#TalkingThursday – If you don’t talk about Jesus who will?
Dear reader, hello! The question today is: On the scale of Immoral to Appropriate, what does the bible have to say about getting a body massage? Massages often lead to sensual arousal, particularly for men. So, is it a good idea for Christians to work in this field or take part in its services? Should Christians give or receive a massage? Is massage therapy, for that matter; holistic healing, an idolatrous, new age technique?
We must acknowledge right away that sexual sins are particularly a sin against one’s own body, as such we must look at the immediate implications of our actions when they involve any form of sexual immorality. There isn’t much discussed biblically which mentions therapeutic massages, thus this post won’t be very speculative.
It is typical for Christians, like anyone else, in search of a solution to their legitimate issues of body aches and pains, to consult Massage Therapists albeit secretly. There is a lot of medical evidence supporting the benefits of massages and holistic therapy in general, and it is also a fact that there are practicing Christians who are Licensed Massage Therapists. Unfortunately, like many other professions, Massage Therapy is not excluded from the presence of charlatans and deceivers who unlawfully exploit clients for mischief.
FIRST BIBLICALLY RECORDED MASSAGE THERAPY
In Esther 2, it is recorded that Esther, the young Jewish orphan-cousin of Mordecai that would be future Queen of Persia, as part of her preparations for the empire-wide beauty pageant for the King Ahasuerus to pick a wife – received several treatments of massage and special diet… the regular beauty treatment for the women lasted a year…massages with oil of myrrh for six month and with oil of balsam for six more..”
SHOULD A CHRISTIAN GIVE OR RECEIVE MASSAGE THERAPY?
“Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman” (I Corinthians 7:1). The type of touch Paul was talking about is not a casual touch, but sexual touches. The reason being that touching another person, to whom you are not married, in a sexual way can lead to certain thoughts and actions.
“What comes out of a man, that defiles a man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within and defile a man” (Mark 7:20-23).
Such touches also mean that one is engaged in sexual foreplay with someone to whom you have no right. While a massage can relax tight muscles, there are unethical people who use massages for sexual play. The reason is quite simple, the intense pleasure causes people to desire it again. They use the pleasure produced by your own body to empty your wallet. “But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed” (James 1:14).
The bible verse here says “a man not to touch a woman”. As christians, if we must attend the spa or get our body massaged, it would clearly be more appropriate to have this done by someone of the same sex. Women would be better off getting massaged by women and men by men. In today’s society, the excuse for not sticking to this is that it is a very professional scene and many men would rather have a female massage them for fear of looking or feeling “gay”. However, because of the wide change in sexual orientation, it would be even safer to ensure that although the person massaging (masseuse/madam) is of the same sex as you, they also share your sexual orientation. i.e they are hetero and not homo sexual. That way, you aren’t being complicit in any subconscious sexual activity and the spa treatment stays as professional as possible.
Of course it is not always the case that a woman massaging a man or vice versa leads to immorality, there are plenty people who are able to perform their jobs without involving or acting on sexual urges, my mum actually owns a spa currently run by a lady who does treatments for both men and women.
However, as christians we ought to know our weaknesses so we never give the devil a chance or a foothold in our lives. We must be extra careful the kinds of activities we engage ourselves in, particularly where it leads to sexual immorality. This can later trigger feelings of guilt that the devil can exploit and it can also lead to a temptation to continue in the activity rather than repent. Many extramarital affairs often begin with “a massage”. Another reason to be wary of unknown spa treatments is that some involve the use of techniques linked to eastern pagan religions – e.g. “chakra manipulation” to bring healing and relaxation etc.
SPA TREATMENTS & HEALING
Every nation, race, tribe or clan has special people gifted with the knowledge and skill or training to perform “intentional and systematic manipulation of the soft tissue of the body to enhance health and healing” i.e. therapeutic massage or physiotherapy. The medical benefits of this are indisputable. However, some attribute the healing effect of the technique to the recipient’s or therapist’s “innate force”, or occult powers; some credit a so-called “source”, “energy”, or their various gods or idols – e.g. Buddha etc.
To accept the notion that healing is by a person’s “innate force”,or an idol is to deny Almighty God His honor, glory and power . “I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.” Isaiah 42:8. In the Christian scheme of things, Yahweh Elohim, is the One who heals.( Exodus 15:26 ).
No matter how beneficial or effective these treatments are, we must be wary of receiving them from those who do not share our mindset or who attribute the glory of its healing to idols.
