Quote:
Originally Posted by Brother Tim
Though we have covered this elsewhere, I will repeat, because of the above reference to Scripture defining Scripture. Count the number of times fornication and adultery appear in the same list within a verse or passage. The Scriptures distinguish between the two.
As to the Biblical defining of marriage as the initial sexual union, then what do you do with this?
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Culturally, they were man and wife at the betrothal. That many times occurred a ear in advance of the wedding feast and subsequent consummation. Also, Mary and Joseph are a slightly different circumstance from the run-o'-the-mill couple.
In Scripture, fornication is any sexual impropriety, from pre-marital or extra-marital sex to sodomy and bestiality. Adultery is used to speak specifically of extra-marital sexual relationships. Yes, Webster's is a great tool, but God's definitions are better.