The sanctity of marriage is a foundational principle in Christian theology, rooted in the belief that marriage is a divine institution established by God. The Bible provides numerous teachings and guidelines to protect and honor this sacred union, emphasizing its importance and the responsibilities it entails.

Biblical Foundation

Marriage is first introduced in the Book of Genesis, where God creates Eve as a companion for Adam, establishing the first marital union. 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." This verse underscores the divine intention for marriage to be a lifelong, exclusive union between one man and one woman.

The Role of Marriage

Marriage serves multiple purposes within the biblical framework. It is designed for companionship, procreation, and mutual support. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 highlights the strength found in partnership, stating, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion."

Furthermore, marriage is a reflection of the relationship between Christ and the Church. Ephesians 5:25-27 instructs, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to sanctify her, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a glorious church, without stain or wrinkle or any such blemish, but holy and blameless."

Guarding Against Adultery

The Bible explicitly warns against adultery, which is seen as a violation of the marriage covenant. The seventh commandment, "You shall not commit adultery" (Exodus 20:14), is a clear directive to maintain fidelity within marriage. Proverbs 6:32 further warns, "He who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself."

Jesus expands on this teaching in the New Testament, emphasizing the importance of purity in thought as well as action. In Matthew 5:27-28 , He states, "You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."

Divorce and Remarriage

The issue of divorce is addressed with gravity in the Scriptures. While the Mosaic Law permitted divorce under certain circumstances (Deuteronomy 24:1-4), Jesus clarifies the original intent of marriage as a permanent union. In Matthew 19:6 , He declares, "So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."

However, Jesus acknowledges marital unfaithfulness as a legitimate ground for divorce, as seen in Matthew 19:9 : "And I tell you that whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman, commits adultery."

Roles and Responsibilities

The Bible outlines specific roles and responsibilities for husbands and wives, emphasizing mutual respect and love. Ephesians 5:22-33 provides guidance for marital relationships, instructing wives to submit to their husbands as to the Lord, and husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the Church.

1 Peter 3:7 advises, "Husbands, in the same way, treat your wives with consideration as a delicate vessel, and with honor as fellow heirs of the gracious gift of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered."

Preserving the Sanctity of Marriage

To guard the sanctity of marriage, believers are encouraged to cultivate virtues such as love, patience, forgiveness, and humility. Colossians 3:12-14 exhorts, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity."

By adhering to these biblical principles, Christians are called to uphold the sanctity of marriage, reflecting God's design and purpose for this sacred institution.