The Gossip 4 Jesus Initiative 
The topic I am not seeing addressed, perhaps because it has not been asked, is should a married man or woman get a professional therapeutic massage if his or her spouse is opposed to it.
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This is indeed a very important question and is something we will definitely look into doing a post on in the future!
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My husband and I are both Christians. A lady we both know is a Christian and had recently opened a massage therapy business. My husband wants a body massage. Which he will be in his underwear..but covered. She will be massaging his thighs also. I don’t feel comfortable about it. What is your opinion? He is also a deacon of our church.
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Never allow your husband to get a massage from any woman, if he wants one then rather get trained on how to do it so that he can get it from you or rather have a male masseur give him.
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This article represents the views of a certain Xian group. Their views I stress. Once I was attached to a similar group and sadly the forceful approaches and control made my life a misery. Yes I was keen and committed but had to escape for my minds sake. Remember each religious group holds views only. I can empathise with the husband a deacon. Often vulnerable minds are played on and many move on as I did. Thankfully I’m free. Took years to get there. Married to a wonderful lady with lovely children and grandchildren. Cast aside the dictates of fundamentalist church. Listen to what they say but ensure you form your own views. I’m a Massage therapist by the way and my professional approach caters for men and women.
John Howell. UK. delwin@btinternet.com
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Why can’t you go to a massage course so that you can massage your husband. Its a good thing and it will improve your love life as couples.The bible says wifes must submit to their husbands same applies to husbands too!God bless you!
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Not a good idea!!
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As long as its not sexual its ok
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Maybe you could be present during the massage, if not in the room where the massage is taking place ( which would be ideal , (just sit and read a book or listen to music with headphones) then wait in the waiting area . ) Waiting for him in the waiting are woukd definitely be allowed.
You could also,schedule a couples massage, where both of younger massages, in the same room , at the same time. These are popular around Valentine’s Day, some come with champagne,and some tasty snack, ……but most reputable massage places can do a couples massage anytime.
Depending on the massage places size and number of people, you can specifically request a man massage your husband and a woman massage you. I’ve heard couple say they really liked these Couple’s massages for connecting wirh their spouse. This might mean going to a different massage place that that of your Christian friend.
And no matter if you can be present in the room or not, then definitely do something romantic right afterwards with your husband! A quiet meal out at a nice place, just the two of you , or maybe go home for some alone time, being Intimate or just spend some kind of special time together just to reinforce that he is yours and you are his. No matter what Satan is whispering in his ear! We know the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak , and Satan targets that fleshly weakness.
Honestly speaking, a woman massaging a mans thighs, might be embarrassing for your husband…(;that weak flesh again) it depends on how it’s done…..And how careful not to be sexual the massage thearpist is.
I get massages for a women massage therapist and it’s not sexual at all, she’s careful to keep me covered and she doesn’t massage certain parts of my body, or get near certain body parts. So for me , it’s far from being sexual, it’s more like my physical thearpist.
And don’t forget to pray about this ! Pray and ask God to help you make the right decision. You want to avoid sin and follow Gods laws so ask him what you should do!
And I looking for a place to get a massage, First, be careful that it is a reputable place , and Second, that it’s not New Age and Pagan. Unfortunately some massage places are all New Age, Wiccan, and Pagan. The massage thearpist attribute any benifits of massage to pagan deities, or they will use those pagan things in the massage, things like crystals, oils that have been “ blessed” on a Wiccan altar, or altar to other idols…You can ask for a tour of the rooms, tell,them you are Christian and ask about anything you see that disturbs you or seems un Christian.
I think massage can be a great tool for relaxation and relief of medical issues ….(;that’s what I use it for and it helps me immensely) but because it involves the flesh , We Christian’s need to approach it carefully and and not allow something that can be helpful,in treating our body as a Temple and keeping it healthy, turn into something that’s a source of sin,( physical and thinking of sinning) and disagreements in our marriages .
God Bless you and your husband.
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Then he should respect your feelings and not get certain parts massage
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I read on another post about Christians getting massages, that the Bible says a married persons body belongs to your spouse, so you should respect their wishes. Especially if you don’t, you could be causing disharmony and arguments in your marriage.
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Try getting a couples massage. If not, then just honor your spouses’ wishes
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I would like guidance on this also I don’t feel it should be, 1 cor :7, tells us who your body belongs to.
