Rape

<<sexual assault>>

This is any sexual activity, with or without penetration, that takes place without the consent of one of the people involved. It is taking unfair advantage of another, typically a male forcing himself sexually upon a female. It is a gross violation of God’s design for the treatment of another's body, without any thought for their feelings, desires or well-being, through a lack of respect and self-control often motivated by aggression and to exert power over another. Sex is the weapon used to overpower, embarrass, and humiliate another person. While rape harms physically, emotionally, and mentally, with a person's dignity insulted, leaving soul wounds that linger long after the body heals no one can take away another's worth or value. Although a woman who has been raped is described as violated, she is never dirty, unclean, or impure; dishonoured by another, but never honour-less as a person.

The Bible’s teaches immoral desires are sinful, with sex reserved exclusively for marriage, and men are to love their wives sacrificially, and not demand intimacy whenever they desire (Mt 5:27,28; Eph 5:25-28; Col 3:19). All nonconsensual sex is rape, including within a marriage where sex, through violence or coercion is forced on one spouse by the other to satisfy their passions. Forced sex is not love and flouts God’s design for sexual intimacy, which is other-oriented and mutually agreed upon (1 Cor 6:12,13, 7:3-5).  Individuals who have experienced the trauma of rape may encounter difficulties in trusting men and may experience flashbacks during future intimate moments.

Victims of rape need compassion, care and assistance to deal with the painful physical and emotional trauma and may require professional help to find hope and healing in Jesus Christ. The path may be long and arduous, but He is faithful. Perpetrators of rape can find hope and forgiveness through repentance, although civil penalties must be met (1 Jn 1:9). In this life we will suffer the consequences of sins committed against us and the consequences of our sins. But Jesus has paid for every sin and offers forgiveness and healing, with the assurance that one day all who put their faith in Him will be whole, with no more mourning, crying or pain for all the effects of the old former life on earth will be gone (Phil 1:6, 3:21; Rev 21:4).

Men should act with integrity and treat all females as they would their mother or sisters (1 Tim 5:2). The over-emphasis of, and obsession with sex in modern life has created a culture that portrays women, children, and the innocent as sexual objects.

Females need to exercise wisdom and integrity, not dress in provocative clothing or engage in activities that will inflame the male’s fantasies. Both parties should avoid substances that render them unaware of another’s actions, knowing, as a rule, there is safety in numbers and, especially at night, it is prudent to avoid certain places (Gen 19:30-38). Many rapes are committed by family members (incest) or someone known to the victim, so always be mindful of ‘being alone’ situations.

In dating situations, it is important to respect boundaries. As male desires can be easily stimulated, couples should establish clear guidelines regarding acceptable behaviour in their relationship and commit to adhering to those boundaries.

The nonsexual act of plunder, violent seizure, or carrying off by force is also termed rape.

See also: abuse, boundaries, dating, incest, inner healing, integrity, self-control, sexual sins.