Topical Bible: Marriage: Designed For: Preventing Fornication

◄ Marriage: Designed For: Preventing Fornication ►

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Introduction

Marriage, as instituted by God, serves multiple purposes within the Christian faith, one of which is the prevention of fornication. This understanding is rooted in biblical teachings that emphasize the sanctity and exclusivity of the marital relationship. The Bible presents marriage as a covenantal union between a man and a woman, designed to fulfill God's purposes, including the provision of a legitimate context for sexual relations.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of marriage as a means to prevent fornication is explicitly addressed in the New Testament. In 1 Corinthians 7:2, the Apostle Paul writes, "But because there is so much sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband" . This passage underscores the idea that marriage provides a divinely sanctioned outlet for sexual desires, thereby safeguarding individuals from the sin of fornication.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament lays the groundwork for understanding marriage as a protective institution. In Genesis 2:24, it is stated, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh" . This foundational verse highlights the exclusive and intimate nature of the marital bond, which serves to channel sexual expression within the boundaries set by God.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament further elaborates on the role of marriage in preventing fornication. In Hebrews 13:4, it is written, "Marriage should be honored by all and the marriage bed kept undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers" . This verse reinforces the sanctity of marriage and the importance of maintaining purity within the marital relationship.

Paul's teachings in 1 Corinthians 7 also provide practical guidance for married couples. He advises spouses not to deprive each other, "except by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again, so that Satan will not tempt you through your lack of self-control" (1 Corinthians 7:5). This counsel highlights the importance of marital intimacy in preventing temptation and maintaining fidelity.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, marriage is seen as a divine institution that reflects God's covenantal relationship with His people. The exclusivity and commitment inherent in marriage mirror the faithfulness and love that God demonstrates toward His covenant community. By providing a legitimate context for sexual relations, marriage upholds the moral order established by God and protects individuals from the spiritual and relational consequences of fornication.

Practical Considerations

In practical terms, marriage serves as a safeguard against the pervasive influence of sexual immorality in society. By committing to a lifelong partnership, individuals are encouraged to cultivate love, respect, and mutual support, which strengthens the marital bond and reduces the likelihood of seeking fulfillment outside the marriage. The biblical model of marriage promotes a holistic approach to human sexuality, integrating physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions within the framework of a committed relationship.

Conclusion

While marriage fulfills various roles within the Christian worldview, its function in preventing fornication is a significant aspect that aligns with biblical teachings. By adhering to the principles outlined in Scripture, believers are called to honor the sanctity of marriage and uphold its role in maintaining moral purity.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Corinthians 7:2
Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Domestic Relation.
... is acceptable unto God by way of preventing promiscuous sexual ... and give honor to
him: for the marriage of the ... deprive them of the blessing God designed for them ...
/.../orr/the gospel day /chapter xiii the domestic relation.htm

The Westminster Confession of Faith. AD 1647.
... These angels and men, thus predestinated and foreordained, are particularly and
unchangeably designed; and their number is so certain and definite that it can ...
/.../the westminster confession of faith.htm

Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ...
... of the laws, and let them so live as if by the compact of marriage they were ... engaged
his attention until 356, when a series of councils began, designed to put ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period i the imperial state.htm

Christian Behavior
... This was a thing also which good Joshua designed should be his practice as long
as ... This is one of God's chief ends in instituting marriage, that Christ and his ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/christian behavior.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... while his earliest biographer places this event some years after his marriage, and
even ... into his place, who, having the same post that was designed Mr. Bunyan ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm