What is Marriage #4A
Better late than never.
First, apologies for this coming out later than normal. There were things that I needed to focus on this past week and hopefully we’ll see that pay off.
Now onto the piece!
Previous Installments:
What Is Marriage #1A (Dad Explains) Questions on what marriage is / How marriage has changed / Legal vs. Religious Questions
What Is Marriage #1B (Von) Asked and answered “Is Marriage Real?”
What Is Marriage #2A (Dad Explains) Expands on marriage being real within the framework of “names” or nomenclature.
What Is Marriage #2B (Von) Says the “S” word, extends the conversation into the realm of sex in marriage.
What is Marriage #3A (Dad Explains) Asks the question, “Is marriage solely about children or are children a critical part of marriage itself?” and raises the spectre of infertile couples.
What is Marriage #3B (Von) Marriage is children, “ordained by God for the purpose of producing a Godly seed.”
Let’s Begin!
Firstly, to Von and the readers, I want to express my gratitude for the opportunity to engage in this meaningful discussion on the topic of marriage. Your perspective on marriage as a sexual union brings an important dimension to the conversation. I also appreciate your thought-provoking insights and look forward to exploring this topic further. (I may or may not be practicing my “professional” copy here. It’s not as fun but I do mean what I said.)
In this “response” I will be copying some things from Von (like bracketed numbers for referencing a note to be read for clarification).
Also, I am attempting to process some of the definitions and the points we’ve gone over already. At this stage I feel there’s enough to need a recap and perhaps some of the summarization I do Von will agree with, though it’s not necessary. He’s still a cool guy either way.
With all that being said, expect some NOT SO GRIPPING verbiage in the following summarization as my main focus is clarity and accuracy.
The Purpose of Marriage in Scripture:
In examining the biblical foundation of marriage, we find that it is more than just a sexual union. Marriage is a sacred covenant ordained by God, encompassing a range of purposes that go beyond the physical act of intimacy.
Companionship and Partnership:
Marriage provides a deep sense of companionship and partnership. It is a union where two individuals come together to support, love, and encourage one another on life's journey. This aspect of marriage highlights the importance of emotional connection and shared experiences.
Reflecting the Image of God:
Scripture teaches that marriage reflects the image of God. In the union of a man and a woman, we see a reflection of God's own nature and character. Through their mutual love, respect, and unity, husbands and wives demonstrate the divine qualities of love, grace, and selflessness. This is, of course, only partial as there is no way to completely or accurately mirror God or His image.
Building a Godly Family and Raising Children:
While procreation is a significant aspect of marriage, it is not the sole purpose. Marriages are called to create a godly family environment where children can be nurtured, loved, and raised in accordance with biblical principles. The role of parents in shaping the spiritual, emotional, and moral development of their children is crucial.
The Divine Design for Gender Roles in Marriage:
Within the institution of marriage, God has established complementary roles for husbands and wives. These roles are designed to promote unity, love, and harmony within the marital relationship.
The Husband as the Head and the Wife as the Helper:
Ephesians 5:22-33 provides guidance on the roles of husbands and wives. Husbands are called to be the head of the family, leading with sacrificial love, just as Christ loves the Church. Wives, on the other hand, are called to submit to their husbands and be their helpers, supporting and respecting them. Naturally this will be a disputed point, though from whom is still in question. Nevertheless, I feel that is an accurate, if incomplete, synopsis of the scripture referenced.
The Call for Wives to Submit and Husbands to Love Sacrificially:
Colossians 3:18-19 further emphasizes the importance of mutual submission and sacrificial love within marriage. Wives are called to submit to their husbands, and husbands are called to love their wives selflessly, just as Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her.
Infertility and the Redefinition of Marriage:
It is essential to address the issue of infertility within the context of marriage. Infertility can bring emotional challenges and raise questions about the purpose and value of marriage. However, it is important not to redefine marriage solely based on the ability to conceive children.
Biblical Examples of Infertility and God's Faithfulness:
Throughout the Bible, we find examples of couples who faced infertility. Sarah, Hannah, and Elizabeth are just a few examples of women who experienced barrenness. Yet, in each case, God displayed His faithfulness, bringing forth children in His perfect timing.
A Broader Purpose of Marriage:
Marriage is more than just a means to procreation. It encompasses love, companionship, mutual support, and personal growth. Even in the absence of biological children, married couples can fulfill their calling to love, nurture, and impact the lives of others around them.
Value of Love, Companionship, and Mutual Support:
Marriage provides a unique space for emotional intimacy, trust, and companionship. It offers a secure environment for expressing love and fostering personal growth. While the ability to conceive children is a blessing, it does not define the entirety of a marital relationship.
An Effort To Conclude
In conclusion, the biblical perspective on marriage portrays it as a sacred covenant between a man and a woman. It involves companionship, partnership, the reflection of God's image, and the building of a godly family. While procreation is an important aspect, marriage encompasses broader dimensions that contribute to the thriving of individuals, families, and society.
Again, thank you
for being patient as I worked on this and got done what I needed to professionally. Specifically I’d like to thank you for continuing this discussion as I am learning an awfully lot from both your posts as well as the research required of me to be comfortable publishing my own.Hi there,
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Andrew Ussery
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