Seeking what the Bible has to say about throuples, or any relationship outside of one man and one woman in marriage, leads to a straightforward conclusion. The Bible consistently emphasizes marriage between one man and one woman as the foundation for family and society. It speaks about relationships and sexual ethics quite clearly, focusing on monogamy within the confines of marriage as the ideal standard for human relationships. This framework is designed to reflect commitment, love, and mutual respect, aligning with God’s intentions for human intimacy and partnership.
Wondering how the Bible’s teachings on relationships apply in today’s diverse and changing relationship landscapes? Let’s explore what scripture has to say.
What Does the Bible Say About Throuples?
When it comes to relationships, the Bible establishes a clear framework that emphasizes monogamy within the context of marriage between one man and one woman. This foundational principle is woven throughout the scriptures, reflecting God’s design for intimate relationships and family structure.
The concept of throuples, or any polyamorous relationship, is not directly addressed in the Bible because the cultural context of the Bible’s authors didn’t include such modern configurations in their discussion of relationships. However, by examining what the Bible does say about marriage, sexual ethics, and relationships, we can infer God’s view on the matter.
The Bible places a high value on the sanctity of marriage, viewing it as a covenantal relationship that mirrors Christ’s relationship with the Church. This analogy is foundational to understanding why the Bible emphasizes monogamy. In the New Testament, the relationship between Jesus and the Church is depicted as exclusive and devoted, serving as a model for human marriages.
Furthermore, the Bible discusses the importance of avoiding sexual immorality, urging believers to honor God with their bodies. This principle underpins the biblical stance on sexual relations, limiting them to the marriage covenant between one man and one woman.
God’s design for relationships is also about reflecting His character—love, faithfulness, and commitment. These qualities are best nurtured within the boundaries of a monogamous marriage, according to biblical teachings. The Bible’s guidance on relationships aims to protect individuals from harm, create stability in families and communities, and foster deep, meaningful connections that reflect God’s love.
While the Bible doesn’t address modern relationship terms directly, its teachings on marriage, sexual ethics, and love provide a clear framework for understanding God’s intentions for human relationships. The focus is always on relationships that honor God, uphold mutual respect and love, and reflect His covenantal relationship with humanity.
Bible Verses About Marriage and Relationships
- Genesis 2:24 – “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” This foundational verse establishes the basis for monogamous marriage, emphasizing the deep, exclusive union between a husband and wife.
- Ephesians 5:31-32 – “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church.” Paul reiterates Genesis 2:24, connecting marriage to the relationship between Christ and the Church, highlighting the spiritual significance of the marital bond.
- Hebrews 13:4 – “Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.” This verse emphasizes the sanctity of marriage and the importance of fidelity within it.
- 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 – “Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” Paul’s words here underscore the Christian calling to honor God with our bodies, which includes adhering to God’s design for sexual relationships.
- Matthew 19:4-6 – “He answered, ‘Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh”? So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.'” Jesus reaffirms the Genesis account of marriage, emphasizing the intended permanence and unity of the marital relationship.
- 1 Corinthians 7:2 – “But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband.” Paul advises on marital relationships as a context for fulfilling sexual desires in a way that is honorable and in accordance with God’s design.
- Proverbs 5:18-19 – “Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth, a lovely deer, a graceful doe. Let her breasts fill you at all times with delight; be intoxicated always in her love.” This passage from Proverbs celebrates the joy and satisfaction found within the marriage relationship, emphasizing fidelity and mutual affection.
- Ephesians 5:25-33 – “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her…” In these verses, Paul outlines the roles and responsibilities within a Christian marriage, using the relationship between Christ and the Church as a model for love, sacrifice, and mutual submission within marriage.
- Malachi 2:14-15 – “But you say, ‘Why does he not?’ Because the Lord was witness to the covenant between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless, though she is your companion and your wife by covenant.” The prophet Malachi speaks against infidelity, underscoring the significance of the marital covenant as a solemn and sacred bond witnessed by God.
- Colossians 3:18-19 – “Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.” This passage calls for a loving and respectful relationship within marriage, highlighting the reciprocal duties that foster harmony and understanding.
These verses collectively provide a biblical perspective on marriage and sexual ethics, focusing on monogamy, fidelity, and the sanctity of the marital covenant. They reflect God’s intention for marriage to be a lifelong, exclusive union between one man and one woman, characterized by love, respect, and mutual submission. This framework is foundational to understanding the Bible’s teachings on relationships and is intended to guide believers in living out their faith in every aspect of life, including their most intimate relationships.