What Does the Bible Say About Marriage?

May 1, 2024

By Jason Fetko

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What Does the Bible Say About Marriage?

Marriage is a sacred institution ordained by God, with profound significance in our faith.

Let's explore what the Bible teaches about marriage, its purpose, principles, and blessings, and how it reflects God's divine plan for human relationships.

Marriage as a Divine Covenant

At the heart of the biblical perspective on marriage is the understanding that it is a divine covenant established by God.

Genesis 2:24 reveals God's design for marriage: "That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh."

This union between a man and a woman reflects the intimate bond between Christ and His church, characterized by love, commitment, and mutual respect.

The Purpose of Marriage

Marriage serves multiple purposes according to God’s Word.

Bringing life into the world is one such purpose, as God commands Adam and Eve to "be fruitful and multiply" (Genesis 1:28).

Additionally, marriage provides companionship, support, and partnership, as seen in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, which speaks of the strength found in a cord of three strands of a cord—husband, wife, and God.

The Roles of Husband and Wife

In the biblical view of marriage, husbands and wives are called to specific roles within the union.

Ephesians 5:22-33 outlines these roles, with husbands instructed to love their wives sacrificially, as Christ loves the church, and wives called to respect and submit to their husbands.

This mutual submission and love create a peaceful partnership that reflects the image of God.

Faithfulness and Commitment

Central to the biblical concept of marriage is the principle of faithfulness and commitment.

Malachi 2:16 highlights God's hatred for divorce, emphasizing His desire for marriages to be characterized by enduring love and fidelity.

Hebrews 13:4 emphasizes the sanctity of marriage: "Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral."

Love and Sacrifice

Love lies at the heart of biblical marriage, as exemplified by Christ's sacrificial love for the church.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 describes the characteristics of love—patience, kindness, humility, selflessness, forgiveness, and perseverance—all of which are essential for a thriving marriage.

Ephesians 5:25 instructs husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church, willing to lay down his life for her.

Honoring God in Marriage

Ultimately, the purpose of marriage is to honor and glorify God.

1 Corinthians 10:31 teaches us: "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."

In marriage, couples are called to reflect God's love, grace, and faithfulness to the world, serving as a testimony to His goodness and faithfulness.

Seeking Wisdom and Guidance

Navigating the complexities of marriage requires seeking wisdom and guidance from God's word and the Holy Spirit.

Proverbs 3:5-6 offers this timeless advice: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

By aligning our marriages with biblical principles and relying on God's wisdom, we can experience His blessings and guidance in our marital journey.

The Bible presents marriage as a sacred covenant ordained by God, designed to reflect His love, unity, and faithfulness.

Grounded in the biblical principles of love, sacrifice, faithfulness, and commitment, marriage offers couples the opportunity to experience profound joy, intimacy, and fulfillment as they journey together in partnership with God.

May we honor God in our marriages, seeking His guidance and wisdom as we navigate the beautiful and sacred institution of marriage.

Related: How Do I Get Into Heaven?