What Does the Bible Say About Sexual Immorality and Greed? (And How to Stay Pure in a Corrupt World)

What Does the Bible Say About Sexual Immorality and Greed?

How Christians Can Stay Pure and Spiritually Focused in a Culture of Excess

Description:

Uncover what the Bible says about sexual immorality and greed, why these sins are spiritually dangerous, and how to guard your heart through Scripture, prayer, and practical steps. Includes Christian resources to help you live righteously.

Introduction: A Culture in Crisis

We live in a world where lust and materialism are celebrated, often even encouraged. From provocative media to “get rich quick” schemes, modern culture trains us to chase after pleasure and possessions. But as Christians, we are called to walk a different path. The Bible speaks clearly about the dangers of sexual immorality and greed, warning that these sins lead to spiritual ruin.

So what does the Bible say about these temptations? How can believers resist them and live in holiness and contentment?

This article explores what Scripture teaches about these two common yet deadly sins—and equips you with biblical tools to stand firm in a world that pulls hard in the opposite direction.

What Is Sexual Immorality According to the Bible?

The Bible uses the Greek word porneia to describe sexual immorality, which includes all sexual behavior outside the covenant of biblical marriage. That means adultery, fornication (sex before marriage), pornography, homosexuality, and lustful thoughts all fall under this umbrella.

Key Bible Verses:

• “But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity... because these are improper for God’s holy people.” — Ephesians 5:3

• “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.” — Hebrews 13:4

• "Do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral... will inherit the kingdom of God.” — 1 Corinthians 6:9-10

God’s design for sex is beautiful—but it is meant to be enjoyed within the sacred boundary of marriage. Outside of that, sexual activity becomes destructive—to the soul, the body, and relationships.

The Devastating Effects of Sexual Immorality

Sexual sin uniquely impacts us because it involves the body, mind, and spirit. It creates false intimacy, addiction, and guilt, and distances us from God.

• “Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.” — 1 Corinthians 6:18

It also affects others. Marriages fall apart, families break down, and even ministries collapse under the weight of hidden sexual sin. Scripture calls us to live in purity and self-control, not for rules' sake, but for our good and God’s glory.

What Does the Bible Say About Greed?

Greed is the never-ending desire for more—more money, more possessions, more power. But the Bible consistently warns against this heart posture. Why? Because greed leads to idolatry—putting something above God in our lives.

Key Bible Verses:

• “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” — Luke 12:15

• “No one can serve two masters... You cannot serve both God and money.” — Matthew 6:24

• “Put to death… greed, which is idolatry.” — Colossians 3:5

Greed promises satisfaction, but it only leads to emptiness and spiritual decay. Jesus spoke more about money than almost any other topic—not because money is evil, but because our hearts are so easily trapped by it.

Why Sexual Immorality and Greed Are Spiritually Dangerous

These sins may seem unrelated, but at their core, both are about self-gratification. They whisper the lie: “God is not enough. You need more.”

1. Sexual immorality corrupts intimacy and leads to broken relationships.

2. Greed makes us slaves to wealth and robs us of joy in Christ.

Both distort God's good gifts, turning them into counterfeit gods. And when left unchecked, they numb our conscience, quench the Holy Spirit, and separate us from God’s best.

“For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.” — Ephesians 5:5

How to Stay Away from Sexual Immorality: Biblical and Practical Strategies

1. Flee Temptation, Don’t Flirt with It

Don’t entertain lustful thoughts or “harmless” compromises. Like Joseph, we must run when temptation arises (Genesis 39:12).

2. Guard Your Eyes and Mind

“I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a young woman.” — Job 31:1

Filter what you watch, scroll, and consume. Lust often starts with a glance.

3. Use Scripture as a Sword

When Jesus was tempted, He responded with God’s Word. Memorize verses that speak against sexual sin (Psalm 119:11).

4. Develop Healthy Accountability

Confession breaks secrecy. Join a small group or accountability partnership with fellow believers.

5. Focus on the Gospel, Not Just Behavior

We don’t resist sin by willpower alone—but by treasuring Christ more than our temptations.

How to Guard Against Greed: Cultivating Contentment and Generosity

1. Practice Daily Gratitude

• A thankful heart keeps greed at bay. Count your blessings regularly and praise God for His provision.

2. Live Simply and Steward Well

• Reject consumerism. Use your money wisely, and give generously to ministries and those in need.

3. Remember: You Can’t Take It With You

• “What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” — Matthew 16:26

• Eternal rewards far outweigh temporary riches.

4. Fast from Materialism

Occasionally, step back from spending or buying. Practice fasting—not just from food, but from shopping and luxury.

When You’ve Already Fallen: God’s Grace Is Greater

If you’ve struggled with sexual sin or greed—take heart. You’re not alone, and you’re not beyond God’s reach. The gospel is good news for sinners.

> “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us... and purify us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9

You may need to repent, seek accountability, and rebuild. But you can walk in freedom and victory through Christ’s power. His grace is sufficient for your past, present, and future.

Recommended Resources for Daily Victory (Affiliate Links)

If you're serious about living a holy, God-centered life, you need tools that anchor you in truth. Here are some top-rated resources that we recommend:

🛒 [Finally Free by Heath Lambert] – A must-read for men battling sexual temptation.

🛒 [Prayer Journal for Women] – Encouragement for staying pure in heart and mind.

🛒 [The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn] – Learn how to embrace generosity and reject greed.

🛒 [Poverty, Riches and Wealth Workbook] – Practical tool to build daily spiritual habits.

Each purchase helps support this ministry and equips you to grow stronger in your faith.

Final Thoughts: Living Pure in a World That Pulls You Down

Sexual immorality and greed are not just personal weaknesses; they are spiritual battles. But thanks be to God—we are not left to fight them alone.

Through Jesus Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the truth of Scripture, you can resist temptation and live with purpose, purity, and peace.

Let your life be a testimony that God is enough.