Which biblical concept strictly prohibits sexual involvement outside of marriage?

The concept that strictly prohibits sexual involvement outside of marriage is fornication. In biblical terms, fornication generally refers to sexual relations between individuals who are not married to each other. This concept is emphasized in various scriptures, wherein any sexual act outside the covenant of marriage is deemed sinful. The Bible highlights the sanctity of marriage as a sacred union where sexual intimacy is intended to be expressed exclusively.

Fornication is explicitly addressed in passages such as 1 Corinthians 6:18, which states, "Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body." This clear delineation underscores that sexual relations are meant to exist within the bounds of marriage, and any deviation from that is viewed as wrongdoing.

While forgiveness, repentance, and love are important biblical concepts that shape the moral and ethical framework of Christians, they do not specifically address the prohibition of sexual involvement outside of marriage. Forgiveness pertains to the act of pardoning others for their sins, repentance involves turning away from sin, and love is a fundamental principle that guides behavior, but none directly conveys the restriction on premarital or extramarital sexual activity as fornication does. Thus, fornication is