Greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
Today, I wish to address the profound and sacred institution of marriage, a covenant established by God Himself. In a world often marred by fleeting relationships and distorted views on commitment, it is vital to return to the biblical foundation of marriage.
Marriage, as divinely ordained, is far more than a social contract; it is a spiritual union, a reflection of Christ’s relationship with His Church. It is a partnership designed for mutual love, support, and growth, a journey undertaken together in the presence of God.
The Foundation of Marriage:
The very beginning of marriage is rooted in God’s creation. “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh” (Genesis 2:24, ESV). This verse lays the groundwork for marriage as a leaving, cleaving, and becoming one. It highlights the importance of setting aside previous attachments to establish a new, unified bond.
Marriage is intended to be a lifelong commitment. Jesus affirmed this in Matthew 19:6, “So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate” (ESV). This unwavering commitment is a testament to the sacredness of the marital covenant.
Love and Mutual Respect:
At the heart of marriage lies love, a love that is not merely emotional, but sacrificial and enduring. Ephesians 5:25-27 instructs husbands, “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish” (ESV). This passage emphasizes the sacrificial nature of a husband’s love, mirroring Christ’s love for the Church.
Likewise, wives are called to respect their husbands. Ephesians 5:33 states, “However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband” (ESV). Mutual respect and love are essential for a thriving marriage.
Marriage is a partnership, a collaboration where two become one. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!” (ESV). This passage underscores the importance of mutual support and encouragement within marriage.
Furthermore, 1 Peter 3:7 calls husbands to honor their wives, “Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered” (ESV). This verse emphasizes the importance of understanding and honoring one another, ensuring that prayer and spiritual growth are not hindered.
Challenges and Perseverance:
Marriage, like any relationship, will face challenges. However, through faith, prayer, and a commitment to God’s Word, couples can overcome these obstacles. Hebrews 13:4 reminds us, “Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous” (ESV). This verse reinforces the sanctity of marriage and the importance of remaining faithful.
A Call to Action:
My dear brothers and sisters, I urge you to uphold the sanctity of marriage. Nurture your relationships with love, respect, and unwavering commitment. Seek God’s guidance in your marriage, and allow Him to be the foundation of your union. Remember, a marriage built on God’s principles will withstand the storms of life.
May God bless and strengthen your marriages.
Yours in Christ,
Bishop Samuel Munene God’s Love Assembly, Kitengela
