Law of Chastity
Mormons live by a strict law of chastity, including no sexual relations before marriage (fornication) and no sexual relations outside of marriage (adultery). However, the law of chastity extends beyond just this narrow definition for Mormons.
Why do Mormons care about chastity?
To those familiar with the Bible, such guidelines of chastity are probably not surprising. One of the Ten Commandents clearly states, “Thou shalt not commit adultery.”
When Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount, he further explained what this commandment means to His disciples (Matthew 5:27-28):
Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
Aren’t such standards outdated in today’s world?
The world and its standards have certainly changed dramatically since the Ten Commandments were given and even since Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount. In fact, in just the last couple decades, a noticeable difference can be seen.
Sexual relations before marriage is quite common, as many couples now consider living together as a necessary step before tying the knot. Adultery is also increasingly common. In a CNN/Time poll conducted in 1998, 69% of people said they knew a man who had committed adultery with 60% who knew a woman who had committed adultery. Furthermore, a shocking 26% agreed that “infedilty is an unavoidable part of married life.”
While the world’s standards may change, God’s do not. Therefore, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints strive to live the same law of chastity that God and His Son Jesus Christ have always taught.