When I reflect on the couples I’ve worked with over the years, one thing always stands out: the deep, transformative meaning of marriage according to the Bible. It’s not just about the ceremony or the rings—it’s about a lifelong commitment that mirrors God’s design.
From the first union between Adam and Eve in Genesis to the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, marriage is about love, unity, and shared purpose. In this blog, let’s dive into the biblical definition of marriage and explore what it truly means for us today, here in Melbourne and beyond.
Genesis 2:24 – The Foundation of Marriage in the Bible
Understanding “One Flesh” in the Context of Marriage
Genesis 2:24 is foundational when defining marriage: “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” This “one flesh” concept goes beyond physical intimacy—it signifies an exclusive, enduring union between a man and woman. I remember a couple I worked with in Melbourne.
As they prepared for their wedding, I asked them, “What does ‘one flesh’ mean to you?” They replied, “It’s about sharing everything—our dreams, challenges, and everything in between.” To them, it was about creating a life of unity and shared purpose, which is exactly what the Bible points to in marriage.
The Symbolism of Marriage in Creation: Adam and Eve as the First Couple
Adam and Eve’s marriage wasn’t just the beginning of human relationships; it set the stage for all biblical marriages. Their union shows marriage as a partnership built on unity, not just between two people, but also as a reflection of God’s design for His people. Their bond wasn’t about ownership or hierarchy, but mutual support and equality.
This biblical template for marriage remains relevant today, even in a modern context like Melbourne, where we value equality and shared roles in relationships.
Marriage as a Covenant: The Biblical View of Commitment
What Does Covenant Marriage Mean in the Bible?
- Marriage is a covenant: The Bible describes marriage as a sacred promise made between a husband, wife, and God. Unlike a contract, it is meant to be lifelong and unbreakable.
- Reflecting God’s faithfulness: This covenant mirrors God’s commitment to His people—unwavering, faithful, and unconditional. As God is faithful, couples are called to be faithful to each other.
- Biblical reference: In Malachi 2:14, marriage is referred to as a covenant before God. This sets the expectation that marriage isn’t just about the couple but is sacred and divine.
- Commitment beyond convenience: A covenant marriage isn’t about convenience or what’s easy. It’s a choice to love and stay dedicated even in tough times. I’ve seen Melbourne couples navigate challenges, like financial stress or changing jobs, and they lean on this covenant to guide them through.
- Mutual sacrifice: In a covenant marriage, both partners are called to sacrifice their individual desires for the sake of each other’s well-being. This can mean making difficult decisions, but it leads to a deeper, lasting relationship.
- A partnership with God: Marriage is not just between the couple—it’s also with God. Couples in Melbourne, for example, often say that keeping God at the centre of their marriage has helped them face challenges with strength and unity.
God’s Purpose for Marriage: Procreation, Companionship, and Divine Glory
Procreation and the Biblical Role of Marriage in Family Building
From the very beginning, God’s purpose for marriage was clear. Genesis 1:28 says, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth.” One of the key purposes of marriage, according to the Bible, is procreation—the act of bringing children into the world and raising them in a godly environment. This is not just about having children, but about building a family that reflects God’s design for humanity.
I often see Melbourne couples looking at the decision to have children as a huge life choice, and in a way, it is. But biblically speaking, having children is seen as part of the marriage covenant. It’s a shared responsibility between husband and wife to raise children who know and love God. Of course, this isn’t just about biological children; it includes adopted children or blended families, all of whom can be nurtured in love, according to God’s plan.
Companionship in Marriage: Why “It Is Not Good for Man to Be Alone”
In Genesis 2:18, God observes that “it is not good that the man should be alone.” This statement reflects another essential purpose of marriage: companionship. God created marriage to provide people with a deep, emotional connection—someone to share life’s joys, burdens, and everything in between.
I’ve worked with many couples over the years, and what often stands out is their desire to be companions in the truest sense of the word. Marriage isn’t just about a shared home or shared responsibilities—it’s about a partner who stands by you through thick and thin. It’s about having someone who knows you deeply and still chooses to love you.
Marriage also provides the emotional support needed to navigate life. Whether you’re living in Melbourne’s busy streets or relaxing in the coastal areas of Victoria, having a partner to share experiences with is incredibly valuable. This companionship offers both emotional and spiritual strength in times of joy and hardship.
Marriage and Roles in the Bible: What Does Scripture Teach?
Biblical Roles of Husband and Wife in Marriage
In a biblical marriage, roles are clearly defined—not as a hierarchy, but as a partnership rooted in mutual respect and love. The Bible lays out specific expectations for both husbands and wives, not to enforce domination, but to ensure a healthy, balanced relationship.
For husbands, the Bible calls for sacrificial love. Ephesians 5:25 tells husbands to “love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” This is no small calling. Christ’s love was selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional. For husbands, this means prioritising their wives’ needs above their own, just as Christ prioritised the church.
Wives, on the other hand, are called to respect and submit to their husbands. Ephesians 5:22 says, “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.” However, this submission isn’t about inferiority or blind obedience. Rather, it’s about voluntary respect and trust, which fosters a relationship built on unity. This biblical view of submission is mutual—husbands submit to their wives through sacrificial love, while wives submit through respect and trust.
I’ve seen this play out in real life in Melbourne, where couples strive to embody these roles. For example, one couple I worked with was struggling with balancing their careers and family life. By revisiting their roles in marriage, they realised that mutual sacrifice and respect would allow them to prioritise their family without sacrificing their careers. It became a journey of understanding and working together, rather than being adversaries.
