Simone Lawson
Marriage is a complex topic, and what constitutes marriage in the eyes of God is a question that has been asked for millennia. Many people have sought to answer this question by referring to the Bible, which provides some guidance on the matter. Some key principles that have been derived from biblical interpretations include the idea that marriage is a covenant between one man and one woman for life, that it should be formalised through a ceremony and vows, and that it should be consummated. However, it is important to note that the Bible does not explicitly define when a marriage starts or what elements are involved in the beginning stages. While some people believe that marriage in the eyes of God is solely dependent on governmental statutes, others argue that God's definition of marriage is more important and that communities may recognise marriages that are not valid according to God. Ultimately, the answer to this question may vary depending on individual interpretations of the Bible and cultural contexts.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ceremony | A formal wedding ceremony involving covenantal vows |
| Covenant | A promise between a man and a woman for life |
| Consummation | Sexual intercourse |
| Faithfulness | The Bible speaks against adultery |
| Divorce | Allowed in cases of sexual immorality or abandonment by an unbeliever |
| Remarriage | Not allowed if divorced by the state but not by God |
| God's Involvement | God is the glue in a marriage |
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What You'll Learn
Marriage as a covenant
Marriage is a covenant, not a contract. A contract is temporary, with a set time limit, but a covenant is intended to be permanent. When someone sees marriage as a contract, they are saying, "I'll take you as a spouse and see if this relationship works out". When someone sees marriage as a covenant, they are saying, "I give all of myself to you and I'm committed to this marriage for life".
A covenant entails the forgiveness of sin when your spouse fails you. It requires two people to maintain lives of virtue and fidelity to standards of ethics in an effort to maintain a relationship. It also demands that we put the needs of the relationship before our own needs, humbly serving each other much as Christ serves the church.
The Bible describes marriage as a covenant in several places, most of the time sadly, describing those who didn't keep their commitment. For example, in Proverbs 2:17, we see an adulteress "who has left the partner of her youth and ignored the covenant she made before God". In Malachi 2:14, the prophet explains God’s displeasure with his people, "because 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."
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Marriage as a ceremony
The concept of marriage as a ceremony in the eyes of God is a multifaceted one, with various interpretations and viewpoints. While some emphasize the legal and ceremonial aspects, others focus on the spiritual and covenantal nature of marriage. Here is an exploration of the different perspectives on this topic:
The Ceremonial Perspective:
The ceremony is a pivotal aspect of a marriage in the eyes of God, marking the union of a man and a woman before God and the community. This perspective emphasizes the importance of a formal wedding ceremony, often involving covenantal vows and blessings. The Bible provides examples of celebrations and festivities surrounding weddings, such as in Matthew 22, indicating that a ceremony is a fitting way to solemnize a marriage. Jesus's presence at a wedding in John chapter 2 also signifies his approval of wedding ceremonies.
The Covenantal Perspective:
Marriage, according to this viewpoint, is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman, established by God. Genesis 2:24 and other verses highlight the ""one flesh" principle, signifying the union of husband and wife. This covenant is sealed by sexual intimacy, which is considered the ultimate fulfillment of the marital bond. The exchange of vows and blessings during the ceremony further strengthens this covenant.
The Legal Perspective:
From a legal standpoint, some believe that God considers a man and a woman married when they are legally recognized as husband and wife by the government or the community. This perspective emphasizes obedience to governmental laws and the completion of any required procedures and paperwork. However, it is acknowledged that solely depending on government statutes can lead to an indirect sanction of the statutory definition of marriage, which may fluctuate.
The Spiritual Perspective:
This perspective emphasizes the spiritual nature of marriage, where God is the glue that binds the union together. It is believed that God enters into a valid marriage, and his presence strengthens the bond between the spouses. This viewpoint underscores the importance of faithfulness and commitment, with divorce being permitted only in specific circumstances, such as sexual immorality or abandonment by an unbelieving spouse.
Cultural and Familial Practices:
Cultural, familial, and covenantal practices also play a role in recognizing a couple as "officially married." While the specific practices may vary across cultures, the common thread is the presence of an event, action, covenant, vow, or proclamation that declares a man and a woman as married.
In conclusion, while there are differing opinions on what constitutes marriage as a ceremony in the eyes of God, the common themes include the importance of a formal ceremony, the establishment of a sacred covenant, and the recognition of the union by both the community and God. These elements combine to create a sacred and solemn institution that is meant to last a lifetime.
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Marriage as consummation
Marriage is a complex institution, and its definition has evolved over time. While civil laws and religious doctrines may differ in their interpretation of marriage, it is generally understood that marriage is a sacred union between two individuals, intended to be a lifelong commitment. In the context of "marriage in the eyes of God," several key elements come into play, including ceremony, covenant, and consummation.
The concept of "marriage as consummation" has been a significant aspect of the marriage tradition. Consummation refers to the first act of sexual intercourse between the married couple, which is believed to seal their union and mark the completion of their marriage. In many cultures and legal traditions, consummation has been considered an essential requirement for a valid marriage. The physical act of consummation is typically defined as penile-vaginal penetration, with some doctrines prohibiting the use of contraception during the act.
