Bible Gateway passage: Matthew 19:1-12 – New International Version
The following day, after Jesus had completed speaking these things, B) “>(B)he left Galilee and crossed the Jordan River into the Judean region on the opposite side of the river. large groups of people followed him, and he treated them C)”>(C)there. 3A group of Pharisees approached him and put him to the test. They inquired, “Is it legal for a man to divorce his wife D) Is it legal for a man to divorce his wife?” “>(D)for any and all of the reasons?” 4″Haven’t you read,” he said, “that in the beginning, the Creator’made them male and female,’E)” he continued “and stated, “As a result, a man will leave his father and mother and will be wedded to his wife, and the two will become one flesh”?
For this reason, no one should separate what God has brought together.” They inquired as to why Moses instructed a man to give his wife an official document of divorce and to send her away.
Jesus responded, “Moses granted you permission to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard.
Nineteenth, I tell you that anybody who divorces his wife, even in the case of sexual immorality, and marries another woman is guilty of adultery.” “‘If this is the condition between a husband and wife, it is preferable not to marry,’ the disciples advised him.
“The one who is capable of accepting this should accept it.” Read the entire chapter.
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Bible Gateway Recommends
The Bible is not a book about marriage — at least not in the way that most people think of it. A book about God and humans, the Bible tells the story of how God rescues people through the life and death of Jesus Christ, and how God does so. In spite of this, the Bible has a great deal to say about marriage, and much of what it has to say goes counter to our current beliefs and norms. The following are just a few of the most startling discoveries:
1. It is about friendship first and foremost
That is the urgent need that marriage was designed to meet in Genesis 2 in order to alleviate. According to the scripture, the LORD God responded, “It is not right for the man to be alone; I will provide him with a helper who is appropriate for him.” (Genesis 2:18 in the English Standard Version) Because it is not healthy for a man to remain alone, God created the institution of marriage. Marriage is first and foremost about friendship, before it is about any other aspect of life. “a helper suitable for him,” as the term “a helper suitable for him” indicates, indicates the type of friendship that God had in mind for Adam and Eve.
- It does not indicate that one is less than others.
- He kills you, O Israel, because you have rebelled against me and against your rescuer, according to Hosea 13:9.
- Instead, it looks to be a private correspondence between two individuals.
- That is the kind of friendship that is depicted in this illustration.
- Two myths that our culture would want to impose on us are laid to rest as a result of this realization.
- However, this is certainly not the case.
- Every man and every woman is a one-of-a-kind representation and resemblance of God on the surface of the globe.
Eve is the female counterpart to Adam.
He is dominant in a situation when she is vulnerable.
Another myth prevalent in our culture is that relying on another human being is a sign of weakness.
It isn’t, and it never will be.
Human beings, according to the account of Genesis, are born with flaws by design.
God created Adam with a built-in inclination that would lead him to seek out close-knit communities of people.
The two of us were practically designed for one other.
We are, without a doubt, stronger together than we are apart. It is said in the Bible that “it is not desirable that a man should be alone.” Furthermore, it is not healthy for a woman to remain alone – and this was the initial justification for the gift and blessing of marriage.
2. It is supposed to last a lifetime
After growing up in a world where everything is disposable, it might be startling to learn that certain items are meant to endure a lifetime. While this is implied on the very first page of the Bible, it was not a widely held doctrine among the Jewish community at the time of Jesus’ ministry. In fact, this is one of the aspects of their Master’s personality that the disciples found the most shocking. “I say to you, whomever divorces his wife, save in the case of sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery,” Jesus declared emphatically in the Bible.
- Divorce was quite frequent in the Roman world, as well as in the Jewish world, during Jesus’ day.
- As said by Jesus, a marriage is intended to continue forever.
- Most Bible readers are aware of one more exception to the general norm of marital permanence, which is found in the book of Genesis.
- 14 14 After all, it is through his wife that the unbelieving husband has been made holy, and it is through her believing spouse that the unbelieving woman has become holy.
- 15 However, if the unbeliever chooses to leave, that is OK.
- 16 How can you know whether or not you will be able to save your spouse, wife?
- (1 Corinthians 7:12–16, NIV11-GK) 1 Corinthians 7:12–16 The second basis for divorce that Paul claims is “religiously driven desertion” might be labeled as such in street level English.
If my husband and I were both pagans when we were married, but one of us has since come to faith in Christ, how would we proceed?
It’s not clear if he (in this case, it would very likely have been a he) would have wanted me to identify as a Christian.
Who knows, you could just end up marrying your husband.
However, if the unbelieving spouse does not choose to remain in the marriage and does not wish to live with a Christian who is active and obvious, the believer should consider releasing them from the marriage.
For example, the Pillar Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7 states that “not tied” alludes to the freedom to remarry.
The only two authorized reasons for divorce recorded in the New Testament are adultery and adultery with children. That comes as a surprise to most of us who live in a society where everything is disposable.
