What Does The Bible Say About Touching Breasts?
Touching breasts is a sensitive topic that many wonder about from a biblical perspective. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The Bible does not explicitly prohibit touching breasts, but it does lay out principles regarding sexual purity and respect for our bodies that can guide Christians to make wise decisions.
In this comprehensive article, we will examine relevant Bible passages about sexuality, marriage, and the body to understand scriptural principles that apply to the question of touching breasts. We’ll look at key verses and analyze what they indicate regarding appropriate and inappropriate contact.
Though the Bible does not outright ban touching breasts, it does provide wisdom to help believers honor God with their bodies and relationships.
Biblical Principles About Sexual Purity
Sexual Relations Only in Marriage
The Bible teaches that God designed sexual intimacy to occur only between a husband and wife within the sacred commitment of marriage. Passages such as Hebrews 13:4 declare, “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure.”
Sexual relations were designed by God to be reserved for marriage for several important reasons.
First, sex outside of marriage violates God’s commands. Throughout Scripture, God consistently calls His people to purity and faithfulness in marriage (Exodus 20:14, Proverbs 5, 1 Corinthians 6:18-20).
When we engage in sexual intimacy outside of marriage, we go against God’s loving design for relational intimacy.
Second, sex outside marriage often leads to painful emotional, spiritual and physical consequences. God’s commands are given to protect us, not restrict us. Waiting until marriage often spares individuals from the heartache associated with broken intimate relationships.
In addition, it protects people from sexually transmitted diseases and unintended pregnancies.
Third, marital sex is a beautiful metaphor that points us to the amazing intimacy we can have with God. Ephesians 5:31-32 says, “‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.’
This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church.” Marital intimacy helps remind us of the spiritual oneness we can share with Christ.
Avoiding Temptation and Sin
Since God designed sex for marriage, single individuals need to avoid situations that could compromise their sexual purity. The Bible warns us to flee from sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18). Practically speaking, this means establishing physical and emotional boundaries in dating relationships to avoid sexual temptation.
We need to ask God for wisdom in knowing what boundaries should exist in different dating relationships. For some couples, it may mean no kissing. For others, kisses but not passionate ones. Some may need to avoid long hugs or lying down together.
Setting clear physical limits is one important way to avoid sexual temptation.
In addition, we need to avoid environments with alcohol, drugs or unwholesome entertainment that could reduce our inhibitions. The Bible says “bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). Being in the wrong place with the wrong crowd makes it much easier to rationalize sexual sin.
Finally, we need to fill our minds continually with God’s truth (Psalm 119:9-11). Regular Scripture reading, prayer, church attendance, and fellowship with other believers all help strengthen us to do what is right.
Honoring God with Our Bodies
God’s design for sexuality is beautiful and good. Although living a pure life can be challenging at times, God promises to give us strength and freedom through obedience to Him. His Word declares that the fruit of the Spirit includes self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
As we rely on the Spirit’s power and wisdom, He will help us honor God with our thought life and relationships.
In addition, when we honor God with our bodies, including our sexuality, we grow closer to Him in intimacy and spiritual blessing. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us, “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.”
Guidelines for Physical Intimacy in Marriage
Leaving Father and Mother
When a man and woman get married, the Bible says that they become “one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). This means that their primary human relationship shifts from their parents to their spouse. While honoring parents is still important after marriage, the marital union takes priority.
This unity is both emotional and physical. It involves all aspects of their lives as they seek to meet each other’s needs and nurture their relationship. Sexual intimacy is an important part of this union that strengthens the marital bond.
Becoming One Flesh
God designed physical intimacy within marriage to be beautiful and enjoyable (Song of Songs 4:9-16). Sex is a gift to married couples that allows them to fully express love for one another and become closer emotionally and spiritually.
The Bible celebrates physical intimacy between husbands and wives (Proverbs 5:18-19). God intended for sex to be pleasurable, not just mechanical. Married couples can enthusiastically enjoy this gift in their union.
The Marriage Bed
The Bible says that the marriage bed should be kept pure and undefiled (Hebrews 13:4). This means that any sexual activity outside of marriage goes against God’s design. Faithfulness between husband and wife maintains trust.