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Wish I would’ve never commented, now I don’t know how to delete my post.
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Hello, Is this D.E?, would you like us to remove your comment? One of our editors is currently working on a reply to your question. if you would like both your comments deleted, please let us know quickly! Thank you.
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Dear D.E,
Hello! Greetings to you in Christ Jesus. I sincerely empathise with your concerns over this matter. I am not a married woman, so I cannot claim to be speaking from any particular experience of mine, but I do believe that I can at least say something to lend a helping hand.
First I must mention that it is a good thing that this is a Christian woman that you know (and hopefully trust) who is running this massage therapy business. In this way, she is at least accountable to the same moral standards that you and your husband share in Christ Jesus.
If you have read through this blog post, then you are already aware of the dangers of this massage therapy issue – because of our flesh as a weakness, no matter how spiritual we claim to be.
Deacon or not, I believe your husband should be aware that his actions may give room for temptation (Ephesians 4:27, 1 Corinthians 7:2). If he is not in need of massage therapy due to health reasons and in a less intimate area, then perhaps he should reconsider his reasons for contemplating the massage in the first place.
However, I believe the more important thing is not actually the fact that he is getting a massage but the fact that you are uncomfortable with it. I would like you to think deeply about why you are concerned that he is getting a massage – perhaps you are worried about what might happen during this time or you just don’t like the idea of another woman touching your husband so intimately.
If this is the case, then you must seriously discuss your feelings with your husband, particularly in light of these scriptures: 1 Peter 3:7 & Ephesians 5:21 (NIV)
1 Peter 3:7 – Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.
Ephesians 5:21 – Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
Considering the two scriptures above, perhaps if you communicate your thoughts to your husband and let him know your concerns about this desire to get a body massage then he ought to be considerate towards your feelings on this issue and rethink his decision.
Grace and Peace to you,
– Christine
Senior Editor at Gossip4Jesus
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I’m a married man and have been to both male and female therapist. Usually I’m looking for deep tissue massage since I’m a runner and I go once a month. I do self massage during the weeks in between to keep my muscles worked. This helps with protecting me from injury and fast recovery from workout. I find that women are more sensitive with me when I tell them the pressure is too intense. They have a tendency to work with me when I tell them the pressure is hard. As far as temptation I’m not tempted to go fall into sexual immorality from massage or commit adultery but I’ve had lustful thoughts during and after the treatment. If I desire to go to a female therapist ( not a masseuse) There is a difference between the too I look for someone that I wouldn’t be attractive too. It keeps my mind only on the massage and its easy for me to relax during treatment. I had a therapist that I struggled with from the heart but i was able to find another person that doesn’t temp me. My wife and I have been married for 12 years and the first time we ever kissed was at our wedding after I gave her the ring. So my temptation in a physical scence is not that strong. Can anybody give me any advise as if I’m doing the wrong thing.
The other thing is that I wouldent think its any different for a male to go to a female massage therapist as it would for a man to go to a female doctor. Women get pelvic exams from men but cant have a man massage them. Its a trust issue with them. We must understand too that therapist are educated and there motive is to do there job and not look at your body in a way that is inappropriate. I think for most men its better to seek the same sex if they are tempted but we must not think there is any difference to go to a female massage therapist then going to a female doctor nurse or chiropractor. they are trained and educated people. Your wife cannot perform the same massage that a therapist (practitioner) could do. Your wife could give you a feel good massage but not necessarily meet your therapeutic needs.
Don’t get me wrong though. I don’t encourage it if it causes temptation. We have to know ourselves. .i’m personally thinking about doing self massage rather then having someone else do it. I’m stuck on a membership at massage envy for another six months and I cant get out of it unless I have an honest financial excuse.
Vince
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I am a christian and I am a massage therapist. I am married. My husband and I usually get couples massage every year on our anniversary. He is a minister and has never minded my profession or considered it inappropriate. He trusts me to be professional and I would not want to loose my license and career due to my being out of control. I worked for Massage Envy for three years. Now I am independent and I teach massage at a college. Professional massage therapists are trained to view the human body for what is and not as a sex object. In the beginning, it was difficult for me to give my husband a professional massage because we are married and I was used to our touches being associated with intimacy. I eventually learned to separate the two types of touches and can now give him a professional massage. However, I feel like I give a better massage when I am at work and working on a stranger. I was well trained never to mix intimacy with professional massage. It is still challenging for me to see my husband’s body as just another body so I ca give him a professional massage. The good news is that by the same token, I cannot see other bodies as anything other than just bodies.If that were to happen I would refer the client to another therapist. So, I agree with your wisdom in selecting a therapists to whom you are not attracted. We are all human.
