JICF Statement on Cohabitation and Premarital Purity Pledge¶

Version: April 2017

Statement on Cohabitation¶

Biblical Marriage Relationship¶

The biblical picture of marriage is a formal commitment and covenant resulting in a man and a woman becoming one family that can only be separated by death (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:5–6).
Sex is intended to be enjoyed only within the marriage covenant. Scripture speaks strongly against sex outside of marriage (Leviticus 20:10–21; Exodus 20:14).

Jesus addressed cohabitation directly in John 4:16–18, noting that the Samaritan woman’s partner was not her husband. The New Testament repeatedly emphasizes sexual purity (Acts 15:20; Hebrews 13:4; Galatians 5:19; 1 Corinthians 6:13–20; Ephesians 5:3; 1 Thessalonians 4:3).

Cohabitation in Society Today¶

Webster’s Dictionary defines cohabitation as living together while sexually active.
Cohabitation has become increasingly accepted, even among Christians, often due to fear of divorce. Couples may “test drive” living together, but secular studies show negative outcomes:
- 80% of couples who cohabitate before marriage and then marry end up divorced.
- Cohabitation correlates with higher conflict, domestic violence, abuse, depression, financial hardship, and infidelity.

Conclusion¶

Despite cultural acceptance, JICF holds that cohabitation is biblically sinful. Couples who continue cohabitating will not be married or blessed at JICF. Couples living together but not sexually active are asked to move into separate homes to avoid temptation (1 Corinthians 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 4:3–5; Ephesians 5:3; Hebrews 13:4).

Couples who honor the Lord in every aspect of their relationship experience greater oneness, peace, and joy in marriage.

Spending the Night & Traveling Together¶

JICF advises against spending the night or traveling alone together while dating because it:
1. Does not protect your heart (Song of Solomon 3:5; Proverbs 4:23).
2. Is not fleeing temptation (1 Corinthians 6:18; Ephesians 5:3).
3. Is not a good witness (Romans 12:2; Colossians 4:5).
4. Is not a way to “test-drive” the relationship (Proverbs 16:25).

Premarital Purity Pledge¶

Purpose¶

Sex is a gift from God to be enjoyed in marriage. Couples are encouraged to remain sexually pure before marriage, which brings blessings such as:
- Pleasing God through obedience.
- Building trust and intimacy.
- Developing patience and self-control.
- Avoiding guilt, shame, unplanned pregnancy, and STDs.
- Increasing anticipation and joy for marriage.
- Maintaining a Christian witness.

Commitment¶

Sexual purity means more than avoiding intercourse; it includes avoiding sexual intimacy and even the appearance of evil. Couples are encouraged to limit physical involvement to:
1. Holding hands
2. Hugging
3. Light kissing

Exceeding these limits requires confession to God, reconciliation with one’s partner, and accountability with mentors.

Accountability¶

Couples are asked to sign the pledge and agree to call their mentors if physical involvement exceeds the agreed limits. This pledge is voluntary but strongly encouraged for those preparing for marriage.

Mentor Involvement¶

Mentors will guide couples in discussing and praying about the pledge. The matter remains private between the couple, mentors, and God. The pledge is designed to help couples build a Christ-centered marriage.