Definition
Marriage is one of the oldest and most important social institutions in history. The Bible is the go-to source for what constitutes marriage and the traditional roles of husband and wife. According to the Bible, marriage is a sacred union between one man and one woman. It is an institution ordained by God as a central part of His divine plan for humanity. God created man, and then woman, as companions to one other. This companionship is what gives marriage its purpose and meaning. In addition to being a companion, the man is also the head of the household and the provider. The woman is the helpmate and homemaker, responsible for caring for the home and for her husband.
The Divorce Dilemma
Divorce, while not encouraged in the Bible, is acknowledged as a reality due to the hardness of our hearts, as Jesus acknowledges in Matthew 19:8. While divorce is tolerated, remarriage is not, as it is considered adultery. Jesus states in Matthew 5:32 that whoever divorces his wife, except for fornication, “causes her to commit adultery”. Therefore, remarriage after a divorce is forbidden. This does not necessarily mean a couple must remain in a loveless or otherwise unhappy marriage. However, those wishing to marry again must forgive and seek forgiveness from their previous partner before remarrying someone else.
Traditional Roles in Marriage
The Bible outlines traditional roles in marriage, encouraging married couples to take on responsibilities that would benefit their marriage and society as a whole. Men are encouraged to provide, protect and lead in the marriage, while women are encouraged to submit to their husbands and to be the keeper of the home and family. This does not mean the wife should be treated as a servant, but rather that she should respect her husband’s lead and help him carry out his responsibilities.
The Spiritual Aspect of Marriage
The Bible also stresses the spiritual side of marriage, saying that it should be a reflection of our relationship with God. Marriage is a way of demonstrating our obedience and love for God, a way of living out his commandments, and a way of experiencing his grace and blessings. Marriage is designed to bring us closer to God and to our spouses, deepening our love and respect for one another.
The Covenant Of Marriage
The Bible also describes marriage as a covenant between a man and a woman and between God and them. This covenant is symbolic of our relationship with God, as it is a lifelong, faithful commitment. It’s a promise to stay together through all the ups and downs, and to remain steadfast in love and loyalty. A couple making this covenant is saying that no matter what comes their way, they will remain together in loyalty, love and devotion.
The Importance Of Communication
The Bible also emphasizes the importance of communication in marriage. A couple must be able to talk openly with one another in order to understand one another’s needs and feelings. Proverbs 15:1 states, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a grievous word stirs up anger”. In other words, communication is essential in marriage and can be a powerful tool in maintaining peace and harmony in the relationship.
The Role Of Love In Marriage
The Bible also speaks of the importance of love in a marriage. Love is to be unconditional, unconditional and unselfish. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 states: “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” This is the type of love that a married couple should strive for in their relationship.
The Role Of Intimacy In Marriage
The Bible also speaks of the importance of physical intimacy in marriage. While intimacy is important for a couple’s physical and emotional connection, it is not to be taken lightly. 1 Corinthians 7:1-7 states: “It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman. But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband. The husband should give to his wife her conjugal rights, and likewise the wife to her husband. For the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. Likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; but then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.” This teaches us that physical intimacy is to be respectful and fulfilling for both parties.
The Role Of The Church In Marriage
The Bible also speaks of the importance of the church in a marriage. The church serves as a source of education and support for married couples. The church should provide couples with guidance in matters of faith, moral living, and practical life decisions. The church should be a place of refuge and comfort for couples, a place to seek solace from the struggles of married life. By listening to the wisdom of the church, couples can serve as better examples of how to honour and obey God.
The Role Of Respect In Marriage
The Bible also speaks of the need for respect in a marriage. Respect shows a deep understanding of another person’s feelings, beliefs, and values. Ephesians 5:33-35 states, “Let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.” Respect in marriage should be mutual and unconditional. It is a sign of trust and commitment and helps to strengthen the bond between husband and wife.
The Blessings Of A Godly Marriage
The ultimate blessing of a godly marriage is an abundant life. The Bible says in Proverbs 18:22, “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.” As a married couple, couples can experience joy, peace, and unity. They can look to each other for strength, support, and comfort. Most importantly, they can rely on God’s blessing as they follow His commandments in their marriage and trust in His guidance.
