I’m studying Paul’s letters and want to discuss the technical distinction between Lust (Epithumia) and Sexual Immorality (Porneia).
I believe just watching porn without any physical act (no masturbation/release) is a sin of Lust, but not yet Sexual Immorality.
My reasoning:
• Physicality: Paul describes sexual immorality as a "sin against one's own body" (1 Cor 6:18). If there is no physical touch or union, has the "body-sin" actually occurred?
• The Analogy: Watching someone get drunk or steal in a movie doesn't make you an alcoholic or a thief. It might show a heart issue (coveting), but the act hasn't been committed.
• Mental Escape: I agree it isn't edifying and defiles the mind, but I see a major difference between a "struggle of the eyes" and a "violation of the body."
Does Paul’s theology support this distinction, or do you believe the visual consumption itself constitutes the physical act of porneia?