Marriage in the Bible

Marriage is a sacred institution established by God, as depicted in the Bible. The foundational understanding of marriage is found in Genesis 2:24 : "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh." This verse underscores the divine intention for marriage to be a lifelong union between one man and one woman.

Throughout the Scriptures, marriage is portrayed as a covenant relationship, reflecting the covenant between God and His people. Malachi 2:14 emphasizes this covenantal aspect: "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 dealt treacherously, though she is your companion and your wife by covenant."

The New Testament further affirms the sanctity of marriage. In Ephesians 5:31-32 , Paul reiterates the Genesis mandate and elevates marriage as a symbol of Christ's relationship with the Church: "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."

Divorce in the Bible

The Bible addresses the issue of divorce with gravity, recognizing the pain and brokenness it entails. In the Old Testament, Deuteronomy 24:1-4 provides the Mosaic Law concerning divorce, allowing a man to write a certificate of divorce if he finds something indecent about his wife. However, this was not the ideal but a concession due to human hardness of heart.

Jesus addresses divorce directly in the New Testament, emphasizing the original intent 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."

Jesus acknowledges the provision for divorce in the Mosaic Law but clarifies that it was due to the hardness of human hearts. In Matthew 19:8-9 , He adds: "Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. 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."

Pauline Teachings on Marriage and Divorce

The Apostle Paul provides further guidance on marriage and divorce in his epistles. In 1 Corinthians 7, Paul addresses various marital situations, advising believers to remain married if possible but acknowledging circumstances where separation may occur. In 1 Corinthians 7:10-11 , he writes: "To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife."

Paul also addresses marriages between believers and unbelievers, advising that if the unbelieving partner is willing to stay, the believer should not seek divorce. However, if the unbeliever departs, the believer is not bound in such circumstances (1 Corinthians 7:12-15).

Summary of Biblical Principles

The Bible presents marriage as a divine covenant meant to reflect God's faithfulness and love. Divorce, while permitted in certain circumstances, is not the ideal and is approached with caution and gravity. The Scriptures call believers to uphold the sanctity of marriage, seek reconciliation, and reflect Christ's love in their marital relationships.