3. It is supposed to preach the Gospel
There is something unique about human beings – and particularly about human beings who are both masculine and female at the same time. According to the Bible, God then said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.” “And give them authority over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the skies, over the cattle, over the entire land, and over every crawling thing that crawls on the ground,” God says. So God made man in his own image, in the image of God, and he formed him in two genders, male and female, according to his own will.
- When we read these lines in Genesis, we forget that the first people to hear them were most likely the wilderness generation of Hebrews who were wandering in the desert for 40 years.
- Only one individual in Egyptian history has ever been described to as the image and likeness of God.
- Everyone else couldn’t compare to him, and no one else could represent God the way he did.
- These creatures symbolize him, and they are similar to him in a way that is not true of any other creature on the planet.
- And it is for this reason that idolatry is prohibited by the second commandment.
- Why?
- That was stated by the Apostle Paul.
- 32 “This riddle is significant, and I believe it has something to do with Christ and the church,” I remark.
- Marriage is a multi-point Gospel message, and you are the pastor.
What your children believe about God will be shaped in great part by their perceptions of your character. As a result, it is important to consider who and how we are as married individuals.
4. It should be a place of permission, generosity and joy
First marriages were filled with childlike wonderment and joy: “the guy and his wife were both nude and didn’t care about being embarrassed.” (Genesis 2:25, English Standard Version) That is a very tough state to achieve after having had a fall. On the subject of sexuality, the Bible’s perspective is rather straightforward. Overall, according to biblical teaching, sexuality is lovely within specific parameters, but it is often harsh and degrading when it falls outside of these limits. That is a straightforward and contentious point of view, and it has always been so.
- Christian sexual ethics is sometimes portrayed as prudish, with a preference for saying NO over saying YES – but this is not the case, and it is not the point of departure.
- “The husband should grant his wife her conjugal rights, and the woman should give her conjugal rights to her husband,” the Apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 7:3-4.
- In the same way, the husband does not have power over his own body, although the woman has such authority.
- (1 Corinthians 7:3–5 ESV) admonishment Many historians believe that this is the most radical thing that has ever been written on sexuality in the history of the ancient world.
- Roman males had sex with anybody and everyone!
- A Roman man would normally only have sexual relations with his wife while he was attempting to conceive a child.
- It said that a man had an obligation to ensure that his wife’s sexual rights were protected.
- In it, it was said that he needed to develop self-control and live with his wife with respect.
- That is something that should be more well recognized than it now is.
Christianity has never been in sync with the mainstream when it comes to sex, and this has always been a part of what has drawn people to us. We provide a better path, and that should be a part of our attraction to a culture that is confused, unsatisfied, and becoming increasingly fatigued.
5. It isn’t always God’s will
Perhaps the most shocking thing the Bible says about marriage is that it is not something that everyone should or will have the opportunity to experience. There are numerous champions of the religion who were unmarried in the Old Testament, including Abraham, Moses, and David. Some were single because God forbid them to marry – think of Jeremiah, for example – while others were unmarried because God forbade them to marry. Others remained unmarried as a result of being declared eunuchs by hostile foreign governments.
- In Matthew 19, Jesus spoke about these topics and more.
- 12 As a result, there are eunuchs who have been eunuchs from birth, there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have chosen to be eunuchs in order to further the interests of the kingdom of heaven on earth.
- If a person is called to celibacy, God will provide grace in response to that call.
- The disciple must be open to receive what God has given him and to perform the tasks God has assigned him.
- It is clear that the Apostle Paul was affected by this philosophy.
- While serving as an Apostle in the early church, all we do know is that he maintained a celibate lifestyle.
- However, as Jesus points out in verse 7, not everyone has received the gift.
Whatever calling God has for you, God will provide you with the grace to serve him and obey him in it.
It is not necessary to be married in order to serve the Lord.
And he never married, despite the fact that he was the most human person who ever lived on the planet.
It is a positive development – but it is not the only positive development, nor is it a required development.
Additionally, some individuals may bear witness to these events by their happy acceptance of celibacy and sufficiency.
Pastor Paul Carter is a charismatic leader who has a heart for people. Pastor Paul’s Into The Word devotional podcast may be found on the TGC Canada website and on iTunes.
What Does Jesus Say about Marriage?
Beyond what I see, feel, or hear, Jesus, on the other hand, teaches us all we need to know about marriage, no matter how we were reared or what we have gone through in life. While still unmarried at the age of 25, I’ve had plenty of time to think about marriages that I like and those that make mistakes that I would prefer to avoid in my own marriage eventually. While I currently live at home with my parents and have been raised by two loving and selfless persons, I have witnessed firsthand the devastation that may result from a failed marriage.
I’ve heard slamming doors, scream matches, and curses that sounded like they were pronounced with my last name.
However, I have also witnessed what real, authentic, tenacious, and enduring love looks like from the beginning to the end.
For example, I can confidently state that people in my life have exhibited attributes and behaviors that I, too, would like to acquire one day (Grandmother and Grandpa’s eccentricities as well as their witty repartee included!) Beyond what I see, feel, or hear, Jesus, on the other hand, teaches us all we need to know about marriage, no matter how we were reared or what we have gone through in life.
