Sacred Commitment: Embracing Purity and Spiritual Unity in Marriage

Christian tradition has always emphasized the sanctity of marriage as a union established by God and has advocated chastity prior to that union. In entering into marriage, a person not only unites with a loved one but also embarks on a profound spiritual partnership that demands sacrifice, responsibility, and mutual respect. Thus, any physical intimacy outside the institution of marriage is perceived not only as a violation of divine ordinance but also as a threat to the spiritual integrity of the individual. This approach helps preserve inner strength and willpower, enabling one to resist temptations and seductions that could steer a person away from their higher spiritual mission. The abstinence from physical intimacy until marriage serves as a kind of preparation for the full expression of love and union, where every participant in the relationship is in harmony with their inner nature. Ultimately, the traditional Christian view sees marriage not merely as a union between two people, but as the highest manifestation of a blessed purpose, where purity and unity become the foundation for spiritual growth and the realization of one’s true destiny in life.
What views exist in Christianity on relationships before marriage?
The Christian perspective on relationships before marriage, in the traditional sense, is linked to the understanding of marriage as a sacred union instituted by God, and it implies a requirement for chastity until that union. According to this position, any sexual relations outside of marriage are considered a violation of the person’s spiritual nature, weakening one’s will and opening the door to sin. For example, one source notes:

"Fornication is a sin, lawlessness, a breach of the commandment – 'fornicators ... will not inherit the Kingdom of God' (1 Corinthians 6:9-10). Unless, of course, they repent and do not return to sin. By allowing themselves sexual relations before marriage, a person violates their spiritual nature and greatly weakens their will, opening the door to sin; they have already given in, and it becomes very difficult to resist temptations." (source: link )

Thus, according to traditional Christian opinion, sexual relations are permissible only within the bounds of marriage, since marriage is regarded as the highest manifestation of love, sacrifice, and spiritual union between a man and a woman. Pre-marital relationships, by their very nature, are considered a state that can lead to spiritual decline and hinder the full expression of the blessed purpose of marriage.