Biblical Basis for Marriage

The institution of marriage is more than a social contract; it's a divine covenant. As Genesis 2:24 states, "Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." This speaks to the sacredness and unity intended for the marital relationship.  Let's take a moment to look at several important principles we find in scripture. 

Biblical Principles for Marriage

• Unity: The joining of man and woman in marriage is like the union of Christ and the Church, as described in Ephesians 5:31-32. 
• Permanence: Jesus himself highlighted the lifelong commitment of marriage in Matthew 19:6, stating, "What God has joined together, let no one separate."
• Exclusivity: Proverbs 5:18-19 encourages one to rejoice in the wife of their youth, a clear endorsement for marital exclusivity.
• Partnership: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 talks about the benefits of companionship, "Two are better than one... For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow."
• Love: Ephesians 5:25 calls husbands to "love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her."

Dr. Emerson Eggerichs, author of "Love & Respect," reminds us that "you marry a sinner," emphasizing the need for constant grace and forgiveness in marriage, much like God offers us.

Key Areas of Marriage

Marriage is not monolithic but consists of several key areas that require constant nurturing. Dr. Gary Chapman, author of "The Five Love Languages," says, "Love is a choice you make every day." Each domain in marriage offers opportunities for demonstrating that daily choice.  Let's consider these six areas.

• Communication: Ephesians 4:29 instructs us to let no corrupting talk come out of our mouths, but only such as is good for building up.
• Conflict Resolution: Matthew 5:9 extols peacemakers and encourages reconciliation.
• Parenting: Proverbs 22:6 suggests, "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it."
• Finances: The Bible has numerous passages about money, but 1 Timothy 6:10 warns that "the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils."
• Intimacy: 1 Corinthians 7:3-5 talks about marital duties and the sanctity of the marriage bed.
• Spiritual Foundations: 2 Corinthians 6:14 advises believers to be "equally yoked," sharing a common spiritual direction.

Keep these key areas in mind as we progress through the course. We will examine them all.