What Did Jesus Teach About the Importance of Marriage?

Marriage is one of the most profound and enduring human institutions, and Jesus’ teachings offer a deep well of wisdom on this topic.

Whether you’re married, planning to be, or simply curious, understanding what Jesus said about marriage can provide invaluable insights.

Let’s dive into Jesus’ teachings on the importance of marriage, exploring what they mean and how they apply to our lives today.

What Did Jesus Teach About the Importance of Marriage

Marriage as a Divine Union

A Sacred Bond

Jesus emphasized that marriage is more than just a social contract; it’s a sacred union ordained by God.

In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus responds to the Pharisees’ question about divorce by referring to the creation story in Genesis.

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.” (Matthew 19:4-6, NIV)

In this passage, Jesus underscores two key aspects:

#1. Unity: Marriage is a union where two individuals become one.

It’s a bond that’s intended to be unbreakable.

#2. Divine Institution:

This union is established by God, making it sacred and significant beyond human understanding.

Reflecting God’s Relationship with the Church

Marriage mirrors the relationship between Christ and the Church.

In Ephesians 5:25-27, Paul 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 highlights the deep, sacrificial love that should characterize a marital relationship, mirroring Jesus’ love for His followers.

The Commitment and Challenges of Marriage

Lifelong Commitment

Jesus’ teachings also emphasize the permanence of marriage.

In Mark 10:9, He states:

“Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

This reinforces the idea that marriage is meant to last a lifetime.

It’s a commitment that requires dedication and perseverance.

Handling Difficulties

While Jesus upholds the sanctity of marriage, He also acknowledges that relationships can face severe challenges.

In Matthew 19:9, He addresses the issue of divorce:

“I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.”

Here, Jesus sets a high standard for the permanence of marriage but also provides an exception for cases of unfaithfulness, recognizing the complexities of human relationships.

The Role of Love and Respect

Love as the Foundation

Love is the cornerstone of Jesus’ teachings on marriage.

He calls for a selfless, sacrificial love, as exemplified in John 15:12-13:

“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

This kind of love is not just about feelings but actions—putting your spouse’s needs above your own and nurturing the relationship through kindness and compassion.

Mutual Respect

Respect is another crucial element. In Ephesians 5:33, Paul advises:

“However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”

Mutual respect strengthens the marriage bond, fostering a healthy and supportive partnership.

Marriage and Personal Growth

Spiritual and Emotional Growth

Marriage is a journey that promotes personal growth.

It’s a relationship that challenges and refines both partners, helping them to grow spiritually and emotionally. As Proverbs 27:17 puts it:

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

In marriage, partners support each other through life’s ups and downs, growing together and becoming better versions of themselves.

Building a Family

Marriage often lays the foundation for building a family, which is another significant aspect of Jesus’ teachings.

In Psalm 127:3, children are described as a blessing:

“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.”

A strong marriage provides a stable environment for raising children, nurturing the next generation with love and guidance.

Applying Jesus’ Teachings to Modern Life

Strengthening Your Marriage

To apply Jesus’ teachings, start by focusing on the core principles of love, respect, and commitment. Here are a few practical steps:

Communicate Openly: Honest communication is vital. Share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns with your spouse regularly.
Practice Forgiveness: No one is perfect. Be quick to forgive and seek forgiveness to maintain harmony.
Prioritize Quality Time: Spend quality time together, nurturing your relationship and deepening your connection.
Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to seek counseling or spiritual guidance when facing challenges.

Valuing the Sacredness of Marriage

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to take marriage for granted.

Remembering its sacred nature and the divine purpose it serves can help you value and cherish your relationship more deeply.

Conclusion

Jesus’ teachings on the importance of marriage are profound and timeless.

They remind us that marriage is a divine union meant to reflect God’s love and commitment.

It’s a relationship that requires love, respect, and lifelong dedication.

By embracing these principles, you can build a strong, fulfilling, and enduring marriage that stands the test of time.

Whether you’re married, preparing for marriage, or reflecting on its significance, Jesus’ words offer wisdom and guidance for nurturing this essential bond.

FAQs About Jesus’ Teachings on the Importance of Marriage

What did Jesus say about the purpose of marriage?