Within marriage, there is freedom for physical intimacy according to each couple’s desires and boundaries. Creativity and open communication help husbands and wives develop a healthy sexual relationship. Touching breasts can be a loving part of this union.
The Bible urges married couples to prioritize meeting each other’s needs (1 Corinthians 7:3-5). This includes emotional, spiritual, and physical needs. Fulfilling intimacy strengthens the marriage relationship.
Other Relevant Passages About Touch and Sexuality
Proverbs About Adultery and Fornication
While the Bible does not specifically address the topic of touching breasts, it does provide guidance on sexual morality and the importance of fidelity within marriage. Proverbs 5:18-19 encourages husbands to find sexual satisfaction in their wives, saying, “Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth.
A lovely deer, a graceful doe—may her breasts satisfy you always; may you ever be intoxicated with her love.” This passage emphasizes the exclusive and fulfilling nature of sexual intimacy within the boundaries of marriage.
Romans 14 – The Kingdom of God is Not About External Rules
In Romans 14, the Apostle Paul discusses the importance of not judging one another based on external rules and regulations. While this passage does not directly address the topic of touching breasts, it highlights the need for Christians to focus on the inward transformation of the heart rather than fixating on external behaviors.
The Kingdom of God, as described in Romans 14, is about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, rather than strict adherence to a set of external rules.
1 Corinthians 7 – Spousal Rights and Duties
1 Corinthians 7 provides guidance on the rights and responsibilities within marriage. It emphasizes the importance of mutual consent and respect between spouses when it comes to matters of intimacy. Verse 3 states, “The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband.”
This passage highlights the importance of open communication and mutual agreement between spouses in matters of physical intimacy, including the touching of breasts.
It is important to note that the interpretation of biblical passages can vary among different individuals and religious traditions. Therefore, it is recommended to seek guidance from a trusted religious leader or study reputable resources that provide a comprehensive understanding of biblical teachings.
Principles for Making Wise Decisions
Is It Honoring to God?
When considering whether touching breasts before marriage honors God, we must look to Biblical principles about purity, self-control, and glorifying God with our bodies. The Bible calls us to avoid sexual immorality and impurity (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5).
Touching breasts could awaken passions that are meant to be reserved for marriage (1 Corinthians 7:9). We can honor God by setting boundaries and waiting for the intimate touches He intends for marriage.
Ask yourself, “Does this bring glory to God or satisfy my selfish desires?” Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) so we must be careful to honor God in all we do. Rather than obsessing over what we can “get away with,” we can choose to glorify God with our bodies and pursue holiness in dating relationships.
Is It Benefiting Your Relationship?
Physical intimacy can create an artificial sense of connection. According to the Focus on the Family relationship experts, “Touching breasts is an intimate act that can confuse a relationship by implying a premature emotional commitment.”
It’s wise to build a relationship on communication, shared values and emotional intimacy before engaging in physical intimacy.
Ask yourself, “Am I using physical intimacy as a substitute for real intimacy or to selfishly fulfill my desires?” Seek to truly know the person’s heart and character above all. While chemistry and attraction are part of dating, real love is more than a physical connection.
Does it Lead to Temptation?
The Bible warns us to “flee from sexual immorality” (1 Corinthians 6:18). While touching breasts may not be sex, it can definitely lead you down that path! Once passions are ignited, it becomes harder to stay in control.
The Focus on the Family article notes that “Any act that could ignite these desires should be avoided.”
Ask yourself, “Will this stir up desires that could lead me to cross boundaries I may later regret?” Seek accountability and set physical boundaries you commit to keeping. Remember, purity requires vigilance. If you’re wondering just how far is too far, that’s a warning sign that caution is needed.
Conclusion
In summary, the Bible does not directly prohibit touching of breasts. However, Scriptural principles about purity, marriage relationships, respect for our bodies, and avoiding lust provide guidance for Christians seeking God’s wisdom regarding appropriate physical intimacy and contact.
The decision ultimately relies on personal conscience and maturing judgment before God. With prayer and discernment, believers can make wise choices that honor both God and their future spouse.