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Thanks for the reply! That was very helpful.
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If you lose, you’re out of the family !!!
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Hello, My brothers and sisters
I hope that this may ease your mind. I have been a massage therapist for 9 years I am a female and I know God has also blessed me with beauty. I can tell you as a massage therapist in this position I take extra precaution to avoid all temptation that may occur during a session. I pray before, during and after. (Staying away from areas of the body that may produce unwanted arousal) And 100% of the time if a man needs some type of work in the groin it DOES NOT feel good. Its actually quite painful and sensitive area and is only worked if there is need. I am also in constant prayer and meditation from beginning to the end. I know that God has blessed me with many gifts that enhance my massage skills 10 fold. The Lord leads and guides me through his temples his “churches” (the body) we as children of God have to lean on his word to “to take every thought into captivity and to cast down every thought that exhaults its self above God” I assure you this if a man or woman are being tempted by massage they most likely have lust in their hearts (in general) and it may be something that one needs to seek God the father on for deliverance. ( Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks). God tells us over and over “So as a man thinks so is he.” He warns us that every evil thing thought ect. starts within us. We can not blame or pervert a natural and very effective way of healing. If there is lust from therapist to client or client to therapist its because the persons heart is not right. Stay encouraged my brothers and sisters find a therapist that is a believer in christ. So that you can reap many benefits such as ” the laying of hands”, ” two or more gathered in his name”, and ” standing in agreement and asking the lord to bring his divine healing and acknowledge that the healing can only come from God the father. At the end of the day may God get All the glory! I hope this helps as a therapist this is always at the forefront of my mind doing everything I can to prevent the enemy from doing what he seeks to do steal, kill and destroy. I pray for my brothers and sisters that God may lead and guide you to a therapist that can help you, pray with you and ease some of your anxieties about massage therapy.
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No offense Leah, but that’s probably the most inanely unspiritual thing I’ve ever heard from a christian. The fact that you have to pray before, during, and after quite clearly says that its a strong temptation for you…and yet here you are, causing brothers to be offended, stumbled, and destroying your own testimony by engaging in such a thing.
I really really really really don’t want to come across as mean but Im just so flabbergasted that you havent figured out how bad it is.
I just went for my first massage today – my case manager recommended it… never had a massage before (only one other time which I couldnt remember much of because I was asleep) …
And I can assure you it was a temptation for me. Blessedly, I was able to chat to her about her husband to avoid getting turned on but this was almost difficult… any idiot who says its not a turn on is insane (if a woman is doing it) so the fact that you’ve been doing it for 9 years is absolutely unconscionable. I really hate that people are slow on the uptake…im so sorry to be rude but its like, we have this one chance in life to figure it all out…it took me one massage, and yourself, 9 years of it..I learned and, you have not???
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Hi LEA, I have question regarding giving massage to men.
I’m a Christian and I started giving massage to men 2 months ago, I left my job yesterday cause my Christian friend told me that it is possible to get influenced by demonic powers through massage and I am risking my life.
I feel like i’m missing something and I feel bad- when I was giving massage to men, I didn’t have any temptation or I was not thinking sexually about my clients. They were asking me to do things but I was always telling them that I cant and i’m a Christian,
my friend says its saten who is trying to trick me to continue my previous job and no matter how I feel during massage, still I can receive those negative powers and I will put my life at risk.
could you please help me !!!!!
I’m not feeling well!!
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Hi Luke,
I just posted a question for Leah, but I also like to ask you the same question ( more in details) i read your post and i feel you can help me if i give you more details.
my story is that, I started giving massage to men 2 months ago and i was fine , i didn’t have any temptation. I was thinking about just giving a very relaxing massage or keep my costumers happy by helping them to relieve stress or pain and if they were asking for more, i was telling them that i cant and i’m a Christian. everything was fine, until i met a guy and he said that he is going to pray and this prayer will help both of us to be protected, honestly i didn’t care much about what he said since i was sure about myself- i have amazing self control and i believe its a gift from Jesus. I inly think about doing my job best and the money that i receive for the job i do !!! he asked me to massage him or focus on his hips and thighs since he has more muscles there. i didn’t want to do but i did. i was just thinking about that i finish the job and i get my money and it was 10 min left ( out of 2 hours) to end of the massage , he helped himself and he …….
