Religious doctrines teach that God is the creator of all things, including humans. As such, he has created human beings to have an innate desire for sex, which includes physical touching and sexual intercourse.
He also gave instructions to his people on how they should conduct themselves in regards to sex, especially when it comes to initiating it. These religious beliefs are based on the Bible, which states that men and women were made to complement each other physically, emotionally, and spiritually. In this regard, men are meant to take the lead when it comes to initiating sexual intimacy while women are expected to submit to their husbands' desires. The reason for this difference in roles is that men have been given authority over women as described in Ephesians 5:23. This means that men must love their wives as Christ loved the church by sacrificing himself for her sake. Therefore, initiating sex is seen as a form of service that men offer to their wives in marriage.
Some Christians argue that both partners should take turns initiating sex because God created them equally. They cite the fact that in Genesis 1:27-28, male and female were created simultaneously from one body. So, men and women should honor each other mutually as equals rather than the man always taking charge.
Religion emphasizes that sex should only occur within marriage between one man and one woman. Any form of premarital or extramarital sex is considered sinful and detrimental to spiritual growth. According to the Bible, sex outside of marriage is an act of disobedience against God, who forbids it (Hebrews 13:4). As such, believers should refrain from all forms of lustful behavior before marriage or engaging in adultery after getting married. Some religious leaders say that God designed marriage to be between one man and one woman forever, which makes any deviation from this arrangement unholy.
Religious doctrine also encourages abstinence until marriage but does not condemn those who fail to practice it. In Romans 14:10, Paul says that "you, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God's judgment seat." This means that everyone has sinned at some point and should be forgiven when they repent and ask for mercy.
Practicing sexual restraint before marriage is seen as a sign of self-control and godliness. It helps individuals avoid temptation and prepare their bodies for the sacred union of marriage.