Looking for insight on ‘Bible Verses About Masturbation?’ You’re in the right place. Today’s content is tailored for those seeking to understand this sensitive topic from a biblical perspective. Here, we’ll explore Bible verses that relate to sexual purity, self-control, and the body as a temple. These scriptures will help you better grasp how the Bible addresses matters of personal sexuality and stewardship of one’s body. Let’s see what the Word says about maintaining purity in thought and action.
Contents
- 1 What Does the Bible Say About Sexual Purity and Self-Control?
- 1.1 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 – God’s will: avoid immorality, practice self-control
- 1.2 Galatians 5:22-23 – Fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, self-control
- 1.3 1 Corinthians 6:18 – Flee immorality; honor God with your body
- 1.4 2 Timothy 1:7 – Power, love, and self-discipline from God
- 1.5 Proverbs 25:28 – Self-control is vital for protection and stability
- 2 Biblical Verses on Avoiding Sexual Immorality
- 3 Scripture About Controlling Lustful Thoughts and Desires
- 3.1 Matthew 5:28 – Adultery includes lustful thoughts, not just actions
- 3.2 Job 31:1 – Made a covenant to avoid lustful thoughts
- 3.3 Romans 13:14 – Clothe in Christ, avoid gratifying sinful desires
- 3.4 James 1:14-15 – Desire leads to sin, sin leads to death
- 3.5 2 Corinthians 10:5 – Capturing thoughts to obey Christ
- 4 Bible Passages on Honoring God with Your Body
- 5 What Does 1 Corinthians Say About Sexual Conduct?
- 6 Biblical Guidance on Overcoming Sexual Temptation
- 7 How Christians Should Approach Questions About Sexual Behavior
- 8 Finding Biblical Wisdom for Sexual Struggles and Accountability
- 8.1 Proverbs 27:17 – Accountability sharpens character and spiritual growth
- 8.2 James 5:16 – Confess and pray for healing and effective prayer
- 8.3 Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – Strength and support in companionship
- 8.4 Galatians 6:1-2 – Help others gently; bear burdens, fulfill Christ’s law
- 8.5 Romans 15:1 – Bear others’ weaknesses with strength and patience
What Does the Bible Say About Sexual Purity and Self-Control?
Sexual purity and self-control are often highlighted in the Bible as essential virtues for believers. By practicing these, we honor God and respect ourselves and others. Maintaining these virtues helps us navigate life’s challenges with integrity and faithfulness. Let’s explore what Scripture emphasizes about these important aspects of our spiritual journey.
1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 – God’s will: avoid immorality, practice self-control
For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornicationThat every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification honour
1 Thessalonians 4:3-4
Explanation:- This passage highlights the importance of living according to God’s will by avoiding sexual immorality and practicing self-control. It calls believers to pursue holiness and honor their bodies, encouraging a lifestyle that aligns with divine principles of purity and discipline.
Galatians 5:22-23 – Fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, self-control

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faithMeekness, temperance: against such there is no law
Galatians 5:22-23
Explanation:- This passage highlights the virtues that manifest in a life led by the Spirit, including self-control. In the context of sexual purity, self-control helps individuals resist temptations like masturbation, aligning their actions with spiritual values and fostering a life of holiness.
1 Corinthians 6:18 – Flee immorality; honor God with your body

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
Explanation:- This verse emphasizes the importance of sexual purity and self-control. It advises believers to avoid sexual immorality, highlighting the call to honor God with our bodies. By maintaining purity, we align our actions with spiritual values and respect the sacredness of our physical selves.
2 Timothy 1:7 – Power, love, and self-discipline from God

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, of love, of a sound mind
2 Timothy 1:7
Explanation:- This verse highlights the gifts of power, love, and self-discipline that God provides. In the context of sexual purity and self-control, it encourages believers to rely on these divine gifts to resist temptations, including masturbation, fostering a life of holiness and integrity.
Proverbs 25:28 – Self-control is vital for protection and stability

