What the Bible Says About Marriage

The Bible is a history of God at work , bringing his redemptive purposes to fulfillment. It is also a handbook for living life as God intended. In this section of Preparing to Succeed  we will see what the Bible tells us about marriage.

1. Marriage is Designed by God – The principle of Origin – Genesis 2:24
The creation of Adam and Eve became the divine model for a marriage relationship.

2. Designed for Covenant Intimacy – The principle of Connection – Genesis 2:25
Adam and Eve experienced complete intimacy without shame.

3. Designed so that both man and woman become better people because of their
marriage – The principle of Development– I Thessalonians 5:11
God wants us to encourage and help one another. Because of our marriages we should become better people.

4. Designed to be a witness to the world – The principle of Influence– Matthew 5:14
How can a marriage be a light to the world?

5. Designed to last a lifetime – The principle of Permanence– Matthew 19:6
It’s harder and harder to find models of permanence in present day Malaysia, or many other parts of the world. The divorce rate is increasing. Will your marriage defy the trend?

6. Designed for child-bearing – The principle of Reproduction – Genesis 1:22, 1:28; Psalm 127:1
From the biblical perspective, bearing children is the normal expectation for a married couple. In cases where they cannot, for legitimate medical reasons, adoption is a loving choice.  Know, too, that many couples have seen God bless them with children, even when having children seemed physically impossible.

7. Designed to pass on a legacy – The principle of Future Impact – Psalm 44:1-8
Children may or may not inherit wealth from their parents, but the most important thing parents can leave their children is a spiritual legacy for successful living.

Think About It

1. Look at each of the seven purposes of marriage again. How does your thinking about marriage compare with those discussed here?

2. Look again at the statement under point five: “Permanence is neither modeled, not encouraged in present day Malaysia.” Do you agree or disagree with this statement. Why?

3. Look into the future.  What would you like to be able to say that you, as a couple, left as a legacy to your children?

To read Mike’s article based on this outline go to: Marriage by the Book