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Heterosexual sexual activity is foundational to society as it allows for the continuation of humanity from one generation to the next. However, sexual relationships may impact mental health and wellbeing of the partners.
Teleios recently reviewed scientific articles evaluating committed and non-committed heterosexual sexual relationships and their impact on mental health in adolescents, college students, and young adults. We searched the peer reviewed medical literature from 1966 to present for studies including at least 120 subjects and identified 28 articles.
The review found a very consistent disadvantage of early sexual debut, adolescent sex, hookups, and casual sex compared to committed unmarried and married relationships. Specific mental health measures correlated with non-committed sex included: depression, suicidal ideation, aggressive behavior, anxiety, stress, loneliness, poor wellbeing, regret, and guilt.
Regarding the relationship itself, there was reduced general and sexual satisfaction in non-committed relationships. Non-committed sex was also associated with increased negative social behavior including: substance use, risky sexual behavior and risk for physical and sexual abuse, drug use and antisocial actions.
In contrast, waiting until at least some element of commitment was present before initiating sex was associated with better mental health, wellbeing, communication, relationship satisfaction, relationship stability, higher sexual satisfaction, and a more positive view of sexuality.
Dr. William C. Stewart, co-founder of Teleios, commented “Medical science clearly shows sex inside a committed relationship can benefit wellbeing and mental health over casual encounters because it fosters many positive relationship qualities such as: socialization, openness, confidence, encouragement, support, stability, satisfaction and sharing. In contrast, sex outside a committed relationship may be associated with many negative mental health effects.”
This review of medical scientific studies suggests casual sexual behaviors among adolescents, college students and adults are associated with many negative effects on relationships, wellbeing, mental health and lifestyle compared to unmarried or married committed sex.
More research is needed to better differentiate commitment with inside marriage versus non marriage relationship and sexual wellbeing.
Sexual intercourse outside of marriage
So why is premarital sex such a bad thing when sex is meant to be so wonderful? Our wise God made us and knows what is best for us. Please consider the following reasons:
Take control of your life. Build your biblical knowledge and faithfulness into your professional, emotional and spiritual life over time. This takes patience in all these areas, but the results generated by a disciplined life faithful to scripture are boundless.
Such discipline includes waiting for sex until marriage because it will keep you healthy in mind and body and allow you to truthfully evaluate a potential partner without the burden of overlying truth with emotions and guilt. Marital choice is too important to be distracted by anything that reduces your careful assessment of your future partner.
Thanks for joining me. Join us next time as we continue to discuss the wonderful ways that God helps us through scripture.
Disclaimer – This blog is provided for your use and enjoyment on an ‘as is’ and ‘as available’ basis. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.
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Past research from Teleios Research has shown that those who believe in the key foundational principles of Christianity by practicing their faith (through prayer, faith, praise, outreach and Bible study) and believe in salvation by grace and security of salvation have better personal wellbeing.
Teleios most recently assessed whether those who claim to be evangelical, saved by grace or have security of salvation had better wellbeing than those who did not.
For this study, Teleios summarized surveys performed on the Christian-based Instagram accounts, Godsholyscriptures and Instapray, since 2015. The database included 14,422 respondents of whom: 62% were female, 49% were between the ages of <18 and 35+, and 78% were evangelical.
The analysis found that the average wellbeing score among the whole group was 4.6 (grade 0-6 with 6 being the highest wellbeing). The wellbeing findings for the comparative subgroups are seen in the Table.
Table: Average wellbeing between study groups
| Measured parameter | Evangelical average wellbeing score | Rest of sample average wellbeing score | P-value |
| Evangelical | 4.6 | 4.5 | <0.0001 |
| Evangelical, saved by grace | 4.7 | 4.6 | 0.0025 |
| Evangelical, saved by grace, secure in salvation | 4.8 | 4.6 | <0.0001 |
Teleios’ results found that, while identifying as evangelical itself is associated with better wellbeing, if the participant also noted they were saved by grace (accepting by faith Christ’s forgiveness by death on the cross), and being confident in salvation, wellbeing was further enhanced from those who did not hold the same convictions.
In addition, those who identified as evangelical, saved by grace and secure in salvation, only 2% indicated poor wellbeing compared to 8% of those who did not adhere to these principles (P<0.0001).
William C. Stewart, MD, cofounder of Teleios, commented ”Our study indicates a strong association with being evangelical, saved by grace and security of salvation with enhanced wellbeing. These beliefs almost guarantee a person will not have poor wellbeing! This finding may result from the regenerative powers to a new person by the Holy Spirit that God provides at salvation (Romans 6:2-12).”
