Written by: Felice Mathieu, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Marriage is a sacred institution that has been in existence since the beginning of time. It is a covenant relationship that reflects the very nature of God and his plan for humanity. In this article, we will explore why God created marriage, the biblical foundation of this union, and the purpose behind it all.
The covenant relationship: A glimpse of God's glory
Marriage is not just a legal contract or a social arrangement; it is a covenant relationship designed to reflect the glory of God. In the book of Genesis, we see that when God created Adam, he said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him" (Genesis 2:18). God's intention was for man and woman to come together in a loving and committed relationship that mirrors the love and commitment between Christ and his church.
Within the context of marriage, we catch a glimpse of the sacrificial love, unity, and intimacy that exist within the Trinity. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are in perfect harmony and work together for the common good. Similarly, marriage is meant to be a partnership where two individuals become one, supporting and loving each other unconditionally.
The biblical foundation of marriage
The Bible provides a solid foundation for understanding the purpose of marriage. In the Old Testament, marriage is portrayed as a sacred union between a man and a woman. It is a covenant before God and witnesses, marked by a public commitment and consummation. The book of Proverbs describes a virtuous wife as "more precious than rubies" and a husband who finds such a wife as blessed (Proverbs 31:10-12).
In the New Testament, Jesus affirms the importance of marriage by referring to the creation account in Genesis. He declares, "For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh" (Matthew 19:5). The apostle Paul further emphasizes the significance of marriage as a reflection of Christ's love for the church, instructing husbands to love their wives sacrificially and wives to submit to their husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33).
Unveiling the meaning of marriage in the new testament
In the New Testament, the meaning of marriage is unveiled further through the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Jesus emphasizes the indissolubility of marriage, stating, "Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate" (Matthew 19:6). Marriage is a lifelong commitment, and divorce should only be permitted in cases of adultery or abandonment.
The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, highlights the importance of sexual faithfulness within marriage. He writes, "The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband" (1 Corinthians 7:3). Marriage is a place where the physical and emotional needs of both partners should be met, fostering a deep sense of intimacy and mutual satisfaction.
From the first marriage to today: Tracing the journey
As we trace the journey of marriage from the first union between Adam and Eve to the present day, we can witness both the beauty and brokenness of this sacred institution. While marriage was initially designed to be a source of joy, companionship, and procreation, sin entered the world and brought with it a host of challenges and struggles.
Through the pages of the Bible, we read about the triumphs and failures of various couples. We see examples of faithfulness and love, such as Ruth and Boaz, as well as instances of betrayal and brokenness, like the story of David and Bathsheba. These accounts remind us that marriage is not immune to the effects of sin but is still a vessel through which God's grace and redemption can be experienced.
God's word as the guide for a happy marriage
In a world that often undermines the sanctity of marriage, it is crucial for couples to look to God's Word as their ultimate guide. The Bible provides wisdom and practical advice on how to build a strong and thriving marriage. It teaches us the importance of communication, forgiveness, and selflessness.
By studying the biblical principles of love, respect, and servanthood, couples can cultivate a healthy and vibrant relationship. Regularly seeking God's guidance through prayer and studying scripture together can help couples navigate the challenges that arise and deepen their love and commitment to one another.
Biblical reasons for marriage
Marriage is not only a union based on love and companionship but also serves a greater purpose in God's plan. One of the primary biblical reasons for marriage is procreation. In the book of Genesis, God commands Adam and Eve to be fruitful and multiply, filling the earth with their offspring (Genesis 1:28).
Marriage also provides a stable foundation for raising children in a loving and nurturing environment. The apostle Paul encourages parents to bring up their children in the training and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). A godly marriage serves as a powerful example to children, teaching them about love, sacrifice, and the nature of God.
Husbands and wives: Roles defined by God
God's design for marriage includes specific roles for husbands and wives. The Bible instructs husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her (Ephesians 5:25). Husbands are called to sacrificially lead and protect their families, providing for their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Wives, on the other hand, are called to submit to their husbands as to the Lord (Ephesians 5:22). This does not imply inferiority but rather a recognition of the husband's leadership role. By respecting and supporting their husbands, wives contribute to the unity and harmony of the marriage relationship.
The institution of marriage: Reflecting God's glory
Marriage is a divine institution that reflects the glory of God. It is a union that mirrors the sacrificial love of Christ for his church and serves as a testimony to the world of God's faithfulness and grace. When a marriage is built on a strong foundation of biblical principles, it becomes a powerful witness to the transforming power of God's love.
Through the ups and downs, the joys and sorrows, marriage provides an opportunity for growth, healing, and sanctification. It is in the context of this covenant relationship that we can experience the profound love, acceptance, and intimacy that God desires for each of us.
Why did God create marriage: Unveiling his purpose
So, why did God create marriage? The answer lies in his desire for us to experience the depths of love, unity, and intimacy that can only be found within the context of a committed and loving relationship. Marriage is a reflection of God's love for humanity and his plan for our lives.
By embracing God's design for marriage and seeking his guidance, couples can build a strong and lasting union that brings glory to God. As we embark on this journey together, let us remember that marriage is not just about our happiness but also about growing in our relationship with God and becoming more like Christ.
Follow Marriagesharing.com for more resources on building a strong and thriving marriage that honors God's design.
Felice Mathieu, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Felice Mathieu is a seasoned Christian marriage and family coach with over 25 years of experience of coaching couples. He holds a B.A. in Christian Counseling Psychology and a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, making him an expert in the field. Felice, together with his wife Retta, founded Married As One LLC, a ministry committed to providing biblical coaching services to couples. Through Married As One LLC, Felice and Retta help couples learn critical biblical skills that inspire better communication and foster stronger relationships. Contact Felice today for effective Christian marriage coaching that helps spouses communicate fairly and respectfully.