The relevance of consummation in a marriage varies across different jurisdictions. For instance, in England and Wales, under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, non-consummation is a ground for annulment in heterosexual marriages, while same-sex marriages are exempt from this requirement. On the other hand, countries like Australia have abolished the legal concept of consummation altogether.
In religious contexts, consummation holds significant weight. In traditional Christian theology, consummation is associated with the idea of a husband breaking his wife's hymen during intercourse, creating a blood covenant that seals their holy matrimony. This belief has been particularly prominent in Catholic marriages, where non-consummation can lead to the dissolution of the marriage by the pope.
The act of consummation has also been linked to the concept of virginity, especially in the case of the bride. In some traditions, the presence of blood during the consummation act was considered proof of the bride's virginity. However, this belief has been criticised in modern times for its negative connotations and the implication of a woman being regarded as property.
While the specific requirements and rituals surrounding marriage may vary, the concept of "marriage as consummation" underscores the importance of the physical union between spouses, symbolising their commitment and the sanctity of their relationship in the eyes of God and their community.
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Marriage as a lifelong commitment
Marriage is a lifelong commitment in the eyes of God. This is reflected in the Bible, which speaks against adultery and promotes the idea that a husband and wife should expect sexual faithfulness in marriage. The Bible also provides two allowances for divorce: when the marital bond has been broken by sexual immorality, and abandonment by an unbelieving spouse.
The idea of marriage as a lifelong commitment is further emphasised by the belief that marriage is a covenant between a man and a woman for life. This covenant is sealed by sexual intimacy, which is considered the final fulfilment of the "one flesh" principle found in Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:5, and Ephesians 5:31.
While some may argue that marriage can be dissolved or divorced, God's definition of marriage is considered more important and transcends cultural and legal perspectives. This is supported by the understanding that God brought Adam and Eve together in the first marriage, as described in Genesis 2, setting the foundation for marriage as a lifelong commitment.
Additionally, the role of God in marriage is significant. It is believed that God enters into a valid marriage, becoming the glue that holds the union together. This belief highlights the importance of placing God at the centre of the marriage and seeking His guidance and grace to fulfil the marriage vows, even in challenging circumstances.
Overall, the concept of marriage as a lifelong commitment in the eyes of God emphasises the sacredness and permanence of the union between a man and a woman, with God as the foundation and sustainer of their relationship.
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Marriage as a heterosexual union
The notion of marriage as a heterosexual union is deeply rooted in religious and cultural traditions. From a religious perspective, particularly in Christianity, the concept of "marriage in the eyes of God" is often referenced to describe a specific understanding of marriage. This idea of marriage is not limited to legal or cultural definitions but seeks to define marriage from a theological perspective.
In the Christian context, marriage is viewed as a sacred institution established by God. This belief is derived from biblical narratives, particularly the creation story in Genesis, where God brings Adam and Eve together in the first marriage. This foundational example sets the precedent for subsequent understandings of marriage in Christian theology.
According to this perspective, marriage is reserved for a man and a woman who come together in a committed, exclusive relationship intended to last a lifetime. The biblical framework emphasizes the importance of covenant and consummation within the context of heterosexual marriage. The exchange of vows and the sexual union between husband and wife are seen as fulfilling the "one flesh" principle found in various biblical passages, such as Genesis 2:24 and Matthew 19:5.
The exclusivity of heterosexual marriage, as advocated by some, is further supported by theological arguments. These arguments suggest that sexual acts outside of marriage are immoral and that same-sex unions do not constitute marriages in God's eyes. Proponents of this view assert that the natural attraction between men and women, their ability to procreate, and the traditional family structure of raising children together are integral components of marriage as ordained by God.
It is important to acknowledge that interpretations of marriage in the eyes of God can vary within Christian circles. While some emphasize the heterosexual nature of marriage, others may focus on the spiritual and covenantal aspects, such as the presence of vows or the role of God as a witness to the union. Additionally, cultural and societal influences may shape how individuals and communities understand and apply these theological principles in their contexts.
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Frequently asked questions
Marriage in the eyes of God is when a man and a woman come together in a committed, exclusive relationship, intended to last a lifetime, publicly and according to the laws and customs of their community.
The three Cs: Ceremony, Covenant, and Consummation. A ceremony is expected, as is the exchange of vows. The Bible also makes reference to a covenant between one man and one woman for life. Consummation is the final seal on a marriage covenant.
God gives two allowances for divorce: when the marital bond has been broken by sexual immorality, or abandonment by an unbelieving spouse. If a divorce is not recognised by God, then the person should be regarded as separated, not divorced, and therefore unable to remarry.
It is unwise in the eyes of God. It is an example of what Paul spoke against when he wrote about being "unequally yoked", referring to a pair of oxen with a yoke that is not equal, meaning they are not pulling in the same direction.
