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- Sex in Relationships: Biblical Point Of View
Sex in Relationships: Biblical Point Of View
Nico Meyers
October 16, 2024
Hi love! I hope you’re ready to feel empowered by our valuable insights, practical tips and supportive network that help you excel in womanhood. 💕
Today we are covering:
How the Bible Depicts Sex in Different Relationship StagesThis covers the Bible’s teachings on sex across different relationship stages, and how it should be approached with honor and purity. | The Consequences of Sex in Different Relationship StagesThis discusses the consequences of engaging in sex outside of God’s boundaries, such as emotional, spiritual, and relational complications. |
How the Bible Depicts Sex in Different Relationship Stages
What does the Bible have to say about sex?
Believe it or not, it actually has quite a lot to say.
From single life to married life, and everything in between, the Bible lays out some pretty clear boundaries about when and where this gift should be used. So, let’s dive in!
Stage 1: Singleness
This one, I’m sure, you probably already know. If you’re single, the Bible’s pretty firm on this: no sex. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 doesn’t mince words: “Flee from sexual immorality.”
Not jog. Not take a brisk walk. Flee. RUN, GIRL, RUN. For obvious reasons. One, your body does not belong to you—it belongs to God, who bought you with a high price. That being said, He prefers that you honor Him with your body. And two, the consequences are high risk. Unintended pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and it deeply affects our mental health and identities.
Stage 2: Relationships
Okay, so maybe you’re in a relationship—serious, committed, love-of-your-life kind of stuff. Surely that’s different, right? Not exactly.
1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 says, “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable.”
The Bible holds sex to an even higher standard than we often do, making it clear that no matter how serious the relationship, sex is meant for marriage. So yes, even if you’re practically planning your future together, the answer is still no. Easier said than done, right? But we serve a God that is far greater than our lack of discipline. Allow Him to instill in you the character to honor Him and guide your decision-making in all aspects of life.
Stage 3: Marriage
What did Drake say? “Thank God we made it” or something like that. If you’re married, the Bible is all about you enjoying sex with your spouse.
Genesis 2:24 lays it out beautifully: “The two shall become one flesh.” Not only does God encourage sex in marriage, but He also created it to be a joyful, unifying act between husband and wife.
1 Corinthians 7:3-5 says, “The husband should fulfill his wife’s sexual needs, and the wife should fulfill her husband’s needs. The wife gives authority over her body to her husband, and the husband gives authority over his body to his wife. Do not deprive each other of sexual relations unless you both agree to refrain from sexual intimacy for a limited time so you can give yourselves more completely to prayer. Afterward, you should come together again so that Satan won’t be able to tempt you because of your lack of self-control.”
So yeah, keep the love flowing, because according to this, your bodies are a team effort—no benchwarmers allowed!
In general, the Bible treats sex as a sacred act. It’s not just a physical thing; it’s emotional and spiritual. It’s meant to reflect the deep, covenant relationship between Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:31-32). When used within the boundaries of marriage, sex is a blessing. But outside of that, it can lead to some not-so-fun consequences, which brings us to…
The Consequences of Sex in Different Relationship Stages
Let’s be honest, sex outside of God’s boundaries doesn’t just come with a side of guilt, it can come with a whole buffet of complications. So, what happens when we go off-script?
Consequences of Sex in Singleness
If you’re single and getting involved in sexual activity, you’re playing with fire—emotionally and spiritually. 1 Corinthians 6:18 says that sexual sin is different because it’s a sin against your own body. That’s not a light statement! Sex outside of marriage can leave you feeling disconnected from God, weighed down by guilt, and emotionally attached in ways that make future relationships messy. Oh, and there are those fun little consequences like STDs and unplanned pregnancies to consider. So yeah, the Bible isn’t just trying to kill your vibe; it’s trying to save you from a lot of unnecessary heartache.
Consequences of Sex in Relationships (Before Marriage)
If you’re in a relationship but not married yet, the emotional and spiritual fallout can be just as tough. When you engage in sex before marriage, it can blur the lines between love and lust. You may think you’re deeply connected, but the truth is, sex has a way of distorting things and making it hard to see whether you’re truly compatible beyond physical attraction. And when things don’t work out, the breakup is a whole lot messier—because sex was never meant to be casual. It’s designed to create a bond that’s meant to last a lifetime, so when that bond is broken prematurely, it’s painful.
Consequences of Sex in Marriage
Even within marriage, sex comes with its own set of rules. Misuse it—like through adultery—and you’re opening up a whole can of consequences. Proverbs 6:32 is blunt about this: “He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself.” Harsh, right? But true. Infidelity doesn’t just destroy trust; it can wreck families, relationships, and your own spiritual health. Even in marriage, sex can be weaponized—using it to get what you want. Don’t overdo the “not tonight, honey” line! You both signed up for this, so don’t be stingy with the affection. Commit yourself and work to find a place where it works for both of you.
Now, if you’re sitting there thinking, “Well, I’ve already blown it,” don’t start panicking.
Yes, sex outside of God’s plan comes with consequences, but that doesn’t mean you’re doomed. God’s grace is always available to those who seek it.
1 John 1:9 gives us hope: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” That’s right—even sexual sin.
If you’ve stumbled, it’s never too late to repent and realign your life with God’s plan. The best part? God’s love for you is unshakable, and He’s more than ready to forgive you and help you start fresh.
Your body is a temple (don’t forget that!), and when we choose to honor God with it, He blesses us in ways we can’t imagine. So, if you’ve been down a different path, don’t despair—God is ready and willing to help you live in purity, sustain you, and draw you closer to Him.
Remember: It’s not about being perfect; it’s about letting God guide you every step of the way.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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