What does the Bible say about continence?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible calls believers to sexual self-control, purity of heart, and faithful obedience to God, whether single or married. Jesus teaches that lustful desire is sinful before God, not merely outward adultery (Matthew 5:27-28), while Job models covenantal resolve in guarding the eyes (Job 31:1). Paul commends singleness where God grants that calling, yet honors marriage as God’s good provision and urges spouses toward mutual faithfulness (1 Corinthians 7:1-9, 25-29, 36-38). Continence is therefore not self-salvation or contempt for the body, but Spirit-enabled mortification of sinful desires and disciplined service to Christ (Romans 13:13; Colossians 3:5; 1 Corinthians 9:27).
Study outline
Curated topical outlines from classic public-domain study works.
Nave's Topical Bible
- General scriptures concerning Job 31:1; Matthew 5:27; Matthew 5:28; Matthew 19:12; Romans 13:13; 1 Corinthians 7:1-9; 1 Corinthians 7:25-29; 1 Corinthians 7:36-38; 1 Corinthians 9:27; Colossians 3:5; 1 Timothy 4:12; 1 Timothy 5:1
- See CHASTITY
- INSTANCES OF
- Joseph Genesis 39:7-12
- Uriah 2 Samuel 11:8-13
- Boaz Ruth 3:6-13
- Joseph, husband of Mary Matthew 1:24; Matthew 1:25
- Paul 1 Corinthians 7:8
See also
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