What does the Bible say about sending or receiving nude pictures?

The Bible, while written in a time long before the advent of modern technology, offers timeless principles that can guide us in making ethical decisions about contemporary issues, including the practice of sending or receiving nude pictures. To understand the biblical perspective on this matter, it is essential to delve into the broader biblical teachings on sexual ethics, purity, and the sanctity of the body.

First and foremost, the Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of sexual purity and the sanctity of the human body. In 1 Corinthians 6:18-20, the Apostle Paul writes:

"Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."

This passage underscores that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and should be treated with honor and respect. Sexual immorality, which includes any sexual activity outside the bounds of a biblically defined marriage, is a sin against our own bodies and against God. Sending or receiving nude pictures often leads to lustful thoughts and actions, which the Bible clearly warns against.

Jesus Himself addressed the issue of lust in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 5:27-28, He said:

"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart."

Here, Jesus expands the definition of sexual immorality to include not just physical acts but also the intentions and thoughts of the heart. Sending or receiving nude pictures can easily provoke lustful thoughts and desires, which are contrary to the purity that Jesus calls His followers to pursue.

Furthermore, the Bible teaches that sexual expression is reserved for the covenant of marriage between a man and a woman. Hebrews 13:4 states:

"Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral."

This verse highlights the sanctity of marriage and the expectation that sexual relations and expressions remain within that sacred bond. Nude pictures, often exchanged outside the confines of marriage, violate this principle by exposing and exploiting the intimate aspects of one's body, which are meant to be shared exclusively with one's spouse.

The practice of sending or receiving nude pictures also raises concerns about modesty. The Apostle Paul advises in 1 Timothy 2:9-10:

"I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God."

While this passage specifically addresses women, the principle of modesty applies to all believers. Modesty is about more than just clothing; it encompasses our entire demeanor and how we present ourselves to others. Sending nude pictures is inherently immodest and contrary to the biblical call to live with decency and propriety.

Another important aspect to consider is the potential for harm and exploitation. The Bible calls us to love and protect one another, as seen in Philippians 2:3-4:

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."

Sending or receiving nude pictures can lead to significant emotional and psychological harm, including feelings of shame, guilt, and betrayal. It can also result in exploitation, with images being shared without consent, leading to further trauma and violation of privacy. Such actions are contrary to the biblical mandate to love and honor one another.

Additionally, the Bible warns against the power and danger of sexual temptation. James 1:14-15 explains:

"But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death."

Engaging in the practice of sending or receiving nude pictures can be a gateway to further sexual sin and temptation. It can create a cycle of desire and sin that ultimately leads to spiritual and relational death. As Christians, we are called to resist temptation and pursue holiness, as stated in 1 Peter 1:15-16:

"But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'"

Holiness involves setting ourselves apart for God's purposes and living in a manner that reflects His character. Sending or receiving nude pictures is incompatible with the call to holiness and purity.

In addition to the biblical teachings, Christian literature and pastoral guidance also emphasize the importance of sexual purity and the dangers of engaging in activities that can lead to sexual sin. For example, in his book "Every Man's Battle," Stephen Arterburn addresses the challenges men face in maintaining sexual integrity and the importance of guarding one's eyes and thoughts from lustful images. Similarly, in "Passion and Purity," Elisabeth Elliot shares her personal journey of maintaining purity and the importance of honoring God in all aspects of relationships and sexuality.

In conclusion, while the Bible does not specifically mention the practice of sending or receiving nude pictures, its teachings on sexual purity, modesty, the sanctity of the body, and the dangers of lust and temptation provide clear guidance. As followers of Christ, we are called to honor God with our bodies, pursue holiness, and protect one another from harm and exploitation. Engaging in the practice of sending or receiving nude pictures is contrary to these biblical principles and can lead to significant spiritual, emotional, and relational consequences. Therefore, it is wise and prudent to abstain from such practices and seek to live in a manner that reflects the purity and holiness to which we are called.