Church's view of masturbation (Teachings of the Orthodox Church) Christianity. Orthodoxy. Catholicism. Sense of life. Articles for Christians.
Don't be anxious for your life, what you will eat, nor yet for your body, what you will wear.                Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing.                Consider the ravens: they don't sow, they don't reap, they have no warehouse or barn, and God feeds them. How much more valuable are you than birds!                Which of you by being anxious can add a cubit to his height?                If then you aren't able to do even the least things, why are you anxious about the rest?                Consider the lilies, how they grow. They don't toil, neither do they spin; yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.                But if this is how God clothes the grass in the field, which today exists, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith?                Don't seek what you will eat or what you will drink; neither be anxious.                For the nations of the world seek after all of these things, but your Father knows that you need these things.                But seek God's Kingdom, and all these things will be added to you.               
English versionChristian Portal

Christian Resources

Vote!

 
Church's view of masturbation (Teachings of the Orthodox Church)
   

QUESTION:

What is the Church's view of masturbation?

ANSWER:

Sexuality is a gift from God, as we read in the book of Genesis.

It is meant to be shared, a physical expression of our love and concern for a member of the opposite sex with whom we have made a life-long commitment through marriage and is open to the possibility of procreation.

There is a sharp distinction between "making love" and "having sex." The former constitutes the wise use of the gift of sexuality, whereas the latter falls short of this ideal.

Masturbation is self-directed. As such, is a distortion of human sexuality.

By nature, it is incapable of expressing love and concern for an other person. It is also incapable of the possibility of procreation, in fulfillment of our Creator's injunction to "be fruitful and multiply."

Since it "misses the mark" of the wise use of the gift of sexuality, it is considered sinful. This is especially so in cases in which masturbation becomes an addiction.

Hope this helps.
In Christ,
Father John Matusiak, OCA Communications Office






Published in January 2011.








Read more Christian articles

Recommend this page to your friend!
Read also: