Topical Bible: Marriage: Celibacy Deplored

◄ Marriage: Celibacy Deplored ►

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In the context of biblical teachings, marriage is often upheld as a sacred institution ordained by God. The Bible provides numerous insights into the value and purpose of marriage, contrasting it with celibacy, which, while respected in certain contexts, is not universally encouraged.

Biblical Foundation of Marriage

Marriage is first introduced in the Book of Genesis, where God creates Eve as a companion for Adam, establishing the foundational principle of marital union. 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 verse underscores the divine intention for marriage to be a union between a man and a woman, forming a new, inseparable bond.

Celibacy in the New Testament

While the New Testament acknowledges celibacy, it is often presented as a special calling rather than a general expectation. The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 7, discusses the merits of both marriage and celibacy. He acknowledges the benefits of remaining single for the sake of undivided devotion to the Lord but also recognizes that not everyone possesses the gift of celibacy. In 1 Corinthians 7:9 , Paul advises, "But if they cannot control themselves, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion."

Warnings Against Forced Celibacy

The Bible warns against doctrines that forbid marriage, viewing such prohibitions as contrary to God's design. In 1 Timothy 4:1-3 , Paul cautions, "The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. They forbid marriage and require abstinence from certain foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth." This passage suggests that forbidding marriage is a departure from sound doctrine.

Marriage as a Reflection of Christ and the Church

Marriage is also depicted as a profound mystery that reflects the relationship between Christ and the Church. Ephesians 5:31-32 reiterates the Genesis mandate and adds a spiritual dimension: "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." This analogy elevates the institution of marriage, portraying it as a living symbol of divine love and unity.

The Role of Marriage in Society

Throughout Scripture, marriage is portrayed as a stabilizing force within society. It provides a framework for procreation, nurturing, and the transmission of faith and values to future generations. The family unit, established through marriage, is seen as the primary context for raising children in the knowledge and fear of the Lord, as emphasized in Deuteronomy 6:6-7 : "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. And you shall teach them diligently to your children and speak of them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."

Conclusion

The biblical perspective on marriage and celibacy presents marriage as a divinely instituted covenant that serves multiple purposes, including companionship, procreation, and spiritual reflection. While celibacy is respected as a personal calling for some, the general biblical narrative upholds marriage as the normative and blessed state for most individuals, warning against doctrines that would undermine its sanctity.

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Judges 11:38
And he said, Go. And he sent her away for two months: and she went with her companions, and bewailed her virginity on the mountains.
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Isaiah 4:1
And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by your name, to take away our reproach.
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Jeremiah 16:9
For thus said the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will cause to cease out of this place in your eyes, and in your days, the voice of mirth, and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride.
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Library

Preface.
... to this last, he himself bitterly deplored the days ... with a bitter accusation of marriage,
Gregory leaves the ... doubtful in the end whether celibacy is necessary ...
/.../gregory/gregory of nyssa dogmatic treatises etc/preface.htm

The Right to a Normal Romance, if Any
... "Your sisters rush into marriage in such ... shortage of men on the mission field is
often deplored, and it ... that I am encouraging anyone to take a vow of celibacy! ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/williamson/have we no rights/chapter 7 the right to.htm