This isn’t the first time I’ve gotten these questions. That (after acknowledging that the Bible does not in fact condemn homosexual relationships) what do we do with our God given sexuality then? More recently I’ve receive this question:
How does our sexuality play in a Christian context? No sex before marriage? What if we cannot get married? What is marriage anyways? How do we apply biblical standards for marriage/sexuality when it is framed in a heteronormative context?
I (Ian) am going to be brutally honest to all of you on the second part of this question-series… I don’t know if sex before marriage is a sin. I have heard two solid arguments for abstinence and one against having to wait as long as it might take! But currently I choose to endorse traditional interpretation as it offers the potential of less heartbreak and is the safer course of conduct in light of STD’s. But that does not mean I necessarily regard the alternate position as sinful. My position on the matter has yet to take a solid stance.
My opinion does not necessarily reflect my co-writers’ opinions, nor is this GC’s official statement on premarital sex.
What is Marriage? Marriage is outlined as a covenant before God. A vow of both actions and words, in a monogamous pledge to honour and love your partner. The state has nothing to do with the matter. All the state can do is give you tax-benefits as a way of promoting the family-unit. In my opinion, the state should offer civil unions to both heterosexual and homosexual couples leaving the definition of “marriage” to religious and faith-based organizations.
If you cannot legally get married, I suggest you get a “Bible Marriage”. A “Bible Marriage” is a purely religious ceremony where you can get married in a Church and be recognized before it and God (who is the only person you need in recognition of you and your would-be fiance).
Taking marriage out of a heteronormative context (from 1 Peter 3. I sincerely believe Peter had no intention of being exclusionary for the record), you apply the same rule for both and husbands and wives to both partners. In order to respect, honour, and love each other in Christ-centred matrimony.
As for both partners being Christian, I truly see no harm in dating non-Christians. I myself am dating an atheist currently! So long as the other partner doesn’t seek to guide you away from what is right or undo your faith, there is no harm, in my opinion, in dating someone of another faith (or who has a lack thereof). However, if your standard is to date another Christian then you needn’t compromise! The patience of waiting for a Christian man/woman is something to be proud of!
I hope this helps those whom it may concern! Happy Easter and God Bless!
-Ian
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