The Biblical Understanding of Marriage: A Sacrament and Mystery

Marriage is a significant institution that has been perpetuated and celebrated through Christian traditions. According to the Bible, marriage carries a profound meaning that invokes spiritual and moral obligations. It is important to explore what constitutes a biblical marriage and its implications in modern societal contexts.

Sacrament or Mystery?

While the term “sacrament” is not explicitly used in the Bible to describe marriage, the book of Ephesians presents a direct connection between marriage and a sacramental relationship. Ephesians 5:31-32 states: “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church.

This passage emphasizes the spiritual depth of marriage, suggesting that just as Christ is united with the Church, so too are spouses. The Greek word “mysterion”, which is used here, translates to “mystery” in Latin, and it denotes a profound truth that is both hidden and revealed. Here, marriage is viewed as a sacrament, a sign and a symbol of the mystical union between Christ and the Church.

Key Aspects of Biblical Marriage

Behaving Like Christ and the Church

In a biblical marriage, the male and female roles are defined in ways that reflect Christ's relationship with the Church. The husband is encouraged to lead and provide, epitomizing Christ's love and sacrifice. The wife, on the other hand, is to submit and support, mirroring the church's submission to Christ.

As Christ is the head of the church, the husband is to be the head of his wife in a similar manner. This does not imply dominance but rather a leadership and guiding role. The husband's love and care for his wife should be akin to Christ's love for the Church, which is described as “with great love” (Ephesians 5:25).

Procreation and Spiritual Union

Biblical marriage is not only about physical union but also about spiritual and emotional bonding. The act of sexual intercourse is seen as a merging of spirits, symbolizing the unity of the two individuals. Ephesians 5:31-32 reinforces the idea that marriage is a profound mystery, a sacred union that mirrors the relationship between Christ and the Church.

Divorce and Remarriage

The Bible is clear about the sanctity of marriage. Divorce is not a solution for every problem within a marriage. Ephesians 5:33 states that a husband should love his wife as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. Since the church cannot be divorced from Christ, neither can a Christian be divorced from his or her spouse.

Further, when a couple divorces, God does not overlook the implications. The Bible warns that those who divorce and remarry are guilty of adultery (Malachi 2:14) and should not consider remarriage to be a legitimate union. Only the death of a spouse can validate remarriage, as it removes the Marital bond (1 Corinthians 7:39). This aligns with the teaching that marriage is a covenant, a lifelong commitment.

Spiritual Cleansing and Blessing

Marriage is not merely a civil act, but it is also a spiritual union that requires the blessing of God. Before engaging in sexual relations, a couple is to ensure that they have a clean spirit. The Bible emphasizes the importance of purity and sanctification before marriage. The act of sex without this preparation is seen as defiling the body (1 Corinthians 6:18).

A couple can sanctify themselves over 40 days before the act of sexual union. Traditionally, this period allows for spiritual reflection, cleansing, and commitment. It is a way to prepare not just physically but spiritually for the lifelong commitment to marriage. Without this preparation, the union may be spiritually incomplete and open to the influence of Satan, who seeks to disrupt the bond.

Conclusion

Marriage in the Bible is a complex and sacred institution that combines physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. It is a pledge to love, cherish, and protect one another in a way that mirrors the relationship between Christ and the Church. For those seeking to enter into a biblical marriage, it is a commitment that requires spiritual preparation, sanctification, and the blessing of God.

Understanding and adhering to these biblical principles can greatly enrich the spiritual and emotional experience of a marriage, ensuring that it remains strong and resilient.