Sexual harassment is an unfortunate reality that many people face in their daily lives. It can occur in various settings like the workplace, school, or in public places. As Christians, what guidance does the Bible provide when dealing with issues of sexual harassment?
The Bible does not directly address the concept of sexual harassment as we understand it today. However, it does speak extensively about sexual morality and how men and women should treat one another with respect. There are several relevant principles we can draw from Scripture.
1. Everyone is created in God’s image
The Bible teaches that all human beings, both male and female, are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This gives every person infinite value and dignity. Sexual harassment fails to honor the imago Dei in others and should have no place among God’s people.
Genesis 1:27 (ESV): So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
2. Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit
As Christians, our bodies are not our own but have been bought with a price by Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). God’s Spirit lives within us, so our physical beings are sacred temples that should be honored. Sexual harassment defiles what God calls holy.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (ESV): 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.
3. Love others as yourself
Jesus commanded his followers to love their neighbors as themselves (Matthew 22:39). Rather than degrading others through harassment, Christians must treat all people with the honor, value and respect they desire for themselves. This includes avoiding all inappropriate sexual words or actions.
Matthew 22:39 (ESV): And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
4. Be subject to governing authorities
The Bible instructs Christians to be subject to governing authorities (Romans 13:1) which often prohibit various forms of sexual harassment in the workplace and schools. Violating these laws violates scriptural commands unless they contradicts God’s word.
Romans 13:1 (ESV): Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.
5. Avoid sexual immorality
Scripture repeatedly warns against all forms of sexual immorality (Acts 15:20; 1 Corinthians 5:1). Sexual harassment often represents an abuse of power to gratify corrupt desires outside of God’s design for sexuality. This is sinful and must be rejected.
1 Corinthians 5:1 (ESV): It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that is not tolerated even among pagans, for a man has his father’s wife.
6. Flee youthful passions
The Bible tells young people to flee from youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace (2 Timothy 2:22). Habitual sexual harassment can stem from failing to control lust and other sinful desires contrary to living an upright life.
2 Timothy 2:22 (ESV): So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.
7. Do not participate in coarse joking
Scripture instructs believers to avoid coarse joking, crude talk and sexual immorality which displease God (Ephesians 5:3-5). Sexual harassment often begins with inappropriate sexual comments or suggestions that cross moral boundaries.
Ephesians 5:3-5 (ESV): But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.
8. Do not take advantage of others
The Bible condemns those who exploit vulnerable people for sexual gain. Scripture pronounces judgment on those who prey on the weak or abuse positions of power (Ezekiel 22:29; 34:2-4; Zechariah 7:8-10). Christians must never manipulate or coerce others sexually.
Ezekiel 22:29 (ESV): The people of the land have practiced extortion and committed robbery. They have oppressed the poor and needy, and have extorted from the sojourner without justice.
9. Be people of integrity and self-control
Believers are called to exercise self-control and live honorably in all areas including sexuality (Titus 2:11-12; 1 Thess. 4:3-5). Habitual sexual harassment reveals a lack of Christ-like integrity and discipline. The Holy Spirit enables Christians to overcome sinful behavior patterns.
Titus 2:11-12 (ESV): For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age.
10. Repent of sin and believe the Gospel
Sexual harassment violates God’s standards. For those guilty of harassment or complicit in permitting it, repentance is urgently needed. Only through believing in Christ can hearts be transformed to honor others (Mark 1:15). There is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1).
Mark 1:15 (ESV): “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”
In summary, the Bible clearly condemns sexual harassment and similar behaviors that exploit, demean and dishonor others made in God’s image. Christians must reject cultural norms that tolerate harassment and instead live out countercultural values of sexual purity, integrity, self-control and love for others. The Gospel provides power to overcome sinful tendencies and walk in newness of life.
