Where does the Bible say wait until marriage? This is a question that has intrigued many individuals, especially those who are seeking guidance on matters of faith and morality. The Bible, as a sacred text for Christians, offers numerous teachings and principles that guide believers in their personal and communal lives. One of the most significant teachings regarding marriage is the encouragement to wait until marriage. This article will explore the biblical basis for waiting until marriage and delve into the various scriptures that support this practice.
In the Old Testament, the concept of waiting until marriage is evident in the laws and customs established by God for the Israelites. For instance, Genesis 2:24 states, “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife, and they shall be one flesh.” This verse highlights the importance of marriage as a union between a man and a woman, emphasizing the sacredness of the bond and the commitment involved. While this verse does not explicitly mention waiting until marriage, it sets the stage for the importance of the marital relationship.
The New Testament further reinforces the value of waiting until marriage. In the book of Ephesians, Paul writes, “Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?” (Ephesians 5:11). This verse suggests that believers should strive to live according to God’s standards, which include the sanctity of marriage. Waiting until marriage is one way to honor this principle and maintain purity in relationships.
Another significant passage that addresses the topic of waiting until marriage is 1 Corinthians 7:2-5. In this passage, Paul encourages believers to remain unmarried or to marry only within the faith. He writes, “Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of herself to put away her husband: but the husband hath power to put away his wife. So then, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.” This passage emphasizes the importance of purity in relationships and the need to wait until marriage to honor God and maintain spiritual integrity.
In addition to these specific passages, the Bible consistently teaches the value of purity and self-control. Waiting until marriage is a tangible expression of these virtues. The book of Proverbs states, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life” (Proverbs 4:23). This verse encourages believers to guard their hearts and make wise decisions that align with God’s will. Waiting until marriage is one way to demonstrate self-control and purity in a world that often promotes immorality and premarital sex.
In conclusion, the Bible does indeed say wait until marriage. This principle is rooted in the sacredness of marriage, the importance of purity, and the need to honor God in all aspects of life. While the Bible does not explicitly command waiting until marriage, it offers numerous teachings that support this practice. By embracing the biblical basis for waiting until marriage, believers can live out their faith with integrity and honor God in their relationships.
