What Does the Bible Teach About Sex?

What Does the Bible Teach About Sex?

from Questions and Answers

by Neil McBride

 Introduction.

Sex is one of the most intimate and powerful aspects of human experience, intertwining physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. Far from ignoring or avoiding the subject, the Bible addresses sexuality with remarkable candour and complexity. Throughout its pages—spanning centuries of history, poetry, law, wisdom literature, prophecy, and theology—the Bible presents sex as a deeply meaningful and multifaceted part of life. It is portrayed in various lights: as a divine gift to be celebrated within the covenant of marriage, as an act of union and love, as a source of vulnerability, and at times, as an arena of exploitation, sin, or brokenness.

From the passionate poetry of the Song of Solomon, which extols romantic and erotic love in vivid language, to the legal codes of Leviticus and Deuteronomy that establish boundaries around sexual behaviour, the Bible neither trivialises nor avoids the topic. In narratives such as those of Adam and Eve, David and Bathsheba, or Hosea and Gomer, sexuality is often interwoven with broader themes of covenant, betrayal, redemption, and grace. New Testament teachings, likewise, address sex within the framework of Christian ethics, community life, and the embodiment of divine love.

Understanding how the Bible discusses sex requires more than a surface reading. It demands careful attention to literary genres, theological intentions, and the cultural settings in which these texts were composed. What might seem straightforward in one context may carry layers of symbolic, historical, or moral meaning in another. Readers must also recognise the tension between ancient worldviews and contemporary values, discerning timeless principles amid culturally specific practices. Ultimately, the biblical approach to sex reveals its significance in shaping individual identity and relationships and reflecting broader truths about God, humanity, and the sacredness of life.

Sex as a Sacred Gift

From the very beginning of the biblical narrative, sex is presented not as something shameful or secondary, but as an integral part of God’s good and purposeful creation. In Genesis 1:28, God blesses them immediately after creating man and woman in His image and commands, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it.” This divine mandate of procreation is not merely a biological imperative—it carries profound theological significance. The act of bringing new life into the world is framed as a participation in God’s ongoing creative work, underscoring that human sexuality is not only natural but also sacred.

Genesis 2:24 further develops this vision by describing the union of man and woman in marriage as the two becoming “one flesh.” This phrase, though often cited in wedding ceremonies, carries deep implications about the nature of sexual union. It reflects a holistic physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual integration between two individuals. In this passage, sex is not treated as a casual encounter but as a deeply bonding act that mirrors the covenantal nature of marriage. It is within this committed, exclusive relationship that sexual intimacy is affirmed as both life-giving and profoundly meaningful.

Nowhere is the beauty and passion of human love more vividly portrayed in the Bible than in the Song of Solomon (also known as the Song of Songs). This poetic book stands out for its candid and unashamed celebration of romantic and erotic love. With imagery drawn from nature, royal splendour, and intimate affection, the Song describes two lovers’ longing, joy, and sensual delight. The text overflows with expressions of admiration, desire, and mutual adoration, painting a portrait of emotional and physical love. Unlike many other parts of Scripture that set boundaries or offer moral instruction, the Song of Solomon dwells in the realm of celebration, offering no apology for its erotic tone.

Interpretations of the Song have varied over the centuries. Some early Jewish and Christian commentators viewed it allegorically, understanding the lovers as representing God and Israel, or Christ and the Church. While such readings highlight the spiritual depth of love and covenant, many modern scholars and readers also affirm the value of a plain, literal reading that sees the poem as a celebration of human love in its most passionate and poetic form. In either view, the message is clear: sexual desire, when expressed within the bounds of mutual love, respect, and commitment, is not something to be repressed or hidden, but something to be honoured and cherished.

Through these foundational texts, the Bible sets forth a reverent and joyful vision of sexuality—a gift from God that, when rightly ordered, contributes to human flourishing, intimacy, and the ongoing mystery of life itself.

