Topical Encyclopedia Chastity, a virtue highly esteemed within Christian doctrine, is the practice of refraining from extramarital, or especially from all, sexual intercourse. It is often associated with purity and holiness, reflecting a commitment to God's design for human sexuality. The Bible provides numerous references that underscore the importance of chastity as a reflection of one's faith and obedience to God's commandments.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, chastity is often linked with the concept of purity and holiness. Leviticus 18:20-30 outlines various prohibitions against sexual immorality, emphasizing the need for the Israelites to remain pure and distinct from the surrounding nations. The call to holiness is reiterated in Leviticus 19:2, "Speak to the entire congregation of the Israelites and tell them: ‘Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.’" Proverbs also offers wisdom on the subject, warning against the allure of sexual immorality. Proverbs 5:3-5 cautions, "Though the lips of the forbidden woman drip honey and her speech is smoother than oil, in the end she is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a double-edged sword. Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to Sheol." New Testament References The New Testament continues to uphold the virtue of chastity, particularly within the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. In Matthew 5:27-28, Jesus expands the understanding of adultery, stating, "You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.’ But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart." The Apostle Paul frequently addresses issues of sexual morality in his epistles. In 1 Corinthians 6:18-20, he exhorts believers, "Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a man can commit is outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body." Paul further emphasizes the importance of chastity in 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, "For it is God’s will that you should be holy: You must abstain from sexual immorality; each of you must know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in lustful passion like the Gentiles who do not know God." Theological Implications Chastity is not merely a personal virtue but is deeply connected to the Christian understanding of the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit. It reflects a commitment to living in accordance with God's will and maintaining the sanctity of marriage as a covenantal relationship. The call to chastity is a call to live a life that honors God, respects oneself, and values others, recognizing the profound spiritual and relational implications of sexual purity. Practical Applications For Christians, the pursuit of chastity involves both personal discipline and reliance on God's grace. It requires a conscious effort to avoid situations that may lead to temptation and to cultivate relationships that encourage mutual respect and holiness. Engaging in regular prayer, studying Scripture, and participating in a community of faith are essential practices that support the commitment to chastity. In summary, chastity is a foundational aspect of Christian ethics, deeply rooted in Scripture and reflective of a life dedicated to holiness and obedience to God. Through the teachings of both the Old and New Testaments, believers are called to uphold this virtue as a testament to their faith and devotion. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 20:14You shall not commit adultery. Nave's Topical Index Job 31:1 Proverbs 2:10,11,16-22 Proverbs 5:15-21 Proverbs 6:24,25 Proverbs 7:1-5 Proverbs 31:3 Matthew 5:28 Acts 15:20 Romans 13:13 1 Corinthians 6:13-19 1 Corinthians 7:1,2,7-9,25,26,36,37 Ephesians 5:3 Colossians 3:5 1 Thessalonians 4:3,7 Revelation 14:1-5 Library Eusebius: Constantine. General Index. Concerning the Sacrament of Baptism On the Words Incarnate, and Made Man. Of Passages from the Holy Scriptures, and from the Apocrypha ... On the Righteousness and Efficacy of the Providence of God ... Regeneration the life of constantine On the Article, and in one Holy Ghost, the Comforter, which Spake ... Elucidations. Dionysius, Bishop of Corinth, and the Epistles which He Wrote. Resources What is the Society of Jesus? Who are the Jesuits, and what do they believe? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is virginity so important in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is Teilhardism? | GotQuestions.org Chastity: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Chastity: Consequences of Associating With Those Devoid of Chastity: Drunkenness Destructive To Chastity: General Scriptures Concerning Chastity: Shun Those Devoid of Chastity: Temptation to Deviate From, Dangerous Chastity: The Wicked are Devoid of Chastity: Want of, Excludes from Heaven Related Terms |
    |