Jesus taught that marriage is a divine union where two people become one flesh, reflecting God’s plan for unity and companionship.

This union is sacred and meant to last a lifetime, symbolizing the relationship between Christ and the Church (Matthew 19:4-6).

How did Jesus address the issue of divorce?

Jesus acknowledged the challenges in marriage and taught that divorce should be avoided except in cases of sexual immorality.

He emphasized that marriage is a lifelong commitment and what God has joined together should not be separated (Matthew 19:9).

What are the key elements of a strong marriage according to Jesus?

The key elements include:

Love: Selfless, sacrificial love that mirrors Jesus’ love for us (John 15:12-13).
Respect: Mutual respect between partners is crucial for a healthy relationship (Ephesians 5:33).
Commitment: A steadfast commitment to stay together through all life’s challenges (Mark 10:9).

Why is marriage considered sacred in Jesus’ teachings?

Marriage is sacred because it is instituted by God and reflects the holy union between Christ and the Church.

This sacredness underscores the seriousness and sanctity of the marriage bond, which should be cherished and protected (Ephesians 5:25-27).

How can we apply Jesus’ teachings on marriage in our daily lives?

You can apply these teachings by:

Communicating openly and honestly with your spouse.
Practicing forgiveness to maintain harmony and peace.
Spending quality time together to strengthen your bond.
Seeking spiritual and professional guidance when facing marital challenges.

What does Jesus’ teaching on ‘one flesh’ mean in a modern context?

The ‘one flesh’ concept emphasizes unity and intimacy in marriage.

It means that partners should work together as a single entity, supporting each other in all aspects of life, from decision-making to emotional support (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:5).

How does marriage help in personal and spiritual growth?

Marriage challenges and refines individuals, promoting personal and spiritual growth.

Partners encourage and support each other, helping each other become better versions of themselves and grow closer to God (Proverbs 27:17).

Why is respect important in marriage according to Jesus’ teachings?

Respect is crucial because it fosters a healthy and supportive partnership.

It allows both partners to feel valued and understood, which strengthens the marital bond and promotes a harmonious relationship (Ephesians 5:33).

What role does family play in Jesus’ view of marriage?

Family is an integral part of marriage, often serving as the foundation for raising children.

Jesus’ teachings suggest that a strong, loving marriage provides a stable environment for nurturing and guiding the next generation (Psalm 127:3).

How can couples maintain the sacredness of their marriage in today’s world?

Couples can maintain the sacredness of their marriage by:

Valuing and cherishing their relationship as a gift from God.
Prioritizing their marriage above other commitments and distractions.
Regularly seeking spiritual growth together, such as through prayer and worship.
Actively working on their relationship by practicing love, respect, and open communication.

What did Jesus teach about the roles of husbands and wives in marriage?

Jesus, through the teachings of Paul, suggests that husbands should love their wives sacrificially, as Christ loved the Church, and wives should respect their husbands.

These roles emphasize mutual love and respect, fostering a balanced and supportive relationship (Ephesians 5:25-33).

Can non-religious people find value in Jesus’ teachings on marriage?

Absolutely.

Jesus’ teachings on love, respect, commitment, and the importance of unity are universal principles that can strengthen any marriage, regardless of religious beliefs.

These values promote a healthy and fulfilling relationship.

How does Jesus’ view of marriage align with modern concepts of partnership and equality?

Jesus’ view of marriage aligns well with modern concepts of partnership and equality.

His teachings advocate for mutual love, respect, and support, which are the foundations of an equal and balanced partnership in marriage (Ephesians 5:21-33).

What should couples do when they face challenges in their marriage?

When facing challenges, couples should:

Communicate openly about their issues.
Seek forgiveness and offer it to maintain peace.
Spend time together to reconnect.
Seek guidance from spiritual or professional counselors to help navigate their difficulties.

By following these steps, couples can work through their challenges and strengthen their marriage.

How does Jesus’ teaching on marriage impact the broader community and society?

Jesus’ teachings on marriage promote stable, loving relationships that form the foundation of strong families and communities.

Healthy marriages contribute to the well-being of society by nurturing the next generation and creating a supportive and compassionate community environment.