Expert: Phillip Senn - 3/7/2008

Question
QUESTION:
What does the bible teach about masturbation.  Is it a sin?

ANSWER: It is referred to in Genesis 38:9. While it doesn't specifically refer to masturbation by name, it is implied. The thing which he did "displeased the Lord, wherefore He slew him also.

There are many arguments against this passage referring to masturbation by those that say masturbation is not sinful. However, the argument could also be made that masturbation does not allow the seed, that is in the sperm, to reach God's intended purpose for that sperm. Anytime we usurp our rights over God's will, that is sin.

I hope that this answers your question, and that whatsoever you do, you will do it as unto the Lord. It would be very difficult for a believer in Christ to dishonor the Lord by dishonoring the Lord in this way.

With Love In Christ,
Phillip Senn

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION:
Thanks for your reply. I agreed that there are many differing views on this issue. Many quoted that Gen 38:9, God was angry because he did not want to impregnate the woman which he is responsible as a brother in law.  I'm struggling with this issue, how would you suggest I could overcome it.

Answer
Scripture offers many suggestions on overcoming temptations.

1. Think on things that are pure, etc. (Phil. 4:8).

2. Meditate on God's Word (Ps. 119:11)

3. Flee fornication, which is best described as all sexual uncleanness (1 Cor. 6:18)

4. Recognize that sexual immorality does not begin in the body, but in the heart (James 1:13-15, Matt. 5:28)

5. Confession of sins does not mean merely to say to God, "OK, I have sinned." It means to come into agreement with God about the sin. That would include the payment of that sin, which cost Christ Jesus His life at Calvary. John says in 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, AND TO CLEANSE US FROM ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS."

I will continue to pray that the Lord Jesus will help you overcome this sin addiction. I hope these things will be a help to you, and that your question has been answered in a way that glorifies the Lord Jesus.

With Love In Christ,
Phillip Senn