Living together unmarried has become increasingly common in modern society. However, the Bible has clear teachings on the topic of cohabitation before marriage.
Christians who are considering living together unmarried may wonder what the Bible says about this practice and whether it is acceptable in God’s eyes.
The Bible teaches that marriage is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman, and that sexual intimacy should be reserved for this union.
In 1 Corinthians 7:2, it says, “But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband.” This passage emphasizes the importance of marriage as the only appropriate context for sexual activity.
While the Bible does not specifically mention living together unmarried, it is clear that sexual activity outside of marriage is considered sinful. Christians who are considering cohabitation should carefully consider the teachings of the Bible and seek guidance from trusted spiritual leaders before making any decisions.
Table of contents
Biblical Perspective on Marriage
Marriage is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman that is ordained by God. The Bible provides guidance on how to approach marriage and the roles and responsibilities of both partners.
Genesis 2:24 and One Flesh
Genesis 2:24 states, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” This verse highlights the importance of leaving one’s family and cleaving to one’s spouse. It also emphasizes the unity and intimacy that should exist between a husband and wife in marriage.
Hebrews 13:4 and the Marriage Bed
Hebrews 13:4 states, “Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.” This verse emphasizes the importance of honoring and respecting the marriage relationship, including the physical aspect of it.
Matthew 19:9 and Divorce
Matthew 19:9 states, “And I say to you: whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery.” This verse highlights the seriousness of divorce and the fact that it should only occur in cases of sexual immorality.
In summary, the Bible provides clear guidance on the importance of marriage, the unity and intimacy that should exist between a husband and wife, and the seriousness of divorce. It emphasizes the need to honor and respect the marriage relationship and to keep the marriage bed undefiled.
Unmarried Couples and Sexual Morality
When it comes to sexual morality, the Bible has a lot to say about the behavior of unmarried couples. Here are some key passages that address this issue:
1 Corinthians 6:18 and Fleeing Fornication
In 1 Corinthians 6:18, the apostle Paul writes, “Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.” This passage emphasizes the importance of avoiding sexual immorality, which includes any sexual activity outside of marriage.
Unmarried couples who engage in sexual activity are committing a sin and should strive to flee from this behavior.
1 Corinthians 7:2 and Having One’s Own Spouse
In 1 Corinthians 7:2, Paul writes, “But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband.” This passage emphasizes the importance of marriage as a way to avoid sexual immorality. Unmarried couples who are sexually active should consider getting married to avoid sinning against God.
Ephesians 5:3 and Sexual Immorality
In Ephesians 5:3, Paul writes, “But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints.” This passage emphasizes the importance of avoiding sexual immorality and impurity. Unmarried couples who engage in sexual activity are not living in a way that is proper for saints and should strive to avoid this behavior.
Overall, the Bible is clear that sexual activity outside of marriage is a sin. Unmarried couples should strive to avoid sexual immorality and consider getting married to avoid sinning against God. By following the teachings of the Bible, unmarried couples can live in a way that is pleasing to God and honors their commitment to each other.
Living Together Before Marriage
Living together before marriage has become increasingly common in today’s world, with many couples choosing to cohabit before tying the knot. However, the Bible has a different perspective on this practice. This section will explore the cultural and biblical views on living together before marriage, as well as the temptation and potential challenges that come with this arrangement.
Cultural vs. Biblical Views
In the world today, living together before marriage is often seen as a normal and acceptable practice. Many people view it as a way to test the waters before making a long-term commitment. However, the Bible teaches that sex is reserved for marriage, and living together before marriage can lead to temptation and compromise.
The Bible makes it clear that sexual immorality is a sin and that we are to flee from it (1 Corinthians 6:18). Living together before marriage can create an environment of sexual temptation, which can lead to sexual sin. The Bible also teaches that we are to honor marriage and keep it pure (Hebrews 13:4). Living together before marriage can undermine the sanctity of marriage and lead to a lack of respect for the institution.
Temptation and Living Arrangements
Living together before marriage can also present challenges in terms of living arrangements. Sharing a living space can put a strain on a relationship, especially if the couple is not prepared for the challenges that come with cohabitation.
It can be difficult to maintain boundaries and avoid temptation when living together, especially if the couple is not committed to abstaining from sexual activity.
Furthermore, the world’s cultural norms often promote a casual attitude towards sex and relationships, which can lead to a lack of commitment and a lack of respect for the sanctity of marriage. Christians who choose to live together before marriage must be mindful of these cultural pressures and remain committed to biblical principles.