What Did Jesus Explicitly Say about Marriage?
A number of times in the Scriptures, Jesus provides comprehensive overviews of marriage and divorce. As early as Genesis 2:24, it is obvious that a marital partnership is intended to be formed between a single man and a single woman, and that divorce should be avoided at all costs (unless one is shown to be in adultery) (Matthew 19:1-12). The collapse of Sodom and Gomorrah is highlighted in Genesis 19, and Leviticus 18:22and 20:13 describe the detestableness of a man who sleeps with another man or vice versa.
While there is much more that could be said about this subject, my goal in sharing what Jesus has to say about marriage is not to go into it in depth, but rather to briefly highlight what the Scriptures have to say about a variety of difficulties.
Because of its self-sacrificial love, it not only portrays Christ to the world but also demonstrates that Christ should be at the heart of each relationship (Ecclesiastes 4:12).
As Christians, we love as Christ loves (1 Corinthians 16:14; Romans 13:8; 1 John 4:12), are dedicated to our spouse (Song of Solomon 4:9-10; Ruth 1:16-17), and encourage and support one another in our marriages (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12).
They are no longer two people, but one flesh because of this, according toMatthew 19:6, which finishes the chapter.
What Lessons Did Jesus Teach about Marriage?
Aside from direct allusions to marriage, Jesus also taught many teachings and provided practical applications for the institution. And, probably most importantly, He showed one of the most effective examples via His dying on the cross for our sins. The fact that Jesus died for us in our sinful state served as a reminder that truly sacrificial love does not measure the cost, but gives until it has nothing left in its own bank account. Despite the fact that it does not tolerate abuse, it strives to see the best in everyone and remains compassionate even when things are difficult.
- As a result, Paul frequently stated that it was preferable not to marry (1 Corinthians 7).
- It teaches us to be forgiving, patient, gracious, serving, and cherishing one another, among other things (Ephesians 4:2-3,Ephesians 2:8,Ephesians 5:25).
- However, while there are several illustrations of marriage in Jesus’ parables and metaphors, the most prevalent is that marriage is the closest connection we can enter into which depicts Christ’s union with His Bride, the Church, in the coming days.
- A marriage is a contract that is celebrated as part of the wedding feast.
- Today, when we accept Christ as our Savior, our names are entered into the Book of Life, and we have made a down payment toward our eternal home.
- Sin has muddled the metaphor to the point that it is no longer understandable.
- While feminist hermeneutics may ultimately be successful, the true meaning of the metaphor will remain opaque for many years to come.”
What Did JesusNot S ay about Marriage?
There are many things that Jesus did not say about marriage, which is significant in light of the many hot subjects that people have asked about marriage. Jesus did not state that marriage was the ultimate objective for everyone. The institution of marriage is not for everyone, and being single does not imply that you are any less of a Christian. You can still be holy and develop in your religion even if you don’t have a partner. As a result, marriage does not bring you to a complete state of being.
When we design our marriages to satisfy longings in us that only God can satisfy, we will always come up empty-handed in the end.
There may be roles that some genders are more predisposed to perform or be drawn to than others, but as Piper says, “gender roles are not binary.” “”There is no ultimate submission to another human being.” The spouse does not take the place of Christ as the highest authority in the woman’s life.
Christ bathed the feet of the disciples after tying himself up with a towel. If a guy want to be a Christian spouse, he must model his behavior after Jesus, not after Jabba the Hut.”
The Big Picture: What Perspective of Marriage Should We Come Away with Today?
In order to reflect His connection with the Church in a pure manner, Jesus created marriage on this earth. God created Adam and Eve with the intention of establishing divine communion before sin entered the earth. Today’s marriage is broken, sinful, and messy, but it is also beautiful, redemptive, and emblematic of the process of sanctification as a result of the gospel. What I have described thus far only scratches the surface of the depth and breadth of conversation that this issue has to offer.
Amber and Agape Resources: The Bible Has Taught Us 6 Important Marriage Lessons We Should Remember 35+ Bible verses for marriage that can keep the flame of love burning bright between you and your spouse The six Bible passages on homosexuality, as well as several interpretations of them The Biblical Context for Understanding Marriage, Gender, and Sexuality, as Provided by Show Hope What Did Jesus Have to Say About Love and Marriage?
What Is the Lamb’s Marriage Supper and How Does It Work?
Related Resource: Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia Wikipedia_ Team Us is a new, FREE podcast on marriage that you should check out.
- Find practical, doable, and realistic suggestions for improving your marriage.
- Amber Ginter is a young adult writer who now works as an English teacher in Chillicothe, Ohio.
- Amber aspires to share her devotion to Jesus and the Gospel through her writing, aesthetic worship arts, and volunteer work, among other outlets.
- She has written for a variety of publications, including Crosswalk, ibelieve, Salem Web Network, The Rebelution, Daughter of Delight, Kallos, Anchored Passion, No Small Life, and Darling.
- Visit her website atamberginter.com for more information.