Sex and Covenant: The Role of Marriage

Throughout the Bible, sex is intimately connected to the covenant of marriage—a union that is both deeply theological and profoundly practical. Marriage, as instituted in the early chapters of Genesis, is portrayed as the foundational human relationship, designed for companionship, mutual support, and the safe, loving expression of sexual intimacy. Within this covenantal framework, sex is not merely permitted but actively encouraged as a means of deepening the bond between husband and wife, fostering intimacy, and creating new life.

Scriptural wisdom literature, such as Proverbs, affirms the joy and blessing of sexual union within marriage. Proverbs 5:18-19 exhorts the husband to “rejoice in the wife of your youth,” describing her affectionately and sensually, encouraging satisfaction and delight in marital love. This passage underscores the idea that sexual enjoyment is not only appropriate in marriage but is a good gift from God to be cherished. Similarly, the apostle Paul, writing to the Church in Corinth, offers pastoral guidance on marital sexuality in 1 Corinthians 7:35. He emphasises mutuality, urging husbands and wives to fulfil their marital duties and recognise that their bodies belong to each other in love and trust. Paul’s instruction reflects both the spiritual equality of spouses and the importance of regular sexual intimacy as a safeguard against temptation and a means of expressing marital commitment.

Sexual fidelity, in this biblical vision, is more than a moral obligation; it is a powerful sign of loyalty, trust, and integrity within the marriage covenant. This faithfulness often parallels the covenant relationship between God and His people. Just as God remains steadfast in His love for Israel and Christ for the Church in the New Testament, so are spouses called to honour their commitment to one another. The prophets frequently use the imagery of marital unfaithfulness to describe Israel’s spiritual adultery through idolatry and covenant-breaking, reinforcing the sacredness of both covenants, divine and human.

The New Testament continues to affirm the sanctity of marriage and its role as the rightful context for sexual expression. Hebrews 13:4 states, “Marriage should be honoured by all, and the marriage bed kept pure,” highlighting the honour due to the marital relationship and the expectation of sexual integrity. Yet, the New Testament also broadens the conversation by elevating singleness and celibacy as equally honourable paths, particularly in light of spiritual devotion and ministry.

In 1 Corinthians 7:7, eight, and verses 32–35, Paul speaks candidly about his unmarried status. He suggests that celibacy, while not a universal calling, can be a gift that allows undivided attention to the Lord’s work. He acknowledges that marriage and sexual intimacy are natural and necessary for many, but also challenges the assumption that marriage is a superior or default state. For Paul, remaining single, when embraced freely and not imposed, is a way to serve God with focus and freedom.

Together, these biblical teachings present a nuanced and balanced view of sexuality. They honour the goodness of sex within marriage, uphold fidelity as a reflection of divine love, and affirm celibacy as a dignified and purposeful path. In every case, the Bible calls for sexual integrity, rooted in covenantal love, mutual respect, and a deeper devotion to God.

Sexual Ethics and Boundaries

Biblical laws establish clear and intentional boundaries around sexual behaviour, reflecting moral imperatives and ancient Israel’s broader social, theological, and communal values. In the Torah—the first five books of the Bible—numerous regulations are provided to guide and constrain sexual conduct. Leviticus 18 offers a comprehensive list of prohibited sexual relationships, including incestuous unions, same-sex acts, bestiality, and adultery. These prohibitions were not arbitrary; they served multiple functions in the life of Israel. First, they were moral guidelines rooted in God’s holiness, calling His people to be distinct from the surrounding nations whose practices were often marked by sexual exploitation and ritual impurity (see Leviticus 18:24-30). Second, these laws functioned as protective measures within a patriarchal society, where power dynamics often left women and children especially vulnerable. By legislating against certain sexual behaviours, the Torah aimed to uphold the sanctity of marriage, protect family structures, and prevent abuse and exploitation.

The commandment against adultery, found in the Decalogue (Exodus 20:14; Deuteronomy 5:18), underscores the covenantal nature of marriage. Violating this commandment was not merely a personal moral failure but a disruption of community integrity and trust. Adultery often had social and even legal consequences, reflecting its seriousness in the eyes of both God and society. The emphasis on sexual purity extended to other contexts as well, such as temple worship and community membership, linking bodily integrity with spiritual faithfulness.

