Jesus’ teachings on marriage make it clear that God’s original design is a lifelong, exclusive union between one man and one woman. When questioned about marriage and divorce, Jesus pointed back to Genesis, emphasizing that a man shall be united with his wife and the two shall become “one flesh” (Matthew 19:4–6). This foundational truth highlights not only the permanence of marriage but also its exclusivity. While the Old Testament includes examples of polygamy, Jesus reaffirms the divine intent of monogamy, aligning marriage with God’s original blueprint for human relationships.
The New Testament continues this message, with the apostle Paul echoing Jesus’ view by instructing leaders to be “faithful to his wife” (1 Timothy 3:2), reinforcing the idea of a one-man-one-wife commitment. Though complex topics like polygamy, divorce, and modern debates about marriage exist, Jesus’ words offer a clear, timeless framework rooted in love, faithfulness, and partnership. For those seeking to honor God through their relationships, understanding Jesus’ model of marriage is a powerful foundation. Keep reading to explore how these principles can shape your life and relationships in today’s world.
Marriage is one of the most significant relationships in our lives, and it’s natural to wonder what Jesus has to say about it. Does Jesus advocate for one man and one wife? Let’s dive into what the Bible says and what Jesus himself taught about marriage.
Jesus’ Teachings on Marriage
Jesus didn’t leave us guessing about his views on marriage. He addressed it directly in several passages. One of the most cited is from the Gospel of Matthew:
“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 is quoting from Genesis, reaffirming the original design for marriage. This “one flesh” concept emphasizes a deep, exclusive bond between one man and one woman.
The Genesis Blueprint
To fully understand Jesus’ point, it’s helpful to look back at the Genesis account he references:
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27, NIV)
“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24, NIV)
These verses establish the foundational blueprint for marriage. From the beginning, God’s design was for one man to be united with one woman. Jesus’ reference to Genesis underscores that this model is not just cultural but divinely instituted.
The New Testament Perspective
The New Testament further supports this one-man-one-wife principle. Paul, in his letters, echoes Jesus’ teachings. For instance, in his instructions about church leaders, Paul writes:
“Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach.” (1 Timothy 3:2, NIV)
The phrase “faithful to his wife” is often translated as “the husband of one wife,” indicating a monogamous relationship. Paul’s requirement for church leaders reflects the expectation for all Christians.
Addressing Polygamy
Polygamy, the practice of having more than one spouse, is mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament. Figures like Abraham, David, and Solomon had multiple wives. However, it’s important to note that these instances are descriptive rather than prescriptive. The Bible often records events and behaviors without endorsing them.
In fact, the outcomes of these polygamous relationships often highlight their problems. For example, Solomon’s many wives led him astray:
“As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been.” (1 Kings 11:4, NIV)
This serves as a cautionary tale rather than an endorsement of polygamy.
Jesus and Divorce
Another aspect of Jesus’ teaching on marriage is his stance on divorce. In Matthew 19:8-9, Jesus addresses this:
“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.”
Jesus acknowledges that divorce was allowed because of human hard-heartedness but reiterates that it was never God’s original plan. By emphasizing the permanence of marriage, Jesus reinforces the idea of a lifelong, exclusive union between one man and one woman.
Practical Implications for Today
Understanding Jesus’ teachings on marriage has practical implications for Christians today. Here are a few key points to consider:
1. Commitment and Faithfulness
Jesus’ model of marriage calls for a deep commitment and faithfulness. This means being dedicated to your spouse, working through challenges together, and prioritizing your relationship above others.
2. Equality and Partnership
The “one flesh” concept implies equality and partnership. Both husband and wife are to work together, support each other, and respect each other’s roles and contributions.
3. Love and Sacrifice
Marriage should be characterized by love and sacrifice. Paul elaborates on this in Ephesians 5:25:
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
This level of love involves putting your spouse’s needs before your own and being willing to make sacrifices for their well-being.
