Lasciviousness

Mike Johnson

The sin of lasciviousness is mentioned several times in God’s Word. It is essential to discuss this sin, especially in the times we live.

It seems various definitions exist for lasciviousness. The Greek word in the original is a fairly broad word that can include many things. Thayer defines the word (766 -aselgeai) as “unbridled lust, excess, licentiousness, lasciviousness, wantonness, outrageousness, shamelessness, insolence (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon). Various translations render the word as “licentiousness” (NRSV), “debauchery” (NIV), “sensuality” (NASB), and “lewdness” (NKJV). Some have summarized its various meanings by defining it as “that which tends to produce lewd emotions.” 

The Bible frequently condemns “lasciviousness.” Galatians 5:19 cites it as a work of the flesh. Verse 20 points out that those who are guilty of this sin, or any of the other sins listed, “shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” From II Corinthians 12:20-21, we learn that Paul was concerned that he might find the Corinthians involved in this sin upon his return. Anyone guilty of lasciviousness is under the condemnation of God.

What are some things that might fall under the scope of lasciviousness today? Consider that people can dress lasciviously by wearing clothing too brief or too tight. The Bible teaches that Christians are to dress modestly (I Tim. 2:9). Often, dancing is associated with the sin of lasciviousness. Liberties are allowed on the dance floor between partners who are not married to each other that are not allowable anywhere else. Another area of lasciviousness is pornography. Pornography has been around for a long time. Today, however, it is much easier to view pornography through the internet. Pornography, in whatever form that it takes, can ruin our lives and cause us to be lost eternally. Television programs and movies at the theater often contain material that can produce lewd and unwholesome emotions. Christians must be cautious about their entertainment and dress.

Jesus said in Matthew 5:28, “…That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” Thus, we are not to even have improper thoughts toward members of the opposite sex. Dressing immodestly, for example, would be wrong itself. However, it would also be inadvisable because immodest clothing might cause someone else to sin.

We need to make sure that we are not guilty of this sin. Christians are to be guided in all aspects of their lives by the Word of God.