Beautiful Bible Verses About Love and Marriage
“I have discovered the person who my heart truly desires.” Whether you’re getting married, thinking about getting married, or just searching for some direction and inspiration on marriage, these lovely Bible verses about love and marriage will serve as a tender reminder of the link that exists between a husband and a wife. Incorporating scripture into your wedding day is easy with these marriage bible verses, which are perfect for reading during the ceremony, including on invitations, and displaying on signs at the reception, among other things.
In addition to the well-known wedding passages that feature on this list, there are a number of other more abstract scriptures included as well.
Here are a few of the most beloved Bible passages on love that you may incorporate into your wedding ceremony and everyday life.
Bible Verses About Marriage
At the wedding, the groom and bride each have a Bible.
- Husbands, love your wives as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. Ephesians 5:25-33: Husbands, love your wives as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her The same manner, husbands should love their spouses as much as they love their own bodies. He who loves his wife is also in love with himself. After all, no one has ever despised his or her own body, but rather nurtures and cherishes it, just as Christ does for the church
- Malachi 2:14-15 (NASB): However, you question, ‘Why doesn’t he?’ In light of the fact that the LORD was a witness between you and your wife of your youth, with whom you have been unfaithful despite the fact that she is your companion and your wife by covenant, Proverbs 3:3-4 states that the LORD was a witness between you and her. Maintain a tight grip on love and loyalty at all times
- Tie them around your neck and inscribe them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will gain favor and a good reputation in the eyes of God and men
- Romans 12:10: Then you will gain favor and a good reputation in the eyes of God and men. Be committed to one another out of love for one another. Honor one another above yourself
- Genesis 2:18–25:Then the LORD God replied, ‘It is not appropriate for the man to be alone
- I will provide him with a helper who is suitable for him.’ In order to do this, the LORD God allowed a deep slumber to descend upon the man while he was sleeping, and while he was sleeping, He removed one of his ribs and filled up its opening with flesh. Furthermore, the rib that the LORD God had taken from the man transformed into a woman and brought her to the man
- Isaiah 54:5 states that your Maker is your spouse, the LORD of hosts is his name, and the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer, the God of the entire earth is his title. Proverbs 30:18-19 (NIV) – What fascinates me about the world—no, what fascinates me about it all—are three things: the way an eagle flies through the sky, the way a snake slithers across a rock, the way a ship navigates the ocean, and the way men fall in love with women. Ruth 1:16-17 (NIV): Request that I not abandon you, or that I not retrace my steps in pursuit of you. After all, I will follow you everywhere you go, and I will stay wherever you stay
- Your people will become my people, and your God will become my God. I shall die where you die, and I will be buried where you are buried. The Lord grant it to me, and much more so if something other than death separates you and me
- No one has ever seen God, but if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is made perfect in us, according to 1 John 4:12 (NIV). Moreover, let us examine how we might encourage one another on toward love and good actions, not giving up coming together, as some are accustomed to doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as the Day draws closer. 1 Peter 4:8:Most importantly, continue to exhibit genuine love for one another, for love is powerful and capable of covering a multitude of sins. Paul writes in Ephesians 4:32, ” Remember to be kind to one another, tenderhearted, and forgiving one another, just as God has forgiven you through Jesus Christ. Likewise, you husbands must treat your women with dignity and respect, according to 1 Peter 3:17. As long as you are married, you should treat your wife with respect. She may be physically weaker than you, yet she is on an equal footing with you in God’s gift of new life. Make sure you treat her properly so that your prayers will not be hampered. The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 4:9 that two are better than one because they receive a favorable return for their labor: if any of them falls down, the other can lift them back up. But pity the fool who falls and has no one to assist him or her back up again. Additionally, if two people lie down together, they will stay warm. But how can one remain warm on their own? Paul writes in Ephesians 4:2-3: As a result of their humility and gentleness, their patience, and their love for one another, they strive to keep the oneness of the Spirit in the bond of peace
- The Bible says in Song of Solomon 8:6-7 that you should put me as a seal on your heart and on your arm, for love and jealousy are stronger than death and stronger than the tomb. Its flashes are like flashes of fire, like the very flames of the LORD’s presence. Love can’t be quenched by many waters, and it can’t be drowned by floods. If a guy presented all of the money in his household as a gift to his beloved, he would be completely loathed
- As a result, God made man in his own image, in the image of God, and he formed him in two genders, male and female, according to Genesis 1:26-28. And God was pleased with them. For men, this means loving your wives as Christ loved the church (Ephesians 5:25). For wives, this means loving your husbands as Christ loved the church (Ephesians 5:25). He risked his life to save her life. Although one may be outnumbered, two may protect themselves, according to Ecclesiastes 4:12. A three-stranded rope is not easily snapped
- It takes time. A man shall thus leave his father and mother and hold tight to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh, according to Genesis 2:24
- Paul writes in Romans 13:8 that no one owes anybody anything but to love one another, for the one who loves another has completed the law. Corinthians 13:4-5: Love is kind and patient, and love endures forever. It is not envious, it is not boastful, and it is not arrogant. It does not disrespect others, it is not self-seeking, it is not quickly irritated, and it does not keep a record of wrongs