I got so mad and didn’t charge him anything. i told him that i cant receive this kind of money and i left.
for some unknown reason i didn’t feel any guilt after. i was happy and its was weird!!! i started to push myself to feel sad for what i did. i wanted to make my self accept that what i did was a sin. the day after i quit my job and after i did i felt bad. i started feeling loss in my life. i thought maybe jesus doesn’t love me anymore or he is not with me anymore!!! i talked to my Christian friend. she told me that massage is a dangerous thing. through massage i get influenced by demonic force and i will put my life at risk.
she said i should think about making money from other ways.
I feel sad. i’m not sure if its because that I’ve left my job or its because what I’ve done was bad and my holy spirit inside me is not active anymore!!
I don’t know whats really going on in me !!!
if giving massage is a sin then why i was not feeling bad when i was giving i. i was not feeling guilty!!
i’m sure that i have holy spirit in me !! if something was wrong !! he would have shown me
Please help me to understand what’s going on inside me !!!
I would appreciate it
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What state are you in… You sound like the therapist I need. I received a 15 minute chair massage as a reward for nurses Day once and the woman was so annointed and she spoke the word over me and I was as limp as a noodle after those 15 minutes were over. I’ve been searching for her ever since that was in Riverdale Georgia
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Amazing testimony
But one question I have is: If knowing this occupation can cause weak people to wander, and be tempted during or after at some point, then how can you contribute to it, even if they are temptable. Would you knowingly or unknowingly add to their fall. You would be blameable sinning against their weak conscience, would you not?
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Hello all, I am have been so addicted to Asian happy ending massage, I am not able to come out it.. Whenever I go there afterwards I would be filled with guilt and I strongly control myself going there. But after 2 weeks I am driven by my mental health issue I just go again and visit them. I am so full of guilt but I am not able to help myself. Appreciate your prayers.
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Hi happy ending is deadly sin and who commits it cannot go to heaven . I would suggest to go place that dont do happy ending and pray and pray whenever temptations to do it come masturbation is demonic it can be controlled by demons .my friends been telling me its not a sin I put thise question before God so I prayed and God showed me in my dream hell I saw people been tourchered by huge demons and they were laughing for thise specific sin masturbation so u see its very serious pleaze go to a good pastor have him pray over you . and stay stong spiritually pray read bible I’m praying for you we live only once we never know when it’s our time to go belive me it’s not worth go to hell forever over some pleasurable moments.
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Wow! Hmm…how do I even start…I’m a Christian and a Massage Therapy Instructor and this post is very misleading. To say, many affairs start with Massage is unfair because many affairs also begin with a Hello, a look, a smile, a coworker, a church leader, even a good meal.. so yeah this seems pretty absurd anything can lead to an affair even washing your clothes at a public laundromat..
2nd you cannot know if your therapist is straight or gay beforehand at a spa so that advice goes out the window..
3rd if the spirit within you is Holy and radiates love and you neglect to love your own body by breathing incorrectly, eating unhealthy, not stretching or exercising or getting massages you are sinning against your temple and focused on the wrong things. It’s the unhealthy mind that would take the opportunity to sin while getting a treatment and not the treatment itself. If you’re worried about being seen or lust you might want to stay away from beaches or pools too.. or even your gynecologist.. make sure their straight too.. don’t want bad thoughts to creep in.
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hi i totally agree….
I am a Christian and a male massage therapist/ counsellor/ life coach
I am about healing
Destressing the body
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I am a massage therapist and a christian. I feel the true question here is do you trust yourself or your spouse? Please don’t place sin on the therapist , but I would suggest searching your own heart and mind. At this point, should a women only see a female priest, doctor, teacher, etc and vise versa. There is abuse in every profession and therapist are more likely to have to deal with sinful clients rather than a client having to worry about the intentions of the therapist.
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I am a professional licensed Massage Therapist as well and am offended that you took my honorable profession, working hard with my hands, all for my Lord, and turned it into a cookie cutter erotica. I honestly believe my Lord called me to do this work. My Lord is the source of all healing and all power, I am just lending a hand. I work hard, as do all good LMT’s. Our touch is clinical annd therapeutic, not sexual.