In conclusion, while living together before marriage may be common in the world today, the Bible teaches that sex is reserved for marriage and that we are to honor and respect the institution of marriage.
Christians who choose to live together before marriage must be mindful of the potential challenges and temptation that come with this arrangement and remain committed to biblical principles.
Consequences of Sin and Redemption
Living together unmarried is considered a sin in the Bible, and as such, it has consequences. However, the Bible also offers a path to redemption and forgiveness for those who confess and repent of their sins.
Galatians 5:19 and Works of the Flesh
Galatians 5:19 lists sexual immorality, impurity, and sensuality as works of the flesh. These are sins that can lead to eternal separation from God. The Bible teaches that those who practice such sins will not inherit the kingdom of God. Therefore, it is important for unmarried couples to recognize the seriousness of their actions and seek forgiveness.
1 John 1:9 and Confession
1 John 1:9 offers hope for those who have sinned. It states that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Confession is the first step towards redemption. It requires acknowledging one’s sins and asking for forgiveness. God promises to forgive those who confess their sins and turn away from them.
John 3:16-17 and God’s Love
John 3:16-17 is a well-known passage that emphasizes God’s love for the world. It states that God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. This passage reminds us that God’s love is unconditional and available to all who believe in him. It also highlights the importance of repentance, as the following verse states that God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save it.
In conclusion, the Bible teaches that living together unmarried is a sin, but it also offers a path to redemption and forgiveness. Confession, repentance, and faith in God’s love are essential for those seeking forgiveness. It is important for unmarried couples to recognize the seriousness of their actions and seek God’s guidance in their relationship.
Practical Guidance for Unmarried Christians
Acts 15:20 and Abstaining from Sexual Immorality
Unmarried Christians who are living together should take heed of the Bible’s teachings on sexual immorality. Acts 15:20 states, “But we should write to them to abstain from things polluted by idols, and from sexual immorality, and from what has been strangled, and from blood.” This passage emphasizes the importance of avoiding sexual immorality, which includes any sexual activity outside of marriage.
Therefore, unmarried Christians should refrain from engaging in sexual relations until they are married. This may require setting boundaries and avoiding situations that could lead to temptation. It is also important to seek accountability from other believers and to prioritize prayer and Bible study to strengthen one’s faith and commitment to God’s will.
1 Thessalonians 4:3 and God’s Will
Another important passage for unmarried Christians to consider is 1 Thessalonians 4:3, which states, “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality.” This passage emphasizes that God’s will for his followers is to live holy and pure lives, which includes abstaining from sexual immorality.
Unmarried Christians should prioritize seeking God’s will for their lives and trusting in his plan. This may involve waiting for his timing and seeking wise counsel from trusted Christian leaders and mentors. It is also important to prioritize personal growth and development, including emotional and spiritual maturity, before entering into marriage.
Overall, unmarried Christians should prioritize their faith and commitment to God’s will above their desire for physical intimacy. By seeking accountability, setting boundaries, and prioritizing personal growth, unmarried Christians can honor God and live in a way that is pleasing to him.
Role of the Church and Community
Encouraging Marriage and Purity
The church and community play a vital role in encouraging marriage and purity among unmarried individuals. They can provide guidance and support to those who are considering living together unmarried.
The church can offer premarital counseling to help couples prepare for marriage and understand the importance of commitment and faithfulness.
Community groups can also offer support and accountability to those who desire to remain pure and faithful to their future spouse.
It is important for the church and community to set a positive example by promoting healthy marriages and relationships. By emphasizing the value of marriage and encouraging couples to wait until marriage to engage in sexual activity, they can help reduce the prevalence of cohabitation and its negative effects on individuals and society.
Supporting Unmarried Individuals
However, it is also important for the church and community to support unmarried individuals who may be struggling with the decision to get married or remain celibate. They can offer resources and support to help individuals navigate their relationships and make informed decisions.
It is important to approach this topic with sensitivity and understanding, recognizing that each individual’s situation is unique. By providing a safe and supportive environment, the church and community can help unmarried individuals make healthy choices and pursue a fulfilling life.
Overall, the church and community have a responsibility to encourage healthy relationships and promote the value of marriage and purity. By working together, they can provide the resources and support needed to help unmarried individuals make informed decisions and pursue fulfilling relationships.
