Definition and Origin
Marriage, as instituted by God, is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman. It is designed to be a lifelong union that reflects the relationship between Christ and the Church. The foundation of marriage is established in the early chapters of Genesis, where God creates Eve as a suitable helper for Adam, signifying the complementary nature of the marital relationship. Genesis 2:24 states, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh."

Purpose of Marriage
The primary purposes of marriage include companionship, procreation, and mutual support. In Genesis 1:28 , God commands Adam and Eve, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it." This directive underscores the role of marriage in procreation and the continuation of human life. Additionally, marriage serves as a means of companionship, as seen in Genesis 2:18 , where God declares, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him."

Marriage as a Covenant
Marriage is viewed as a covenant, a solemn and binding agreement before God. Malachi 2:14 emphasizes this by stating, "The LORD has been a witness between you and the wife of your youth. You have broken faith with her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant." This covenantal aspect highlights the seriousness and sanctity of the marital bond.

Roles and Responsibilities
Scripture outlines distinct roles and responsibilities for husbands and wives within marriage. Ephesians 5:22-25 instructs, "Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord... Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her." This passage illustrates the call for mutual respect and sacrificial love, with husbands leading in love and wives responding in respectful submission.

Indissolubility of Marriage
God's design for marriage is that it be indissoluble, except in specific circumstances. Jesus reaffirms the permanence of marriage in Matthew 19:6 , saying, "So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate." While divorce is permitted in cases of marital unfaithfulness (Matthew 19:9), it is not encouraged and is seen as a deviation from God's original plan.

Marriage as a Reflection of Christ and the Church
The relationship between husband and wife is intended to mirror the relationship between Christ and the Church. Ephesians 5:31-32 states, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. This mystery is profound, but I am speaking about Christ and the church." This analogy elevates the institution of marriage to a spiritual level, emphasizing its importance in God's redemptive plan.

Conclusion
While marriage is a divine institution with specific purposes and roles, it is also a reflection of God's love and commitment to His people. Through marriage, individuals can experience companionship, love, and the joy of family, all while fulfilling God's design and purpose for their lives.