The Three Missing Letters from “Adult” Entertainment

Language is so important. I make so many mistakes in my writing and speaking, but it is not due to a lack of effort. Christians should strive to be not only honest, but precise in how we communicate.

Regularly, we see language changed to make things sound more or less offensive, or to subtly change perceptions about a particular topic. This is commonly done with sinful activities, where what was once “sodomy” is now “an alternative choice” and what was once “murder” is now “a woman’s right to choose.”

This same approach has happened in another arena in recent years, as the influence of pornography has continued to grow in our society. In fact, using the word “pornography” is a bit out-dated, since it is often presented with the more innocent and almost childish name “porn.”

But the stronger change has been to regularly refer to aspects of the industry with terms starting with the word “adult.” We have “adult film stars,” “adult bookstores,” and “adult novelties,” among many other things. Even mainstream media outlets and celebrity gossip columns report the latest movements of “adult actresses” on a regular basis.

By using the word “adult,” the industry is making pornography seem not only mature, but also sophisticated. After all, “it’s just adults enjoying adult things.” And, “if you were a real adult, you would enjoy it, too” (or at least not judge those who do).

But I want to suggest that we change the wording one more time. From “pornography” to “porn” to “adult,” the transformation of descriptions has been remarkable. But by calling it “adult,” maybe we are closer to what we should be calling this material. You see, they are only missing three letters:

E.R.Y.

As in, “adult-ery.”

Jesus said, “Everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Mathew 5:27). Those words, as strong as they are, describe pornographic pictures, films, games, videos, and other materials exactly. The person who would choose to click on “that” website or download “that” video is choosing to look at someone “with lustful intent.”

Our Lord says that such is not the heart of an “adult,” it is “adultery” in our heart.

What is the solution? It is to call things as they are.

In the next verses, Jesus uses the word “sin” (not “mistake” or “bad decision”) to describe what looking with lustful intent is. He uses “hell” (not “the bad place”) to describe where the one who does not repent will go.

As followers of God, we need to realize that pornography is mainstream. While the explicit types of pornography may not be so, the industry has changed our culture’s standards. From billboards to “regular” movies to video games to what cheerleaders commonly wear (and show), we are a pornographic society. It is impossible to miss the degrading influence of lewdness that is common throughout our world.

But that does not mean I am an “adult” if I take part in watching the latest celebrity photo shoot, or look at my favorite team’s cheer calendar, or visit even mainstream films where sex will be on display.

It means that, in my heart, I am an adulterer. I have adulterated my relationship and my covenant with God by taking His glorious creation and making it an object of my sinful lust.

Thank God that, through Christ, I can be forgiven of that. Let’s not be concerned about being “adults,” but children of God.

QUESTION: What are your thoughts on the struggle people have with, as well as the growth of, “adult entertainment” in our society?

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