The Bible teaches that sex is a good and sacred gift meant to be enjoyed only within the covenant of marriage between one man and one woman.Pornography perverts this design. Although the Bible doesn't mention pornography directly, it condemns lust, impurity, and viewing others as objects rather than honoring their God-given dignity. Both the Old and New Testaments describe sexual immorality as damaging to individuals, relationships, and society, and warn that indulging in lustful thoughts leads to restlessness, addiction, and spiritual harm. Christians are called to actively guard their hearts and minds, pursue purity, and seek accountability, rather than treat pornography as harmless entertainment. Real freedom from pornography comes from embracing God’s good design and living by the Spirit, not the flesh.
Believers should never treat pornography casually or excuse it as harmless entertainment. It perverts God's good gift of sex and damages our hearts and minds. We must actively guard what we allow into our eyes and minds—setting up internet filters, avoiding sexually suggestive shows, and scrolling past sexually explicit content on social media. If we are tempted, we can practice immediate redirection by turning our attention to what is pure and good, just as Philippians 4:8 commands. For example, memorizing Scripture, listening to worship music, or even going outside for a walk can help break the cycle of temptation in the moment.
Pornography also shapes how we view other people and ourselves. It negatively impacts the brain, mental health, view of the opposite sex, emotional health, and relationships. Instead of indulging in pornography, we should see ourselves, others, and sex the way God does, through the lens of their God-given worth rather than through a lens of selfish desire. This means treating even strangers with respect and value, rather than allowing impure thoughts to go unchecked. Accountability is also important: having a trusted Christian friend or mentor to talk to and pray with can make a huge difference in resisting temptation. Married couples should honor and cherish each other with loyalty in heart, mind, and body, finding joy in the covenant relationship God designed (Proverbs 5:18).
When struggles with pornography seem overwhelming, we must remember that real freedom comes through God’s power, not through sheer willpower. We should regularly pray, confess our sins, and intentionally fill our hearts with God's truth. Practically, setting daily times of Bible reading and prayer helps strengthen our spirit against the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:16-17). When we stumble, instead of hiding in shame, we should run to God in repentance, remembering that He is faithful to forgive and cleanse us (1 John 1:9). Every small step toward purity, by God's grace, helps reshape our minds and hearts according to His design.