He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, without walls
Proverbs 25:28
Explanation:- This verse highlights the importance of self-control, likening a person without it to a city with broken walls—vulnerable and unstable. In the context of sexual purity, it underscores the need for inner discipline to maintain moral integrity and personal protection.
Biblical Verses on Avoiding Sexual Immorality
The Bible urges us to avoid sexual immorality, calling us to live in a way that aligns with God’s holiness. This guidance isn’t just about rules but about living a life that reflects God’s love and purity. As we pursue righteousness, we find a deeper, more fulfilling relationship with Him.
Ephesians 5:3 – Avoid all forms of sexual immorality and impurity

But fornication, all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints
Ephesians 5:3
Explanation:- Ephesians 5:3 urges believers to avoid sexual immorality and impurity, emphasizing purity in thoughts and actions. It calls for a lifestyle reflecting holiness, steering clear of behaviors that contradict Christian values, and promoting a life of integrity and respect.
Colossians 3:5 – Put to death earthly nature and desires

Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, covetousness, which is idolatry
Colossians 3:5
Explanation:- Colossians 3:5 urges believers to abandon earthly desires, emphasizing the importance of rejecting sexual immorality. It encourages self-discipline and spiritual growth by focusing on purity and aligning one’s life with God’s will, fostering a deeper connection with the divine.
Hebrews 13:4 – Honor marriage; avoid sexual immorality

Marriage is honourable in all, the bed undefiled: but whoremongers adulterers God will judge
Hebrews 13:4
Explanation:- This verse encourages honoring marriage and maintaining sexual purity. It highlights the importance of fidelity within marriage and warns against sexual immorality, urging believers to uphold the sanctity of marital relationships as a reflection of their commitment to God’s teachings.
1 Corinthians 6:13 – Honor God with your body, avoid immorality

Meats for the belly, the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; the Lord for the body
1 Corinthians 6:13
Explanation:- This verse encourages believers to honor God by treating their bodies with respect and avoiding sexual immorality. It underscores the idea that our bodies are meant for the Lord, calling for self-control and purity as expressions of faith and reverence for God.
Scripture About Controlling Lustful Thoughts and Desires
Controlling our thoughts and desires is crucial in our walk with Christ. The Bible offers wisdom on how to focus our minds and hearts toward godliness. By relying on Scripture and God’s strength, we can overcome the temptations that try to lead us astray and live with a clear, devoted heart.
Matthew 5:28 – Adultery includes lustful thoughts, not just actions

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
Explanation:- This verse highlights that adultery is not limited to physical acts but includes lustful thoughts and desires. It encourages believers to maintain purity in their minds, emphasizing the importance of controlling inner thoughts to live a life aligned with spiritual values.
Job 31:1 – Made a covenant to avoid lustful thoughts

I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?
Job 31:1
Explanation:- In this verse, Job speaks of making a personal commitment to avoid lustful thoughts by setting boundaries for his eyes and mind. It highlights the importance of intentional self-control and the proactive steps one can take to maintain purity and integrity.
Romans 13:14 – Clothe in Christ, avoid gratifying sinful desires

But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof
Romans 13:14
Explanation:- This verse encourages believers to embody the character of Jesus, which helps them resist sinful desires. By focusing on Christ-like virtues, individuals can better control lustful thoughts and actions, aligning their lives with spiritual principles rather than succumbing to earthly temptations.
James 1:14-15 – Desire leads to sin, sin leads to death
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, enticedThen when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death
James 1:14-15
Explanation:- This verse highlights the progression from personal temptation and unchecked desires to sin, ultimately leading to spiritual death. It serves as a warning to control lustful thoughts and desires, emphasizing the importance of self-discipline and vigilance in maintaining spiritual health.
2 Corinthians 10:5 – Capturing thoughts to obey Christ

Casting down imaginations, every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ
2 Corinthians 10:5
Explanation:- This verse encourages believers to take control of their thoughts, aligning them with Christ’s teachings. In the context of controlling lustful desires, it emphasizes actively rejecting impure thoughts and submitting to God’s will, fostering a mindset focused on purity and obedience.
Bible Passages on Honoring God with Your Body
Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and the Bible encourages us to honor God with them. This means respecting our bodies and using them in ways that bring glory to God. By doing so, we recognize the sacredness of our physical being and its role in our spiritual journey.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – Honor God with your body
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, ye are not your own?For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, in your spirit, which are God’s
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Explanation:- This passage encourages believers to honor God with their bodies, reminding them that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. It underscores the importance of treating one’s body with respect and purity, as it belongs to God and is a means to glorify Him.
Romans 12:1 – Present your bodies as a living sacrifice to God

