What is the Bible's perspective on asexuality? Understanding the Terminology and Scope Asexuality, in general modern usage, refers to an absence of sexual attraction toward others. While Scripture does not directly use the term “asexual,” it addresses human identity, sexuality, singleness, celibacy, and the broader range of human experiences in ways that offer principles relevant to this discussion. The Berean Standard Bible will be quoted to illuminate these perspectives. Below is a comprehensive topical entry on asexuality from a biblical viewpoint, exploring various principles and passages that help believers navigate this subject. 1. Foundations of Human Identity and Sexuality The Bible underscores that humanity is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This identity in God is far more central than one’s experience of sexual attraction or inclination. From the earliest pages of Scripture, God gives a mandate to “Be fruitful and multiply” (Genesis 1:28). This blessing is frequently viewed as central to marriage and family. However, Scripture never teaches that every person must marry or that every person must experience or express sexual desire. Instead, the foundational point is that the Lord creates each person with inherent dignity and value (Psalm 139:13–14). Human identity, ultimately, rests in communion with God rather than in the measure or direction of sexual attraction. 2. Singleness and Celibacy in Scripture In addressing asexuality, it is helpful to look closely at what the Bible teaches about singleness and celibacy, since the experience of not desiring marriage or sexual intimacy may naturally overlap with living single. 2.1. Jesus’ Teaching on Eunuchs Jesus acknowledged that some choose—or find themselves called—to live without pursuing marriage. Speaking of those who do not marry, He said: “‘For there are eunuchs who were born that way from their mother’s womb, there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.’” (Matthew 19:12) In its original context, “eunuch” often addressed men without the capacity for marital intimacy, whether due to physical reasons or deliberate commitment to celibacy. Though this is not a one-to-one correlation with asexuality as understood today, the passage affirms that some remain unmarried or experience no active need for marriage without condemnation. Jesus holds them in esteem, noting they might do so “for the sake of the kingdom.” 2.2. Paul’s Counsel on Singleness The Apostle Paul adds to the discussion of singleness and sexual expression in 1 Corinthians 7. He highlights that remaining single can be beneficial for serving the Lord wholeheartedly: “I want you to be free from concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the work of the Lord, how he can please the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 7:32) Here Paul stresses that singleness, whether voluntary or due to circumstance, offers a devoted focus on God. He affirms that both marriage and singleness are ordained by God, with neither state bringing additional righteousness over the other (1 Corinthians 7:7). Such teaching can soothe any concern that one who does not experience sexual desire is somehow “lesser” in God’s sight. 3. The Bible’s Affirmation of Personal Worth While the biblical call to “be fruitful and multiply” is significant, it is not presented as a universal command that every individual must physically fulfill. Some are set apart for varying ministries, callings, and life circumstances, and Scripture lauds the sincerity of one’s devotion to God over adhering to a single blueprint of marriage and parenthood. A key passage that safeguards identity against cultural pressures is found in Galatians 3:28, which emphasizes that union with Christ supersedes all other categories: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Though not specifically about sexuality, the principle stands: Our acceptance before God rests in Christ alone. 4. Moral Conduct and Purity Scripture consistently addresses moral purity for all believers, whether married or single, and upholds that sexual intimacy is rightly expressed within marital union (Hebrews 13:4). For an individual who does not experience sexual attraction, there is no biblical prohibition or judgment over lacking that attraction. Instead, Scripture values faithful living, self-control, and devotion to God in whatever state one finds oneself (Romans 12:1–2). 5. Pastoral Encouragement and Church Community In modern application, believers who identify as asexual may find themselves uncertain about how to integrate into church life, especially in cultures or congregations that heavily emphasize marriage or family. Yet the New Testament model describes the Church as a body composed of diverse members, each with unique gifts (1 Corinthians 12:12–27). Those who do not experience sexual attraction can wholeheartedly serve in the local church without any stigma or sense of inferiority. Within fellowship, believers are called to support one another’s unique circumstances. Practical pastoral care includes: • Encouraging close Christian friendships and small-group communities. • Affirming that a married state is not a prerequisite to spiritual maturity. • Partnering in ministry together, irrespective of marital status or sexual inclination. 6. Historical and Social Reflections Throughout church history, many followers of Christ have lived and served in a celibate capacity. Although not all of these accounts imply asexuality as understood in a modern sense, they do illustrate how the Church has long recognized that living without marriage and sexual relations can be a faithful and Spirit-led choice or circumstance. From an evidential standpoint, early manuscript discoveries (e.g., portions of the Dead Sea Scrolls for Old Testament texts, and early Christian codices such as Codex Sinaiticus for New Testament texts) demonstrate the consistency of the biblical witness on issues of identity and morality. Scholars examining these texts affirm that the teachings about singleness, marriage, and personal integrity have remained substantially unchanged over centuries, underscoring the solidity of Scripture’s message. 7. Conclusion In addressing the question, “What is the Bible’s perspective on asexuality?” several points emerge: • The Bible does not use the term “asexual,” yet it offers robust teachings relevant to all who do not feel sexual attraction. • Identity in Scripture is rooted in being made in God’s image and in being redeemed by Christ, not in sexual or romantic attraction. • Jesus and Paul commend singleness and celibacy, stressing that believers can serve God effectively and wholeheartedly without marriage. • There is no biblical command that everyone must experience sexual attraction or that all must marry; rather, devotion to the Lord stands paramount. • The Church is called to embrace believers of various callings, encouraging service, fellowship, and maturity in Christ, whether single or married. In this way, individuals who identify as asexual can be fully assured that they are of equal value in God’s sight and that their lives can be given over in service, love, and dedication to the Lord and His people. They are welcome—like any believer—to find community and purpose in the body of Christ, secure in the knowledge that devotion to God remains the central calling of every human life. |
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