BGEA: What does the Bible say about unmarried people having sex (i.e. fornication)?

A friend of mine admits that the Bible forbids a married person from having sex outside of marriage (i.e. adultery), but he claims it doesn't say anything about unmarried people having sex. Is he right? — A.J.

No, he is not. The Bible clearly teaches that all sexual relations outside marriage are wrong in God's eyes. The Bible bluntly says, "Flee from sexual immorality" (1 Corinthians 6:18). This includes any kind of sexual activity apart from marriage.

Remember that God gave us the gift of sex in the first place—and He intended for it to be a source of joy and happiness for us. But He also intended for it to be restricted to marriage. Why? One reason is because it was to be a sign of the unity between a husband and wife. It was, in other words, meant to be an expression of their mutual commitment and love. But sex outside marriage easily becomes selfish, and even boring.

God knows what is best for us, including this important area of our lives. Why ignore His way, when it is best for us in the long run? The Bible warns, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death" (Proverbs 14:12) The Bible also promises, "Blessed are they whose ways are blameless" (Psalm 119:1).

Pray for your friend; I can't help but wonder if he is only looking for an excuse to live a life of self-indulgence and immorality. But there is forgiveness and new life for all who turn to Christ in repentance and faith. Yes, we live in a sex-saturated society—but with God's help we can follow a far better path.

6 Comments

Vince says 7.21.2012, 02:53 a.m.

These verses might helpRomans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. Isiah 1:18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. Rev 1:5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,

Emmanuel says 7.20.2012, 6:31 p.m.

My dear, there is no sin greater than the price of christ's blood on the cross.God still loves you.

Linda says 2.27.2012, 12:47 a.m.

I have done the same thing She did and have left that relationship. I know what God wants me to do in the sense of saving myself for marriage. We live in a world of anything goes but as Christians we need to stay true to the Word, not the world.

rachel says 12.12.2011, 02:10 a.m.

As far as knew myself as a person, i haven't had sex , but i have have that urge and feeling... i know its sin to do it, but sometimes i feel so much left behind and old fashioned, when my age mates friends even younger people are doing it,

Steve says 3.3.2011, 00:40 a.m.

Psm 103:12 As far as the east is from the west, so far has he put our sins from us. This verse has helped me so much over the years. So great, so awesome is our God- he can pardon any and all sin, and has already,,, Jesus Christ died for you on the cross. He died for you and in your place- to become the necessary sacrifice for your sin. You are forgiven young lady. Now- go in peace because your sins are all forgiven. I will pray for you and for your peace.

she says 2.13.2011, 5:25 p.m.

I'd committed sexual activity before marriage with my boyfriend. I loved him. Then, I decided to end this relationship because I feel I was so far away from Jesus, Christ and God. I've known that I have sinned, and it has been so hard for me to understand that God has forgiven me. It's because I can't even forgive myself. I have betrayed my values for 4 years. I regret what I've done everyday now; even though, I know there is no point to regret it. My heart is broken. I pray to God for cleansing and healing everyday. And I read the bible verses every night from James to Jude, and now start from Genesis. I still feel the pain and sorrow. Would you please enlighten me so that I can understand/receive God's grace and forgiveness? Thank you!