Jesus offered a deeply meaningful definition of marriage, framing it as a sacred, lifelong covenant established by God Himself. In Matthew 19:4-6, He referenced the Genesis creation story, highlighting five key elements: divine origin, union between male and female, the leaving of one’s family to unite with a spouse, becoming “one flesh,” and the permanence of the marital bond. These components emphasize that marriage is not merely a human contract but a spiritually significant relationship marked by unity, commitment, and purpose.
Beyond definition, Jesus’ teachings—and those of the apostles—reveal marriage’s broader purposes: companionship, procreation, and a symbolic reflection of Christ’s relationship with the Church. Jesus also addressed difficult topics like divorce, upholding high standards for fidelity while calling for love, respect, and selflessness within the marriage relationship. For believers today, these teachings offer both a foundation and a challenge—to live out marriages that reflect God’s love and covenantal faithfulness. Keep reading for a deeper dive into how Jesus’ vision for marriage can transform our relationships and strengthen our faith.
Marriage is a significant and sacred institution in many cultures and religions. For Christians, the teachings of Jesus Christ provide a profound and authoritative foundation for understanding marriage. In this article, we’ll explore how Jesus defined marriage, its purpose, and what it means for believers today. Let’s dive in.
Jesus on the Definition of Marriage
Jesus’ teachings on marriage are found primarily in the Gospels, where He speaks directly about the nature and sanctity of marriage. One of the most cited passages 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 references the creation account from Genesis, emphasizing that marriage is a divine institution established by God Himself. Let’s break down what this means.
Key Elements of Jesus’ Definition of Marriage
- Divine Origin: Jesus points out that marriage was created by God. It’s not just a social contract but a sacred union intended by the Creator.
- Male and Female: Jesus underscores that marriage is between a man and a woman. This aligns with the creation narrative where God made Adam and Eve.
- Leaving and Uniting: Marriage involves a significant transition. A man leaves his parents and is united with his wife, indicating a new, primary relationship.
- One Flesh: This phrase means more than just physical union. It implies a deep, comprehensive bond that encompasses emotional, spiritual, and physical unity.
- Indissolubility: Jesus emphasizes that marriage is intended to be permanent. What God joins, humans shouldn’t separate, highlighting the lifelong commitment involved.
The Purpose of Marriage
Jesus didn’t just define marriage; His teachings also illuminate its purposes.
1. Companionship
In Genesis 2:18, God says, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” Marriage provides companionship, offering a unique and intimate relationship where both partners support and complement each other.
2. Procreation
Genesis 1:28 instructs, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it.” While not all couples can or will have children, the ability to bring new life into the world is a significant aspect of marriage.
3. Reflecting God’s Relationship with the Church
Paul, in Ephesians 5:25-32, compares the marriage relationship to that of Christ and the Church. He explains that just as Christ loves the Church sacrificially, husbands should love their wives. This relationship mirrors God’s covenantal love and faithfulness.
Jesus on Divorce
Divorce is a challenging topic, and Jesus addresses it directly. In Matthew 19:8-9, Jesus says:
“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.”
Here, Jesus acknowledges that while divorce was allowed under Mosaic law due to human hardness of heart, it wasn’t God’s original intention. He permits divorce only in the case of sexual immorality, underscoring the seriousness and permanence of marriage.
The Role of Love and Respect
Central to Jesus’ teaching on marriage is the concept of love and respect. In John 13:34-35, Jesus commands:
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
While this command is broad, it’s profoundly applicable to marriage. Love in marriage isn’t just a feeling; it’s an action and commitment. Paul expands on this in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, describing love as patient, kind, not envious or boastful, not proud or rude, not self-seeking, not easily angered, keeping no record of wrongs, rejoicing with the truth, always protecting, trusting, hoping, and persevering.
Practical Implications for Believers
Understanding Jesus’ definition of marriage has practical implications for Christians today.
- Commitment: Recognize the lifelong commitment that marriage entails. It’s a covenant, not to be entered into lightly.
- Unity: Strive for unity in all aspects—emotional, spiritual, and physical. Foster a deep bond with your spouse.