Mutual Submission: A Balance of Sacrifice
In the Bible, submission isn’t one-sided. Ephesians 5:21 commands both husbands and wives to “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” This means that mutual submission is key to a thriving marriage. Husbands and wives are called to serve each other in love, humility, and mutual sacrifice.
In my experience working with couples in Melbourne, I’ve often observed that mutual submission helps avoid power struggles and instead fosters a team mentality. It’s about putting each other’s needs first and supporting each other’s goals, dreams, and struggles.
Jesus’ Teachings on Marriage and Divorce: The New Testament Perspective
Divorce in the Bible: What Did Jesus Teach?
In Matthew 19:3-9, Jesus addresses divorce and teaches that marriage is intended to be permanent. He quotes Genesis 2, saying, “What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” Jesus allows for divorce only in cases of sexual immorality, but He emphasises that God’s ideal is a lifelong commitment.
I’ve seen couples in Melbourne struggle with this very issue. One couple, after years of difficulty, sought guidance and chose to work through their issues rather than separate. They found strength in the biblical teaching that divorce should not be the first option.
Jesus’ Restoration of God’s Original Marriage Design
Jesus also emphasises returning to God’s original design for marriage. In Matthew 19:8, He notes that Moses allowed divorce due to people’s hardness of heart, but it was never part of God’s plan. Jesus reminds us that marriage is a one-flesh union, meant to last a lifetime.
For couples today, including those in Melbourne, this is a reminder that marriage requires deep commitment. Divorce is a last resort, and couples are encouraged to work through difficulties with grace, forgiveness, and mutual respect, reflecting Christ’s love for the Church.
Historical Practices in Marriage: Polygamy, Divorce, and Cultural Influences
Polygamy in the Bible: Cultural Practices vs. God’s Design
While the Bible records instances of polygamy—such as in the lives of Abraham, Jacob, and David—it’s important to note that these were cultural practices, not necessarily God’s ideal. In fact, Genesis 2:24 sets the standard for marriage as a union between one man and one woman. Polygamy in the Bible often led to complications, jealousy, and conflict within families, pointing to the fact that it wasn’t part of God’s perfect design.
In modern Melbourne, where monogamy is the standard, these biblical examples are a reminder that God’s plan for marriage was always about unity and faithfulness between two people.
Divorce in Biblical Times: The Old Testament Context
Divorce was regulated in the Old Testament, especially in Deuteronomy 24:1-4, where Moses allowed men to write a certificate of divorce if their wives were found “indecent.” However, this regulation wasn’t a command—it was a concession due to the hardness of people’s hearts. God’s ideal, as seen throughout Scripture, is that marriage should be permanent.
In today’s context, Melbourne couples facing the possibility of divorce can reflect on this—understanding that while human sin complicates relationships, forgiveness and reconciliation should always be prioritised over separation.
Contemporary Debates on the Definition of Marriage: What’s Changed?
Redefining Marriage: Is the Traditional View Still Relevant?
In today’s society, the definition of marriage is being debated more than ever. Traditional views—one man, one woman for life—are challenged by ideas of marriage that include same-sex couples and even polyamorous relationships. Some argue that the biblical definition of marriage is outdated, suggesting that marriage is more about emotional connection than biblical principles like procreation and the family unit.
However, from a biblical standpoint, marriage was created as a lifelong covenant between one man and one woman, intended to reflect God’s design for humanity. While cultural changes have reshaped our view of marriage, the biblical definition remains clear and consistent in its intent.
Same-Sex Marriage: A Continuing Debate
The Bible has specific teachings on marriage, particularly in Romans 1 and 1 Corinthians 6, where same-sex relationships are viewed as contrary to God’s design. Many modern theologians, however, argue that biblical prohibitions refer to exploitative or non-consensual acts, not loving, committed same-sex relationships. This has led to diverging opinions on the topic, especially among Christians.
In Melbourne, where diversity and inclusion are celebrated, this debate remains relevant. Couples who are exploring these ideas can benefit from understanding the biblical basis of marriage while engaging in meaningful conversations about how their faith and values align with modern societal views.
Biblical Examples of Marriages: Insights from Scripture
Examples of Marriage in the Bible: Lessons for Today
The Bible offers many examples of marriages, some of which highlight God’s ideal and others that show the challenges and flaws of human relationships. Adam and Eve represent the original marriage, a partnership designed by God for companionship and procreation. Similarly, Isaac and Rebekah serve as an example of trust and commitment, with their relationship rooted in faith and obedience.
Even more complex marriages, such as Jacob and Rachel, show that while people often fall short of God’s ideal, God can still work through imperfect situations. These stories remind us that love, sacrifice, and faithfulness are key components in any godly marriage.
Biblical Marriage Vows: What Should They Include?
When couples prepare their marriage vows, they can look to the Bible for inspiration. At the heart of a biblical marriage vow is the commitment to love, honour, and cherish one another, just as Christ loves the Church. This includes promises of faithfulness, sacrifice, and mutual support through life’s challenges.
For instance, the vows in Ephesians 5 mirror the selfless love described in Scripture, reminding couples to live with respect, humility, and service toward each other.
In Melbourne, couples seeking a deeper connection often choose to incorporate biblical principles into their vows, grounding their relationship in commitment and faith rather than just romantic feelings. This makes the vows not just a formality, but a lifelong promise, sealed before God.
Understanding God’s plan for marriage and embracing His vision provides a foundation for couples, whether in Melbourne or beyond, to build strong, lasting relationships that reflect His glory.
