The Falsehoods That Cause Self-Enablement of Pornography

Pornography can be a toxic addition to the way we think about ourselves. Yet, while we engage in this destructive behavior, we tend to want to justify that it is "no big deal" and bears little effect.

In truth, pornography use is harmful both to ourselves and to our relationships. Here are five common falsehoods that users tend to tell themselves to justify their pornography use:

• "It isn't hurting anyone."
• "God wired me this way...so it is okay."
• "Pornography is a helpful tool for intimacy in the bedroom."
• "When you get married viewing porn will stop."
• "People who attend church are less likely to view porn."

In truth, pornography hurts everyone. This is reflected in 1 Corinthians by the apostle Paul.

"Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Never! Or do you not know that he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, "The two will become one flesh." But he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him. Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body." 1 Corinthians 6:15-19

Reflect
How have you breached the topic of pornography in your church?

Respond
Sign up to be notified when the RelateStrong | Leadership Series eBook is available for research-backed truths to dispel the harmful falsehoods of pornography.