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service
Romans 12:1
Explanation:- Romans 12:1 encourages believers to dedicate their bodies to God as a living sacrifice, emphasizing purity and holiness. In the context of topics like masturbation, it calls for honoring God with one’s body, suggesting self-control and respect for the sacredness of our physical form.
Philippians 1:20 – Honor God with body, live courageously for Christ

According to my earnest expectation my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death
Philippians 1:20
Explanation:- This verse encourages believers to honor God with their bodies by living courageously for Christ. It underscores the importance of reflecting God’s glory through our actions and choices, reminding us to prioritize spiritual integrity and devotion in every aspect of our lives.
What Does 1 Corinthians Say About Sexual Conduct?
In 1 Corinthians, Paul provides clear guidance on sexual conduct, urging believers to live in a way that reflects their faith. This teaching challenges us to uphold the values of purity, respect, and love in our relationships, fostering a community that mirrors Christ’s love and righteousness.
1 Corinthians 7:2 – Marry to avoid sexual immorality

Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, let every woman have her own husband
1 Corinthians 7:2
Explanation:- This verse advises marriage as a means to avoid sexual immorality, suggesting that a committed relationship provides a healthy outlet for sexual desires. It underscores the importance of self-control and the sanctity of marriage in maintaining moral conduct.
1 Corinthians 5:1 – Condemnation of sexual immorality within the community

It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father’s wife
1 Corinthians 5:1
Explanation:- In 1 Corinthians 5:1, Paul addresses the issue of sexual immorality within the Corinthian church, highlighting the importance of maintaining purity and integrity in the community. This verse underscores the necessity for Christians to uphold moral standards and avoid behaviors that harm the community’s spiritual health.
1 Corinthians 7:8-9 – Better to marry than to burn with passion
I say therefore to the unmarried widows, it is good for them if they abide even as IBut if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn
1 Corinthians 7:8-9
Explanation:- This passage advises unmarried and widowed individuals to remain single if they can do so without burning with passion. If self-control is difficult, marriage is recommended as a positive and honorable outlet for sexual desires, promoting a healthy and moral approach to sexuality.
Biblical Guidance on Overcoming Sexual Temptation
Overcoming sexual temptation is a common struggle, but the Bible offers hope and direction. Through prayer, accountability, and the Holy Spirit’s power, we can resist temptation and grow in holiness. Embracing this guidance helps us lead lives that honor God and reflect His holiness to the world.
1 Corinthians 10:13 – God provides escape from temptation

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it
1 Corinthians 10:13
Explanation:- This verse reassures us that God is faithful and will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear. He provides a way to overcome temptations, including sexual ones, ensuring we can stand firm and choose a righteous path.
James 4:7 – Submit to God; resist the devil

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, he will flee from you
James 4:7
Explanation:- This verse encourages believers to align their lives with divine will, empowering them to resist sexual temptations. By submitting to God’s guidance, believers can find strength and resolve to overcome challenges and resist the devil’s influence, fostering spiritual growth and self-control.
Galatians 5:16 – Walk by the Spirit, avoid gratifying sinful desires

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh
Galatians 5:16
Explanation:- Galatians 5:16 encourages believers to rely on the Holy Spirit to resist sinful desires, including sexual temptation. By walking in the Spirit, individuals can cultivate self-control and live in alignment with God’s will, avoiding actions that lead them away from spiritual growth.
Matthew 26:41 – Watch and pray to avoid temptation

