How Does Jesus Define Marriage?

Marriage is a fundamental institution in many cultures, and for Christians, its significance is deeply rooted in biblical teachings.

Jesus’ teachings on marriage are particularly profound and set a clear standard.

If you’re exploring what Jesus said about marriage, you’re in the right place.

This piece will delve into how Jesus defines marriage, drawing from biblical texts and His own words.

The Biblical Foundation of Marriage

Before diving into Jesus’ teachings, it’s essential to understand the biblical foundation of marriage.

The Bible begins with the creation story in Genesis, where God establishes the first marriage between Adam and Eve.

Genesis 2:24 – The Blueprint

In Genesis 2:24, it states:

“Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”

This verse lays the groundwork for the concept of marriage as a union between a man and a woman.

It highlights three key elements:

Leaving: A man leaves his family of origin.
Cleaving: He bonds closely with his wife.
Becoming One Flesh: They become one, symbolizing unity and intimacy.

This scripture sets a pattern that Jesus later affirms in His teachings.

Jesus’ Teachings on Marriage

Jesus spoke about marriage on several occasions, each time reinforcing its sanctity and divine purpose.

Let’s look at His key statements.

Matthew 19:4-6 – Reinforcing the Original Design

When questioned about marriage, Jesus often referenced Genesis.

In Matthew 19:4-6, He says:

“Haven’t you read,”

He replied, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said,

‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

Key Points from Jesus’ Statement:

Creation of Male and Female: Jesus emphasizes that marriage is between a man and a woman.
Unity: He highlights the profound unity in marriage, where two individuals become one.
Divine Union: Jesus underscores that marriage is a union ordained by God.

Mark 10:6-9 – The Indissolubility of Marriage

In Mark 10:6-9, Jesus reiterates the permanence of marriage:

“But at the beginning of creation God ‘made them male and female.’ For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

Here, Jesus is clear that marriage is meant to be a lasting covenant.

The phrase “let no one separate” emphasizes the intention for marriages to endure for a lifetime.

The Purpose of Marriage

Jesus’ teachings align with the broader biblical narrative about the purpose of marriage.

It’s not just a social contract but a sacred covenant with deep spiritual significance.

Companionship and Support

Marriage is designed to provide companionship and mutual support.

In Genesis 2:18, God says:

“It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”

This verse highlights that marriage fulfills the human need for companionship and partnership.

Reflecting God’s Relationship with the Church

Marriage is often seen as a reflection of the relationship between Christ and the Church.

Ephesians 5:25-27 explains:

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.”

This comparison elevates the institution of marriage to a divine level, showing how it symbolizes the sacrificial love and commitment Christ has for His people.

Jesus on Divorce

While Jesus upholds the sanctity and permanence of marriage, He also addresses the reality of divorce.

Matthew 19:7-9 – The Exception Clause

In Matthew 19:7-9, Jesus discusses divorce, acknowledging its allowance in certain circumstances:

“Why then,” they asked, “did Moses command that a man give his wife a certificate of divorce and send her away?”

Jesus replied,

“Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning. I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.”

Key Takeaways:

Original Intent: Jesus points out that divorce was not part of God’s original plan for marriage.
Hardness of Heart: He acknowledges that divorce was permitted due to human frailty.
Exception for Sexual Immorality: Jesus provides an exception, allowing divorce in cases of sexual immorality.

Mark 10:11-12 – Equality in Accountability

In Mark 10:11-12, Jesus stresses the mutual accountability in marriage:

“Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her. And if she divorces her husband and marries another man, she commits adultery.”

Jesus highlights that both spouses are equally responsible in the covenant of marriage.

Summary of Jesus’ Definition of Marriage

To summarize, Jesus defines marriage as:

A Sacred Union: Marriage is a divine covenant between a man and a woman.
A Permanent Bond: It’s intended to be an enduring, lifelong commitment.
A Reflection of Divine Love: Marriage mirrors the relationship between Christ and the Church.
A Union of Unity and Equality: It involves mutual support, respect, and accountability.

Key Points to Remember:

Biblical Roots: Jesus’ teachings align with the foundational principles in Genesis.
Sanctity and Permanence: Marriage is holy and meant to last.
Divorce: While permitted under certain conditions, it was not part of God’s original design for marriage.

Practical Application for Today

Understanding Jesus’ teachings on marriage can profoundly impact how we view and approach this institution today.

Whether you’re single, engaged, or married, reflecting on these principles can help you to:

Value Commitment: Recognize the importance of a lifelong bond.
Seek Unity: Strive for deep, intimate connection with your spouse.
Honor the Sacred: Treat marriage as a holy covenant, not just a social arrangement.

