Bible Question: What is considered a sinful sexual act between a man and a woman before marriage (what about during marriage)? While I realize sexual intercourse prior to marriage is spoken of explicitly throughout the bible it does not explain about other sexual acts besides intercourse. While I have searched for guidance in this area in many places I have often received conflicting answers. Some say that everything below the neck is wrong, others say that the physical intimacy should reflect emotional intimacy with the highest emotional intimacy (marriage) being equated with intercourse. Still others guide me by saying that one should know EVERYTHING about their partner before marriage in order to make a good decision in choosing a lifelong parter. |
Bible Answer: Well, the last sentence I think you will disagree with that "one should know EVERYTHING about their partner before marriage." Before marriage it is fornication, if I understand the "EVERYTHING" mentioned here. If I respond to your question verbatim, then all SEXUAL acts are forbidden outside the means God has ordained, marriage. Sex and sexual "pleasuring" are only to be conducted between a male and female who are married. The sexual pleasing part is my opinion. I draw this conclusion from understanding that the PURPOSE of sexual pleasing is to arouse sexually. This question could be a lengthy work of study that I am not prepared to engage in at this time. I am sure there are great resources on the net for this topic. To me it is a common sense question. No intimate contact outside of marriage. Does this mean kissing too in my view? Yes. A kiss is a powerful bio-physical force. Heck, I kissed my wife and got three kids! I think its in the water! :) Matt |