In ancient times, many marriage unions were informal or based on mutual consent without legal recognition, evolving over time to include legal contracts and ceremonies recognized by governments and religious institutions. It doesn't matter if a couple is married in court, under water, on a mountain, on a llama, et cetera.
The faithful LORD honors and recognizes court marriages as much as He does a church marriage. One is no more or less valid than the other, although a Christian might find some greater memorable value in a church wedding. The marriage is officially consummated when carnal knowledge takes place.
The Bible teaches in 1st Corinthians 6:16, "What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh." When an unmarried man and a woman fornicate, there is a union, a "soul tie" is created. It is not the same as a marriage union, where a commitment is exchanged. If joining with a harlot were to form a new marriage, then how could a husband commit adultery? 1 Corinthians 6:16 discusses the idea that if someone unites with a prostitute, they become one body with her, reflecting the biblical concept that sexual union creates a deep lasting bond. This verse emphasizes the seriousness of sexual relationships and suggests that such actions can have significant spiritual implications.
To engage in sexual relations with someone is to share the deepest part of yourself. That union should be reserved for the covenant of marriage where true commitment exists. Remember that your body is not just a physical entity. It is a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit, and the choices you make have spiritual implications.
The Corinthian culture, known for its wicked sexual liberality like America today, stood in stark contrast to the teachings of Jesus Christ. Consequently, the Apostle Paul urges believers to understand that their bodies are not their own, but of God. The believer's body is the temple of the blessed indwelling Holy Spirit (1st Corinthians 3:16-17).
Getting married anywhere (including in a court of law) is a real marriage. Marriage is sacred in God's sight, not to be taken lightly. Sadly, we live in a throw away society in America today. It is much easier to sin when nearly everybody else is sinning.
Getting married anywhere (including in a court of law) is a real marriage. Marriage is sacred in God's sight, not to be taken lightly. Sadly, we live in a throw away society in America today. It is much easier to sin when nearly everybody else is sinning.
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