Topical Encyclopedia The concept of marriage as a covenant is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, reflecting a sacred and binding agreement between a man and a woman before God. This covenantal understanding of marriage is foundational to the biblical portrayal of the relationship, emphasizing commitment, fidelity, and divine sanction.Biblical Foundation The covenant of marriage is first introduced in the creation narrative. In Genesis 2:24 , it is written, "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 underscores the divine intention for marriage as a union that transcends familial ties, establishing a new, exclusive bond between husband and wife. The prophet Malachi further emphasizes the covenantal nature of marriage, rebuking those who are unfaithful to their spouses. Malachi 2:14 states, "Yet you ask, 'For what reason?' Because the LORD has been a witness between you and the wife of your youth. You have broken faith with her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant." Here, marriage is explicitly described as a covenant, with God as a witness to the vows exchanged. New Testament Affirmation In the New Testament, Jesus reaffirms the sanctity and indissolubility of the marriage covenant. In Matthew 19:4-6 , Jesus refers back to the Genesis account, saying, "Have you not read that from 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." The Apostle Paul also speaks to the covenantal nature of marriage, drawing a parallel between the relationship of Christ and the Church and that of a husband and wife. In Ephesians 5:31-32 , 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." This analogy highlights the depth of commitment and love expected within the marriage covenant. Covenantal Obligations The covenant of marriage involves specific obligations and responsibilities for both parties. Husbands are called to love their wives sacrificially, as Christ loved the Church (Ephesians 5:25). Wives are encouraged to respect and submit to their husbands as the Church submits to Christ (Ephesians 5:22-24). These roles are not indicative of inequality but rather reflect a harmonious partnership designed to mirror the relationship between Christ and His Church. Divine Witness and Accountability The covenant of marriage is made not only between the husband and wife but also before God, who serves as a witness to the vows exchanged. This divine witness underscores the seriousness of the commitment and the accountability each spouse has to uphold their promises. The presence of God in the marriage covenant elevates it beyond a mere contractual agreement, imbuing it with spiritual significance and eternal implications. Conclusion The covenants of the contract of marriage, as depicted in the Bible, are characterized by a profound sense of commitment, fidelity, and divine involvement. This covenantal framework serves as a guiding principle for understanding the sacred nature of marriage and the responsibilities it entails for both husband and wife. Torrey's Topical Textbook Malachi 2:14Yet you say, Why? Because the LORD has been witness between you and the wife of your youth, against whom you have dealt treacherously: yet is she your companion, and the wife of your covenant. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Westminster Confession of Faith. AD 1647. Matt. xv. 21, 22 Augustin's Part in the Controversy. Resources What are the covenants in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is Doctrine and Covenants in Mormonism? | GotQuestions.org What is Covenant Theology? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Covenants of God's Promises to Man Covenants of the Contract of Marriage Covenants of the United Determination of a People to Serve God Covenants: (With Death and Hell) Carnal Security Covenants: (With Stones and Beasts, of the Earth) Peace Covenants: Agreements Between Two Parties Covenants: Conditions of Clearly Specified Covenants: Conditions of Conformed by Oath Covenants: Conditions of Witnessed Covenants: Conditions of Written and Sealed Covenants: Designed For: Establishing Friendship Covenants: Designed For: Establishing Peace Covenants: Designed For: Mutual Protection Covenants: Designed For: Procuring Assistance in War Covenants: Designed For: Promoting Commerce Covenants: Designed For: Selling Land Covenants: Followed by a Feast Covenants: God often Called to Witness Covenants: Made by Passing Between the Pieces of the Divided Sacrifices Covenants: Names Given to Places where Made Covenants: Pillars Raised in Token of Covenants: Presents Given As Tokens Covenants: Ratified by Joining Hands Covenants: Salt a Sign of Perpetuity In Covenants: The Jews: Condemned for Making, With Idolatrous Nations Covenants: The Jews: Forbidden to Make, With the Nations of Canaan Covenants: The Jews: Frequently Made With Other Nations Covenants: The Jews: Regarded, As Sacred Covenants: Violated by the Wicked Covenants: when Confirmed, Unalterable Related Terms |
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