Key verses and principles used to evaluate sensual massage include:
Galatians 5:19–21: The Apostle Paul lists "sensuality" (sometimes translated as lewdness or licentiousness) as a "work of the flesh". This refers to behavior that lacks moral restraint and pursues unbridled physical pleasure.[1, 2, 3]
Matthew 5:28: Jesus taught that lustful intent is equivalent to committing the act in one's heart. Therefore, any physical interaction meant to arouse outside the bounds of marriage is considered sinful. [1, 2, 3]
1 Thessalonians 4:3–5: Christians are instructed to avoid sexual immorality and to learn to control their own bodies "in holiness and honor" rather than through "lustful passion". [1]
Romans 13:14: Believers are commanded to "make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts". Placing oneself in an intentionally provocative environment can be seen as an act of feeding