Marked by Grace Is Virginity Required Before Marriage?
Pastor Heath Lambert tackles a painful but important question about sexual purity and marriage. His answer may surprise you: Yes, virginity is required, but there's something even more important - repentance and God's mercy.
Timestamps
0:00 - Introduction and the question
0:43 - Understanding the pain behind this question
2:07 - The clear biblical answer: Yes, virginity is required
2:34 - Genesis 2:24-25 and the creation design for marriage
3:40 - Sexual exclusivity in marriage
4:18 - But there's more to say
4:48 - A more important requirement: Repentance (Proverbs 28:13)
5:24 - Two options for responding to sin
6:02 - The path of concealment leads to death
6:16 - The path of confession and forsaking leads to mercy
6:46 - Multiple requirements for marriage
7:23 - Final answer: Virginity required, but mercy available
Key Topics Covered
The Biblical Standard - What Genesis teaches about sexual purity and marriage design
Sexual Exclusivity - Understanding the "one flesh" union and its boundaries
The Painful Reality - Addressing sexual sin in the past with sensitivity
The Greater Requirement - Why repentance matters even more than virginity
Two Paths for Sinners - Concealment leads to death, confession leads to mercy
The Gospel Hope - How Jesus makes forgiveness and restoration possible
Viewing Others with Mercy - How to evaluate a potential spouse with a sexual past
Universal Sinfulness - Why all of us fall short and need God's grace
Scripture References
Genesis 2:24-25 - God's design for marriage and sexual union
Proverbs 28:13 - Concealing vs. confessing transgressions
Romans 3:23 - All have sinned and fall short of God's glory
About The Ten Commandments Book
Heath Lambert's new book "The Ten Commandments: A Short Book for Normal People" is now available. This accessible guide explains how God's commands apply to modern life without requiring theological education. Perfect for personal study, evangelism, or gifts to friends, neighbors, and family.
Order now and download a free chapter at fbcjax.com/tencommandments
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