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Abstinence Quote by John MacArthur

“Unless it is by mutual consent, for a specific prayer need and for a brief period of time, sexual abstinence can become a tool of Satan. It is never to be used as pretense for spiritual superiority or as a means of intimidating or manipulating one's spouse. Physical love is to be a normal and…” quote by John MacArthur
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“Unless it is by mutual consent, for a specific prayer need and for a brief period of time, sexual abstinence can become a tool of Satan. It is never to be used as pretense for spiritual superiority or as a means of intimidating or manipulating one's spouse. Physical love is to be a normal and regular experience shared by both marriage partners alike, as a gift from God.”

John MacArthur

About This Quote

Source Sermon: The Power of Sexual Purity, John MacArthur, 2015

Sexual abstinence should never be wielded as a weapon of control or spiritual superiority; it belongs to a loving, mutual marriage relationship.

In simple terms: Abstinence misused becomes oppression.

Key Takeaway

Promote mutual respect and genuine intimacy.

Themes

marriage sexual ethics spiritual health

Mood

cautious compassionate

Type

theological ethical

When to use this quote

  • marriage counseling
  • pre‑marital workshops
  • faith‑based education
  • spiritual retreats

Key Concepts

power dynamics love faithfulness

Questions to Reflect On

  • What boundaries protect healthy intimacy?
  • How can couples discuss sexual expectations openly?
A Different Perspective

Some view abstinence as a personal choice, not a tool of manipulation.

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