What is marriage in the Bible? Here’s a guide to understanding the biblical perspectives on the ceremony as Christians.
Within the foundational framework of human relationships, legal marriages are frequently the focal point, publicly seen, and accepted by the general public. On the other hand, the biblically grounded Christian view of marriage is a component that is occasionally disregarded in the larger conversation.
While legal unions are granted the stamp of societal approval, the Christian side of marriage carries a profound spiritual significance that enriches the commitment between partners.
In this article, JanaTribe will delve into Christian views on marriage, uncovering the biblical principles that underpin this sacred ceremony.
Legal marriage vs. Christian marriage: Recognizing the disparity
Legal marriages, which are civilly sanctified and offer a framework for the union of two people, are recognized and confer several privileges, obligations, and social validation.
On the other hand, Christian marriage is more often perceived as an extra layer, a spiritual dimension that is not always given equal weight. This discrepancy in acknowledgment is not a reflection of the significance of Christian marriage but rather of the tendency in our culture to divide the sacred from the secular.
What are the biblical principles of marriage for a Christian?
Scripture offers an extensive wealth of guidance, affording significant insights into the nature of this sacred relationship. Marriage, as understood via biblical principles, transcends secular and societal conventions, anchoring itself in divine wisdom and purpose.
The biblical principles of marriage shape the foundation of divine union, and some of them include:
1. Divine ordination: a covenant before God
Biblical marriage is based on the idea that it is a divine ordinance rather than just a human institution or legal contract. This idea is expressed in the Book of Genesis, where God states, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh” (Genesis 2:24, ESV). This verse summarizes God’s plan for a man and a woman, which transcends the boundaries of a legal agreement and becomes a spiritual covenant.
2. Unity and oneness
The idea that two people become “one flesh” denotes both a physical union and a strong spiritual and emotional bond. This unity reflects the close relationship between Christ and the church, illuminating the depth of connection and mutual support that should characterize a marital bond. The biblical principle of oneness permeates the marriage relationship.
3. Love modeled after Christ
In his epistolary letter to the Ephesians, Paul, the apostle, lays out the fundamentals of love as the basis of the marriage bond. Paul draws a comparison between the love that Christ showed for the church and the love that exists between spouses, and he commands husbands to love their wives sacrificially, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself for it (Ephesians 5:25). This kind of love becomes a compass, stressing selflessness, devotion, and a commitment that emulates the divine love bestowed upon humankind.
4. Mutual submission and respect
Biblically speaking, marriage is defined by respect for each other and submission. Ephesians 5:21 describes this reciprocal relationship between husband and wife, where believers are urged to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. This reciprocal submission creates an atmosphere of equality by recognizing the inherent value and dignity of each partner.
5. The sanctity of family: a Christian perspective
Children are seen as a gift from God, and parents are charged with the burden of raising them in the fear and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). Christian marriage goes beyond the couple to include the sacredness of family.
Within the framework of biblical marriage, the family, or the Christian household, becomes a haven where love, grace, and biblical principles mold the family’s development and impart morals, faith, and a sense of direction.
6. Permanence and covenant
The biblical perspective emphasizes how permanent the marriage bond is. Jesus states in Matthew 19:6, “So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate” (ESV). This emphasizes how permanent marriage is and discourages divorce unless there are specific circumstances specified in the Bible.
7. The spiritual foundation of unity: seeking God’s guidance
Christian marriages are characterized by unity that extends beyond common interests and affection; rather, they are rooted in a shared spiritual foundation. Proverbs 3:5–6 encapsulates this principle, urging believers to trust in the Lord with all their hearts and acknowledge Him in all their ways. Couples are encouraged to seek God’s guidance in their relationship, turning to prayer, scripture, and fellowship for strength and wisdom. The presence of God in the marriage covenant becomes a source of resilience, guiding the couple through challenges and triumphs.
8. Patience and forgiveness
The value of patience as well as forgiveness is emphasized in the biblical principles of marriage. In Colossians 3:13, Paul, the apostle, exhorts believers to be patient with one another and forgive grievances, reflecting the patience and forgiveness that God has shown them. In the context of marriage, this principle promotes a spirit of grace, understanding, and forgiveness-seeking, which cultivates an environment of growth and reconciliation.
9. Shared spiritual foundation
Amos 3:3 asks rhetorically, “Can two walk together unless they are agreed?” This principle highlights the significance of shared principles and convictions and a common commitment to a spiritual journey. A couple’s shared faith becomes a unifying force, providing a source of strength, mutual encouragement, and a shared purpose in their marital partnership. A shared spiritual foundation is a crucial biblical principle for a thriving marriage.
10. Servant leadership
The concept of servant leadership appears as a compass in the framework of biblical marriage. It is derived from the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 20:28, where He states, “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve.” Husbands are encouraged to lead their families with a servant’s heart, which entails selfless acts of love, thoughtful consideration for the spouse’s well-being, and a dedication to uphold and support the family.
11. Embarking on a tenfold journey
Biblical principles for marriage offer a solid and everlasting foundation, offering guidance for navigating the complexities of married life with grace, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to honoring God in their union. As couples delve into these principles, they embark on a tenfold journey enriched by unity, love, mutual submission, and a shared commitment to spiritual growth.
12. The communal aspect: church and community support
The church community plays a crucial role in the Christian understanding of marriage. It acts as a network of support, providing direction, intercession, and friendship to married couples. Marriage is not seen as a stand-alone institution but rather as a relationship that connects two people who are believers.
Conclusion
The Christian perspective on marriage enhances the sacredness and spiritual profundity of legal marriages. It is a covenant before God, based on biblical values of love, submission, and respect; Christian marriage goes beyond the couple to include the sanctity of family and the collective support of the church. As society traverses the various terrains of unions, comprehending Christian perspectives on marriage reveals the deep spiritual significance woven into this holy ritual.
