Elder Dallin H. Oaks
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"For many years our church leaders have warned against the dangers of images and words intended to arouse sexual desires. Now, the corrupting influence of pornography, produced and disseminated for commercial gain, is sweeping over our society like an avalanche of evil."
Sexual sin is not only evil acts completed, but contemplated. "Whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart."
"Brethren, I must tell you that our bishops and our professional counselors are seeing an increasing number of men involved with pornography, and many are active members. Some involved in pornography apparently minimize its seriousness and continue to exercise the priesthood of God because they think no one will know of their involvement. But the user knows, brethren, and so does the Lord."
Patrons of pornography forfeit the power of their priesthood and lose the spirit. "The scriptures repeatedly teach that the Spirit of the Lord will not dwell in an unclean tabernacle."
"Pornography impairs one's ability to enjoy a normal emotional, romantic and spiritual relationship with a person of the opposite sex. It erodes the moral barriers that stand against inappropriate, abnormal or illegal behavior."
"But the good news is that no one needs to follow the evil downward descent to torment. Everyone caught on that terrible escalator has the key to reverse his course. He can escape. Through repentance it can be done."