4. Exclusive Relationship
Jesus’ teaching emphasizes the exclusivity of the marital relationship. This means maintaining fidelity and avoiding anything that could compromise the trust and bond between spouses.
Addressing Modern Questions
In today’s world, questions about marriage can be complex. Issues like divorce, remarriage, and same-sex marriage are hotly debated. While each of these topics deserves thorough discussion, the core of Jesus’ teaching on marriage remains clear: it’s an exclusive, lifelong union between one man and one woman.
1. Divorce and Remarriage
Divorce is a reality in many lives, and Jesus’ teaching allows for it in cases of sexual immorality. However, the emphasis is on reconciliation and maintaining the marriage whenever possible. Remarriage after divorce is seen as permissible under specific circumstances, highlighting the importance of understanding each situation individually.
2. Same-Sex Marriage
While Jesus didn’t directly address same-sex marriage, his teachings on marriage always reference the male-female relationship established in Genesis. This has led many Christians to view marriage as inherently between a man and a woman, though interpretations and beliefs can vary widely among different denominations and communities.
Conclusion
Jesus’ teachings on marriage are clear and grounded in the Genesis account. He advocates for a monogamous, lifelong union between one man and one woman. By understanding and applying these principles, Christians can build strong, healthy marriages that reflect God’s original design. Whether you’re married, considering marriage, or just curious, Jesus’ words provide timeless wisdom for building a loving, faithful, and committed relationship.
FAQs: Does Jesus Say One Man One Wife?
1. What does Jesus say about marriage?
Jesus teaches that marriage is a lifelong, exclusive union between one man and one woman. He references the Genesis account, emphasizing that a man and a woman become “one flesh” in marriage (Matthew 19:4-6).
2. Does Jesus specifically say “one man one wife”?
While Jesus doesn’t use those exact words, his teachings and references to Genesis clearly support the idea of monogamous marriage. He emphasizes the original design of marriage as a union between one man and one woman.
3. What is the significance of the “one flesh” concept in marriage?
The “one flesh” concept underscores the deep, intimate, and exclusive bond between a husband and wife. It signifies unity, equality, and partnership, indicating that the two are no longer separate but one in marriage.
4. Did Jesus allow for divorce?
Jesus acknowledged that Moses permitted divorce because of people’s hard-heartedness, but he emphasized that this was not the original intention. He taught that divorce should only occur in cases of sexual immorality (Matthew 19:8-9).
5. How does the New Testament support monogamous marriage?
The New Testament reinforces monogamous marriage through teachings like those of Paul, who states that church leaders should be “the husband of one wife” (1 Timothy 3:2), reflecting the expectation for all Christians.
6. What about polygamy in the Old Testament?
Polygamy is recorded in the Old Testament, but these accounts are descriptive rather than prescriptive. They often highlight the problems and complications arising from polygamous relationships, serving as cautionary tales rather than endorsements.
7. Does Jesus address same-sex marriage?
Jesus doesn’t directly address same-sex marriage. However, his teachings on marriage consistently reference the male-female relationship established in Genesis, leading many Christians to view marriage as inherently between a man and a woman.
8. What should be the characteristics of a Christian marriage according to Jesus’ teachings?
A Christian marriage should be characterized by commitment, faithfulness, equality, partnership, love, and sacrifice. Jesus’ model calls for a deep, exclusive bond where both spouses support and respect each other.
9. How should Christians handle divorce and remarriage?
While divorce is permitted in cases of sexual immorality, the emphasis is on reconciliation and maintaining the marriage. Remarriage is seen as permissible under specific circumstances, with each situation needing individual consideration.
10. How can we apply Jesus’ teachings on marriage in our lives today?
To apply Jesus’ teachings, prioritize commitment and faithfulness in your marriage, foster an equal and supportive partnership, show love and sacrifice, and maintain an exclusive relationship with your spouse. Understanding and living out these principles can help build strong, healthy marriages.