- It is the opposite of all of these things. Song of Solomon 8:7 says that no amount of water can quench love, and no amount of rivers can wash it away. If someone were to give away all of the money in his or her family for love, they would be horribly despised
- 1 Corinthians 13:2:If I have the gift of prophecy and can comprehend all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing
- If I have the gift of prophecy and can comprehend all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing
- In Psalm 143:8 it says, “Let the dawn bring me news of your unfailing kindness, for I have placed my confidence in you.” I have put my trust in you. Show me the path I should choose, for I have entrusted my life to your care. 1 John 4:16:And as a result, we are aware of and rely on God’s love for us. God is love, and God is love. When someone loves someone else, they are in a state of union with God, and God is in them. Song of Solomon 4:9:You have captured my heart, my sister, my wife
- You have captivated my heart with one glance of your eyes, with one jewel of your necklace
- Ephesians 5:33, however, states that everyone of you must love his or her wife as much as he or she should love himself, and that the wife must respect her husband. Those who find a bride find what is excellent and get favor from the Lord, according to Proverbs 18:22 5:11 – 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – As a result, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are already doing
- Matthew 19:4-6 (NASB): “You haven’t read,” he said, “that in the beginning, the Creator’made them male and female,’ and that he then stated, ‘For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother, and the two will become one flesh’?” As a result, they are no longer two people, but one flesh. As a result, no one should be able to separate what God has brought together “in addition to this, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me at [email protected]
Bible Verses About Love
It has been determined that I have found the one whom my soul loves Bible verse in frame
- “Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers up all wrongs,” according to Proverbs 10:12. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whomever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life
- John 3:16 I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine, according to Song of Solomon 2:16. In the third verse of the Song of Solomon, it says, “I have discovered the one whom my soul loves.” ‘My word is this: Love one another as I have loved you,’ says Jesus in John 15:12. Do everything in the name of love, according to 1 Corinthians 16:14. In the first place, love one another profoundly because love covers a multitude of sins, according to 1 Peter 4:8. Submit to one another out of regard for Christ, as instructed in Ephesians 5:21. 1 John 4:8 says, “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” Whoever does not love does not know God, since God is love. Faith, hope, and love are the only things that survive in the end, according to 1 Corinthians 13:13. The greatest of all, though, is love. Love must be genuine, according to Romans 12:9. Despise what is wicked and cling to what is right
- Colossians 3:14 says, “And over all these qualities, put on love, which binds them all together in perfect harmony. ” In the words of Jesus in Luke 6:31, “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” The Bible says in Mark 10:9 that “what God has joined together, let no one separate.” Who can discover a virtuous lady, according to Proverbs 31:10? because she is worth far more than rubies
- The Bible says in Proverbs 17:17 that a friend loves at all times, and a brother is born to face hardship. The apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 4:2: “Be absolutely humble and gentle
- Be patient, bearing with one another in love.” The bounty of mercy, peace, and love be yours in plenty
- Jude 1:2 1 Jesus said in John 4:7: “Dear friends, let us love one another since love is from God.” Everyone who loves has been born of God and is aware of God’s existence
What does the Bible say about marriage?
“God created man in His own image,” says the Bible. He created both male and female beings. Afterwards, God blessed them, and God commanded them to “be prolific and multiply, and fill the land.” (Genesis 1:27, 28; New King James Version). In most cultures, marriage is seen as a fundamental social institution that has existed for as long as we have historical records (either in secular sources or in the Bible), but it has taken on many forms over time and in different civilizations.
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- The Bible’s teachings on marriage are summarized in the following sections: Characteristics of a godly spouse or wife according to the Bible
Two become one flesh
God created Eve, according to the Bible, and “he brought her to the man,” according to the Bible. In response, Adam said, “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh.’. As a result, a man will leave his father and mother and will be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” (Genesis 2:22-24; 3:22-24). This description of the very first marriage emphasizes the essential attribute of a godly marriage: a husband and wife become “one body” as a result of their union. Naturally, they continue to be two distinct persons, but in God’s ideal for marriage, the two become one in their shared purpose.
It takes a team effort for them to develop a solid, godly family and grow their children to be good, godly individuals.
God created marriage in the beginning
It’s vital to remember that God was the one who arranged the very first marriage in Eden. Marriage is a gift from God. Moreover, God’s partnership with Adam and Eve exemplifies God’s vision of marriage: a man and a woman linked together in a lifelong commitment to each other, working together to build healthy, godly families. Obviously, human beings have not always acted in accordance with this ideal, but God’s method is still the finest way to live.
Top 10 Bible verses about marriage
Because the Bible has a great deal to say about marriage, let’s create a “Top Ten List” of the most important Bible passages on the subject—and then look at each one in further depth. 1) Mark 10:6-9 = God instituted marriage and bestows His favor on the institution. (See also Genesis 1:27, 28; Hebrews 13:4 for further information.) God created mankind with a natural need and desire for the tight relationship that marriage gives (Genesis 2:18; 1 Corinthians 7:10). (See also Proverbs 18:22 for more information.) The husband and wife become “one” in the marriage bond as a result of Genesis 2:23 and 24.
