What is Lasciviousness or Lewdness?
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Lasciviousness is one of those words that does not get used very much anymore. People see it in the Bible and know that it is a sin, but then do not understand what sin it is. The New King James version uses the word “lewdness” in its place. Many people do not understand that word either. This word can be found in Mark 7:22, 2 Corinthians 12:21, Galatians 5:19, Ephesians 4:19, 1 Peter 4:3, 2 Peter 2:2, 7, 18, Jude 1:4. In each example, the behavior is condemned. Jesus condemns it in Mark 7:22 as part of what comes out of an evil heart. Paul lists it among the works of the flesh. Peter includes it in the list of behaviors that were practiced before conversion. So, what is lasciviousness/lewdness?
This is a translation of the Greek word ἀσέλγεια (aselgeia). In the New Testament it means: unbridled lust, excess, licentiousness, lasciviousness, wantonness, outrageousness, shamelessness, insolence. It has reference primarily to sexual type sins. So some examples of this behavior are: filthy words, indecent bodily movements, unchaste handling of males and females. In what contexts might such behavior be found today? This behavior occurs when people outside of marriage engage in activities that arouse or stimulate sexual desire. Many comedians today are very lewd and lascivious in their use of words and language. Lasciviousness includes dancing that is designed to stimulate sexual attraction, talking about sexual matters in an explicit way to stimulate desire, and touching areas of the body for those purposes. One might dress in a lascivious or lewd way also by emphasizing certain body parts or removing clothing from areas of the body to call attention to one’s sexual features. Pornography falls under the category of lascivious behavior as does physically molesting someone. The Bible makes it clear that those who practice such behaviors will not inherit the kingdom of God (Galatians 5:21).
Christians who are unmarried are not to engage in these behaviors. Listen to 1 Corinthians 7:1-2, “Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband.” Whether the touching is desired or not desired, it is still lasciviousness/lewdness for a person to do it. What about hugging and kissing? As long as those expressions of affection are done in a holy way (Romans 16:16), it is not lasciviousness, but such behavior could cross the line of lasciviousness if they ignite sexual desires prohibited by the Bible. What should the Christian do to avoid these situations? Do not allow yourself to be caught in a situation where these activities could get started. When single people are going out together, stay in the public eye. For youth, let your parents know where you are going and what you are planning to do. For adults, act responsibly with the body that God has given you. Remember that it belongs to Him; it is His temple. “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).