Incorporating these values into your life and relationships can lead to more fulfilling and God-honoring marriages.

Reflection Questions:

How can you apply Jesus’ teachings on marriage in your current or future relationships?
What steps can you take to strengthen the unity and commitment in your marriage?
How can you reflect the love of Christ in your relationship with your spouse?

By pondering these questions, you can deepen your understanding and appreciation of the profound significance of marriage as defined by Jesus.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About How Jesus Defines Marriage

What is the basic definition of marriage according to Jesus?

Jesus defines marriage as a sacred union between a man and a woman, intended to be a lifelong commitment.

He emphasizes that marriage is a divine covenant where the couple becomes “one flesh,” symbolizing deep unity and mutual support (Matthew 19:4-6).

How does Jesus’ definition of marriage align with the Old Testament?

Jesus’ definition of marriage closely aligns with the Old Testament, particularly the Genesis account of the first marriage between Adam and Eve.

In Genesis 2:24, it states that a man shall leave his parents and unite with his wife, becoming one flesh. Jesus reinforces this teaching, highlighting the permanence and divine nature of marriage.

Does Jesus address the issue of divorce in His teachings?

Yes, Jesus addresses divorce in several instances.

He acknowledges that while divorce was permitted by Moses due to human hard-heartedness, it was not part of God’s original plan for marriage.

Jesus provides an exception for divorce in cases of sexual immorality but emphasizes that marriage is intended to be a lifelong commitment (Matthew 19:7-9, Mark 10:11-12).

What is the significance of the phrase “one flesh” in Jesus’ teaching on marriage?

The phrase “one flesh” signifies the profound unity and intimate bond between husband and wife.

It means that in marriage, two individuals become one entity, sharing their lives fully and working together as a single unit.

This concept underscores the depth of commitment and connection that marriage entails (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:6).

How does marriage reflect the relationship between Christ and the Church?

Marriage is seen as a reflection of the relationship between Christ and the Church.

In Ephesians 5:25-27, husbands are instructed to love their wives as Christ loved the Church, with self-sacrificial love and commitment.

This comparison elevates marriage to a divine level, showing how it symbolizes the unconditional love and dedication Christ has for His followers.

What are the key elements of marriage according to Jesus?

According to Jesus, the key elements of marriage include:

Unity: Becoming one flesh and working together as a single entity.
Permanence: A lifelong commitment intended to last until death.
Divine Covenant: A holy and sacred bond ordained by God.
Mutual Support: Providing companionship and helping each other grow.

Can marriage be dissolved according to Jesus’ teachings?

While Jesus emphasizes the permanence of marriage, He acknowledges that it can be dissolved in certain circumstances.

The primary exception He mentions is sexual immorality.

However, He highlights that divorce was allowed due to human frailty and hard-heartedness, and it was not part of God’s original design for marriage (Matthew 19:7-9).

What practical steps can couples take to honor Jesus’ definition of marriage?

To honor Jesus’ definition of marriage, couples can:

Prioritize Unity: Strive to understand and support each other deeply.
Commit to Permanence: Approach marriage as a lifelong journey together.
Embrace the Sacred: Treat marriage as a holy and divine covenant.
Reflect Christ’s Love: Show unconditional love and sacrifice for each other, mirroring Christ’s relationship with the Church.

How can understanding Jesus’ teachings on marriage impact modern relationships?

Understanding Jesus’ teachings on marriage can provide a strong foundation for building lasting and fulfilling relationships.

It encourages couples to value commitment, seek unity, and treat their marriage as a sacred bond.

By applying these principles, modern relationships can thrive with deeper connection and mutual respect.

What should you do if you’re struggling in your marriage?

If you’re struggling in your marriage, consider seeking guidance through:

Prayer and Reflection: Spend time in prayer and reflect on Jesus’ teachings.
Counseling: Seek help from a trusted counselor or pastor.
Communication: Openly communicate with your spouse about your concerns and work together to find solutions.
Support Groups: Join a marriage support group or community for additional support and encouragement.

By taking these steps, you can work towards restoring and strengthening your marriage in line with the principles Jesus taught.

Where can I find more biblical references about marriage?

You can find more biblical references about marriage in:

Genesis 2:18-25: The creation of the first marriage.
Ephesians 5:22-33: Instructions for husbands and wives.
1 Corinthians 7: Paul’s teachings on marriage and singleness.
Colossians 3:18-19: Guidelines for marital relationships.

These passages provide additional insights into the biblical view of marriage and can help deepen your understanding.