Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #7 — Sex In Dating

Picture: Counsel #7 — Sex in Dating CR 62.1

God invented sex! It’s a beautiful gift of physical, spiritual, and emotional intimacy to be enjoyed within the marriage of a committed man and woman. CR 62.2

However, Satan has corrupted much of humanity’s perception and use of God’s gift. In the mid-to-late-1900s, the biblical principles of sexual behavior were especially challenged. Sexual activity outside of marriage became mainstream and “If it feels good, just do it!” became society’s mantra. Now, entertainment media continues to promote “sexual liberation” and the destruction of moral boundaries. The normalization of sex outside of marriage, cohabitation, and even pornography and other sexual perversion saturates our culture.^[61] CR 62.3

In the middle of the current moral depravity, the Word of God calls us to partner with Jesus in purity and holiness, glorifying Him in our body and our choices (See 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, 7, 8; 2 Timothy 2:22; Revelation 21:8). CR 62.4

“Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.” 1 Corinthians 6:18 NKJV CR 62.5

“Those who are controlled by their passions cannot be followers of Christ.” Ellen White in Child Guidance, pp. 445, 446 CR 62.6

Reflect: How can you keep yourself pure in a society that promotes self-gratification at every turn? CR 62.7