george said:the only problem with masterbatation, is...that it's a form of lust. and the bible says, that if one looks on lustfuly, committs adultry in his heart. it's a hard discipline.
MY view...
1. The link with "lust" is, of course, an assumption... IF it causes or increases "lust" in an individual, then it's probably not a good thing. But in such a case, it's the "lust" that is the sin, not the masturbation.
2. "Lust" is a word I've found Christians toss around pretty loosely - hardly ever defining it. In truth, there are at least 8 different Hebrew and Greek words in the Bible, all translated into English with this singular word "lust." I think we should be careful to not ASSUME that what we think is "lust" is exactly what the Bible means by it. A point that's important to ME: The command to avoid "lust" is directed at married couples no less than single people - married people are not to "lust" either. Read Song of Songs (Song of Solomon). Such thoughts clearly are not "lust." And the argument that the thoughts are okay if directed toward our spouse don't hold because there's no "married couple exclusion clause" in any discussion of lust.
3. While I think it's important to be HONEST here with ourselves, it should at least be noted that some practice this as a way to DECREASE "lust" in their lives - this is especially true for guys. A "build up" of sperm often causes a directly proportional increase in sexual drive and thoughts (SOME think that's "lust" - I'm not so sure). While I think there is virtue in simply learning to "deal" with all this, such perhaps is easier said than done for that 14 year old boy who suddenly finds himself very overwhelmed.
4. I think there's a lot of dishonesty here with ourselves, a lot of "justification." I don't deny that at all. But I also think we need to be careful ASSUMING the heart of another, especially in areas where there is no law, where the Bible is completely silent. You know what they say about the word, "assume."
MY view...
Keep the faith! Share the love!
- Josiah
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