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NASB | 1 Corinthians 7:9 But if they do not have self-control, let them marry; for it is better to marry than to burn with passion. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Corinthians 7:9 But if they do not have [sufficient] self-control, they should marry; for it is better to marry than to burn with passion. |
Bible Question: I would like to know if being celibate, is it wrong to masturbate? I have searched the word and can't find any specifics and do not want to commit the sin of omission just to do what the flesh wants! Please someone answer this for me |
Bible Answer: Charlene, I believe this passage cleary refers in broad terms to the libido, the sex drive ("burn with passion"), that God implanted in us at creation, not only to insure obedience to His command to "be fruitful and multiply" but to provide a means to express and share, in an intimate and pleasurable way, the love of spouse, one for the other. In that love they become "one flesh" meaning, among other things, that they become as one in conjugal union. Genesis 38:9 that has been cited in reference to masturbation, but a careful reading of that passage would suggest that Onan was practicing coitus interruptus, not masturbation. The one form of sexual activity that clearly and incontrovertibly has the sanction of our Creator is sex within marriage. Of any other form the Bible is either condemnatory or silent. Paul does mention in this passage "self-control" -- something the believer should make every effort to exercise in every area of his life every day of his life. I believe that this issue, if it becomes troubling to a Christian should, along with all others, first be taken to the Lord in prayer and, if so led, discussed with a trusted pastor or other qualified Christian counselor. |