4) Ecclesiastes 9_9= Marriage is a lifetime commitment, according to the Bible.
The Bible says that husbands and wives should be united by a common set of values, aims, and ambitions (II Corinthians 6:14).
(See also Leviticus 18:20 for further information.) 8) According to Matthew 5:32, adultery is the sole biblically permissible ground for divorce.
9) Isaiah 62_5= An perfect marriage partnership symbolizes God’s loving relationship with His people. (See also Isaiah 54:5; Ephesians 5:25) 10) Proverbs 31_10= A strong marriage relationship is a precious thing.
What the Bible says about marriage
“Marriage is regarded as noble by everybody, and the bed is unpolluted” (Hebrews 13:4). At the conclusion of Creation Week, we have already seen that God performed the very first wedding and blessed the newlyweds (Genesis 1:27, 28). In fact, God Himself established and praised the institution of marriage. This is significant because it informs us that marriage is a positive experience. It is one of the many benefits that God has bestowed upon us from the beginning of time. For example, according to the Bible, “From the beginning of creation, God’made them male and female.'” As a result, a man must abandon his father and mother in order to be united with his wife.
2) Close bond in marriage
In the words of the Lord God, “It is not desirable for man to be alone; therefore, I will create a helper equivalent to him.” (See Genesis 2:18 for more information.) During each of the six days of Creation Week, God looked over everything He had created and determined that everything was “good.” The first week in Eden, however, was marred by one very unpleasant development. A male and a female animal was formed for each of the creatures that God created. Adam, on the other hand, had no female companion!
God created men and women to be complementary to one another on all levels: physically, psychologically, and socially.
The Bible states, “He who finds a wife discovers an excellent thing, and he earns favor from the Lord” because finding a wife is a desirable thing (Proverbs 18:22).
3) Husband and wife become one
“He took her to the gentleman. This is now bone from my bones and flesh from my flesh; she shall be known as Woman since she was taken from Man,’ Adam declared. Because of this, a man will leave his father and mother and will be united in marriage, and they will become one flesh.” (Genesis 2:23; 2:24; 3:21; 4:6) Isn’t it interesting how couples who have been happily married for a long period of time frequently appear to merge together on so many different levels? He or she understands what the other person is thinking and anticipates how their spouse would behave in a particular scenario.
They have such a long history together that they nearly feel as though the other is an extension of their own selves.
4) Marriage: A lifelong commitment
“All the days of your. life, live blissfully with the lady whom you adore” (Ecclesiastes 9:9). When you say “until death do you part,” there’s a good reason behind it. Marriage, as God intended, is a lifelong commitment that must be maintained through good and terrible times.
5) Love and respect in marriage
“Husbands should regard their spouses as extensions of their own bodies. Let everyone of you. love his or her own wife as much as he or she loves himself, and let the wife perceive that she or he respects her husband” (Ephesians 5:28, 33). A marriage will not continue if the husband and wife do not share mutual love and respect for one another and their children.
Continue to pay close attention in the morning. Look for the positive characteristics in your spouse and work to maintain the mutual respect and love that brought you together in the first place.
6) Similarity in beliefs, goals, and objectives
Don’t allow yourselves to be unequally yoked with unbelievers. “For what kind of association does righteousness have with unrighteousness?” The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 6:14 that Marriage is the fusion of two lives into “one flesh,” as the expression goes. This does not imply that husbands and wives must think and feel in exactly the same way in all circumstances. Individuality is not extinguished as a result of marriage. However, if there is a significant difference in religious views or other significant concerns, it will be far more difficult to establish the unity that God desires for a perfect marriage.
7) Faithful in marriage
“You are not permitted to desire your neighbor’s wife” (Exodus 20:17). “You must not pollute yourself with the wife of your neighbor, nor shall you lay carnally with her” (Leviticus 18:20). One of the most fundamental goals of marriage is to channel the human sexual impulse into the right channels of communication. Today’s culture suffers from a severe lack of sexual restriction; nevertheless, the problem would be exponentially worse if it weren’t for heavenly prohibitions confining sexual activity to marriage and social restraints that attempt to achieve the same result.
8) Adultery and divorce
The Bible states that anybody who divorces his or her wife for any reason other than sexual immorality forces her to commit adultery (Matthew 5:32). This follows from the preceding concept, which states that sexual fidelity in marriage is essential. The remark made by Jesus is a tough one to accept. It is a clear instruction from the Bible. There are no exceptions or alternatives in Jesus’ teachings. However, it is difficult to know how to put it into practice in the dysfunctional environment in which we live today.
