Definition and Origin

The sanctity of marriage refers to the belief that marriage is a sacred institution established by God. It is considered a covenantal relationship between a man and a woman, designed for companionship, procreation, and mutual support. The concept of marriage as a divine institution is rooted in the creation narrative found in the Book of Genesis.

Biblical Foundation

The foundation for the sanctity of marriage is laid 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 verse underscores the divine intention for marriage to be a lifelong union, characterized by unity and exclusivity.

In the New Testament, Jesus reaffirms the sanctity of marriage in Matthew 19:4-6: "Haven’t you read," He replied, "that at 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." Here, Jesus emphasizes the permanence and divine origin of marriage.

Purpose of Marriage

Marriage serves several purposes according to the biblical narrative. Firstly, it provides 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." This highlights the relational aspect of marriage, where both partners support and complement each other.

Secondly, marriage is intended for procreation. Genesis 1:28 states, "God blessed them and said to them, 'Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it.'" This command underscores the role of marriage in the continuation of human life and the nurturing of children within a stable family structure.

Thirdly, marriage is a means of sanctification. In Ephesians 5:25-27, Paul instructs husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church, "to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless." This passage illustrates how marriage can be a context for spiritual growth and holiness.

Marriage as a Covenant

Marriage is often described as a covenant, a solemn agreement that reflects God's covenantal relationship with His people. Malachi 2:14-16 speaks to this, where God rebukes those who are unfaithful to their spouses, stating, "The LORD is acting as the witness between you and the wife of your youth, because you have broken faith with her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant."

The covenantal nature of marriage implies a commitment that transcends mere contractual obligations. It involves a pledge of fidelity, love, and mutual respect, mirroring the steadfast love and faithfulness of God.

Challenges to the Sanctity of Marriage

Throughout history, the sanctity of marriage has faced challenges, including infidelity, divorce, and cultural shifts in the understanding of marriage. The Bible addresses these issues, urging believers to uphold the sanctity of marriage. In Hebrews 13:4, it is written, "Marriage should be honored by all and the marriage bed kept undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers."

The apostle Paul also addresses marital fidelity in 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, advising, "To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife."

Conclusion

The sanctity of marriage is a central tenet of biblical teaching, emphasizing its divine origin, purpose, and covenantal nature. It calls for a commitment to fidelity, love, and mutual respect, reflecting the relationship between Christ and the Church.