What The Bible Say About Sex

The Bible has a lot to say about sex, and it's not all as straightforward as you might think. In fact, the Bible has some pretty surprising things to say about love, relationships, and intimacy. From the spicy poetry of the Song of Solomon to the practical advice of the book of Proverbs, the Bible covers it all.

One of the most interesting things about the Bible's take on sex is its emphasis on mutual respect and consent. In 1 Corinthians 7:3-5, the apostle Paul writes that

husbands and wives should be mindful of each other's needs and desires

, and that communication and compromise are key to a happy and healthy marriage. This is a refreshingly modern take on relationships, and one that emphasizes the importance of equality and partnership.

The Song of Solomon: A Love Story for the Ages

The Song of Solomon is a book of the Bible that's often overlooked, but it's actually a beautiful and passionate love story that celebrates the joy of romance and intimacy. With lines like

"your love is better than wine"

and

"your lips are like a rose"

, it's a veritable feast of sensual language and poetic imagery. The Song of Solomon reminds us that sex is not just about physical pleasure, but about emotional connection and spiritual intimacy.

But the Bible also acknowledges that sex can be complicated and problematic at times. In Matthew 5:27-30, Jesus teaches that

looking at someone with lust

can be just as damaging as acting on it, and that we need to be mindful of our thoughts and desires as well as our actions. This is a nuanced and thoughtful take on sexuality, and one that recognizes the complexity of human desire and behavior.

Despite its reputation for being prudish or puritanical, the Bible actually has a pretty positive view of sex. In Genesis 2:24-25, we read that

Adam and Eve were "naked and unashamed"

in the Garden of Eden, and that intimacy and vulnerability are a natural part of human relationships. This is a beautiful and liberating vision of sexuality, and one that emphasizes the importance of mutual respect, trust, and communication.

Of course, the Bible also has some rules and guidelines when it comes to sex, and these can sometimes be challenging to interpret and apply. In Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13, we read that same-sex relationships are not permitted, and this has been the subject of much debate and discussion in recent years. However, it's also important to remember that the Bible is a complex and nuanced book that requires careful reading and interpretation.

Sex in the New Testament

In the New Testament, we find a number of passages that deal with sex and relationships in a more explicit way. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-7, the apostle Paul writes that

we should "honour God with our bodies"

and avoid immorality and impurity. This is a call to holiness and wholeness, and reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.

Throughout the Bible, we find a rich and varied exploration of sex and relationships. From the romantic poetry of the Song of Solomon to the practical advice of the book of Proverbs, there's a wealth of insight and wisdom on offer. Whether you're single, married, or somewhere in between, the Bible has something to say about sex and relationships that's worth hearing and considering.

In the end, the Bible's take on sex is all about relationship, communication, and mutual respect. It's about recognizing that our bodies are gifts from God, and that we should use them to honour and glorify him. Whether you're a Christian or not, the Bible's wisdom on sex and relationships is worth exploring and applying to your own life.