Sex

Sex before marriage

Christian views

‘Flee from sexual immorality’ Corinthians

• For many Christians, sex should not be a casual, temporary pleasure; instead, sex is an expression of deep, lifelong union that requires the commitment of marriage

• Anglican and Catholic churches teaches that sex before marriage is wrong

• Christians believe that it is wrong to use people for sex, to spread sexually transmitted infections or to risk pregnancy before marriage

• Some liberal Christians view sex before marriage as a valid expression of love, particularly if the couple are intending to get married or have a lifelong commitment

Jewish views

‘in God’s image’ Genesis

• Judaism traditionally considers sex before marriage as immoral and irresponsible, because it undermines the importance of creating a family through which Jewish religion and culture are passed down

• The Torah warns against promiscuity and sexual conduct that harms others, who are all created in God’s image

• Orthodox Jews follow laws in Leviticus and guidance in Talmud, and so believe premarital sex is forbidden

Sexual relationships outside marriage

Christian views

• Christians are against adultery as it breaks the marriage vows they make before God, also threatening the stable relationship needed for their children’s security

• Adultery is against one of the ten commandments

Jewish views

• Goes against one of the ten commandments

• breaks the spiritual bond of marriage and risks the happiness and security of the whole family