New Testament Marriage: What Does the Bible Really Say?
What the Bible says about marriage in the New Testament: Marriage is a sacred institution in Christianity, and the New Testament provides guidance on how to approach this important covenant. In this article, we will explore the teachings of the New Testament on marriage, including the concept of covenant, roles and responsibilities in marriage, and divorce and remarriage.
Marriage is a central theme in the Bible, and the New Testament provides important insights into this sacred institution. In this section, we will provide a brief overview of the New Testament's teachings on marriage.
Marriage as a Covenant
One of the key concepts in the New Testament's teachings on marriage is the idea of covenant. In the Bible, a covenant is a sacred agreement between two parties, and marriage is viewed as a covenant between a man and a woman. This covenantal view of marriage is reflected in passages such as Malachi 2:14, which describes marriage as a "covenant of God."
Other passages in the New Testament use covenantal language to describe marriage. For example, in Ephesians 5:25-33, husbands are instructed to love their wives as Christ loved the church, and wives are instructed to submit to their husbands as the church submits to Christ. This language reflects the idea of a covenantal relationship between husband and wife.
Roles and Responsibilities in Marriage
The New Testament also provides guidance on the roles and responsibilities of husbands and wives in marriage. According to the Bible, husbands are called to love their wives sacrificially, as Christ loved the church (Ephesians 5:25). Wives, in turn, are called to submit to their husbands as the church submits to Christ (Ephesians 5:22).
Other passages in the New Testament provide further guidance on the roles and responsibilities of husbands and wives. For example, 1 Peter 3:7 instructs husbands to live with their wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel. Wives are instructed to respect their husbands (Ephesians 5:33).
It is important to note that these teachings have been interpreted and applied in different ways throughout history. Some have used these passages to justify patriarchal views of marriage, while others have emphasized the mutual submission and sacrificial love called for in the New Testament.
Divorce and Remarriage
The New Testament also provides guidance on divorce and remarriage. According to Jesus, divorce is only permissible in cases of adultery (Matthew 19:9). In 1 Corinthians 7:10-16, Paul provides further guidance on divorce and remarriage, stating that a believer should not divorce an unbelieving spouse, but that if the unbelieving spouse leaves, the believer is not bound to the marriage.
These teachings have been interpreted and applied in different ways throughout history. Some have emphasized the importance of upholding the sanctity of marriage, while others have recognized the reality of broken relationships and the need for compassion and grace in difficult situations.
The New Testament provides important guidance on marriage, including the concept of covenant, roles and responsibilities in marriage, and divorce and remarriage. These teachings have been interpreted and applied in different ways throughout history, but they continue to provide a valuable framework for understanding the sacred institution of marriage.
As we navigate the complexities of modern relationships, it is important to reflect on these biblical perspectives on marriage and to seek wisdom and guidance from the teachings of the New Testament.
Understanding the biblical concept of covenant is essential for understanding the New Testament's teachings on marriage.
Key Points:
- Marriage is viewed as a covenant between a man and a woman in the New Testament.
- The New Testament provides guidance on the roles and responsibilities of husbands and wives in marriage.
- Divorce is only permissible in cases of adultery according to Jesus.
Interesting Facts about Marriage in the New Testament |
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The New Testament uses covenantal language to describe marriage. |
The New Testament provides guidance on the roles and responsibilities of husbands and wives in marriage. |
Divorce is only permissible in cases of adultery according to Jesus. |
Overall, the New Testament's teachings on marriage provide a valuable framework for understanding this sacred institution. By reflecting on these teachings and seeking wisdom and guidance from the Bible, we can build strong and healthy marriages that honor God and reflect his love for us.
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