In the New Testament, the moral vision surrounding sex continues, but with a deepened spiritual emphasis. The early Christian community, living in the Greco-Roman world—a culture often marked by permissiveness and inequality in sexual relationships, was called to a higher standard of holiness. The writings of Paul, Peter, and others repeatedly warn against “sexual immorality,” translating the Greek term porneia. This word encompasses a broad spectrum of sexual sins, including premarital sex, adultery, incest, prostitution, and other behaviours considered contrary to God’s design for human flourishing.

Paul’s letters urge believers to flee from sexual immorality and to honour their bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). In 1 Thessalonians 4:35, he writes, “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honour.” Similarly, in Galatians 5:19-21, sexual immorality is listed among the “works of the flesh” that are incompatible with life in the Spirit. These teachings reflect an ethical framework where sexuality is understood not merely in terms of behaviour but as an expression of one’s inner life and relationship with God.

Jesus, in His Sermon on the Mount, intensifies the biblical standard by moving beyond outward actions to address the heart’s intentions. In Matthew 5:27-28, He declares, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” This radical internalisation of the law reorients the conversation from mere legal compliance to personal transformation, highlighting the role of desire, intention, and spiritual integrity in moral life.

Together, the laws of the Old Testament and the teachings of the New Testament provide a comprehensive moral vision that treats sexuality with seriousness, reverence, and purpose. Far from being prudish or repressive, biblical boundaries around sex are ultimately designed to foster love, protect human dignity, uphold covenantal relationships, and promote a flourishing and holy community. In this light, sexual ethics are not standalone rules but part of a broader call to live faithfully in relationship with God and one another.

Sexual Brokenness and Redemption

The Bible does not gloss over the realities of human brokenness, particularly when it comes to sexuality. Alongside its affirmations of sex as a sacred and meaningful part of life, Scripture also tells stories that are raw, painful, and deeply unsettling. These accounts of sexual sin, violence, and exploitation reflect how human desire, when twisted by selfishness, power, or rebellion, can inflict deep and lasting harm, not only on individuals but also on families, communities, and entire nations.

The stories of rape in Genesis 34 and 2 Samuel 13 are particularly tragic and difficult to read. In Genesis 34, Dinah, the daughter of Jacob and Leah, is sexually violated by Shechem, a local prince. Though he later expresses a desire to marry her, the violence he inflicted cannot be undone, and the resulting retaliation by Dinah’s brothers plunges the entire region into bloodshed. This narrative exposes the vulnerability of women in the ancient world and the far-reaching consequences of sexual violence. Similarly, in 2 Samuel 13, Amnon, a son of King David, becomes obsessed with his half-sister Tamar and ultimately rapes her. The story highlights the personal devastation Tamar experiences—”where could I carry my shame?” she asks—and the societal failure to protect and restore her. David’s silence and inaction following the incident serve as a sobering reminder of how justice can be denied even by those in power.

Adultery, too, is portrayed in Scripture not merely as a personal moral lapse but as a deeply disruptive act that can unravel lives and undermine trust. The infamous story of David and Bathsheba in 2 Samuel 11 is a case in point. David, overcome by desire, abuses his kingly authority to sleep with Bathsheba, the wife of one of his most loyal soldiers. When she becomes pregnant, David orchestrates a cover-up that ultimately results in her husband’s death. This layered tale of lust, deceit, and murder illustrates how far sin can spiral when left unchecked. And yet, this same story also becomes a powerful narrative of repentance and grace. When the prophet Nathan confronts David, he acknowledges his sin with genuine remorse. His prayer in Psalm 51 remains one of the most poignant confessions in the Bible, expressing deep sorrow and a longing for renewal: “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.”

