With the upward trend of cohabitation as a trial marriage, couples who wait to have sex until marriage are quickly becoming a minority in western countries. The general consensus is that exploration of sexual compatibility before the lifelong commitment would lead to a better marriage and by not doing one's marriage will be adversely impacted. If such belief were true, does it mean saving sex for marriage would lead to a worse marriage? A study in the American Psychological Association's Journal … [Read more...]
Cohabitation: A New Approach to Marriage
Below is the summary of an interview with Glenn Stanton by FamilyLife's hosts Dennis Rainey and Bob Lepine about the negative effects of moving in together before marriage that are even proven by secular sociologists. Cohabitation has developed from a hostile approach to marriage into a trial of marriage. You can find all the references and the complete transcripts from the links provided at the end of this posting.Living together before marriage just isn't a good idea, especially if you're … [Read more...]
What If We Love Each Other?
by J. BudziszewskiDear Professor Theophilus:I have a question that may sound a little bit hypocritical coming from a follower of Jesus, but I wanted to ask someone I could trust, who didn't know me, and who wouldn't release my name. I've really enjoyed the tips and articles here on the Boundless webzine, and my mother listens to Focus on the Family all the time on the radio, so I am really familiar with you guys.I have been in Christian school for most of my life, I go to a wonderful … [Read more...]
Roommates of the Opposite Sex
Another interesting point raised by J. Budziszewski about two people of the opposite sex living together in one apartment. "No we never think about sex, we strictly roommates!"Does It Matter Who You Live With? by J. BudziszewskiI cannot possibly see how it is wrong or unbiblical to rent an apartment with a person of the opposite sex. We're close, but I can honestly say that we've never thought about sleeping with each other.I don't believe you, but thanks for writing.Is that all … [Read more...]
Why Shouldn’t I…? Sex, Love, and Marriage
By Chuck ColsonQuestion 59: Don't all the negative rules Christians have about sex come from a hatred for the body? Don't they treat the body as if it were dirty? Question 60: Why are Christians so hung up about sex? Question 61: Why should I wait to have sex until I'm married? Question 62: But everybody takes having sex before marriage for granted. How can our whole society be wrong? Question 63: But a guy needs sex. Isn't it just a natural function? Question 79: My school hands out … [Read more...]
Reasons to Hold Our Values
Casual sex can never be what God intended the sexual relationship to be. There's no medical or psychological evidence that posponing sexual intercourse causes any lasting physical or emotional harm to males or females.The danger of AIDS and other sexually transmitted disease are very real. Because many STDs exhibit no outward symptoms, an infected person may be unaware, but contagious, nevertheless. The AIDS virus can incubate for more than 10 years before the infected individual tests … [Read more...]
Ten Reasons Why Sex Should Wait Until Marriage
By Nancy HannaSex is a powerful force that can destroy if not used properly. Like atomic power, sex is the most powerful creative force given to man. When atomic power is used correctly it can create boundless energy; when it is used in the wrong way it destroys life. Sex is the same kind of powerful force. Sex is a gift from God to give us the greatest pleasure, to help in creating a deep companionship with one's spouse and for procreation of the next generation. But if you play with this … [Read more...]
Benefits of Abstinence
Clear conscience with God. Peace of mind in your life and future relationships, and marriage. More self-respect and more respect for each other1 and respected by other people. Always remember, in a healthy relationship, respect precedes love.2 And premarital sex only throws away your self respect and your partner's. You enter marriage with a more positive outlook and without carrying emotional baggage. Personal freedom for both of you and your (future) marriage partner. Significantly … [Read more...]