What Does the Bible Say About Marriage?

1. The Nature of Marriage

Definition: "Marriage is a Permanent and Exclusive Voluntary Union of One Man and One Woman."

I. Union. (Genesis 2:23-24)
II. Permanent. (Matthew 19:3-6)
III. Exclusive. (Deuteronomy 10:20)
IV. Voluntary. (1 Corinthians 7:39; Genesis 24:57-58)
V. Marriage is between a man and a woman. (Genesis 2:23-25).
VI. Marriage has Divinely defined roles for husband and wife.

2. The Purpose of Marriage.

Ultimately to glorify God (1 Corinthian 10:31).

Also specific purposes - summary in Westminster Confession of Faith 24:2.

I. Marriage is for mutual help. (Genesis 2:18)
II. Marriage is for procreation. (Genesis 1:28; Malachi 2:14-15)
III. Marriage is for "prevention of uncleanness". (1 Corinthians 7:1-9; Hebrews 13:4).