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This article must have been written by a baptist. Sin starts in the heart. You question holistic healing. Perhaps you should rethink taking blood pressure medications etc. that have all sorts of side effects from big pharma. This article is filled with so many ignorant generalizations it’s not worth the time it took to write it
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I’m a male who gets a massage from a female, however, my situation is a little different than the average guy. I have a pain and fatigue disorder and have very little drive. I think this is one of those situations where you can’t make a blanket rule about not seeing a therapist of the opposite sex. For some individuals, I absolutely believe it is a bad idea, but for me, it is like going to the doctor or chiropractor. For many people with medical conditions, anything sexual is the last thing on their mind.
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There are different types of therapy that is under the umbrella of “Massage” (Sports, Table Thai, Medical, Manual Lymph Drainage, etc). After reading the article and the comments, I gather that this isn’t taken into account.
As a Christian, I make it my goal to bring my faith into my practice by using instrumentals that are from Christian Songs, speaking about my faith when invited, and using imagery that are of Christian origin (I have had Christian clients, who were unaware of my religious background, feel more at ease and more inclined to refer me to others knowing that I am Christian). There are still dangers though, as there are in many professions, but massage just seems to be the one that allows more of an open door for things to happen. But if you are a therapist and your mind is set on fleshly things, then that is what will come out in a session. Same with a client. If you are receiving a massage, You are in control (to a certain degree) of what the Therapist can and cannot do! The therapist already has restrictions by his or her state licensing or certifications and you can ADD on to those restrictions and the therapist must comply, unless you are suggesting something that is out of the therapists Scope of Practice.
Also, there are no “courses” (not to my knowledge) that will teach a husband/wife to massage their spouse that isn’t overtly sexual in nature (which isn’t a problem since you are married… but be careful what you invite into your marriage bed.. the type of massage I do is NOT the same!) If your spouse questions the fact that you are getting a massage from a member of the opposite sex, COMMUNICATE have a conversation as to why you/they feel that way! I had an instance where this was the case, and I totally understood! I have met both parties on separate occasions and I talked about my practice and they have spoken to people that I have treated (since I work with a chiropractor). The main fear that was brought up to me is that the spouse had a preconceived notion of what Therapists were like. And I told him I understood where he was coming from and that he has every right to feel the way he feels given the climate of how massage is viewed in entertainment. And there are many people out there abusing and perverting their talents. I, for one, paid too much to be licensed just to easily throw it away.
And yes, There are MANY religious and secular undertones in the art of massage. Not everyone who is a Massage Therapist practices them. As I have stated earlier, I put my faith into my practice. There are things I do not do, just because I know their origin from school and research.
As the word says “Everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial.” Everyone is truly able to (and I believe SHOULD) receive a massage (from credible Therapists), but everyone should truly weigh the pro’s and cons if they believe that this will hinder them in any way(Will my spouse be ok with this? Will it damage my testimony/Will it benefit the Kingdom (since many people have already a preconceived notion that massage is Sexual so this also plays a factor in those that are in leadership positions in their local church)? Am I doing this to fulfill a physical desire? Who will be affected by this and how? Etcetera)
With anything, come to your own conclusion. Ask your therapists questions about their practice if you are unsure… They may be GREAT therapists but they may not be the therapist for YOU! And Pray and Seek wise counsel. I believe this article has opened up a discussion into a realm that very few actually know or even talk about. Those of us that are Christian and just so happen to be Licensed and Certified should not be offended by it, but take the opportunity educate and tell our side as best as possible.
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I am a licensed bodywork therapist, 33 years. I am Christian, but even prior to realizing my acceptance of Jesus as my lord and savior there never would have been the day that I would have used my profession for profit using sex? It would go against the profession, regardless of ones spiritual belief, I would think? When the bible discusses pharmacopeia it is likely to do with the satanic BIG PHARMA, and few Christians blink an eye to use these chemicals that do NO good at the end of the day but suppress the root of the pain. These issues are not the practitioners but are in the client. When I work with my clients I actually do not ask them if they are Christian, and I rarely even discuss my faith with them unless I know who I am dealing with, I simply am hired to help with what is ailing them. Personally I would be happy if all my clients were Christian and as always your husband is safe with me, WOW! You do know that you created the sin.
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Too mention one other thing, Iatrogenic IS am actual thing. It is a simple and pure theory and nowhere in the bible does it challenge reality. It is possible that someone could quite easily become very ill, or actually die from the medication given to ‘help’. Not to say it will happen to everyone that takes the medicine really the wellness of the person has to be taken into account as well and someone walking in Jesus can likely be that person.
