Definition and Overview

Marriage, within the Christian tradition, is often viewed not merely as a social contract or personal relationship but as a divine calling. This perspective sees marriage as an institution ordained by God, designed to reflect His covenantal love and to fulfill His purposes in creation. It is a sacred union between a man and a woman, intended for companionship, mutual support, procreation, and the nurturing of a godly family.

Biblical Foundations

The concept of marriage as a calling is rooted in the creation narrative. In Genesis 2:18, 24 , God declares, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make for him a suitable helper." This establishes the foundational purpose of marriage as companionship. The passage continues, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh." This "one flesh" union signifies a profound, divinely instituted bond.

In the New Testament, Jesus reaffirms the sanctity and divine origin of marriage. In Matthew 19:4-6 , He states, "Have you not read that from 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 man not separate."

Marriage as a Reflection of Christ and the Church

The Apostle Paul further elevates the concept of marriage by comparing it to the relationship between Christ and the Church. In Ephesians 5:25-32 , Paul instructs, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her... In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself." This passage underscores the sacrificial, self-giving love that should characterize the marital relationship, mirroring Christ's love for His Church.

Roles and Responsibilities

Within the framework of marriage as a calling, both husband and wife have distinct roles and responsibilities. The husband is called to lead with love, humility, and service, while the wife is called to support and respect her husband. This complementary partnership is designed to foster unity and reflect God's order in creation.

1 Peter 3:1-7 provides further guidance: "Wives, in the same way, submit yourselves to your husbands... 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."

Marriage and Family

Marriage as a calling also encompasses the responsibility of raising children in the knowledge and fear of the Lord. Psalm 127:3-5 describes children as a heritage from the Lord, emphasizing the importance of family within the marital calling. Parents are tasked with teaching their children God's commandments and modeling a life of faith and obedience.

Challenges and Perseverance

While marriage is a divine calling, it is not without challenges. Couples are encouraged to persevere through difficulties, relying on God's grace and strength. Colossians 3:12-14 advises, "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."

Conclusion

Marriage, as a calling, is a profound and sacred vocation that reflects God's love and purposes. It is a lifelong commitment that requires dedication, sacrifice, and a reliance on divine guidance. Through marriage, individuals are called to grow in holiness, serve one another, and contribute to the building of God's kingdom on earth.