Doctrine of Marriage

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Marriage stands as one of the most beautiful gifts from God, a covenant designed to bring joy, companionship, and a glimpse of heavenly love into our earthly lives. From the very beginning of Scripture, we see marriage portrayed as a profound union between a man and a woman, mirroring the deep, unbreakable bond between Christ and His Church. This article explores the biblical teaching on marriage, its sacred purpose, and the challenging topic of divorce. We’ll approach this with grace, recognizing that many may not have fully understood these teachings before. God’s Word offers guidance and hope for all situations, inviting us to align our lives with His perfect plan.

The Doctrine of Marriage: Marriage is a Sacred Union Between a Man and a Woman, Intended to Reflect the Love and Commitment of Christ for His Church

The Biblical Foundation of Marriage

Scripture lays a clear foundation for marriage right in the opening chapters of the Bible. In Genesis, we read how God created humanity and established this union as part of His good design.

Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. (Genesis 2:24)

This verse highlights the exclusivity and permanence of marriage—a man and a woman becoming one, leaving behind their former lives to build a new one together. Jesus Himself affirmed this in the New Testament, emphasizing that marriage is God’s doing.

And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. (Matthew 19:4-6)

Here, marriage is not just a social contract but a divine joining. It’s meant to be lifelong, reflecting God’s faithfulness. In a world where relationships often feel temporary, this teaching calls us to a higher standard of commitment and love.

  • Companionship and Support: Marriage provides a partner for life’s joys and trials, as seen in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10: “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow…”
  • Procreation and Family: God blesses marriage with the potential for children, as in Genesis 1:28: “And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply…”
  • Holiness and Growth: Spouses help each other grow in faith, as Proverbs 27:17 says: “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”

These elements show marriage as a foundational institution, ordained by God for our good.

Marriage as a Reflection of Christ and the Church

One of the most profound aspects of marriage is its role as a picture of Christ’s relationship with His Church. The Apostle Paul explains this mystery in Ephesians, urging husbands and wives to love each other sacrificially.

Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; … For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. (Ephesians 5:25, 31-32)

In this union, the husband represents Christ, leading with selfless love and protection, while the wife reflects the Church’s submission and respect. Together, they demonstrate the gospel—the ultimate story of redemption and eternal commitment.

This symbolism elevates marriage beyond personal happiness. When a man and woman honor their vows, they testify to the world about God’s unchanging love. Challenges in marriage become opportunities to show grace, forgiveness, and perseverance, just as Christ does for us.

Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband. (Ephesians 5:33)

By living this out, couples not only strengthen their bond but also point others to the Savior.

The Issue of Divorce in Scripture

While marriage is intended to be permanent, Scripture acknowledges the reality of brokenness in our fallen world. God expresses His heart on the matter clearly.

For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously. (Malachi 2:16)

Divorce grieves God’s heart because it tears apart what He has joined. Yet, the Bible does provide limited grounds for it, recognizing human hardness of heart, as Jesus noted in Matthew 19:8.

Jesus addressed divorce directly, tightening the Mosaic allowances to protect the sanctity of marriage.

It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement: But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery. (Matthew 5:31-32)

Here, “fornication” refers to sexual immorality, such as adultery. This is echoed in Matthew 19:9:

And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.

Additionally, Paul discusses a case where an unbelieving spouse leaves:

But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. (1 Corinthians 7:15)

These are the primary biblical exceptions. In other cases, divorce is not permitted, and remarriage would constitute adultery, as stated in Luke 16:18 and Mark 10:11-12.

Christ’s Teaching on Divorce and Remarriage

Christ’s words on this topic are straightforward yet compassionate. He upholds marriage’s permanence while offering mercy to those in pain. In the Sermon on the Mount and conversations with Pharisees, Jesus emphasizes that divorce without valid grounds leads to adultery upon remarriage.

Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband committeth adultery. (Luke 16:18)

Paul reinforces this for believers:

And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife. (1 Corinthians 7:10-11)

The goal is always reconciliation where possible. If separation occurs without biblical grounds, the path forward is to remain single or reunite. This teaching protects the vulnerable and upholds God’s design.

What Should Divorced and Remarried People Do?

This is a tender area, and it’s important to approach it with kindness. Many enter remarriages without full knowledge of these scriptures, and God is gracious to those who seek Him sincerely. If you’re in this situation, know that God’s love covers a multitude of sins, and He desires your heart more than perfection.

Scripture teaches that if a divorce was not on biblical grounds (adultery or abandonment by an unbeliever), remarriage is considered adulterous. To align with Christ’s teaching, the biblical call is to repentance—which may involve difficult steps.

  • Seek God’s Forgiveness First: Confess any past actions to the Lord. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9) This is the starting point for healing.
  • Pray and Seek Wise Counsel: Consult with mature believers or pastors who hold to Scripture. Pray for wisdom, as James 1:5 promises: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God…”
  • Consider Separation if Needed: In cases where the current marriage is biblically invalid, some teachings suggest separating to end the adulterous state, remaining single thereafter or reconciling with the original spouse if possible. This echoes 1 Corinthians 7:11’s call to remain unmarried.
  • Focus on Current Responsibilities: If children are involved, prioritize their well-being. Live in purity moving forward, honoring God in your actions.
  • Embrace Singleness if Applicable: Paul speaks highly of singleness for undivided devotion to the Lord (1 Corinthians 7:32-35).

Remember, this isn’t about condemnation but restoration. God can redeem any situation, and many have found peace by submitting to His Word, even in hardship.

Does It Really Matter?

Absolutely, though not in a way that burdens us without hope. Obeying God’s teachings on marriage matters because it honors Him, protects families, and reflects the gospel. When we disregard these principles, it can lead to pain, broken homes, and a distorted witness to the world. Yet, God’s grace is greater than our failures.

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)

It matters for our spiritual growth, the stability of society, and the legacy we leave. But for those unaware before, there’s no need for despair—God invites us to start fresh today.

Conclusion: Embracing God’s Design for Marriage

Marriage, as a sacred union between a man and a woman, beautifully illustrates Christ’s love for His Church. While divorce brings heartache, Scripture offers clear guidance tempered with mercy. For those navigating these waters, turn to God in prayer, immerse yourself in His Word, and surround yourself with support.

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