What Does the Bible Say About Pornography?
Biblical teaching on sexual purity, lust, and freedom from pornography addiction.
What does the Bible say about pornography? Explore KJV scriptures about lust, sexual purity, and finding freedom through Christ.
"But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart." — Matthew 5:28 (KJV)
While the Bible doesn't mention pornography by name, it speaks extensively about lust, sexual purity, and guarding our eyes and hearts. Jesus elevated the standard beyond outward behavior to the heart level, teaching that lustful thoughts themselves are sinful. Scripture also offers hope and freedom for those struggling with pornography addiction.
Key Scriptures About Pornography
Matthew 5:28
"But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart."Read in context
Psalm 101:3
"I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me."Read in context
1 Corinthians 6:18
"Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body."Read in context
Philippians 4:8
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."Read in context
1 John 1:9
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."Read in context
Guarding the Eyes and Heart
Job made a 'covenant with his eyes' (Job 31:1) to avoid lustful looking. Psalm 101:3 commits to setting 'no wicked thing' before the eyes. Jesus taught that lust in the heart is equivalent to adultery (Matthew 5:28). These principles directly apply to the consumption of pornography, which is designed to provoke lust.
Freedom Is Possible
If you struggle with pornography, know that you are not alone and freedom is possible. 1 John 1:9 promises forgiveness when we confess. 1 Corinthians 10:13 assures that God provides a way of escape from every temptation. Practical steps include accountability partners, internet filters, professional counseling, and filling your mind with pure things (Philippians 4:8).
A Prayer About Pornography
Lord, purify my heart and guard my eyes. Free me from any bondage to lust or pornography. Fill my mind with things that are pure, lovely, and of good report. Give me strength to resist temptation and the courage to seek accountability. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pornography
Quick answers to the most common questions about what the Bible says on pornography.
Is watching pornography a sin?
Yes, based on biblical principles. Jesus said that looking at someone with lust is committing adultery in the heart (Matthew 5:28). Pornography is specifically designed to provoke lust, making it incompatible with the biblical call to sexual purity and the guarding of one's heart and eyes.
How do I overcome a pornography addiction?
Scripture offers hope: 1 Corinthians 10:13 promises God will provide a way of escape. Practical steps include confessing to God (1 John 1:9), finding an accountability partner (James 5:16), using internet filters, seeking professional counseling, and replacing impure content with Scripture (Philippians 4:8). Freedom is a process, and God's grace is sufficient.
What is the main Bible verse about pornography?
Matthew 5:28 is one of the clearest scriptures on pornography: "But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart." (KJV). It anchors the broader biblical teaching summarized on this page.
How many Bible verses talk about pornography?
Scripture addresses pornography in dozens of passages across the Old and New Testaments. We've curated 6 of the most directly relevant KJV verses on this page, drawn from Matthew, Job, Psalms, 1 Corinthians, Philippians and more.
Where does the Bible first mention pornography?
The earliest passage on this list is Matthew 5:28, in the book of Matthew. Scripture's full teaching on pornography unfolds across both testaments — see all 6 verses above for the broader picture.
Is pornography a sin according to the Bible?
What does the Bible say about pornography? Explore KJV scriptures about lust, sexual purity, and finding freedom through Christ. The verses above lay out exactly what the KJV teaches so you can weigh the question for yourself in light of Scripture.
Common Bible Questions About Pornography
Specific questions Christians ask about pornography — each answered with KJV scripture.
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