More About Divorce. And, Marriage

Mark 10:10 (NET) In the house once again, the disciples asked him about this. 11 So he told them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her. 12 And if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”

Two Become One

The essence of Christian marriage is two people coming together as one. One purpose. One mind. One direction. They are still two people. Each submits to God, accepting his or her individual assignment in order to function as one. Each has his and her own mind, thinks his and her own thoughts.

They work together as in a dance, moving and thinking in ways that compliment each other and their shared assignment. As in a dance, one takes the lead. The one in the lead often acts as a support to the other, showcasing her and her skills and contribution.

The essence of marriage is for two to function as one. It requires one to lead and one to accept that leadership. It requires the husband to love his wife as himself and in a sacrificial way as Jesus lived sacrificially for those who choose to followed him. It requires the wife to accept the husband’s leadership and respect him and the responsibility for leadership he has accepted.

Adultery? That Sounds Pretty Strong

This kind of relationship is intended to be so strong and so permanent that to break it is equated with adultery.

Strong comparison?

Yes.

But, it shows how seriously God takes the relationship. It is how seriously we must take it if we want his blessings on it.

But, What if I Object to This Kind of Marriage

No problem. You are free to do as you wish. I am only explaining what I believe Scripture shows as God’s design for marriage. To follow him in his design is a choice you can make or reject. But, if you choose another form for your relationship, he may choose not to bless it. That is his choice.

My wife and I have chosen to have our marriage function according to our understanding of God’s design for marriage. It has worked well for us for 41 years, so far. I would do it this way again without hesitation. In fact, knowing what I know now, I would never consider any other form for marriage.