What Does the Bible Say About Living Together Without Marriage?

The Bible's answer

The Bible says that God's will is for the people to " abstain from sexual immorality."(1 Thessalonians 4:3) As used in the Bible, the term "sexual immorality" includes adultery, homosexual acts, and sex between a man and woman who are not married,  and who are not married to each other.

Why does it matter to God whether couples marry or not?

* The marriage arrangement comes from God.  He instituted it when he brought the first human couple together. (Genesis 2:22-24) He did not intend for a man and woman to live together without commitment of marriage.

* God knows what is best for humans.  He designed marriage to be a permanent union between a man and a woman that would benefit and protect all family members.  Consider  a simple illustration.  Just as the instructions that come from the manufacturer show you how to assemble a piece of furniture correctly, God's instructions tell us how to build successful family relationships.  God's standards always benefit those who follow them. -ISAIAH 48:17. 18.

* Sex outside of  marriage can have serious consequences.  For example, it can result in unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and emotional turmoil. 

* God gave men and women the ability to procreate by means of sex.  God's views life as sacred, and the ability to procreate is a precious gift. God wants us to treat that gift with respect by honoring his arrangement for marriage. - HEBREWS 13:4. 

Next time: What Does the Bible Say About Living Together Without Marriage? - What About Living Together Before Marriage to Test Compability?

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