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 covenantal 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 broken faith, though she is your partner and the wife of your marriage 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."

Regulations Concerning Marriage

The Bible provides specific guidelines for marriage, emphasizing fidelity, love, and mutual respect. Husbands are instructed to love their wives as Christ loved the Church, as stated in Ephesians 5:25 : "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her." Wives are called to respect their husbands, as seen in Ephesians 5:33 : "Nevertheless, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband."

The Bible also addresses the issue of marrying unbelievers. In 2 Corinthians 6:14 , believers are cautioned: "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness?" This directive underscores the importance of spiritual unity in marriage.

Divorce in the Bible

Divorce is addressed in both the Old and New Testaments, with a clear preference for the preservation of marriage. In the Old Testament, Deuteronomy 24:1-4 provides regulations for divorce, allowing it under certain circumstances but with restrictions to protect the sanctity of marriage.

In the New Testament, Jesus addresses divorce in Matthew 19:3-9 . When questioned by the Pharisees, He responds: "Haven't you read," He replied, "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 Moses' allowance for divorce due to the hardness of hearts but emphasizes that it was not so from the beginning. He permits divorce only in the case of sexual immorality.

The Apostle Paul also addresses divorce in 1 Corinthians 7:10-11 : "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 advises against divorce but provides guidance for those who are separated.

Conclusion

The Bible presents marriage as a divine institution meant to reflect God's covenantal love. While divorce is permitted under certain circumstances, the overarching biblical narrative encourages the preservation and sanctity of the marital union.