The Salvation Army's Position on Pornography
The Salvation Army opposes pornography in all of its forms. We believe that human sexuality is a gift of a loving Creator. The Bible presents sexual intimacy as a privilege that is ordained and blessed by God within the context of marriage. Pornography attacks and distorts God's design. It depersonalizes sexuality, emphasizing the carnal to the neglect of loving relationships and commitment.
Pornography is an increasingly harmful scourge on society, endangering and degrading the physical, moral, and spiritual welfare of all those involved. It is clearly linked with prostitution, sexual abuse and assault, and other forms of sexual exploitation. Pornography promotes deviant sex and violence. It harms and demeans those who are portrayed as sexual objects, as well as its users and purveyors.
Pornography is not an issue of private morality alone. It has become a major economic force with vast societal and ethical implications. The Salvation Army believes that all people have the right to protection from enterprises that erode society and exploit persons. Those who neglect the public interest in this regard should be held legally and morally accountable.
The Salvation Army firmly supports education on the dangers of pornography and on matters of wholesome sexuality based on the teachings of the New Testament.
Christians, no less than others, are vulnerable to the pervasive presence of sexually explicit messages and materials. The grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit can enable individuals to rise above unwholesome and addictive sexual influences.
Recommended for approval by the Commissioners' Conference October 2000
Approved by International Headquarters April 2001