9) Marriage mirrors God’s relationship with His people
The Bible says, “Just as the bridegroom rejoices over his wife, so will your God rejoice over you” (Isaiah 62:5). Everywhere in the Bible, God is shown as the beloved husband of His people. His church is His wife, whom he adores and cherishes with all of his heart (Ephesians 5:25-27). We can only experience the closest, most personal relationships on this planet, and God uses marriage to show the intimate relationship He desires to have with you and me!
10) Marriage is precious
Who has the ability to locate a virtuous wife? Because she is far more valuable than rubies. “She has earned the confidence of her husband’s heart” (Proverbs 31:10).
Biblical traits of a good husband or wife
Several commentators have described Proverbs 31 as a depiction of “The Ideal Wife.” And it is true that the chapter, as written, is primarily concerned with the wife. While the ideal characteristics listed in this chapter apply equally to both husbands and wives, in practice they do not. So, what does the Bible say about what makes a good wife (or husband)?
Based on Proverbs 31, the following is a list of attributes to consider. Look up the passages and see how they are explained for yourself. Can you think of any more characteristics that are present in this chapter but are not included here?
- Dependable (verse 11)
- A positive approach that brings forth the best in one’s partner (verse 12)
- And a willingness to sacrifice (verse 13). Verse 13 describes someone who is hardworking. Provides for the needs of the family (verse 15)
- Effortless (verse 16)
- Compassionate and conscious of the needs of others (verse 20)
- Is a source of pride for one’s spouse in the community (verse 23)
- (Verse 26) Be kind
- Being cherished and appreciated by one’s children as well as one’s spouse (verse 28)
- In addition to having a good reputation at home (verse 31),
Biblical examples of marriages
The Bible instructs us in a variety of ways, including via stories and illustrations (1 Corinthians 10:11). In terms of marriage, the Bible provides us with both positive and negative examples of successful and unsuccessful relationships.
Ruth and Boaz
Read the story of Ruth and Boaz if you want to see an example of a successful marriage. Ruth, a small book from the Old Testament, is where you’ll discover it. There are just four chapters in all. As you hear the narrative of their marriage—how they met and fell in love—look for the things that contributed to their happiness and the possibility of a blessed relationship. The lives of Ruth and Boaz were lived in a whole different era and society than our own, so some of the details may appear weird to us now.
Samson
Read the story of Samson and Delilah if you want to see an example of a horrible marriage—a truly awful marriage. The story is described in Judges chapters 14, 15, and 16 and may be found on the internet. Discover the reasons why this marriage was doomed from the start. What was it about the relationship that made it so dysfunctional? Take note, in particular, of the devastating conclusion. We may learn a great deal from the actions and words of others, both good and negative.
Conclusion
What does the Bible have to say about love and marriage? According to the Bible, marriage is a blessing from God, given to us to make our lives better and more satisfying. ” It asserts that a healthy marriage not only brings us closer to our partner, but it also has the potential to bring us closer to God. According to the Bible, “He who discovers a wife discovers a good thing, and he wins favor from the Lord” (Proverbs 18:22).
Jesus on Marriage and Divorce
It guaranteed that almost any answer would offend someone and stir up controversy.
They believed that greater obedience to the law would raise one up another rung in the spiritual hierarchy.
Instead, purer hearts might have asked, “Is it lawful for a man to remain married to his wife when there are good reasons to divorce?” The Pharisees wanted reasons to break up a marriage; Jesus responded by emphasizing what keeps a marriage together — God’s way.Jesus reminded the Pharisees of God’s original purpose and design for marriage from creation.
People may fail in the construction of their marriages, but God’s original design for husband and wife is flawless.“Haven’t you read,” Jesus asked the Pharisees, knowing they knew well the Creation account in Scripture, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female?’” God (actually, Jesus Himself — Col.
- 1:3; Ps.
- God designed and created men and women for each other from the creation of humankind.In verse 5, Jesus confirmed that this creation ideal is the reasonanyone(without limiting this to Jews or any other group of people) leavesparentsand cleaves to his or her mate in a one-fleshrelationship.
- In verse 6, Jesus concluded by adding, “Therefore what God has joined together, let man notseparate.” God joins husband and wife together — not civil contracts or a sexual relationship.
- No human being is to separate them.
- They make lifelong vows of fidelity, and God is a witness to these vows.
- This is a continuous command throughout a marriage.
- Yes.
No.
God’s will is that husband and wife remain yoked together as “one flesh.”Did Jesus answer the question of the Pharisees?
What God has joined together, let man not separate.” The Pharisees understood that Jesus had answered “no” to their first question.
God joins them together.
No exceptions.
The Pharisees heard Jesus’ response and believed they saw a contradiction with Deuteronomy 24:1-4.
First, Mosespermittedthe Israelites to divorce their wives; it was not a command as the Pharisees suggested.
The law of Moses was really a damage control measure as divorces occurred.Jesus told His questioners that divorce was permitted under Moses “because your hearts were hard.” Nevertheless, He quickly pointed out, “It was not this way from the beginning.” God never wanted divorce.
And, as Jesus said, this creation law still governs all humankind.Now we come to the most controversial statement of all.
