South Africa ranks among the top consumers of pornography globally, with statistics revealing that children as young as eight are being exposed. A News24 article highlights that 57% of females aged 14-18 have viewed pornography, and globally, 36% of consumers in 2022 were women—a staggering increase from previous years. This growing trend has serious implications, particularly for Christians committed to walking in holiness, upholding the sanctity of relationships and human dignity.
The Salvation Army’s Statement of Position on Pornography is grounded in Biblical truth, emphasizing the inherent value of every person, made in God’s image. Pornography contradicts these principles by reducing individuals to objects for lust and commercial gain. It distorts true intimacy, fosters unhealthy views on relationships, and harms both users and those exploited by the industry.
Research also shows pornography’s devastating effect on marriages. Couples who engage with pornography report increased dissatisfaction, higher rates of infidelity, and a growing sense of disconnection. Women often feel pressure to mimic the acts seen on screen, leading to body image issues and a distorted sense of self-worth. For Christians, these consequences reflect a serious attack on the sacred covenant of marriage.
Beyond personal relationships, pornography has broader societal repercussions. The industry contributes to the demand for human trafficking and commercial sex work, with links well documented in legal and humanitarian circles. The Salvation Army opposes the objectification and exploitation of people for profit. It’s not just a moral issue but a systemic one that fuels degradation and abuse.
The Salvation Army’s position is not just theoretical but actionable. It advocates for stronger legislation against pornography, calls for better sex education in schools, and urges society to break free from the grip of this harmful industry. Salvationists are also called to avoid supporting businesses that profit from pornography, recognizing the far-reaching damage caused by this billion-dollar industry.
For individuals caught in pornography addiction, The Salvation Army offers compassion and practical help through counseling and support. Breaking free from addiction is difficult, but it is possible with God’s grace and the support of a loving community. We are called to be that community, offering a path toward healing and restoration.
Practical Steps for Salvationists:
- Speak Up: Be bold in raising awareness and supporting initiatives that combat pornography.
- Support Those in Need: Offer grace-filled guidance and direct individuals to professional help where needed.
- Promote Biblical Intimacy: Encourage a Biblical understanding of relationships that values human dignity.
- Engage in Prayer: Pray for those affected by pornography and work towards meaningful change in society.
Pornography is not a private sin—it is a public tragedy. As Salvationists, we must lead the charge in combating its effects, advocating for those trapped in its grip, and promoting the sanctity of relationships as God intended.
If you find yourself currently caught in the web of pornography, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to stay in this place of bondage. Jesus Christ is ready to help you, and He has the power to enable you to overcome this struggle. You do not have to live under the weight of guilt and shame or feel powerless in this addiction. The path to freedom begins with a few essential steps: (1) confess your problem openly, (2) find an accountability partner who can support you, and (3) speak to someone, like your Officer, who can journey with you and offer guidance as you seek freedom. Remember, Christ offers healing, and He desires to bring you out of darkness into His marvelous light.
See The Salvation Army’s International Positional Statement on Pornography here: https://s3.amazonaws.com/cache.salvationarmy.org/84c5151d-c975-4363-ae7e-5e3c1cc25a26_English+Pornography+IPS_P02.pdf
Sources:
- News24 Article on South African Pornography Consumption: https://www.news24.com/news24/community-newspaper/peoples-post/parents-open-your-eyes-the-battle-against-the-growing-threat-of-pornography-addiction-amongst-children-20231124