didn’t come to condemn you for your sin, but to save you from it (John 3:17). Confess your sin, ask for forgiveness, and trust His promise to make you new (1 John 1:9). Then get back on the right path. Remember that sex is a gift, and God’s plan for it is worth following. Trust Him, love others enough to share His truth, and live for the joy He promises. Your life is not about chasing feelings—it’s about chasing Him.
For instance, a lot of people will say that, so long as it is consensual, anything goes when it comes to sex. But then when asked for more details, it turns out that most people do draw some lines as to what is moral. Incest, bestiality and cheating on a spouse are still considered wrong, even if there is consent given. So how do we find out what is right and what is wrong when it comes to sex?
1. SEX IS GOOD
Thankfully, the Bible has a clear, life-giving answer about sex that’s different from what the world says. Contrary to popular belief, the Bible celebrates sex as something good. It teaches that sex is a beautiful gift from God, that He intended to be both enjoyed and to produce children. In fact, God’s first words to Adam and Eve, “Be fruitful and multiply,” (Gen 1:28) are a command to have sex.
As mankind’s Creator, God could have made us reproduce any way He liked–a firm handshake, spraying eggs across a large area, or splitting ourselves in two like an amoeba. But instead, He came up with the incredible, and let’s be honest, enjoyable gift of sex to be the source of life.
2. SEX IS IMPORTANT
However, like all great gifts, sex is important. And His instructions for sex are wired into our very bodies: we have one reproductive organ each, which can be united with one reproductive organ of the opposite sex and produce the children of that one couple. It is clear from our very plumbing that sex is meant for marriage between one man and one woman.
Furthermore, although many people view sex as ‘just physical’ we know that it isn’t. For instance, which is worse: to be knocked out after getting punched in the face, or to be sexually assaulted? Or how about this: putting a finger in your ear without permission, or violating you sexually? We all know that though getting punched is bad, and the finger in the ear thing is strange, once you’ve recovered physically, you’ll probably be just fine. But sexual trauma, even if it isn’t as physically damaging, often scars people for life. This is because sex is not just physical, it is emotional and spiritual. It connects you with someone in a unique way that is more intimate and personal than your connection with any other person in the world.
And of course the Bible tells us exactly this. God’s word is crystal clear: all sex outside of marriage between one man and one woman is sin. That includes hooking up, cheating, pornography, prostitution, group sex, sex before marriage, and homosexual sex (1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Romans 1:26-27). In doing so, God is not trying to ruin your fun—He’s protecting you, telling you to use sex the way He—the designer of sex—instructs, and asking you to actually value sex the way He does.
What’s amazing about this is that God’s way actually works. Couples who wait until marriage before having sex are far more likely to stay married, and enjoy sex in marriage more. Furthermore, rather than the media’s image that married couples have less sex and less enjoyable sex-lives, it is married couples who are having the most sex of anyone, and enjoying that sex more.
3. SEX CONNECTS WITH GENDER
Tied into the Bible’s view of sex is its view on gender. Unlike today’s widespread idea that gender exists on a spectrum, the reality is that God created you male or female, a binary biological and spiritual reality set from birth (Genesis 1:27). Your gender isn’t something you choose, identify as, or are assigned at birth. It’s a gift from God, part of how He made you unique, and simply to be recognized. In a world pushing you to question or redefine who you are, the Bible says embracing your God-given gender is an act of trust in His wisdom. This isn’t about judgment—it’s about believing God’s design for manhood and womanhood leads to flourishing, even when it’s hard to see.
If you are someone who feels that they are born in the wrong body, or who feels attracted to someone of the same sex, or experiences any other sexual desires than those God has actually given us, you need to remember that God made you and knows you better than you know yourself. Though the world may tell you to simply “follow your heart” when it comes to sex and identity, so “if it feels good, do it,” the Bible warns that our hearts can trick us. Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick.” Proverbs 14:12 adds, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” Instead of trusting your feelings, God invites you to trust Him. Proverbs 3:5-6 promises, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” God knows the right path for you, even when your own ideas would lead you elsewhere.
4. SEXUAL SIN IS NOT THE END
If you’ve messed up—maybe you’ve looked at porn, hooked up, identified as gay or trans, or crossed any number lines you regret—there’s hope. Jesus didn’t come to condemn you for your sin, but to save you from it (John 3:17). Confess your sin, ask for forgiveness, and trust His promise to make you new (1 John 1:9). Then get back on the right path. Remember that sex is a gift, and God’s plan for it is worth following. Trust Him, love others enough to share His truth, and live for the joy He promises. Your life is not about chasing feelings—it’s about chasing Him.
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Check out these articles and videos to dig deeper into this topic.