He spoke of two classes of persons who commit adultery: explicitly, husbands who divorce their wives without the cause of “marital unfaithfulness” to marry other women; and implicitly, women who marry husbands who have divorced their wives for reasons other than “marital unfaithfulness.” Let’s review the meaning of the operative words.The word “divorces” is the same term the Pharisees used in verses 3 and 7.
It is the Greek word for “letting go.” Also, “marries” refers to the marriage bond between a husband and wife.
The only divorce that does not lead to adultery arises from “marital unfaithfulness.” Its meaning is critical to understanding Matthew 19:9.There are differing views on whether this word modifies the word “divorces” preceding it or the word “marries” following it.
The proper application of this single term is the most important key to understanding verse 9.
Can it simply mean breaking faith with one’s partner by forsaking the marriage relationship without any sexual involvement with others?
It appears to require more than mere covenant breaking, marital incompatibility, or disloyalty.
No, Jesus did not use the specific word for “adultery” — the Greek root wordmoicheia.
He did not restrict this sin to adultery only, but rejected both it and all other forms of sexual infidelity.
How muchporneiamust a spouse commit before the exception applies?
How does one know for sure if and whenporneiaoccurs, especially since it is usually a secretive act?
The exception could apply immediately upon any sexual infidelity.
It may also require a continuous and unrepentant lifestyle of sexual infidelity with a hard heart before divorce occurs scripturally.
But ifporneiais present and active, divorce is permitted.
Under Mosaic law, witnesses must verify adulterous behavior (Lev.
17:2-7; 19:15-21; Num.
No such biblical requirement exists today.
We must act wisely to arrive at an honest conclusion on this important matter.
Divorce (except forporneia) and remarriage are adultery.
(The Greek root word ismoikaomai, meaning “to have unlawful sexual intercourse with another’s wife; to commit adultery with”.) But does this term refer to a one-time act of adultery or a continuing state of adultery?
One spouse remarries another person; therefore, both parties to that remarriage commit adultery.
Some believe it does not.
At that instant, the remarriage becomes legitimate.
As opposed to a one-time adulterous act, is it adultery that continues while the relationship exists?
3:5-8).
However, if a continuous state of adultery truly exists in the remarriage, who would argue against terminating this relationship?
Many questions arise.
I feel this is a very strict construction.
May a spouse (the “divorcee”) divorced by a mate for reasons other thanporneiaremarry?
What rights does the divorcing spouse (the “divorcer”) have whenporneiahas occurred?
However, by implication, if a divorce is permissible forporneia, then the marriage is broken.
What about the divorcee who is guilty ofporneia?
Jesus does not say anything about this person.
What are the consequences?
Many say that the adulterer spiritually dies (as discussed earlier in this chapter).
Others argue, however, that if the marriage ends in God’s judgment, why would both parties not be free to remarry another as if the marriage had never occurred?
Jesus says in verse 9 that the divorcer commits adultery.
If they divorce, can the spouses ever marry again?
As you can see, many remarriage issues remain unanswered by Jesus.
It appears that we are to answer these questions for ourselves, using the Scriptures as God leads us.
We know Jesus reaffirmed the marriage bond of one woman for one man in a monogamous marriage for life.Porneiais a serious breach of fidelity and trust in a marriage.
By recognizing this exception, Jesus acknowledged that the marriage bond can be broken, but He did not say that a divorcemustoccur after marital unfaithfulness.
Even so, His focus throughout this conversation is not on divorce or the exception permitting divorce.
The teaching that an unscriptural divorce followed by remarriage is adultery is a very hard principle to receive.
Is it better not to be married at all?
If this was the way God viewed divorce and remarriage, why marry at all?
Were they so concerned about sin in marriage that they would turn their back on marriage entirely?
They missed the point.
His focus was always on loving God with all of one’s heart, mind, soul, and strength; that must be the priority in this life.
We have a choice, but it is impossible for people to enter the kingdom of God on worldly resources.
How did Jesus respond?
He only added: “Not everyone can accept this teaching, but only those to whom it has been given.
19:11-12).
This goes beyond the question of marriage and divorce.
Will the disciples trust in God or themselves?
In verse 12, Jesus added: “The one who can accept thisshould accept it.” Marriage is a matter of free choice; God does not coerce anyone into it.
The couple should glorify God through their union as He intended from creation and honor its permanence and fidelity.
7:32-35).
Very likely, they are different accounts of the same meeting — with some differences, however.
If that man marries another woman, he commits adultery against his wife.
If she marries another man, she commits adultery.
But the missing exception in Mark does not nullify Jesus’ statement in Matthew’s version.
The mention by Jesus of women as divorcers affirms God’s view that men and women who divorce are equally accountable to Him.
Joseph Warren Kniskern is an attorney in Raleigh, North Carolina with more than 32 years of experience, who has been cited inWho’s Who in American Law.
This article has been excerpted with permission fromWhen the Vow Breaks: A Survival and Recovery Guide for Christians Facing Divorce(B H Publishing Group, revised edition copyright @ 2008). Which divorce lawyer should you use?