Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: The term "living together" typically refers to cohabitation, where two individuals reside in the same dwelling without being married. In contemporary society, this arrangement is often seen among couples who choose to live together before or instead of marriage. From a biblical perspective, the concept of living together outside of marriage is examined through the lens of scriptural teachings on marriage, sexual purity, and community living. Biblical Teachings on Marriage and Cohabitation: The Bible consistently upholds marriage as a sacred covenant between a man and a woman. Genesis 2:24 states, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh." This verse underscores the biblical model of marriage as the appropriate context for a man and woman to live together and form a family unit. The New Testament reinforces the sanctity of marriage. Hebrews 13:4 declares, "Marriage should be honored by all and the marriage bed kept undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers." This passage highlights the importance of maintaining sexual purity within the bounds of marriage, implying that cohabitation outside of this covenant is contrary to biblical teachings. Sexual Purity and Cohabitation: The Bible places a strong emphasis on sexual purity, urging believers to abstain from sexual immorality. 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 instructs, "It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: You should avoid sexual immorality; each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, not in lustful passion like the Gentiles who do not know God." Cohabitation often involves a sexual relationship outside of marriage, which is viewed as inconsistent with the call to holiness and purity. Community and Accountability: Living together outside of marriage can also impact the Christian community and its witness to the world. Ephesians 5:3 advises, "But among you, as is proper among the saints, there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed." The early Christian community was called to live in a way that reflected their commitment to Christ, serving as a light to the surrounding culture. Practical Considerations: While the Bible does not explicitly address modern cohabitation, the principles of marriage, sexual purity, and community living provide guidance for believers. Christians are encouraged to seek relationships that honor God and align with biblical teachings. Engaging in premarital counseling, seeking accountability from church leaders, and prioritizing spiritual growth are practical steps for those considering marriage. Conclusion: The biblical perspective on living together emphasizes the importance of marriage as the appropriate context for cohabitation. By adhering to scriptural teachings on marriage and sexual purity, believers can honor God in their relationships and maintain a strong witness to the world. Topical Bible Verses 1 Corinthians 7:2Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. Topicalbible.org Greek 3786. ophelos -- advantage, help ... 3786 (from , "heap together") -- properly, "something heaped up," ie the () a believer in life by living . This gives the "edge," ie ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3786.htm - 6k Library Another Kind of Men Living Together in Cities. Fasts of Three Days ... These Things We, who were Living as Friends Together... Revival in the Home writings in connection with the Manich??an controversy On the Good of Widowhood. Letter cxvii. To a Mother and Daughter Living in Gaul. David's Deserts The Form of Perfect Living and Other Prose Treatises A Living Book The Constitution of the World and the Disposition of The Resources Why is living together before marriage considered living in sin? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Jesus and believers are living stones in 1 Peter 2:4-5? | GotQuestions.org What is the living hope in 1 Peter 1:3? | GotQuestions.org Living: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |