“Marriage Is Honorable” (Hebrews 13:4)
Hebrews 13:4 states, “Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge.” This verse encapsulates the biblical perspective on the institution of marital union, emphasizing its significance, sanctity, and divine purpose. To explore the reasons why the union of a man and a woman is considered honorable according to the Bible, we must delve into the theological, ethical, and relational dimensions of this sacred covenant, drawing insights from relevant biblical passages.
God’s Design
At the heart of the biblical understanding of marital commitment is the recognition of God’s design and intention for human relationships. In the creation account in Genesis 2:24 (NKJV), God establishes the foundational principle in this union:
“Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” This verse underscores the divine institution of marriage as a sacred union between one man and one woman, characterized by intimacy, companionship, and mutual support. The covenantal nature of marriage reflects God’s original design for human flourishing and reflects His own relational nature in the Godhead.
Symbol of Christ and the Church
The Bible presents marital commitment as a profound symbol of the relationship between Christ and His Church. In Ephesians 5:31-32 (NKJV), the apostle Paul draws parallels between the marital union and the mystical union between Christ and His redeemed people:
“For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church.” This passage reveals the spiritual significance of this union as a reflection of Christ’s sacrificial love for His bride, the Church. As husbands and wives demonstrate selfless love, mutual submission, and fidelity in their unions, they bear witness to the redemptive love of Christ for His people.
Framework for Intimacy and Companionship
Marriage provides a sacred framework for intimacy, companionship, and emotional support between spouses. In Proverbs 18:22 (NKJV), the wisdom literature extols the blessings of marriage:
“He who finds a wife finds a good thing, And obtains favor from the Lord.” This verse highlights the inherent goodness and favor bestowed by God upon those who enter into the covenant of marriage. Within the context of marital commitment, spouses experience emotional intimacy, spiritual connection, and mutual encouragement, fostering growth and flourishing in their relationship.
Fulfillment of God’s Purposes for Humanity
Marriage is also seen as a means of fulfilling God’s purposes for humanity, including procreation, family life, and the nurturing of future generations. In Genesis 1:28 (NKJV), God blesses Adam and Eve and commands them to be fruitful and multiply:
“Then God blessed them, and God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.'” This verse underscores the role of marriage in God’s plan for populating the earth and stewarding His creation. Through the marital covenant, couples participate in the divine work of bringing forth new life and nurturing the next generation in the fear and admonition of the Lord.
Stability and Social Order
Marriage contributes to the stability and flourishing of society by providing a foundation for social order, family stability, and the well-being of children. In Malachi 2:15 (NKJV), the prophet Malachi emphasizes the importance of marital faithfulness and the sanctity of the marital bond:
“But did He not make them one, Having a remnant of the Spirit? And why one? He seeks godly offspring. Therefore take heed to your spirit, And let none deal treacherously with the wife of his youth.” This passage underscores the divine intention for marital commitment to be characterized by faithfulness, unity, and the nurturing of godly offspring. By upholding the sanctity of marriage, individuals contribute to the stability and moral fabric of society.
Protection Against Immorality
Marriage provides a safeguard against sexual immorality and promiscuity by channeling sexual desires and energies within the bounds of the marital relationship. In 1 Corinthians 7:2 (NKJV), Paul acknowledges the importance of marital intimacy in safeguarding against temptation:
“Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband.” This verse highlights the role of marital union in providing a legitimate and honorable outlet for the fulfillment of sexual desires, thereby preserving moral purity and guarding against the harmful effects of sexual sin.
In conclusion, Hebrews 13:4 affirms the honorable nature of marital commitment as a sacred covenant ordained by God for the flourishing of humanity and the fulfillment of His purposes. Rooted in God’s design, characterized by selfless love and fidelity, and imbued with spiritual significance, the marital union embodies the timeless values of commitment, companionship, and mutual support. As believers honor the sanctity of the marital union and uphold its principles in their relationships, they bear witness to the transformative power of God’s love and grace in their lives and communities.
In His service,
BibleAsk Team