What Does the Bible Say About Sexual Purity — In Biblical Context

The Biblical Context

Sexual purity is a consistent biblical standard. The seventh commandment states, 'Thou shalt not commit adultery' (Exodus 20:14). Jesus deepened this standard: 'whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart' (Matthew 5:28). Paul urged, 'Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body' (1 Corinthians 6:18). He explained, 'your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you… therefore glorify God in your body' (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Hebrews 13:4 honors marriage and warns, 'whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.' First Thessalonians 4:3-4 is direct: 'this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour.' Purity is not repression — it is the proper ordering of a powerful gift within God's design, where sexual intimacy strengthens the covenant bond of marriage.

Where It Sits in Scripture

Supporting Passages