“However, even identifying as evangelical alone also enhanced wellbeing. This is consistent with past Teleios research. We have noted between 15-30% of evangelicals do not identify as being saved by grace. For some, who identify only with Christian society and not with biblical Christianity, there may be a benefit to wellbeing due perhaps to the act of seeking God and socialization within the church.”
This study suggests identifying as evangelical, and especially also believing in salvation by faith and being secure in salvation, may enhance wellbeing. This combination of traits minimizes the chance of having poor wellbeing.
WC Stewart, A Brogan, JA Stewart, LA Nelson
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Today’s Christians are blessed with resources in studying the Bible that are unmatched in history. We possess easy accessibility to searches of the Bible text, the languages, commentaries, Bible dictionaries and lexicons. All these convenient tools, from a website or a downloadable free program or app, can greatly enhance and speed our Biblical learning and make us better servants of God. Accordingly, with these advantageous resources how we study the Bible is changing rapidly.
Teleios recently surveyed adolescents and millennials regarding online/digital resources for the Bible. The survey was promoted on the Christian Instagram accounts, InstaPray and GodsHolyScriptures. Of the 105 participants the majority were: female (66%), <35 years old (71%), from the United States (56%), and evangelical (77%).
When asked what online/electronic resources are used for Bible study, the most popular responses were: an online devotional (32%), stream a Christian pastor/speaker (32%), and Bible reading plan (31%).
When queried what online resources are used to answer questions about the Bible, the most popular responses were: search engine (46%), Bible study sites or software (44%), and email/text with a mentor (25%).
Regarding online resources for biblical inspiration, respondents chose: Instagram (63%), a Bible app (60%), and YouTube (30%). Instagram was also among the top choices for source of fellowship and praise.
Despite all of the online sources available, 63% still generally use a paper Bible. Further, most indicate they attend church in a physical building where a pastor is physically present or by video (84%). In the church service itself, 21% percent noted that either email or text is used equally to communicate with the congregation. However, 60% stated specifically the church did not use electronic communication methods with churchgoers.
The study suggests that adolescents and young adult Christians generally depend on, at least at some level, online/digital resources for Bible study and inspiration.
Caution should be used, however, in depending on secular search engines for answers regarding questions over Christ, God, the Holy Spirit and the church. Even online devotionals and commentaries need to be read carefully; with scriptural verification to assure they are correct.
Do your own research and study and become an expert in the scriptures! It will serve you and others well!
Join me again next time as we explore the exciting advantages of scripture together.
All the findings of the survey can be found here.
Disclaimer – This blog is provided for your use and enjoyment on an ‘as is’ and ‘as available’ basis. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.
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Christian dating habits
Teleios Research recently surveyed adolescents and millennials to evaluate dating attitudes and beliefs about the biblical purpose of marriage. The survey received 1,818 responses. Of these responses, the majority of participants were 35 or younger (93%), nonmarried (91%), female (75%), evangelical Christians (83%) from the United States (51%) and Europe (15%).
This survey found that evangelical adolescents and millennials generally believe a biblically based marriage is between a Christian man and woman which then may fulfill God’s will of the evangelical purpose of marriage as described by scripture (Ephesians 5:21-33). They also view a romantic relationship with an unbeliever as unfulfilling and do not recommend it to others.
Read more at https://teleiosgospel.com/dating-habits-of-young-christians/.
Biblical speech
Teleios Research recently evaluated adolescents and millennials regarding their speech. The survey was promoted on the Christian Instagram accounts, InstaPray and GodsHolyScriptures. Of the 215 participants the majority were: female (52%), <30 years old (93%), from the United States (83%), and evangelical (68%).
In summary, biblical speech is key to a functioning, effective loving body of Christ. That is not to say that we should talk all the time about godly things, encouraging others and expressing gratitude. However, we should endeavor to keep the environment in which we meet people controllable and generate enough profitable speech that the overall atmosphere is productive and biblically based, even if you’re discussing football and recipes at the same time.
Read more at https://teleiosgospel.com/how-to-use-christian-speech/
Security of salvation
Teleios Research surveyed Christian adolescents and millennials to determine their beliefs about salvation, defined as belief by faith alone in the forgiveness of sins by Christ’s death and resurrection. Of the 228 participants, the majority were: female (55%), <35 year old (64%), from the United States (75%), and evangelical (73%).
