Strategy to tackle cohabitation among members of South-West Liberia Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church

Abstract

The institution of holy matrimony was divinely established by YHWH at the beginning between the first couple, Adam and Eve. “And God blessed them, and God said unto them, ‘Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it’” (Gen 1:28 KJV). However, this process of multiplication is intended to occur through a legal and formalized marriage. The church and society were meant to grow through the establishment of formalized families. The spirituality of the church reflects its positive growth in every sphere. Cohabitation, or ‘living together’ without being married, is an increasingly common phenomenon in modern society. It has even become widespread in many Christian denominations—a practice that contravenes the growth and integrity of the church in every aspect. This practice of cohabitation does not conform to the biblical model of marriage, yet it is present among members of the South-West Liberia Conference. Its prevalence is raising serious concerns about the church’s growth, both spiritually and numerically, in the region. This research investigated the prevalence of cohabitation among church members of the South-West Liberia Conference. After assessing the extent of the practice and identifying contributing factors through questionnaires, targeted interventions—including training programs, workshops, and seminars—were implemented to address these factors. These strategies proved successful, resulting in the wedding of seven couples. The governing body of the Conference and the local churches witnessed and affirmed these positive outcomes.