God created humanity in God's own image, in the divine image God created them. (Genesis 1:27a)
The issue of pornography has dramatically impacted many both within and outside of the worldwide church. Though graphic images have been available for centuries, the widespread prevalence and availability of sexually explicit and aggressive materials today have led to an increasing problem of addiction for many, including young people who have come of age with the internet in their homes and on their mobile devices.
Studies have shown that pornography is progressively damaging in both the areas of belief and behavior, as sex and intimacy have become synonymous with a specific kind of eroticism that denies the essential image of God that is found in all. In addition, the majority of pornography is linked to the oppression of women, especially those of color, distorting the sexual integrity of all persons. Most disturbing is the growth of child pornography, which has been shown to contribute to the abuse of the most vulnerable among us.
Thus, in accordance with our Social Principles, The United Methodist Church strongly opposes pornography and laments its destructive impact upon both cultures and individuals. We call upon all United Methodists to:
- Support actions to develop effective societal and governmental policies that eradicate child pornography, adult exploitation, and enslavement;
- Provide education materials that can help children and youths gain an appropriate and biblical understanding of and respect for mutually affirming sexuality, as well as how to live both faithfully and to view others through God's eyes;
- Work to break the link between sex and violence by encouraging healthy human relationships;
- Enact strict policies that provide oversight of church-owned computers and sexual ethics education and training for both clergy and laity;
- Provide resources and education for parents on how to minimize the risk to children from unhealthy use of the internet;
- Offer nonjudgmental support, rehabilitation, and care to those who have been affected by production, distribution, and viewing of pornography;
- Participate in ecumenical and community efforts to address the issue of pornography and its harmful impact upon society.
ADOPTED 1988
REVISED AND ADOPTED 2000
REVISED AND READOPTED 2008, 2012, 2024
RESOLUTION #2081, 2008, 2012, 2016 BOOK OF RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION #42, 2004 BOOK OF RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION #36, 2000 BOOK OF RESOLUTIONS
See Social Principles, ¶ 162, Other Social Issues, H.
From The Book of Resolutions of The United Methodist Church - 2020/2024. Copyright © 2024 by The United Methodist Publishing House. Used by permission.