Unless people are expendable then who gives someone the right to cause someone harm?
You do realize that many harmful drugs were given to Jews in Nazi concentration camps as well as what the side effects of cyanide were by hearing, smelling and watching what happens to these people on dying….I am appalled truly by how many people do did and try to shove a reality down the throats of innocence.
Syphilis was given on experiment to black men, Mercury was used for 600 years to COMBAT syphilis, black men were given treatment for BOTH and recuperated many that had no faith, received those that had plenty, excelled… maybe being well is a better way to enter the Kingdom of God, doesn’t Jesus have something better to do with his time than healing people of their own idiocy? how about teaching them how to create a better existence for themselves and those that are here, too? Why else would the bible say LOVE your brother?
I have a very god walk with my Lord and he has not shown me the truth of the perpetuated lie on ‘these things never happened in history, theory’. When he tells me the word I hear him and know. But blasphemers of truth will never enlighten me.
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Pingback: Sollte ein Christ Körpermassagen erhalten?
I think it is not right for a Christian to get a massage for the following reasons:
1.The healing benefits of many massage techniques are based in religious belief systems other than Christianity. If you receive a massage, you run the risk of getting it from someone who is utilizing a religious belief system different then yours. You are unwittingly condoning that belief system.
2. As the original article explains, the sensual nature of the touching could result in sexual arousal.
3. Massages are hedonistic. The great Saints and Doctors of the Church practiced corporal mortification, depriving their bodies through fasting, going without warmth and sleeping on hard floors. We should be disciplining our bodies, not pampering them.
4. Working as a masseur or masseuse is degrading. We should not be disrespect our brothers and sisters in Christ by expecting them to partake in such servile activity.
5. It is a waste of time and money. If you have extra money and time that you don’t need for something else that is necessary, devote it to the poor or the community instead of frivolously spending it on a temporary pleasure.
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It is not pampering. If you came to my establishment looking for pampering I would ask you to leave.
It is not degrading to be a therapist, it is degrading to deal with people that do not know God and put a label on you.
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If you look up the definition of the word “pamper” in the Merriam Webster dictionary online, it says, “to treat with extreme or excessive care and attention”. Note the use of the words “extreme” and “excessive”. Since massages done solely for pleasure are not strictly necessary, it is reasonable to view them as “pampering”. You didn’t explain what type of establishment you are running and what your definition of “pampering” is. Maybe you just do clinical massages for medical injuries. If that’s the case, someone coming just for a relaxation massage would be crossing a line.
When massages are done for needless pleasure of the recipient at the expense of the labor of the person doing the work, an argument can be made that the work itself is “degrading”. That does not mean that the person doing the work is less valuable as a human being.
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Well since a masseuse is not the same thing as a massage therapist you just showed you have no idea what you are even speaking on and massage therapy is another form of physical therapy so I guess if you’re referred for that you won’t be taking that treatment either and you’ve obviously never needed it because there are many MEDICAL benefits and they hold a MEDICAL license just like any other healthcare professional
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Interesting blog … I’m a Christian woman who is also a licensed massage therapist for over 12 years! First let me say we work hard in school and to pass the state exams. We care governed under the health Care boards just like nurses and doctors. We are NOT into prostitution! Period ! When you come see us for a massage because you are in pain , stressed or whatever. .. We make you fill out paperwork just like a doctor’s office does. We let you know upfront we are professional and that the massage is therapeutic only to help you ..nothing funny ! Of course you might get the odd man who is a pervert! We don’t put up with it ! We warn them and will call the police if necessary. We are not here to take advantage of anyone. We are in the health and wellness only ! There is great massage therapists out here that actually are here to help you ! Please don’t get it twisted and think otherwise. Whet you go to the doctor for your exam you have to get naked.. under a,sheet or wear a gown they provide. He has to.touch you to examine you . Do you think it’s perverted then ? No because the doctor is there to help you with your medical issues. He has to examine you . Why do or or think massage is not right from a Christian point of view ? I have massaged MANY Christian people in my years in practice..including MANY pastors . End of story ! DON’T be so quick to judge!
