The Bible provides a comprehensive framework for understanding sexual conduct, primarily through the laws given in the Old Testament and the teachings of the New Testament. These laws are intended to guide believers in maintaining purity, holiness, and fidelity in their relationships.

Old Testament Laws

The Old Testament, particularly the Pentateuch, outlines specific laws regarding sexual conduct. Leviticus 18 and 20 are key chapters that detail prohibitions against various sexual practices. These laws were given to the Israelites to set them apart from the surrounding nations and to maintain holiness.

1. Prohibition of Adultery: Adultery is explicitly forbidden in the Ten Commandments: "You shall not commit adultery" (Exodus 20:14). This commandment underscores the sanctity of marriage and the importance of fidelity between spouses.

2. Prohibition of Incest: Leviticus 18:6-18 lists various forms of incestuous relationships that are prohibited. These laws emphasize the importance of respecting familial boundaries and maintaining purity within the family unit.

3. Prohibition of Homosexuality: Leviticus 18:22 states, "You must not lie with a man as with a woman; that is an abomination" . This verse is often cited in discussions about biblical views on homosexuality.

4. Prohibition of Bestiality: Leviticus 18:23 forbids sexual relations with animals, stating, "You must not have sexual relations with any animal, defiling yourself with it" . This law highlights the importance of maintaining human dignity and the natural order.

5. Prohibition of Prostitution and Sexual Immorality: Deuteronomy 23:17-18 warns against prostitution and the use of temple prostitutes, emphasizing the need for sexual purity and the rejection of pagan practices.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament reaffirms the Old Testament's teachings on sexual conduct while expanding on the principles of love, purity, and self-control.

1. Marriage and Fidelity: Jesus reaffirms the sanctity of marriage in Matthew 19:4-6, emphasizing that marriage is a divine institution between a man and a woman. The Apostle Paul also speaks to the importance of marital fidelity in 1 Corinthians 7:2, advising each man to have his own wife and each woman her own husband to avoid sexual immorality.

2. Sexual Immorality: The New Testament frequently warns against sexual immorality. In 1 Corinthians 6:18, Paul instructs believers to "Flee from sexual immorality" , highlighting the need for believers to avoid behaviors that defile the body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit.

3. Purity and Holiness: 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 calls believers to live in holiness and honor, avoiding sexual immorality and controlling their bodies in a way that is pleasing to God. This passage underscores the call to live a life set apart for God.

4. Condemnation of Homosexual Acts: Romans 1:26-27 describes homosexual acts as contrary to nature and a result of turning away from God. This passage is often referenced in discussions about the biblical stance on homosexuality.

5. Love and Respect: Ephesians 5:3-5 encourages believers to avoid even a hint of sexual immorality, impurity, or greed, as these are improper for God's holy people. The emphasis is on living a life of love and respect, reflecting the character of Christ.

The biblical laws on sexual conduct serve as a guide for believers to live lives that honor God, uphold the sanctity of marriage, and maintain personal and communal purity. These principles are rooted in the understanding that human sexuality is a gift from God, intended to be expressed within the boundaries He has established.