Throughout Scripture, prostitution is frequently mentioned—not only as a literal reality but also as a metaphor for spiritual unfaithfulness. God famously commands the prophet Hosea to marry Gomer, a woman described as promiscuous, to symbolise Israel’s unfaithfulness to the Lord. And yet, the relationship between Hosea and Gomer also becomes a powerful allegory of God’s persistent, redeeming love. Despite Gomer’s repeated betrayals, Hosea continues to pursue and restore her, reflecting the lengths to which God will go to reclaim His wayward people.

In the New Testament, Jesus consistently demonstrates compassion toward those whose lives have been marked by sexual shame or scandal. His approach is never to excuse sin, but to offer a path forward—one rooted in grace, dignity, and transformation. In John 8:1 11, a woman caught in the act of adultery is brought before Jesus by religious leaders hoping to trap Him in a legal dilemma. Rather than condoning her sin or condemning her as the crowd expected, Jesus turns the situation inward: “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” One by one, the accusers depart, and Jesus tells her, “Neither do I condemn you. Go now and leave your life of sin.” In this profound moment, we see a perfect blend of truth and grace—Jesus neither ignores the moral weight of her actions nor allows her to be defined or destroyed by them.

A similarly redemptive encounter occurs in John 4, when Jesus speaks with a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. Her history includes multiple husbands and a current relationship outside of marriage—circumstances that would have rendered her a social outcast. Yet Jesus engages her not with judgment, but with honesty and respect. He reveals her life story, not to shame her, but to show that she is known and still loved. Moreover, He entrusts her with the Revelation of His identity as the Messiah, making her one of the earliest witnesses to His mission. She leaves her water jar behind—the symbol of her old life—and joyfully invites her community to meet the one who told her everything she ever did.

These stories underscore a profound and consistent theme throughout the Bible: while sexuality is deeply significant and capable of great harm when misused, it is never beyond the reach of God’s redeeming love. Sexual sin, whether self-inflicted or suffered at the hands of others, does not have the final word. The God of Scripture is not only a lawgiver but also a healer—One who brings justice for the oppressed, grace to the repentant, and restoration to the broken. In Jesus, those shamed by their past are given new names, new purposes, and the opportunity to live in freedom.

Modern Implications and Interpretations

Today, biblical teachings on sex are interpreted in various ways across Christian traditions and denominations, reflecting broader differences in theology, culture, and historical context. These divergent interpretations fuel ongoing debates within the Church and wider society, particularly on issues such as premarital sex, homosexuality, gender identity, gender roles in marriage and ministry, contraception, and the ethics of consent. Some Christian communities maintain a traditional view, emphasising what they see as the Bible’s clear and enduring moral standards rooted in heterosexual marriage, chastity outside of marriage, and sexual fidelity within it. For these traditions, the authority of Scripture provides a timeless blueprint for sexual ethics, grounded in God’s original design for human relationships.

Other Christians, however, approach these same texts with an emphasis on broader biblical themes, such as love, justice, compassion, equality, and the dignity of every person. These readers often highlight the importance of interpreting Scripture in its historical and cultural context, noting that many biblical sexual norms emerged within patriarchal, ancient Near Eastern or Greco-Roman societies. While the core principles of mutuality, faithfulness, and respect remain vital, their application may look different in contemporary settings. For instance, discussions around consent, largely absent from ancient legal codes, are now recognised as essential to any ethical sexual relationship. Similarly, the affirmation of LGBTQ+ relationships by some Christians reflects a theological shift toward inclusion and a reexamination of what it means to fulfil the law of Christ through love (Galatians 5:14).

Despite these varying perspectives, what is strikingly consistent across Christian reflection is the recognition that the Bible does not treat sex casually or superficially. From Genesis to Revelation, sex is portrayed as a powerful and deeply meaningful aspect of human life. It is an embodied expression of intimacy, vulnerability, and covenant, a means by which love is communicated, life is created, and bonds are strengthened. In biblical terms, sexual union is never just physical; it carries emotional, relational, spiritual, and even symbolic weight. The recurring metaphor of marriage and sexual fidelity to describe God’s relationship with His people, whether in the prophets’ imagery of God and Israel or the New Testament’s picture of Christ and the Church, underscores just how seriously the Bible regards sexual relationships.