- Love and Respect: Consistently practice love and respect. Let your actions reflect the sacrificial love Jesus demonstrated.
- Seek Guidance: When facing challenges, seek guidance from Scripture, prayer, and the Christian community. Remember that marriage is a journey with ups and downs.
Conclusion
Jesus’ teachings on marriage offer a clear, profound definition rooted in divine intention, companionship, procreation, and a reflection of God’s relationship with the Church. He emphasizes the sanctity and permanence of marriage while calling believers to love and respect their spouses deeply. By understanding and applying these principles, Christians can build strong, lasting marriages that honor God and reflect His love to the world.
Marriage, as defined by Jesus, isn’t just a relationship; it’s a sacred covenant designed to bring joy, fulfillment, and a deeper understanding of God’s love. As you reflect on these teachings, consider how you can apply them to your own life and relationships, strengthening your commitment and deepening your love.
FAQs on How Jesus Defined Marriage
1. What did Jesus say about the definition of marriage?
Jesus defined marriage as a divine institution created by God, involving a man and a woman uniting to become one flesh. He emphasized the permanence of this union and the sanctity of the marital relationship (Matthew 19:4-6).
2. Why is marriage considered a divine institution?
Marriage is considered a divine institution because, according to Jesus, it was established by God at the beginning of creation. This underscores its sacred nature and the intention behind it as more than just a social contract.
3. What are the key elements of Jesus’ definition of marriage?
- Divine Origin: Marriage is created by God.
- Male and Female: It’s between a man and a woman.
- Leaving and Uniting: It involves leaving parents and forming a new primary relationship.
- One Flesh: It signifies a deep, comprehensive bond.
- Indissolubility: It’s intended to be a lifelong commitment.
4. What are the purposes of marriage according to Jesus?
Jesus’ teachings highlight several purposes of marriage:
- Companionship: Providing mutual support and companionship.
- Procreation: The ability to bring new life into the world.
- Reflecting God’s Relationship with the Church: Mirroring the covenantal love between Christ and the Church.
5. What did Jesus say about divorce?
Jesus acknowledged that divorce was permitted under Mosaic law due to human hardness of heart but emphasized that it wasn’t God’s original intention. He allowed divorce only in the case of sexual immorality, stressing the permanence of marriage (Matthew 19:8-9).
6. How should love and respect be practiced in marriage?
Jesus and Paul both emphasize the importance of love and respect in marriage. Love should be patient, kind, not envious, and not self-seeking. Respect involves honoring and valuing each other consistently (John 13:34-35, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
7. What practical steps can believers take to honor Jesus’ teachings on marriage?
- Commitment: Treat marriage as a lifelong covenant.
- Unity: Foster emotional, spiritual, and physical unity.
- Love and Respect: Consistently practice love and respect towards your spouse.
- Seek Guidance: Turn to Scripture, prayer, and the Christian community for support.
8. How does marriage reflect God’s relationship with the Church?
Paul explains that the marriage relationship mirrors Christ’s sacrificial love for the Church. Husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loves the Church, demonstrating a covenantal, selfless love (Ephesians 5:25-32).
9. Why is the ‘one flesh’ concept important in marriage?
The ‘one flesh’ concept signifies a profound union that encompasses emotional, spiritual, and physical aspects. It highlights the depth of the marital bond and the complete unity intended by God.
10. Can Christians divorce for reasons other than sexual immorality?
According to Jesus’ teachings, divorce should only occur in cases of sexual immorality. Other reasons for divorce aren’t aligned with Jesus’ definition of marriage, which emphasizes permanence and commitment (Matthew 19:8-9).
11. What resources can couples turn to for guidance in their marriage?
Couples can seek guidance from Scripture, prayer, Christian counseling, and their church community. These resources can provide support, wisdom, and encouragement to strengthen their marriage.
12. How can understanding Jesus’ teachings on marriage impact my relationship?
Understanding Jesus’ teachings can deepen your commitment, enhance unity, and foster a loving and respectful relationship. It provides a foundation for building a strong, enduring marriage that honors God and reflects His love.
