What Does The Bible Say about Marriage?
Marriage is something that many people view with reverence and respect, as it is a union between two individuals that creates a unified family. Though marriage and family have been something humans have sought out since time immemorial, what does the Bible have to say about it?
The Bible speaks extensively on the subject, specifically in the Old Testament. In Genesis 2:24, it states that “…a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh”. This states that the union between man and woman is a holy and blessed one. Furthermore, the Bible emphasizes that marriage is a covenant established by God. The book of Malachi 2:14 states that “The Lord is witness between you and the wife of your youth … Guard yourself in your spirit, and do not break faith with the wife of your youth”
The Duty & Role of Husbands in Marriage
It is expected that husbands be the spiritual leaders of their households and provide for their families. Ephesians 5:25 states “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” The Bible also emphasizes that husbands should protect and cherish their wives. The same verse states “…love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
Husbands should also provide spiritual guidance and wisdom by setting an example of faith in the household. From Hebrews 13:7 it states “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you.” Ultimately, it is the husband’s role to ensure that the entire household works together in harmony.
The Duty & Role of Wives in Marriage
The Bible puts forth a great importance on the role of wives in marriage, as they are expected to submit and serve their husbands, as Colossians 3:18 states. Moreover, wives are expected to be loving and faithful to their husbands. From Proverbs 31: 10- 12, “A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies..She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.”
The scripture also states how wives should be “workers at home”, as stated in Titus 2:5, which means they should take care of the house, serve their husbands and raise the children to grow up as upstanding citizens.
The Blessing & Responsibility of Children in Marriage
The relationship between parents and their children is essential, as it can determine their wellbeing and growth in boys and girls, as mentioned in Deuteronomy 6:6-7. Children should not be made to neglect their parents, as they will receive the Lord’s blessings when they remain obedient. Parents are expected to bring up their kids in faith, setting an example in the way they live and worship,speak,and act. From Proverbs 22:6 it says “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
The Sacredness of Marriage
The Bible views marriage as a holy union and something to be respected and cherished. From Hebrews 13:4 it states “Let marriage be held in honor among all…” The Lord also views the breaking of marriage to be sin, as seen in Malachi 2:16 “I hate divorce, says the Lord, the God of Israel…” This emphasizes that marriage must not be taken lightly and must be entered into with sincere dedication.
Overall, the Bible emphasizes the importance of marriage between a man and a woman, the importance of the role husbands, wives and children must fulfill within it and the sacredness of it. It is an important part of human life that is held in reverence by many.
Reconciliation
The bible does not negatively view those who have been divorced, instead it offers a chance for reconciliation and a chance for a stronger relationship. From marone 19: 6-9 it states “So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate…” This verse offers an understanding that when two people have been joined in holy matrimony, they should always strive to stay together as one despite any issues they have.
The bible encourages reconciliation among married couples and promotes forgiveness and understanding. From Luke 17: 3-4 it states “If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times come back to you and says, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.” This emphasizes that married couples who have fallen out must always strive to forgive each other and seek resolution in order to save their marriage.
Polygamy
The bible does not promote the idea of polygamy, as it emphasizes that marriage should only be between one man and one woman. From Deuteronomy 17:17 it states “He must not take many wives, or his heart will be led astray” and “He must not accumulate large amounts of silver and gold.” These verses emphasize the importance of the marriage relationship, as it promotes loyalty and dedication between the husband and his one wife.
Polygamy has been a controversial subject amongst certain religious groups, yet the Bible makes it clear that it should be avoided. From 1 Timothy 3:2 it states “Now a bishop must be above reproach, the husband of one wife…” Thus, the Bible emphasizes that a man should only have one wife, and any more than that can lead to dangerous consequences.
Treating a Spouse Right
The bible does not condone mistreatment of a spouse and promotes kindness and respect. From Ephesians 5:33 it states “However, each one of you must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.” This emphasizes two key elements in a marriage: unconditional love and respect. Both spouses should treat one another with respect and honor by honoring their agreements and providing each other with support.
The bible also emphasizes 2 Corinthians 10:12, which states “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” This emphasizes that couples should remain dedicated to the covenant they have made with one another and honor it as they have promised.
