The Bible contains no direct passage about masturbation, so the statement “The Bible says masturbation is a sin” would have no basis. The question is considered through biblical principles: Jesus’ words about lust, the call to sexual purity and self-control, and freedom that must not master a person. Christians reach different conclusions.
Biblical Principles
- Conclusion: the story of Onan (Gen. 38:8–10) does not refer to masturbation. Onan refused to fulfill his duty to provide offspring for his deceased brother, and Scripture identifies this specific act as evil. Therefore, this passage is not used here as an argument.
- Application: Jesus’ words that whoever looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart (Matt. 5:27–28) show that Scripture evaluates inner desire, not only outward actions.
- Scripture calls us to flee youthful passions (2 Tim. 2:22), put to death sinful desire and passion (Col. 3:5), and abstain from sexual immorality while keeping our bodies holy and honorable (1 Thess. 4:3–5).
- “Nothing should master me” (1 Cor. 6:12), and the fruit of the Spirit is self-control (Gal. 5:22–23): a habit that controls a person contradicts these principles.
- Interpretations differ: some Christians see masturbation as an expression of lust and consider it a sin; others are more cautious and focus on the motive and whether it has become an addiction. This is an application of principles, not a direct commandment.
- Application: guilt and a struggle with addiction are reasons to talk with someone you trust; the forgiveness Scripture speaks of is available (1 John 1:9).
This brief answer was prepared by the editorial team; the Scripture quotations are from the Father’s Blessing Bible.
Key Scripture Passages
7 Scripture Passages · Father’s Blessing Bible
Matthew 5:27–28
27 You have heard that it was said to those of old, “You shall not commit adultery.” 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
1 Thessalonians 4:3–5
3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality; 4 that each of you should know how to control your own body in holiness and honor, 5 not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God;
1 Corinthians 6:12
“All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything.
Galatians 5:22–23
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, 23 gentleness, and self-control. Against such people there is no law.
2 Timothy 2:22
Flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
Colossians 3:5
Therefore, put to death what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which is idolatry,
1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
