Christian Marriage According to the Bible

Reference passage: 1 Corinthians 7:1–40

Introduction 

Marriage is one of the most ancient and sacred institutions established by God. Long before governments were formed, cultures were established, or nations were birthed, God Himself instituted marriage in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:18-25). The union of a man and a woman was not a human invention but a divine design to reflect companionship, love, responsibility, and God’s covenant with His people.

In Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, he addresses the Christian perspective on marriage in the midst of a society drowning in immorality, idolatry, and conflicting philosophies. Corinth was notorious for its sexual immorality, and its cultural practices often clashed with biblical standards. Christians living in such an environment were torn between societal pressure and God’s will.

Today, believers face similar struggles. Modern society redefines marriage, trivializes divorce, and promotes immorality, while believers must stand firm on scriptural principles. Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 7 provides timeless guidance on marriage, celibacy, separation, divorce, and remarriage. These truths remain a firm foundation for Christians who desire to live godly in a corrupt world.

Divine Precepts Concerning Marriage

References: 1 Corinthians 7:1-9, 25-39; Genesis 2:20-25; Matthew 19:3-12; Ephesians 5:22-33; 1 Peter 3:1-7

Paul begins by answering questions raised by the Corinthian church about marriage. In his response, he lays out fundamental divine precepts that every believer must understand.

1. Marriage is Ordained by God

From the beginning, God declared: “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him” (Genesis 2:18). Marriage is God’s provision to solve the problem of loneliness and create companionship. It is also His means for procreation, the preservation of purity, and a context where love and selflessness are learned.

Paul affirms that “to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband” (1 Corinthians 7:2). In a world full of sexual immorality, marriage provides a holy context for intimacy.

2. Monogamy is the Biblical Standard

Paul’s teaching rejects polygamy and same-sex unions. Scripture consistently emphasizes one-man-one-woman unions (Matthew 19:4-6). Polygamy often led to jealousy, rivalry, and broken homes in the Old Testament (examples: Abraham, Jacob, Solomon). Likewise, homosexual unions are condemned as unnatural and sinful (Romans 1:26-27).

3. Marriage is Voluntary, Not Compulsory

In contrast to Jewish Rabbis who forced marriage on all men, Paul makes it clear that the decision to marry or remain single should be based on God’s guidance. Celibacy is not a sin, but it should only be chosen after prayer and conviction. Both marriage and celibacy are gifts from God (1 Corinthians 7:7).

4. The Call to Mutual Benevolence

Paul teaches that spouses must render due benevolence to one another—meaning not just conjugal rights but kindness, patience, forgiveness, and sacrificial love (Ephesians 5:22-25; Colossians 3:19). Marriage is not a battleground of selfish interests but a covenant of mutual service.

Rendering Mutual Benevolence in Marriage

Paul’s use of the word “benevolence” captures the full scope of love and responsibility in marriage. It covers physical intimacy, emotional support, financial provision, and spiritual care.

• Physical Aspect – Husbands and wives are not to deny each other intimacy, except temporarily for prayer and fasting (1 Corinthians 7:5). Denial creates room for temptation.
• Emotional Aspect – Love must be patient, kind, and forgiving (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). Coldness, neglect, or resentment destroy harmony.
• Spiritual Aspect – Couples must pray, worship, and study God’s word together. A marriage that lacks spiritual unity soon weakens.

A Christian marriage thrives when both partners serve each other with love and humility. Just as Christ gave Himself for the church, so must husbands and wives sacrifice for one another (Ephesians 5:25; Philippians 2:3-4).

Lesson: True love in marriage is not measured by words alone, but by daily acts of kindness, sacrifice, and forgiveness.

The Sanctity of Marriage

References: 1 Corinthians 7:10-16, 39-40; Malachi 2:14-16; Matthew 19:6

Marriage is sacred because it was established by God and sealed with His authority. Jesus declared: “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder” (Matthew 19:6).

1. God Hates Divorce

Malachi 2:16 says plainly: “For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away.” Divorce destroys the family unit, wounds children, and leaves scars that are difficult to heal. While society trivializes divorce, God considers it an act of violence against His covenant.

2. Limited Grounds for Separation

Paul makes it clear that believers must not lightly abandon marriage. The only scriptural grounds for separation include:

• When an unbelieving spouse departs (1 Corinthians 7:12-15). The believer is not to force them but to let them go peacefully.
• Pre-marital fornication in Jewish betrothal customs (Matthew 19:9; Matthew 1:18-20).

However, even in separation, remarriage is not permitted while the spouse lives. Scripture says: “The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth” (1 Corinthians 7:39). Only death breaks the marital bond.

3. The Influence of a Believing Spouse

Paul explains that the presence of a Christian spouse sanctifies the home (1 Corinthians 7:14). This does not mean automatic salvation, but rather that the family is set apart for God’s blessing and influence. A believing spouse can be a powerful witness, winning the other through love and godly character (1 Peter 3:1-2).

Lesson: The grace of God gives strength to endure, forgive, and restore broken marriages. Instead of seeking escape, believers should allow God to heal and transform their homes.

The Priority of Spiritual Pursuits

References: 1 Corinthians 7:29-35; Matthew 6:33; Luke 10:38-42

Paul warns that believers should not let marriage distract them from eternal priorities. The things of this world, including marriage, are temporary, but the kingdom of God is eternal (1 John 2:17).

• Married couples must not idolize family life to the neglect of God’s kingdom.
• Singles must not obsess over marriage to the point of backsliding or compromise.
• Parents should guide their children in marriage matters prayerfully, not forcefully.

Mary chose “the good part” by sitting at Jesus’ feet, while Martha was distracted with much serving (Luke 10:41-42). Likewise, marriage must never replace devotion to Christ.

Lesson: Spiritual pursuits must remain the believer’s highest priority, whether married or single.

Counsel to Parents, Widows, and Widowers

Paul concludes with wise counsel:

• Parents should guide, not hinder, their children in marriage decisions. Over-control and selfish interests often destroy God’s will in the lives of young people.
• Widows and widowers are free to remarry, but only in the Lord (1 Corinthians 7:39). Remarriage must be prayerful, purposeful, and Christ-centered.

Lesson: God provides grace for every stage of life—whether single, married, widowed, or remarried in Christ.

Conclusion

The scriptural perspective on marriage is clear: it is a sacred covenant designed by God to be holy, pure, and lifelong. The world may redefine marriage, but the Word of God remains unchanging.

Believers are called to:

• Honour marriage as God’s institution.
• Render love, respect, and benevolence to their spouses.
• Avoid divorce and uphold the sanctity of the covenant.
• Keep spiritual priorities above earthly concerns.

A Christ-centered marriage glorifies God, blesses the family, and strengthens the church. When couples allow God’s word to guide their union, their homes become testimonies of God’s grace to the world.