Chastity
Summary
The virtue of sexual purity, encompassing freedom from impure thoughts and abstinence from illicit relations, central to Christian ethics as it honors the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit.
☩Biblical Foundation
Chastity requires control of passions and imagination beyond what any non-Christian moral system demands. The love of God in the heart provides the only sure safeguard against evil desires. In Christian ethics, the body is 'the temple of the Holy Ghost' and must be preserved in honor. The destructive effects of unchastity extend to domestic happiness, physical and mental health, and exclude one from the kingdom of heaven.
☩Scriptural Examples
Joseph exemplified chastity when he fled from Potiphar's wife, choosing imprisonment over sin. Boaz showed restraint with Ruth on the threshing floor. Paul testified to his own practice of self-control and commended it to others.
☩Means of Preservation
Scripture and Christian teaching identify several safeguards for chastity: the true fear of God, education in modesty and morality, active occupation of mind and body, and moderation in food and drink. The guidance and support of the Holy Spirit is indispensable, but personal exertion and self-discipline remain necessary.
Related Verses25 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Chastity," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.Philip Schaff and Johann Herzog (ed.), "Chastity," in The New Schaff-Herzog Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge, vol. III (Funk and Wagnalls, 1908–1914).
- 3.Charles G. Herbermann et al. (ed.), "Chastity," in The Catholic Encyclopedia, vol. III (Robert Appleton Company, 1907–1912).
- 4.Charles Buck, "Chastity," in A Theological Dictionary (Charles Buck (London), 1802).