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What Is Fornication? A Biblical and Theological Answer
By Dave Jenkins
In this edition of Anchored in the Word, we answer the question, “What is fornication?” We’ll explore what Scripture teaches, why this sin matters so deeply, and how Christians can walk in holiness and purity through Christ.
What the Bible Says About Fornication
The Greek word porneia in the New Testament refers to all kinds of sexual immorality outside of marriage. This includes premarital sex, adultery, and more.
- 1 Corinthians 6:18–20 — Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit; we are called to glorify God with them.
- Matthew 5:27–28 — Jesus warns that even lust in the heart is sinful.
Theology Behind Fornication
Sexual purity isn’t just moral—it’s theological. Marriage is a picture of Christ and the Church. Fornication distorts that picture.
- Ephesians 5:31–32 — Marriage mirrors Christ’s covenant with His Bride.
- 1 Thessalonians 4:3–5 — God’s will is our sanctification through sexual purity.
Practical Steps to Fight Fornication
- Guard your heart and mind — Matthew 5:28, Psalm 119:11
- Seek accountability — James 5:16
- Flee temptation — 1 Corinthians 6:18
God calls us not just to resist sin but to flee from it. In Christ, we find both the power and the grace to do so.
Conclusion
Fornication is a serious offense against God, but His grace is greater. In Christ, there is forgiveness, healing, and power to walk in holiness. Let us pursue purity—not to earn God’s love, but because we’ve already received it through Christ.
“You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” — 1 Corinthians 6:20
Frequently Asked Questions
What is fornication according to the Bible?
Fornication refers to sexual activity outside of biblical marriage. The Greek word porneia includes premarital sex, adultery, and other sexual immorality that violates God’s design for purity.
Is fornication different from adultery?
Yes. Fornication refers to sexual sin outside of marriage, while adultery specifically refers to sexual sin committed by someone who is married with someone who is not their spouse.
Can God forgive fornication?
Yes. Through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, God offers full forgiveness and transformation. 1 John 1:9 assures us that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us.
Why is fornication considered a sin in Christianity?
Fornication distorts God’s design for sex within the covenant of marriage. It violates God’s commands and dishonors the body, which belongs to the Lord (1 Corinthians 6:13–20).
What are the consequences of fornication according to Scripture?
The Bible warns that sexual sin has both spiritual and relational consequences. It defiles the body, damages trust, and leads to judgment unless repented of (Hebrews 13:4, Galatians 5:19–21).
How can someone overcome a struggle with fornication?
Through repentance, accountability, renewing the mind in God’s Word, and dependence on the Holy Spirit, believers can overcome sexual sin and grow in holiness (Romans 12:1–2; Galatians 5:16–24).
What does the Bible say about sexual purity?
The Bible calls all believers to pursue sexual purity as part of sanctification. God’s will is for Christians to honor Him with their bodies and flee all sexual immorality (1 Thessalonians 4:3–5).
Is there grace for those who have committed fornication?
Yes. God’s grace through Jesus Christ is greater than all sin. Those who confess and turn from fornication will be forgiven, cleansed, and restored (1 John 1:9; Psalm 51:10).
Is it still considered fornication if two people are engaged?
Yes. According to Scripture, sexual relations are reserved for marriage alone. Engagement is a promise, not a covenant, and sex outside of marriage remains sin in God’s eyes.
Does fornication affect one’s relationship with God?
Yes. Like all sin, fornication creates a barrier in fellowship with God. However, repentance and confession restore that fellowship through grace (Isaiah 59:2; 1 John 1:9).
Dave Jenkins is happily married to his wife, Sarah. He is a writer, editor, and speaker living in beautiful Southern Oregon. Dave is a lover of Christ, His people, the Church, and sound theology. He serves as the Executive Director of Servants of Grace Ministries, the Executive Editor of Theology for Life Magazine, the Host and Producer of Equipping You in Grace Podcast, and is a contributor to and producer of Contending for the Word. He is the author of The Word Explored: The Problem of Biblical Illiteracy and What To Do About It (House to House, 2021), The Word Matters: Defending Biblical Authority Against the Spirit of the Age (G3 Press, 2022), and Contentment: The Journey of a Lifetime (Theology for Life, 2024). You can find him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, or read his newsletter. Dave loves to spend time with his wife, going to movies, eating at a nice restaurant, or going out for a round of golf with a good friend. He is also a voracious reader, in particular of Reformed theology, and the Puritans. You will often find him when he’s not busy with ministry reading a pile of the latest books from a wide variety of Christian publishers. Dave received his M.A.R. and M.Div through Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary.
