What does "neither marry nor be given in marriage" imply about eternal life? The Setting of Jesus’ Words Matthew 22:30 (cf. Mark 12:25; Luke 20:34-36) records Jesus’ reply to the Sadducees’ resurrection question: “At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven”. The Lord is speaking of the literal, bodily resurrection life that follows His return and our final transformation (1 Corinthians 15:42-54). Why Earthly Marriage Exists Now • Companionship that answers humanity’s “not good to be alone” (Genesis 2:18-24) • God-ordained means of procreation (Genesis 1:28) • Picture of Christ and His Church (Ephesians 5:25-32) • Context for sanctifying love, service, and covenant faithfulness in a fallen world Why Marriage Ceases in Resurrection Life • Purpose Fulfilled – With the redeemed multitude complete, procreation is no longer needed (Luke 20:35-36). • Perfect Fellowship – No creaturely relationship will lack; every saint enjoys unhindered communion with God and with all others (Revelation 21:3). • Ultimate Marriage Realized – The Church’s union with Christ, foreshadowed in human marriage, reaches its consummation (Revelation 19:7-9; 21:2). Symbols give way to reality. • Angel-Like Existence – “Like the angels” points to immortality and non-marital status, not to loss of identity or gender. Glorified bodies (Philippians 3:20-21) will be perfectly suited for eternal worship and service, not reproduction. What Eternal Relationships Will Be Like • Recognizable Identity – Resurrected saints still know one another (Matthew 17:3-4; 1 Corinthians 13:12). • Deeper, Undivided Love – Freed from sin, every relationship is pure, without rivalry or exclusivity. • Equal Standing – No hierarchy of spouse versus single; all share the same eternal inheritance (Galatians 3:28). • Corporate Joy – The entire family of God experiences unified worship, learning, and purpose (Hebrews 12:22-23). Practical Encouragement for Present Living • Honor Marriage Now – Because it images Christ, treat it with covenant faithfulness (Hebrews 13:4). • Hold It Loosely – Earthly marriage is temporary; ultimate satisfaction rests in the Lord (Psalm 73:25-26). • Single or Married, Fix Hope on Resurrection – Whether enjoying or longing for marriage, anticipate the greater union with Christ (Colossians 3:1-4). • Invest in Eternal Relationships – Cultivate Christ-centered friendships and church life that will continue forever (John 13:34-35). Key Takeaways • “Neither marry nor be given in marriage” describes the resurrection order, not a present command. • Marriage ends because its temporal purposes conclude and its symbolism is fulfilled in the Lamb’s wedding. • Believers will enjoy perfected, sin-free fellowship with God and each other forever. • Present marriages—and singleness—gain meaning when viewed in light of the coming eternal life where Christ is all in all. |
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