This survey found younger aged evangelicals readily identify that they are saved by faith alone in Christ as the Bible teaches. However, they are often unfamiliar with many of the scriptural benefits occurring at salvation such as regeneration, receiving the Holy Spirit permanently and security. Therefore, they often believe these benefits can be reversed most often through sinful behaviors. These findings offer an opportunity for pastors and teachers to further instruct young believers to the full ramifications of their biblically based salvation.
Read more at https://teleiosgospel.com/young-christians-beliefs-concerning-salvation/
Methods used in sharing the gospel
Teleios Research surveyed the frequency and methods used of generally younger Christians in sharing the gospel. The survey was promoted on Christian Instagram accounts frequented by adolescents and millennials. Of the 239 respondents the majority were: female (65%), <35 years old (70%), from the United States (56%), and evangelical (81%). In total, 82% thought the Bible was inerrant.
This survey found that young evangelicals realize they need to share the gospel and they perceive they frequently communicate it to others. However, the manner in which they tell others the gospel rarely involves verbalizing the plan of salvation, but includes more messaging through lifestyle and encouragement.
This survey provides guidance to local churches and youth leaders as they develop their teaching plans to train young Christians specifically in the content of an efficient gospel message, how to answer objections and questions, as well as build a vision in bringing people to Christ.
Read more at https://teleiosgospel.com/methods-used-in-sharing-the-gospel/
Tools to maturity
The first step to the Christian life is to accept Christ’s forgiveness for our misdeeds by faith in his death on the cross. Then next important step is to understand that our salvation is permanent – no matter what – and that we should not feel guilty in daily life! This is a great start, but there’s more: our daily service to God and becoming more Christ-like. This can further improve our wellbeing due to the benefits of Christianity and the Bible.
How do we live the Christian life? The answer comes from the Bible’s 5-step approach to maturing our relationship with God which helps us access additional benefits to our wellbeing. I call this method the ‘5 tools to maturity’ and they are taken from Acts 2:42 and 47. They are as follows:
Read more at https://teleiosgospel.com/tools-to-maturity/
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Teleios Research evaluated whether those who most ardently adhere to several key foundational principles of Christianity by practicing their faith through: prayer, faith, praise, outreach, and Bible study, as well as belief in salvation by grace and security of salvation, have better personal wellbeing compared to those who practice these measures less frequently.
Teleios summarized prior surveys they conducted on two Christian-based Instagram accounts, Godsholyscriptures and Instapray. The database includes 14,422 respondents of whom: 62% were female, 49% were between the ages of 18-35; and 78% were evangelical.
The analysis found that the average wellbeing score among the whole group was 4.6 (grade 0-6 with 6 being the best). However, participants who most frequently did Bible study, taught, and shared the gospel, had statistically better wellbeing than the rest. Further, the more participants adhered to these principles the higher their wellbeing scored compared to less adherent (see table).

Among those adhering to all the biblical principles, there was no report of negative wellbeing versus 8% of the less adherent group (P<0.001).
Dr. William C. Stewart, co-founder of Teleios, stated ”These data offer hope to millions of people that the Bible provides truth for salvation as well as greater happiness and satisfaction in their daily life by simply adhering to the foundational principles of scripture. Our research suggests that increasing adherence to the foundational principles of faith (prayer, faith, praise, outreach, sharing the gospel and Bible study), along with believing in salvation by grace and security of salvation, enhances wellbeing”.
Further research is needed to further define even more specifically ways Christianity enhances a person’s wellbeing and its effect on their lifestyle and productivity.
WC Stewart, A Brogan, JA Stewart, LA Nelson
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Welcome back to my blog. Last time we started an exciting two-part series on God’s leading, a topic important to all of us. We covered the fascinating survey Teleios performed regarding how millennials perceive God directs us and that scripture is the basis of God’s leading.
Today we discuss how to implement the scriptural directives of God’s leading practically into our lives.
God’s leading in practice?
In short, the Bible does not indicate that God or the Spirit lead us around, like a dog on a leash. Importantly, God’s leading is evident not by a moment to moment guiding, but rather it is observed as a result!

To summarize, God’s leading in scripture is by His word, applied in faith and freedom (individual choice). By this method of knowing the Bible, applied in faith and freedom, we learn to make better choices in life. Over time we then develop a pure and fruitful individual character (this is His leading). His leading is only observed by the results of the Spirit maturing us.
Thank you for joining me today and please return next time as we continue our lively discussions of the Bible and important topics in the Christian life. Praise God that He has given us truth in scripture to live a wise life.
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God’s leading is an important subject for His people, but it is often confusing with Christians having a difficult time expressing exactly how God accomplishes this action.