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well everyone I feel lost reading all your post. I have only started my course in massage therapy yesterday because my husband often gives me a massage after coming from work. As a social worker, i found this helpful to distract myself and release my stress. I thought I can actually help others using the skills of remedial massage therapy. I am also a christian and thinking to only work with women when I finished my studies. On the other hand, this can be discriminating when a therapist chooses to only work with certain group of people . I have no problem massaging men or women but I am more concern that I may contribute to man feeling of temptation after reading the following verses:Roman 8:9;Matthew 18:6-9;1 Corinthian 8 :13;Mark 9:42.Please pray that God helps me make the right decision.
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Alright! We’ll be praying for you!
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Paupau, read my post below. I will pray for you, but know that if your heart has the right intentions, you shouldn’t worry. There are probably a lot of people out there who would love to have a Christian massage provider, but don’t know of any services available. Many massage therapy places are heavily influenced by New Age if not run by New Agers. Even when going to national retail franchises you sometimes can’t escape their influence. Again, if you read my post you’ll see my experience with one of them.
If you are serious about exploring the idea of providing massage services to others, my humble advice is that you get your certification and that you join a franchise part-time. I sincerely doubt you will get weird clients (especially men) looking for sexual massages, as franchises (such as Massage Envy, Hand and Stone, etc.) are reputable and well run.
Remember, Luke 6:45, “The good person out of the good treasure of the heart produces good, and the evil person out of evil treasure produces evil; for it is out of the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks.”
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I am a Christian woman who became born again just a couple of years ago. As such, I take this matter seriously. With that said, I felt the need to chime in because I often get massages (I go to a franchise massage/facial provider) due to painful knots in my back and shoulders. I’ve had both women and men therapists and I prefer men. From my experience, women simply do not have the strength to apply the necessary pressure on knots or trigger points and sometimes end up using their full arm on my back which is not effective as you can’t adjust the arm to get to knots stuck between hard-to-get-to problem areas like between shoulder blades. With men, I’ve gotten more consistent results.
Also, I once had a female therapist last year (you sometimes don’t know who you’re getting) who I caught reciting something over me at the end of the session. I immediately told her to stop and asked her what she was doing. She told me it was something to bring peace and I said I wasn’t interested, so she honored my request. Needless to say I was uncomfortable and prayed to God to cleanse me of any evil spirit this lady may have invoked through any New Age or ungodly practice. I never saw her again. Another time, this other lady (who was fond of sharing her personal life with me) ended up crying over me when she broke up with her boyfriend, also a very uncomfortable experience.
So, I’ve decided to stick with men. They are strong and can work my knots really well. They’re also quiet, not chatty like most women I’ve had, which I appreciate. As for sexual arousal, that’s the last thing on my mind. I go to my therapists because I’m hurting badly and need relief of my neck and back. My therapists have their work cut-out for them and spend a good hour to hour and a half wrestling with stubborn knots, as opposed to sensually touching me.
So, I think that, as with everything, one needs to examine one’s motives for getting massages. If it’s more for medical or therapeutic reasons, I’d say it is perfectly acceptable. On the other hand, if the motivation is to get touched and sensually aroused, then the obvious answer is NO, it should not be done.
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I agree with the content of this article. I am a man of 35, having a handicap, being single.Recently I had an edema and was advised to go to a young woman for massage. I went there some times, but then I had to quit. Nothing immoral happened, but my soul was at unrest. Based on Romans 12:1-2 i understood, I had to commit my body and thoughts to the Lord, and not do anything that can ruin the testimony of my life and the preaching of the gospel. It might not be bad on itself, but it can be misunderstood. My question. Would Jesus have got a body massage from a woman? I do not think so. We are not only sou, we are also flesh.
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Sister Rosalind’s in MN is a chain of Christian based massage and chiropractic offices
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Just simply ask your self.. Who was the first Masuere Physical Therapist in the Bible.. surely you understand YOU ARE THE POTTER AND I AM THE CLAY.. who created Human from the dust and breath in his Nostril.Who put perfection of the body organs of human… who mold touch human first.. the way you think if massage is evil an bad? why? only your thought and action make it bad not God who created us.
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All christians go through temptations irrespective of the professions they are in. There are more risk professions than others to christians who want to walk the journey of christian faith. Amongst areas of concerns are: military, alcohol and tobacco, medical industry including couseling therapy and now massage therapy. All its about how you face it and handle it. There are three areas in bible about temptations: Eve and adam in Genesis 3 and how they blamed not themseves but others. The book of Job and how he responded to the change. Temptation of Jesus Christ and how he responded.Luke 4:1-14. These helps you make informed choices after putting consideration of faith of others whom you may be leading them in christian faithand also your spouse.
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