Should a Pastor Conduct a Wedding for a Pregnant Woman?
The Pastor’s decision to wed a pregnant woman depends on several factors: the first thing to consider is how did the woman get pregnant? Was it out of wedlock? If so, has she repented of her fornication as stated in Exodus 20: 14. The Bible tells us: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). And the Lord is ready to forgive those who forsake their sins, though He cannot undo the consequences of these sins.
Confessed sins are borne by the Lamb of God (John 1:29). And if she got pregnant in wedlock, why is she now out of wedlock? Is it a divorce? What is the reason of the divorce? In any case, a turning to the Lord would be necessary on the part of the woman and the man who wish to join her in holy matrimony.
Another aspect to consider is whether or not the husband-to-be is the father of the child. If he is the father, and both parents wish to get married, then the father must repent of his fornication as well. And if he is not the father of the child, the responsibilities and duties expected of him should be carefully considered so that he will be a Godlike father-figure to the child.
The Bible’s Stand on Premarital Sex
Throughout all of these scenarios, it is important to keep in mind that the Bible tells us that sex outside of marriage is a sin, it is breaking of the seventh commandment. “Thou shalt not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14). This commandment not only covers adultery but fornication and impurity of every form, word, and thought (Matthew 5:27, 28).
We should also observe what Jesus said in Matthew 22:39 to love our neighbor, which expanded to the seventh commandment. This means to respect and honor the bond upon which the family is built on, that of the marriage relationship, which to the Christian is as precious as life itself (Hebrews 13:4).
Therefore, God requires moral perfection of His children (Matthew 5:48) and has made provision that every sin may be successfully resisted and overcome (Romans 8:1–4). For this reason, believers have to try their best NOT to sin through the grace of God. And the Lord promises to supply all the power necessary and strength to overcome. “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).
God’s Forgiveness to the Repentant
When both the man and the pregnant woman have confessed and repented of their sin, and have demonstrated their good intentions by seeking to wed in holy matrimony in church, it is then the duty of the pastor to perform the marriage ceremony for them.
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
