Latest family articles and help. Weekly CBN. You both feel the attraction building up. What do you do?

there’s no bigger question than where the line is drawn on physical contact in a dating relationship. FLESH SERIES: Sex, Lust, Porn and The Christian.

It is commonly believed among Assemblies of God constituents that lenient attitudes toward sex before or outside of marriage are completely contrary to the clear teaching of Scripture. It is also felt that uncontrolled and irresponsible expressions of affection and sexual permissiveness are directly responsible for the breakdown of much in our society. Dating and premarital courtship as practiced in 20th-century America are entirely different from the process of mate selection in Bible days.

In ancient times dating and courtship were virtually nonexistent. Marriages were arranged by fathers; and great importance was placed on family lines, histories, and dowries. Few in modern culture would care to return to the marriage system of ancient civilization. Yet our modern system is not without flaw. The moral erosion of our culture has encouraged people to place an over-emphasis on physical attributes, appearance, and sexual attraction.

This has occurred to the neglect of focusing on important qualities such as integrity, purity, and commitment; all of which are needed to sustain a marriage and family. Because dating and courtship did not exist then, neither Jesus, His disciples nor the authors of Scripture were led to specifically address these modern practices.

However Scripture is full of stories and truths that declare the need for sexual purity and self control. After the creation of mankind, God identified His creation as male and female with the capacity and basic need to unite, become one flesh Genesis The primary purpose of the family is to nourish children and guide them spiritually so that they too come to understand and know the Lord Jesus Christ and the joy of life He brings.

Later, as adults, they, through a new family, will be able to establish another generation to serve and bring glory to God.