One thing I know for sure has been a thorn in the flesh of every Christian at one time or another - Can Christian's Date? Can Christians Have Sex Outside of Marriage?
When you are single, living for the Lord is not always easy, especially if you were already sexually active before committing your life to the Lord. You can't miss something you never had. Now, it is like everyone expects for you to abstain from the lust of your flesh cold turkey. Thou (YOU) shall not commit fornication - you shall not have sex outside of marriage. Zilch, zero, none!
Well, that all depends on who you ask. After all, God created sex, He must think it is a good idea because He clearly told Adam and Eve, "Be fruitful and multiply." And, you cannot do that without lots of sex. Besides, the original Ten Commandments only states we cannot commit adultery - it says nothing about sex outside of marriage. So, where did the idea come from that men and women cannot come together sexually unless they are married?
The Bible clearly teaches that God does not approve of sexual immorality - but, the question arises, "Is physical intimacy between two consenting adults, that confess their love for one another, dishonorable?" Yes! Sex is physically enjoyable and gratifying, inside or outside of marriage; but intimacy is more than physical, it is spiritual as well. If you are having sexual intercourse outside of marriage, you are taking part and reveling in a privilege that is not intended for you. "But, aren't we married in heaven?" No!
Paul wrote to the Corinthian church that it was good for a man not to touch a woman, but to avoid sex outside of marriage, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. He went on to point out to the unmarried and widows that it was best if they were like him (without a mate), but if they could not abstain from having sex, they should marry because it is better to be married to someone than to burn in your lust without any avenue of relief. Now, we know that fornication (sex outside of marriage between a man and woman) is not the only sexually immoral act - but it is one of them.
Now concerning dating, there is no basis in the Bible to condemn or prohibit Christians from dating. However, before marriage, when considering a candidate for a life-long partnership we do have Biblical standards that do apply. The Bible is clear that we should not have any fellowship with darkness, and we should not be unequally yoked together with an unbeliever. To avoid falling into sin, we must guard ourselves against temptation by not giving place to the devil. Group dating can be a great idea for young Christians.
Marriage is wonderful! It is a gift from God, so when contemplating marriage, think about what God wants for your life - who God wants to share in your life! Aim high and get a Biblical perspective! Not only do you have to find the right person, you have to be the right person!
Before you commit yourself, prepare yourself to be husband and wife material!
(Video Version)