It is no secret that Christians struggle with pornography. According to the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), 70% of Christian men struggle with pornography daily. About half of Christian men and 20% of Christian women admit to having a pornography addiction (Porn Harms Research). We know that pornography is harmful from a societal perspective, as it rewires viewers’ brains, damages relationships, and skews perception of those of the opposite sex, but why is it wrong for Christians to consume porn?
Pornography must first be addressed as an addictive drug. Though you may view pornography as just a phase people go through, many viewers find it nearly impossible to stop consuming. Pornography can be as addictive as heroin or cocaine, interfering with everyday life (Donovan). When the brain scans of frequent pornography viewers were compared to those of drug and alcohol addicts, the brain activity was identical (Donovan). The circuits in one’s brain that are correlated with motivation, reward, and memory are as damaged by watching pornography as they are with abusing drugs and alcohol (Donovan).
Scripture condemns addictions, which can also be viewed as obsessions or idols. Galatians 5:19-21 says, “Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, sensuality, idolatry…and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the Kingdom of God.” God’s warning to us against such things stems from a place of love because He knows that fleshly desires are damaging to our bodies and souls. 1 Peter 2:11 says, “Beloved, I urge you…to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.” Our focus should be directed to God, our King and Creator, rather than worldly things and fleeting pleasures. We are called also to protect our hearts from ungodly things, because everything we do flows out from our hearts (Prov. 4:23).
Porn is a temptation. Though you may think it differs from adultery, the Bible makes clear that “everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart (Matt. 5:28).” Of course, this can apply to both men and women. The good news is that God gives us the strength we need to break free of the constant temptation of pornography. It is written that “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it (1 Cor. 10:13).” As Christians, we have direct access to freedom through Christ. We can overcome any addiction and find full healing and forgiveness in the One who cares for us. If you are a Christian who struggles with pornography, consider praying the following Scripture: “Create in me a clean heart, O God and renew a right spirit within me.” You are not alone in your struggle.
References
Donovan, John. WebMD. 4 September 2022. Website. 13 October 2022.
Porn Harms Research. Christians and Pornography (Statistics). 30 July 2012. Website. 13 October 2022.
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