If sex is good for us, why is the Church so hostile to it?
The short answer
The Church is not hostile to sex; it has the highest understanding of it. Intercourse expresses the total, lifelong self-giving of the marriage vows. Masturbation contradicts that purpose: it gives nothing to anyone and takes pleasure for oneself alone.
Even if masturbation had substantial physical benefits, which is doubtful, they would not justify its harm. It conflicts with the whole purpose of sexuality.
Sexual intercourse is the bodily expression of the marriage vows made at the altar, an expression of Christian love, which is concern for the other. It is the most complete expression of one person's total self-giving to another, and total means until death; it cannot be total for a week or a few years. Masturbation gives oneself to no one; it takes pleasure for oneself alone. We were made for more than that.
The Church is not hostile to sex; nowhere will you find a higher understanding of sexuality. The Church teaches reality, and opinions do not change reality. Christopher West's Good News About Sex and Marriage is a good resource.
Continue exploring
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