At the same time, the Bible is equally candid about the potential for sex to be misused, distorted, or weaponised. It acknowledges how sexuality can become a source of pain through coercion, betrayal, abuse, and shame. And yet, Scripture does not leave us in despair. Instead, it consistently points toward the hope of healing, redemption, and restoration. Whether it’s through stories of repentance like David’s, testimonies of grace like that of the woman caught in adultery, or parables that illustrate God’s boundless mercy, the Bible offers a vision of renewal for those who have been wounded by sexual sin, whether their own or others’.

Ultimately, the Bible calls believers to approach sexuality with reverence and responsibility. It is not a mere rule-following but a call to live in right relationships with God, others, and oneself. In doing so, Christians are invited to see their bodies and relationships as gifts to be stewarded with care, guided by love, truth, and the transforming power of grace.

In a modern world marked by confusion, hyper-sexualisation, and at times, deep hurt surrounding sexuality, the biblical witness offers a countercultural yet profoundly humanising perspective. Whether through affirming sex’s sacred potential or warning against its misuse, the Bible continually invites people into a deeper understanding of what it means to be made in the image of God, body, soul, and Spirit.

Conclusion

Sex in the Bible is not a peripheral topic or a passing concern; it is intricately woven into the fabric of human identity and divine relationship. From the first pages of Genesis to the final visions of Revelation, sexuality is treated as a significant and formative aspect of what it means to be human. It is more than an act or impulse; it is bound with themes of covenant, creation, community, and calling. In Scripture, sex is portrayed as both sacred and serious, celebratory and cautionary. It is honoured as a gift from God—an expression of intimacy, vulnerability, and unity between persons—while carefully bounded by moral and relational frameworks designed to preserve human dignity and flourishing.

The Bible does not offer a simplistic or one-dimensional view of sex. Rather, it presents a textured and often paradoxical picture. On one hand, some passages exalt the beauty and joy of sexual union, such as in the Song of Songs, where desire and delight are given poetic expression without shame. On the other hand, there are strong warnings and sobering stories that reveal how sex, when divorced from love, justice, and faithfulness, can lead to harm, exploitation, and deep emotional and spiritual wounds. This duality, celebration and caution reflect the Bible’s deep realism about human nature. It acknowledges that something as powerful and personal as sex can be a source of great joy or great sorrow, depending on how it is approached and lived out.

The Bible offers more than a list of rules or prohibitions for contemporary readers. It provides a compelling, sometimes challenging, vision of intimacy that is holistic, honest, and ultimately rooted in love. This vision affirms that sexual expression is meant to occur in the context of trust, mutual respect, and lifelong commitment. It is not transactional or trivial, but relational and covenantal. It draws individuals out of isolation into a deeper communion with another person, and, in the biblical imagination, this union also reflects a spiritual reality: the loving, faithful relationship between God and His people.

Importantly, the Bible’s teachings on sex are not confined to private morality. They are intertwined with broader justice, power, consent, and community well-being concerns. Throughout the Scriptures, sexual ethics are linked to how we treat the most vulnerable, honour others’ bodies and boundaries, and live out God’s love and holiness in our everyday relationships. Whether in the laws of the Old Testament or the teachings of Jesus and Paul in the New Testament, the underlying call is to embody love, not merely romantic love, but self-giving, respectful, and redemptive love.

In a world that often sends confusing or contradictory messages about sex, whether through hyper-sexualisation, legalism, or silence, the Bible speaks with both clarity and compassion. It acknowledges human longing and struggle, offers guidance that leads to life, and extends grace for those who have fallen short. It tells the truth about our capacity for harm and healing, and it ultimately invites us into a better way, one that honours the body, cherishes the soul, and mirrors the divine love at the heart of creation.

What Does the Bible Teach About Sex?

DTA – Neil McBride

(CEO and founder of Downtown Angels)