Watch pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak
Matthew 26:41
Explanation:- This verse advises vigilance and prayer as tools to resist temptation. By staying spiritually alert and seeking divine assistance, individuals can overcome sexual temptations, including masturbation. It highlights the importance of proactive spiritual practices in maintaining self-control and aligning with God’s will.
1 Peter 5:8-9 – Stay alert; resist temptation with firm faith
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devourWhom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world
1 Peter 5:8-9
Explanation:- This verse encourages vigilance and firm faith to resist temptation. It reminds believers to stay alert and steadfast in their spiritual journey, offering guidance to overcome challenges, including sexual temptation, by remaining strong in faith and resisting the adversary’s influence.
How Christians Should Approach Questions About Sexual Behavior
Christians are called to approach questions about sexual behavior with grace, truth, and love. By seeking wisdom from Scripture and engaging in open, honest conversations, we can navigate these complex issues while upholding biblical values and showing compassion to others.
1 Peter 3:15 – Defend faith with gentleness and respect

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness fear
1 Peter 3:15
Explanation:- This verse encourages Christians to be prepared to explain their beliefs, including views on sensitive topics like sexual behavior, with kindness and respect. It highlights the importance of engaging in thoughtful, compassionate dialogue, demonstrating understanding and empathy while upholding one’s faith.
Ephesians 4:15 – Speak truth in love, grow in Christ

But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ
Ephesians 4:15
Explanation:- Approaching questions about sexual behavior with love and truth, Ephesians 4:15 encourages Christians to communicate honestly and compassionately. By doing so, believers can foster spiritual growth and align their actions with Christ’s teachings, ensuring a supportive and understanding community.
Colossians 4:6 – Speak graciously with wisdom and understanding

Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man
Colossians 4:6
Explanation:- This verse encourages believers to engage in conversations about sensitive topics, such as sexual behavior, with grace, wisdom, and understanding. By speaking thoughtfully and kindly, Christians can foster respectful and productive dialogues that reflect Christ’s love and guidance.
Proverbs 15:1 – Gentle response defuses anger, harsh words provoke conflict

A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger
Proverbs 15:1
Explanation:- When discussing sensitive topics like sexual behavior, a gentle and understanding response fosters open dialogue and reduces tension. Harsh or judgmental words can lead to conflict and defensiveness, hindering constructive discussions and mutual understanding among Christians.
Finding Biblical Wisdom for Sexual Struggles and Accountability
The Bible provides wisdom and support for those facing sexual struggles, emphasizing the importance of accountability. Through community and Scripture, we find the strength to overcome challenges and grow in righteousness. Together, we can support one another in our journeys toward purity and holiness.
Proverbs 27:17 – Accountability sharpens character and spiritual growth

Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend
Proverbs 27:17
Explanation:- Proverbs 27:17 highlights the importance of accountability in personal growth. Just as iron sharpens iron, having honest, supportive relationships can help individuals navigate sexual struggles, including masturbation, fostering character development and spiritual maturity through mutual guidance and encouragement.
James 5:16 – Confess and pray for healing and effective prayer

Confess your faults one to another, pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much
James 5:16
Explanation:- This verse encourages believers to openly confess their struggles, including sexual ones, to each other. By doing so and praying together, individuals can find healing and strength. This practice fosters accountability and supports an effective prayer life, promoting spiritual growth and resilience.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – Strength and support in companionship

Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labourFor if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Explanation:- This verse highlights the importance of companionship and mutual support. In the context of sexual struggles, it suggests that having a trusted partner for accountability can provide strength and help individuals overcome challenges by offering support, understanding, and guidance.
Galatians 6:1-2 – Help others gently; bear burdens, fulfill Christ’s law

Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be temptedBear ye one another’s burdens, so fulfil the law of Christ
Galatians 6:1-2
Explanation:- This passage encourages believers to gently restore those who struggle and to support one another by sharing burdens. In the context of sexual struggles, it highlights the importance of accountability and compassion, helping individuals overcome challenges and fulfill the law of Christ through love.
Romans 15:1 – Bear others’ weaknesses with strength and patience

We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, not to please ourselves
Romans 15:1
Explanation:- This verse encourages us to support others in their weaknesses with strength and patience. In the context of sexual struggles, it reminds us to offer understanding and accountability, helping each other navigate challenges with compassion and encouragement.