The concept of the permanence of marriage is deeply rooted in biblical teachings, emphasizing the enduring and sacred nature of the marital covenant. From the earliest chapters of Genesis to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, Scripture consistently upholds marriage as a lifelong union between a man and a woman.

Old Testament Foundations

The foundation for the permanence of marriage is established in Genesis 2:24, where it is written, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh." This passage highlights the divine intention for marriage to be an exclusive and lasting bond. The "one flesh" union signifies not only physical unity but also a profound spiritual and emotional connection that is intended to be unbreakable.

The Old Testament further underscores the sanctity of marriage through the covenantal language used to describe it. Malachi 2:14-16 addresses the issue of faithlessness in marriage, stating, "The LORD has been a witness between you and the wife of your youth... she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant." Here, marriage is depicted as a covenant, a solemn and binding agreement before God, which should not be broken.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus reaffirms the permanence of marriage in His teachings. In Matthew 19:4-6, He refers back to Genesis, saying, "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." Jesus emphasizes that marriage is a divine institution, and its permanence is ordained by God.

The apostle Paul also addresses the enduring nature of marriage in his epistles. In Romans 7:2, he writes, "For a married woman is bound by law to her husband as long as he lives." This statement reflects the understanding that marriage is a lifelong commitment, only dissolved by the death of a spouse.

Marriage as a Reflection of Christ and the Church

The permanence of marriage is further illustrated through the metaphor of Christ's relationship with the Church. In Ephesians 5:31-32, Paul quotes Genesis 2:24 and then adds, "This mystery is profound, but I am speaking about Christ and the church." The unbreakable bond between Christ and His Church serves as the ultimate model for marital fidelity and permanence. Just as Christ is eternally committed to His Church, so too are spouses called to remain steadfastly committed to one another.

Exceptions and Pastoral Considerations

While the overarching biblical narrative supports the permanence of marriage, Scripture does acknowledge certain exceptions. In Matthew 19:9, Jesus mentions sexual immorality as a potential ground for divorce, stating, "And I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery." This exception, however, is not presented as a command but rather as a concession to human weakness.

The apostle Paul also addresses situations of marital separation in 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, advising that if separation occurs, the individuals should remain unmarried or be reconciled. This guidance reflects a pastoral concern for maintaining the integrity and permanence of the marital bond whenever possible.

Conclusion

The biblical teaching on the permanence of marriage is clear and consistent, presenting marriage as a sacred, lifelong covenant designed by God. Through the teachings of both the Old and New Testaments, believers are called to honor and uphold the enduring nature of the marital union, reflecting the faithfulness and commitment exemplified in Christ's relationship with the Church.