Whether making out (intense kissing or physical intimacy) is a sin depends on the context and the individuals involved, particularly whether they are married or unmarried. Here’s a biblical perspective to help you evaluate whether it aligns with Christian principles:
1. What Does the Bible Say About Physical Intimacy?
The Bible does not specifically mention “making out,” but it provides principles about sexual purity, self-control, and honoring God with our bodies.
A. Sexual Purity is God’s Standard
- Ephesians 5:3: “But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.”
- Making out can lead to lustful thoughts or actions that fall into sexual immorality, particularly if it becomes a gateway to further sexual sin.
B. Honoring God with Your Body
- 1 Corinthians 6:18-20: “Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. 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.”
- Physical intimacy, outside the boundaries of marriage, may dishonor the body and lead to spiritual and emotional harm.
C. Guarding Your Heart and Mind
- Matthew 5:28: “But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
- Making out can often stir up lust, which Jesus warns against, as sin begins in the heart and mind.
2. Is Making Out Sinful for Unmarried Couples?
For unmarried couples, making out can become problematic because:
- It May Lead to Temptation: Physical intimacy can escalate to actions that cross the line into sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 10:13).
- Emotional Consequences: Intense physical intimacy without the commitment of marriage can lead to feelings of guilt, regret, or emotional attachment that may be difficult to manage.
- Lust and Boundaries: Making out often ignites sexual desires, which are meant to be fully expressed within marriage (1 Corinthians 7:2-3).
Biblical Principle:
If making out stirs lustful desires or compromises purity, it would be wise to avoid it.
- Romans 13:14: “Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.”
3. Within Marriage
For married couples, making out is not sinful as it falls within the boundaries of the marriage covenant, where physical intimacy is encouraged:
- Hebrews 13:4: “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.”
- Physical intimacy in marriage is a gift from God to strengthen the bond between husband and wife (Genesis 2:24).
4. Questions to Reflect On
If you are wondering whether making out is appropriate in your situation, consider these questions:
- Does it Honor God?
- Can you engage in this behavior with a clear conscience before God (Colossians 3:17)?
- Does It Lead to Temptation?
- Is making out leading you or your partner toward lust or sexual immorality (James 1:14-15)?
- Are You Guarding Your Purity?
- Are you taking steps to flee from sexual sin and maintain physical and emotional boundaries (2 Timothy 2:22)?
- What is Your Intent?
- Are your actions motivated by love and respect, or are they selfish or impulsive?
5. Practical Tips for Maintaining Purity
- Set Clear Boundaries: Decide together what physical boundaries honor God and commit to them.
- Avoid Private Situations: Be mindful of spending time alone in settings that can lead to temptation.
- Focus on Emotional and Spiritual Connection: Build a relationship based on shared faith and values rather than physical intimacy.
- Pray Together: Ask God for wisdom and self-control in your relationship (Galatians 5:22-23).
Conclusion
Making out is not explicitly labeled as a sin in the Bible, but for unmarried couples, it can easily lead to lust, temptation, and crossing boundaries that dishonor God’s call for sexual purity. Married couples, on the other hand, have the freedom to enjoy physical intimacy within the covenant of marriage. Ultimately, Christians are called to honor God in all things, including their relationships and physical actions. Pray for wisdom and discernment, and let God’s Word guide your choices.