Survey regarding God’s leading in adolescents and millennials
Teleios conducted a survey about God’s leadership on two Instagram accounts frequented by Christian adolescents and millennials. There were 437 responses. The majority of responders were: < 35 years (80%), and primarily from the United States (55%) or Europe (9%). The respondents identified themselves primarily as evangelical (71%) or social Christians (23%).
A plurality of participants noted that the extent of God’s leading , minute to minute, in their lives was continuous (46%) whereas slightly fewer (28%) indicated He provided direction in life by the Holy Spirit who uses knowledge of His word as a believer acts in faith. Another 18% were unsure.
Further, 53% said God holds a distinct plan for their life which He would implement; while another 20% said God’s plan would only occur if they were obedient. In contrast, 12% expressed that there was no distinct plan, but a Christian acts in faith and obedience, having freedom to decide their own path in life.
Most believers indicated God leads them by His word (58%) and the Holy Spirit (51%) while slightly fewer (25%) stated He directs them by their emotions.
When asked the basis of their belief in how God leads is actually correct, 30% said they felt it was right, 25% knew from their experience and 20% from a Bible reference.
All the findings of the survey can be found here as well as other findings from Teleios Research are on our website.
How does God lead Christians in the church age?
It’s important that we base beliefs and how we live our Christian lives on scripture. Therefore, we should ask “what does the Bible say about how God leads?” The Bible identifies several important sources for God’s leadership in our lives:
Why is God’s word a basis for His leadership?
The Bible is truth to us from God. Therefore, the Bible provides a basis of leadership by the Spirit and Christ. The process of how God gave this truth is important in providing a basis of biblical authority:
Wow, what great resources we have through scripture to help us with our lives!
Join us next week as we discuss how the Bible tells us God leads in practice a very important lesson. Don’t miss it.
Disclaimer – This blog is provided for your use and enjoyment on an ‘as is’ and ‘as available’ basis. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.
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As Christians we are privileged to communicate Christ’s gracious plan of salvation that others may also believe. Unfortunately, few topics produce more fear among Christians than sharing the gospel. It seems to be equal in desirability as going to the dentist. Accordingly, this fear may influence how people define ‘sharing the gospel.’
Teleios recently surveyed the frequency and methods used by evangelical Christians in sharing the gospel. The survey was promoted on Christian Instagram accounts frequented by adolescents and millennials. Of the 239 respondents the majority were: female (65%), <35 years old (70%), from the United States (56%), and evangelical (81%). In total, 82% thought the Bible was inerrant.
This survey showed both positive and negative results.
On the positive side, most participants noted they verbalize the gospel message to an unbeliever a from a few times a year to a few times a month (69%) and an additional strong minority as frequently as a few times a week to every day (16%).
On the negative side, many participants indicated they feared verbalizing the gospel to unbelievers (36%). For those who mentioned they were afraid, the most common reasons were: they did not know what to say (66%); they might be offensive (36%); or rejected socially (30%). Apart from fear, others indicated they rarely shared they because they could not answer objections (46%) or explain the gospel (38%).
Further, about two-thirds felt guilty they did not share the gospel enough (76%) and most thought they should share more frequently (93%). Further, 20% confessed they might exaggerate how often they shared the gospel to others.
Interestingly, participants noted their own best method to share the gospel was by lifestyle example (29%). In contrast, specifically communicating verbally the message of salvation was chosen by 10% (6th ranked choice overall).
Why do Christians hesitate to share the gospel directly? Prior Teleios research has found that, not surprisingly, Christians fear sharing the gospel because of social isolation or offending someone. However, the survey found that they also did not know what to say. Consistent with this, my wife and I have never taught a disciple that, when asked about the specifics of the plan of salvation, could give us a coherent answer.
Christian beliefs are correct, and we should have glad confidence in the message we bring (Galatians 6:14; Romans 5:11). Further, it takes just a little practice so learn how to explain the gospel. The gospel message on the front page of Teleios’ website and it’s easy to learn!
This survey suggests that young evangelicals realize they need to share the gospel and they perceive they frequently communicate it to others. However, the manner in which they tell others the gospel rarely involves verbalizing the plan of salvation but includes more messaging through lifestyle and encouragement.
This survey provides guidance to local churches and youth leaders as they develop their teaching plans to train young Christians specifically in the content of an efficient gospel message, how to answer objections and questions, as well as build a vision in bringing people to Christ.
Thanks for joining me with this blog. Visit again soon as we continue to explore the truth of scripture and its benefit to our lives.
All the findings of the survey can be found here.
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