A marriage agreement, often referred to as a marriage covenant, is a biblically rooted concept that signifies the solemn and binding union between a man and a woman. This union is established before God and is intended to be a lifelong commitment. The Bible provides numerous references and teachings that underscore the sanctity and significance of marriage as an institution ordained by God.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of marriage as a covenant is first introduced in the Book of Genesis. Genesis 2:24 states, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh." This passage highlights the divine intention for marriage to be a union that transcends familial ties, creating a new, singular entity in the eyes of God.

The prophet Malachi further emphasizes the covenantal nature of marriage, warning against unfaithfulness. Malachi 2:14 declares, "Yet you ask, 'For what reason?' Because the LORD has been a witness between you and the wife of your youth, against whom you have broken faith, though she is your partner and the wife of your marriage covenant." Here, marriage is explicitly described as a covenant, underscoring its spiritual and moral obligations.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus reaffirms the sanctity of marriage. In Matthew 19:4-6 , He states, "Haven’t you read... that at the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female,' and said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh'? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate." This passage not only reiterates the Genesis account but also emphasizes the indissolubility of the marriage bond.

The Apostle Paul also addresses marriage in his epistles, providing guidance on the roles and responsibilities within the marital relationship. Ephesians 5:31-33 echoes the Genesis mandate and elaborates on the mystery of marriage as a reflection of Christ's relationship with the Church. Paul writes, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. This mystery is profound, but I am speaking about Christ and the church. Nevertheless, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband."

Covenantal Responsibilities

The marriage agreement involves mutual responsibilities and commitments. Husbands are called to love their wives sacrificially, as Christ loved the Church (Ephesians 5:25), while wives are encouraged to respect and submit to their husbands as unto the Lord (Ephesians 5:22-24). This mutual submission and love create a harmonious and God-honoring relationship.

Divorce and Remarriage

The Bible addresses the issue of divorce, acknowledging human fallibility while upholding the ideal of marital permanence. In Matthew 19:8-9 , Jesus acknowledges the concession of divorce due to human hardness of heart but maintains that it was not God's original design. He states, "Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because of your hardness of heart; but it was not this way from the beginning. Now I tell you that whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman, commits adultery."

Conclusion

The marriage agreement, as depicted in the Bible, is a sacred covenant that reflects God's design for human relationships. It is characterized by love, fidelity, and mutual respect, serving as a testament to God's faithfulness and the unity of Christ and the Church.