It would be an illusion to think that the fight for purity ends with marriage. Marriage can even become a trap. Some people imagine that their problems will be solved as soon as they get married. In fact, many problems will only begin.

Without a doubt, the union between a husband and his wife is a great grace. It can have a salvific effect, especially in mitigating selfishness. But this redemptive effect of marriage, in itself, cannot resolve the suffering of a burdened conscience. Salvation, in its fullness, is found only in Jesus.

A marriage certificate is not a guarantee of purity. Without a living relationship with God, the sexual act loses its true meaning and dignity. It becomes an end in itself. Even within marriage, carelessness in the sexual domain will have devastating consequences. It erodes what is invaluable in the bond between a man and a woman.

It happens, even among Christians, that marriage is seen as permission to satisfy all desires. I met a middle-aged couple who, in the privacy of their room, watched pornographic videos. Their love life was damaged and had lost its meaning. They were only fueling their mutual dissatisfaction.

Marriage particularly reveals our need for God’s approval. When a man and a woman unite, they should adopt the attitude of Moses when he approached the burning bush: “The place where you are standing is holy ground!” (Exodus 3:5). An attitude of respect for their Creator and for the mystery of marriage.

Sexuality is the union of a man and his wife under God’s gaze. It fulfills a mysterious divine plan of tenderness and peace. Far from being a beastly act, it establishes and expresses a unique bond, in the depth of love and self-giving.

When a couple experiences this sexuality, they clearly see that the purpose of their union is not limited to procreation. Yet, at the same time, man and woman will not forget that their union can bring forth new life. In faith, they will marvel at the holiness of their union. It will become for them like a prayer to God.

Without Christ, when one has lived in impurity, the mysterious meaning of sexuality cannot be understood. But in Christ, amazing healings take place.

“We know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. And all who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.” (1 John 3:2b-3)

(…)

This text is an excerpt from the book “SEXUALITY, MARRIAGE, AND GOD“ written by Johann Christoph Arnold.

We invite you to read the following article: “MARRIAGE IN THE HOLY SPIRIT.”

MARRIAGE DOES NOT GUARANTEE PURITY.