Topical Encyclopedia Chastity, a virtue highly esteemed within Christian ethics, encompasses purity in thought, word, and deed, particularly in matters of sexual conduct. It is a call to maintain moral integrity and to honor God with one's body, as emphasized throughout Scripture. The concept of chastity extends beyond physical actions to include the purity of one's gaze and intentions, reflecting a holistic approach to living a life pleasing to God.The Bible underscores the importance of chastity in one's look, warning against the dangers of lustful gazes and the internal sin they can foster. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses the issue directly, elevating the standard of righteousness beyond mere external compliance to the law. He states, "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). This teaching highlights the significance of inner purity and the need to guard one's eyes and thoughts from sinful desires. The call to chastity in look is further supported by the wisdom literature of the Old Testament. Proverbs 4:25-27 advises, "Let your eyes look forward; fix your gaze straight ahead. Make a level path for your feet, and all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your feet away from evil." This passage encourages believers to maintain focus on righteous living, avoiding distractions that lead to moral compromise. Job, a paragon of righteousness, exemplifies the commitment to chastity in look through his personal resolve. He declares, "I have made a covenant with my eyes. How then could I gaze with desire at a virgin?" (Job 31:1). Job's covenant with his eyes signifies a deliberate and proactive stance to uphold purity, serving as a model for believers to emulate. The New Testament epistles also reinforce the necessity of chastity, urging believers to live in a manner that reflects their identity in Christ. Paul exhorts the church in Philippi, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things" (Philippians 4:8). This directive encompasses the discipline of the mind and eyes, encouraging believers to focus on that which is pure and virtuous. In the pursuit of chastity, believers are called to rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance. Galatians 5:16 instructs, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." By living in accordance with the Spirit, Christians can resist the temptations that arise from impure looks and thoughts, cultivating a life that honors God in all aspects. Chastity in look is an integral part of the Christian walk, requiring vigilance and intentionality. It is a reflection of one's commitment to holiness and a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel in shaping a life that glorifies God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Job 31:1I made a covenant with my eyes; why then should I think on a maid? Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 5:28 Library Of the Discipline and Advantage of Chastity. 1 Timothy ii. 10-Aug Sermons on Selected Lessons of the Gospels. How we are to Reduce all the Exercise of the virtues, and all Our ... On the Feast of the Nativity, ii. Hopkinsians. The Grey Sisters A Summary of the Christian Life. Of Self-Denial. Epistle Xliv. To Peter, Subdeacon of Sicily. A Summary of the Christian Life. Of Self-Denial. Resources What does the Bible say about chastity? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is The Acts of Paul and Thecla? | GotQuestions.org Is the Catholic concept of a nun biblical? | 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 |